INNOCN 27G1S Review – Smooth Motion on a Budget

Gaming products are an interesting product category. Sometimes it indicates a premium product, other times a specific set of features, and in some cases it just means RGB lights are included. In the case of INNOCN 27G1S it more so indicates a specific set of features. With a low response time, high refresh rate, and a number of other exciting features, is it a must, or does it still fall short?

Editor’s Note: This review is based off a refurbished 27G1S that was sent by INNOCN. Given the potential ethical concerns I will approach this review as if it’s a brand new unit. However, any abnormalities, missing pieces, or damage may be the result of the refurbish process.

INNOCN 27G1S Review Overview

Unboxing

Contrary to most gaming products, 27G1S comes in INNOCN’s standard packaging. One side features the product name, the other a picture of the product, and the sides have a bit more information.

Similar to 32M2V, this model is a refurbished unit. This means the packaging features some cosmetic damage, like the missing piece on the side, damaged styrofoam, and additional tape.

Accessories

While I couldn’t find an official listing of included accessories, The Gadgeteer’s review only listed the stand and power adapter.

It Gets the Job Done

With my unit I received a DisplayPort 1.4 cable that might not be included. I was also missing the manual, and warranty information that was shown in their pictures.

Design

Having previously reviewed a similarly priced “art monitor” from INNOCN, it’s interesting to see how 27G1S differed.

The biggest change is the included stand. It features a sleeker three prong base, with a stand that supports tilting, and swivel. I also like the cable organizer feature.

Out of Sight

To access this the back plastic cover needs to be removed. After that, simply tuck your cables behind the small catch to minimize visibility. It works well, just be warned it’s not a particularly large opening, and the power cable can be fickle.

The back also has a spring loaded headphone holder. I don’t know if I would put an expensive headset back there long term, but it’s a nice option to have. Especially if space is limited.

Just in Time for Halloween

Front/Back red LED lights are also included. These work significantly better than 32M2V’s, and can really illuminate the space around 27G1S.

Assembly

It took me about a minute to assemble 27G1S. Like other INNOCN monitors, the stand includes a grip that facilitates tool free assembly. It also worked well enough where I wouldn’t suggest one to ensure it’s properly tightened.

Connecting the monitor can be done in seconds. Just put the top piece in first, and then lower the stand until you hear a loud clicking sound. At most positioning might be an issue, something easily fixed by changing your angle.

Interface

27G1S features a slightly different interface from other INNOCN monitors we’ve reviewed. Instead of having the main screen, it starts by showing a quick selection screen. This is due to the included multi-functional power button.

While I don’t care for monitors with this type button system, selecting home will bring up the expanded interface. Some key features include Picture-In-Picture, different color options, game settings, brightness, volume, and more. In all it’s still pretty usable, even if it has a slight learning curve.

Ports

For better or worse, 27G1S features two HDMI 2.1, two DisplayPort 1.4, and one AUX ports. The HDMI 2.1 ports are unfortunately limited to 144Hz, with DisplayPort 1.4 being able to hit 240Hz.

I was also disappointed to see this unit includes a power supply. It isn’t surprising given the power needed, but this can be annoying in terms of cable management.

Performance

All things considered, 27G1S performed fairly well. While it lacks the color and contrast of 32M2V, it still looks pretty good. Visuals were detailed enough, and environments still managed to pop when they needed to. But the real advantage is less color/contrast, and more motion.

With the ability to hit up to 240Hz, 27G1S offered buttery smooth motion. I can’t say I noticed any ghosting, and had no issue enjoying the latest Destiny 2 season, or keeping cosmetic invaders in check in DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO.

INNOCN 27G1S Review Verdict

Whether 27G1S is worth it, or not ultimately comes down to use case. In terms of color/contrast/resolution it’s beat by a number of different options. The most notable being 27M2V, or INNOCN’s OLED option, 27A1S. However, in terms of motion it’s certainly holds its own. Add in some nice features like VESA mountable, adjustable stand, and headphone holder, and it makes for an option well worth considering.

Editor’s Note: 27G1S was provided to us for review purposes.

Grant Gaines

Hey, my name is Grant and I'm the Managing Editor, main reviewer and cover technology for Infinite Start. I've learned a lot over the years working for a variety of websites and reviewing literally hundreds of titles. I also have a background selling televisions, sound systems and more from my period at Best Buy, to the point where I was in the top 1 percent for sales and became Magnolia certified. I always look forward to sharing new and different information with our readers and hope they do as well. If you would like to contact me, my email is grant period gaines at Infinite Start.