The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is designed for serious gamers who demand exceptional performance in fast-paced competitive games. While it may lack everyday versatility, its outstanding refresh rate and precision-focused features make it a standout in esports gaming. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the monitor’s features, performance, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Unboxing and Design
Streamlined Installation and Flexible Stand
The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is engineered for convenience, boasting a straightforward setup process. Unlike some gaming monitors that require extensive assembly, this model simplifies the process:
- The stand securely attaches to the back without the need for additional hooks.
- Its ergonomic design allows the stand to tilt forward and backward, as well as rotate nearly 180 degrees on either side.
- A built-in height adjustment scale ensures precise positioning with minimal effort.
Ambient Light Shield and Additional Features
For dedicated gamers who want minimal distractions, the monitor features two detachable side panels that reduce ambient light interference. Additionally, a retractable headphone stand at the back adds extra convenience, allowing gamers to organize their setup efficiently.
Build Quality and Aesthetic Appeal
While the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is built predominantly from plastic, it maintains a solid, durable feel. The matte black finish adds a sleek and understated aesthetic, complementing minimalist gaming setups. The compact stand design also ensures ample desk space for accessories and peripherals.
Display and Visual Performance
Flat Panel for Competitive Precision
The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ features a 24.1-inch Full HD (1080p) TN panel with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Unlike curved displays, the flat panel enhances precision and accuracy, which is crucial in esports gaming.
Exceptional Refresh Rate and Response Time
The highlight of the Zowie XL2566X+ is its 400Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. This combination ensures buttery-smooth motion, reducing input lag and improving reaction times in fast-paced games like Valorant, Overwatch 2, and Apex Legends.
DyAc2+ Technology for Motion Clarity
BenQ’s DyAc2+ technology further enhances visual clarity by using a strobing backlight that reduces perceived motion blur. This advanced backlight cycling ensures sharp object tracking during intense gaming sessions, providing a significant edge in competitive play.
Color Accuracy and Visual Limitations
While the monitor achieves 99% sRGB coverage, its TN panel technology results in limited viewing angles and subpar contrast. This makes the monitor less ideal for content creation, HDR visuals, or immersive gaming experiences.
Connectivity and Controls
Input Options
The Zowie XL2566X+ offers versatile connectivity options, including:
- 3x HDMI 2.0 ports
- 1x DisplayPort 1.4
- 3.5mm headphone jack
User-Friendly Control System
Navigating the monitor’s settings is simplified using its intuitive control system:
- A joystick with a clickable scroll wheel makes navigating menus seamless.
- The S-Switch allows users to save and switch between three custom profiles instantly.
- The Quick Menu enables easy access to frequently used settings like brightness, contrast, and picture modes.
Picture Modes and Calibration
Preset Picture Modes
The monitor offers eight picture modes, with FPS1 set as the default for optimal gaming visuals. Other modes include:
- Three Gamer Modes that can be customized and assigned to the S-Switch for quick access.
- Five gamma presets and three color temperature modes for personalized calibration.
Grayscale Tracking and Gamma Control
While grayscale performance is excellent, the gamma presets feel somewhat imprecise. Calibration adjustments may slightly affect game detail, but with fine-tuning, users can achieve optimal visual clarity.
Performance in Real-World Gaming
Exceptional for Esports
In competitive multiplayer games, the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ truly shines. When tested with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Apex Legends, Marvel Rivals, and Valorant, the enhanced refresh rate and reduced motion blur significantly improved response time and accuracy.
For instance, while playing Marvel Rivals, I progressed from Platinum II to Grandmaster III, a feat I struggled to achieve using my standard LG UltraGear monitor.
Minimal Input Lag
Compared to an OLED display with superior contrast and color vibrancy, the Zowie XL2566X+ delivered unmatched responsiveness with near-zero input lag. For serious esports competitors, this performance boost can be a game-changer.
Productivity and General Use
Work Comfort and Blue Light Reduction
While the Zowie XL2566X+ lacks a dedicated Reading Mode, reducing blue light in the settings effectively minimizes eye strain during extended work hours. The flicker-free display also contributes to long-term comfort.
Content Consumption Limitations
Despite offering 99% sRGB coverage, the monitor’s limited contrast and suboptimal viewing angles restrict its performance for content creation, media consumption, or shared viewing experiences.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 400Hz refresh rate for unbeatable competitive gaming performance
- 1ms response time ensures minimal input lag
- DyAc2+ technology enhances motion clarity
- Ergonomic design with flexible stand and height adjustment
- Side panels for reducing ambient light distractions
Cons:
- Limited HDR support and poor contrast
- Narrow viewing angles reduce versatility for casual gaming and content creation
- Higher price tag compared to competing models
Verdict: Who Should Buy the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+?
The BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ is a premium gaming monitor that caters specifically to esports enthusiasts and competitive gamers. Its blistering 400Hz refresh rate, DyAc2+ technology, and customizable settings ensure a competitive edge in high-speed games.
However, casual gamers, content creators, or users seeking immersive visual quality may find its TN panel limitations and lack of HDR support less appealing. At ₹52,990, the Zowie XL2566X+ is a worthwhile investment for dedicated esports players prioritizing performance over aesthetics or versatility.
FAQs
Q: Is the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ suitable for console gaming?
A: While the Zowie XL2566X+ excels in PC gaming, its 400Hz refresh rate may not fully benefit console gamers due to hardware limitations.
Q: Does the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ support G-Sync or FreeSync?
A: The Zowie XL2566X+ does not feature G-Sync or FreeSync support but compensates with DyAc2+ technology for enhanced motion clarity.
Q: Can the BenQ Zowie XL2566X+ be used for video editing or design work?
A: While the monitor offers 99% sRGB coverage, its TN panel’s limited contrast and poor viewing angles make it less ideal for professional content creation.
Q: What are the best settings for optimal gaming performance on the Zowie XL2566X+?
A: For competitive gaming, enabling FPS1 mode, adjusting gamma levels, and utilizing DyAc2+ will provide the best performance.
Q: Does the Zowie XL2566X+ come with built-in speakers?
A: No, the monitor lacks built-in speakers but offers a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output.
