MSI PRO MP242C monitor review – not geared toward gaming but excellent starter
If you're looking for your first gaming monitor and don't want to break the bank, or you just need a secondary display, then the MSI PRO MP242C might be for you.
The MSI PRO MP242C is a 24-inch, full HD 1080p monitor which features a 75Hz, 1ms display. Despite not being geared toward gaming, it makes for a good starting point for gamers who want to build a setup on a budget or those who are just looking for an additional screen. You get excellent colour grading here, and the curved screen leads to less eye strain and fatigue for those indulging in long gaming sessions. The low refresh rate means this display is better for players who don't dabble in first or third-person shooters like Valorant or Fortnite, where frames can win games.
The MSI PRO MP242C comes in at just £89 / $125 / AU$195, which is relatively cheap for a monitor of any kind, let alone one with a 1ms response time. For those on the hunt for a monitor geared towards FPS games, which typically have a much higher refresh rate, the Alienware AW2521H features a 360Hz 1080p screen but comes in at a hefty £580 / $480 and isn't available in Australia but this roughly converts to AU$740.
MSI PRO MP242C specifications
The MSI PRO MP242C monitor comes with a HDMI input and for those sporting older graphics cards or needing to output directly from a motherboard, you also get a VGA input, but included in the box is just one HDMI cable. Given the low refresh rate and standard 1080p HD display, this monitor is clearly intended to be a secondary screen or office monitor.
Despite being a relatively small monitor, the MSI PRO MP242C features a curved screen making for immersive gameplay and less eye fatigue. (MSI)- Screen size: 23.6" (60cm)
- Screen type: LCD VA
- Resolution: 1920x1080
- Brightness: 250 Nits
- Response time: 1ms MPRT or 5ms
- Refresh rate: 75Hz
- Colour support: ID1/Black-Black
Given the price of the MSI PRO MP242C monitor, you wouldn't really expect much more from it in terms of specifications. For those who aren't looking for a fast response time or high refresh rate, which are only really a priority for first or third-person shooters, then this could make a great budget screen.
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MSI PRO MP242C design & features
Despite being a relatively small monitor, the MSI PRO MP242C features a curved screen that results in immersive gameplay and less eye fatigue. Curved monitors also allow for better viewing as the edges of your screen are less likely to be distorted.
The bezel around the edges of the MSI PRO MP242C is extremely thin to the point where it's hard to notice it, with a thicker outline along the bottom of the monitor where you'll also find the MSI logo and buttons to control the monitor. These buttons are somewhat tucked away and allow you to adjust the settings on your screen, such as which input you'd like to use and colour settings.
Included in the box with the MSI PRO MP242C is a stand that can be assembled without any tools and just clicks into place making for a very easy setup. The monitor can also be VESA mounted on a standard monitor arm. However, something to keep in mind is that the entire screen is extremely light, which may cause some issues with mounts which are counterbalanced with weight.
MSI PRO MP242C performance
Included in the box with the MSI PRO MP242C is a stand which can be assembled without any tools and just clicks into place making for a very easy set-up. (MSI)Despite not being marketed as a gaming monitor, I decided to put the MSI PRO MP242C to the test with a range of different games including FPS titles like Overwatch 2 and Valorant, story games like Detroit: Become Human and MOBAs including League of Legends. It was clear from the get-go that the monitor wasn't made for shooters, but managed to hold its own in other titles.
My primary monitor is usually the Alienware AW2521H which runs at 360Hz, making for a very noticeable difference when dropping to 75Hz. However, after some time getting used, this monitor was usable in all games and is a fantastic option for those who are just getting into gaming and may not be on the lookout for the very best gear.
The colour grading was fantastic, with great blacks for an LCD screen, making immersive story titles more enjoyable to play. The curved screen definitely contributed to this, too, as there was never any worry about eye strain or distortion at the edges of my screen.
Overall thoughts on the MSI PRO MP242C
The MSI PRO MP242C makes for a fantastic and budget-friendly starting point for gamers, or alternatively a great addition to a setup as a secondary monitor. Despite not having too high of a refresh rate and only being 1080p as opposed to other options on the market which are typically 1440p or 4K, the MSI PRO MP242C gets the job done.
Score: 4/5
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