Iiyama G-Master GB247 Review: Is It Worth It?

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey gamers, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the iiyama G-Master GB247! Today, we're diving deep into this gaming monitor to see if it lives up to the hype and is a worthy addition to your setup. Finding the right monitor can be a game-changer, literally, and the GB247 aims to deliver an immersive experience. We will be discussing features, performance, and overall value. We will break down everything you need to know about the iiyama G-Master GB247. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this review is here to help you make an informed decision.

Unboxing and Design: First Impressions

Let's start with the basics: the unboxing experience and design of the iiyama G-Master GB247. Upon unboxing the GB247, the first thing you'll notice is its sleek, understated design. It’s not overly flashy, which I personally appreciate. No unnecessary RGB lights or aggressive angles; instead, it sports a clean, minimalist aesthetic that fits well in any setup. The bezels are relatively thin, which is great for multi-monitor setups, giving you more screen real estate and less distraction. The stand is sturdy and offers decent adjustability, including height, tilt, and swivel. This is a huge plus because it allows you to customize the monitor's position for maximum comfort during those long gaming sessions.

Looking at the back of the monitor, you'll find a selection of ports, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and a headphone jack. This is pretty standard for a gaming monitor in this class, but it's essential for connecting your devices. The build quality feels solid, and the materials used seem durable. The overall impression is one of a well-built monitor that focuses on performance rather than unnecessary frills. The design is practical and functional, which is precisely what you want in a gaming monitor. A good design is one that enhances your experience without getting in the way, and the GB247 largely succeeds in this regard. The unboxing process is straightforward, with everything well-packaged to protect the monitor during transit. The included cables and accessories are also of good quality, which adds to the overall value proposition of the GB247. The design choices suggest iiyama prioritized what matters most: a clean look and a stable, adjustable stand to support the gameplay experience.

Display Quality and Performance: What to Expect

Moving on to the heart of the matter: the display quality and performance of the iiyama G-Master GB247. This is where the magic happens, so let's get into the nitty-gritty. The GB247 features a 24-inch Full HD (1920x1080) VA panel, which is a popular choice for gamers due to its excellent contrast ratio. VA panels are known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors, and the GB247 doesn't disappoint. The contrast ratio is excellent, providing a more immersive gaming experience, particularly in darker scenes. This means that shadows appear darker and more detailed, making the overall image quality much more pleasing to the eye.

The monitor also boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time. This combination is crucial for smooth, responsive gaming. The high refresh rate ensures that the on-screen action is fluid and tear-free, which is especially important in fast-paced games. The 1ms response time minimizes motion blur, making fast-moving objects appear sharp and clear. This is a significant advantage in competitive gaming, where every millisecond counts. The viewing angles are decent, though typical for a VA panel; colors might shift slightly if you're viewing the screen from extreme angles, but this is unlikely to be an issue during normal use. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync, which helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in a smoother overall gaming experience if you have an AMD graphics card. The color accuracy is good for a gaming monitor, though professionals needing precise color reproduction might want to look elsewhere. The GB247 focuses on delivering a visually appealing experience, and it does so effectively. In real-world use, the display is bright, vibrant, and responsive, making it a joy to game on. The combination of a high refresh rate, fast response time, and excellent contrast ratio makes the GB247 a strong contender in its price range.

Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics

Beyond the core specs, let's take a look at the extra features and functionality of the iiyama G-Master GB247. The monitor includes a range of features designed to enhance your gaming experience and make it more convenient to use. One notable feature is the built-in game modes, which are pre-configured settings optimized for different game genres. This is really helpful if you're not into manually tweaking the settings every time you switch games. There are modes for FPS, RTS, and other genres, each adjusting the display settings to provide the best possible visual experience. You can also customize these modes to suit your personal preferences. The OSD (On-Screen Display) menu is well-organized and easy to navigate. You can access it using the buttons on the bottom of the monitor. The menu allows you to adjust all sorts of settings, including brightness, contrast, color temperature, and more.

