Lenovo’s $99 280Hz gaming monitor is designed for those on a tight budget.

      Lenovo is marketing a 280Hz monitor for less than the price of GTA 6 Ultimate Edition

      Recently, Lenovo launched a metallic Hall-effect keyboard and a lightweight 59g gaming mouse aimed at flashy esports setups, but the company is now focusing on gamers with tighter budgets. The Legion 24-1r seems tailored for cash-strapped college students who may have splurged too much on their initial gaming setup, leaving instant noodles as their main source of sustenance. Priced at just 669 yuan (about $99), it features a 23.8-inch IPS panel with a refresh rate of up to 280Hz.

      Additionally, Lenovo is offering the 27-inch Legion 27-1r with similar specifications for 789 yuan, or approximately $116. For those on a tight budget seeking competitive frame rates, both monitors present enticing options. (via NotebookCheck)

      Ideal for competitive gaming

      A 1080p resolution alongside a 280Hz refresh rate is well-suited for games such as Counter-Strike 2, Valorant, Overwatch 2, and Rainbow Six Siege. The lower resolution lightens the burden on the graphics card, giving players a better shot at achieving the high frame rates required to take full advantage of the faster panel. Lenovo also claims a response time as quick as 0.5ms MPRT, and features like AMD FreeSync Premium and VESA Adaptive-Sync work to ensure smooth gameplay even when frame rates fluctuate.

      One important detail to note is that DisplayPort is necessary to achieve the full 280Hz refresh rate, while the two HDMI ports are limited to 240Hz. Activating MPRT mode also turns off FreeSync and might cause flickering, necessitating a choice between clear motion and smoother variable refresh performance.

      AAA games highlight the trade-offs

      While both monitors can handle slower, more cinematic games adequately, their visual quality isn't their standout feature. The Full HD resolution should appear reasonably sharp on the 23.8-inch variant, although it will seem softer on the larger 27-inch model.

      HDR10 support is provided, but with a brightness of 400 nits, a contrast ratio of 1000:1, and the absence of DisplayHDR certification, the HDR performance is likely to be quite basic. However, Lenovo has ensured that everyday usability remains intact, as both models come with stands that offer height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, in addition to 100 x 100mm VESA mounting.

      Lenovo has yet to officially announce a broader release, but the monitors' listing in its global product specifications database suggests they may soon be available in additional markets.

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