Another useful feature is the blue light filter, which helps to reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions. This is a thoughtful addition for those of us who spend hours in front of the screen. The monitor also supports the option for a crosshair overlay, which can be useful in certain games. The stand's adjustability is another significant feature, allowing you to tilt, swivel, and adjust the height of the monitor to find the perfect viewing angle. The monitor also features built-in speakers, which, while not the best quality, can be useful for casual use or if you don't have external speakers. Overall, the GB247 packs a solid set of features that enhance both the gaming experience and the ease of use. These additions make the monitor a well-rounded package that offers good value for its price. The focus is on providing practical features that gamers will actually use and appreciate.

Gaming Experience: Putting It to the Test

Time to get down to the fun part: the gaming experience on the iiyama G-Master GB247. How does it actually perform in real-world gaming scenarios? I put the GB247 through its paces with a variety of games, from fast-paced shooters to visually stunning RPGs. In games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, the 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time truly shine. The action is incredibly smooth and responsive, making it easier to track targets and react quickly to the on-screen action. The absence of screen tearing thanks to FreeSync also helps to create a seamless experience. The vibrant colors and excellent contrast ratio of the VA panel make the games look great, with deep blacks and vivid colors enhancing the overall immersion.

Switching to games like The Witcher 3 and Assassin's Creed Valhalla, the GB247 continued to impress. The detailed environments and cinematic scenes look fantastic on the monitor. The high contrast ratio brings out the details in dark areas, making the game worlds feel more alive. The viewing angles are decent, and even though there might be a slight color shift at extreme angles, it doesn't detract from the experience during regular gameplay. The game modes are also helpful. Switching to the FPS mode in Call of Duty instantly optimizes the settings for a more competitive experience, making enemies easier to spot and enhancing the overall visibility. The monitor handles motion blur well, and fast-moving objects appear sharp and clear. The overall gaming experience on the GB247 is excellent. It delivers a smooth, responsive, and visually appealing experience that enhances any game you throw at it. The monitor's performance makes it a joy to game on, whether you're playing competitive shooters or immersive RPGs. It’s a monitor that doesn't just meet expectations; it exceeds them, providing a genuinely enjoyable gaming experience.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Let's break it down. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the iiyama G-Master GB247 to help you make a decision:

Pros:

  • Excellent Contrast Ratio: The VA panel delivers deep blacks and vibrant colors, making games look visually stunning.
  • High Refresh Rate and Fast Response Time: 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time provide smooth, responsive gaming performance.
  • AMD FreeSync: Helps eliminate screen tearing for a smoother gaming experience.
  • Sturdy and Adjustable Stand: Offers height, tilt, and swivel adjustments for comfortable viewing.
  • Good Value: Provides a great set of features and performance for its price.
  • Minimalist Design: Clean and understated design fits well in any setup.
  • Built-in Game Modes: Pre-configured settings optimized for various game genres.

Cons:

  • Full HD Resolution: Might be considered a downside for some users, who prefer higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K.
  • VA Panel Viewing Angles: Viewing angles are decent, but there might be slight color shifts at extreme angles.
  • Built-in Speakers Quality: The built-in speakers are not the best quality.

Conclusion: Is the iiyama G-Master GB247 Right for You?

So, is the iiyama G-Master GB247 worth it? In my opinion, absolutely, especially for gamers looking for a high-performance monitor without breaking the bank. The combination of a 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and excellent contrast ratio makes it a strong contender in its price range. The monitor delivers a smooth, responsive, and visually appealing experience. The inclusion of features like FreeSync, game modes, and a comfortable stand further enhances the overall value.

However, it's essential to consider your specific needs. If you prioritize higher resolutions or professional color accuracy, you might want to look at other options. But if you're primarily a gamer looking for a great gaming experience, the GB247 is an excellent choice. It’s a well-rounded monitor that performs admirably in various gaming scenarios. The design is practical and functional, and the included features enhance the overall user experience. The iiyama G-Master GB247 strikes a great balance between performance, features, and price, making it a compelling option for a wide range of gamers. The monitor's strengths lie in its ability to deliver a smooth and immersive gaming experience, making it a valuable addition to any gaming setup. If you are looking for an amazing, smooth and beautiful display, this monitor will be a great one for you. In conclusion, the iiyama G-Master GB247 is a solid choice for gamers who want a high-performance monitor without emptying their wallets. I highly recommend it!