BenQ is getting into the gaming monitor world in a bit way with their new line of 120Hz monitors that are build specifically for gamers. Intrigued by the idea of gaming specific monitors we send over some questions and got the following response from JY Hu the VP, Business Line Management in North America for BenQ
Could you talk about why BenQ is getting into the gaming monitor business? What was the tipping point for making the jump into the business?
Developing a new consumer segment and a focus on product differentiation. There is a trend that more brands support 120Hz refresh rate of LCD monitors, and the BenQ XL2410T is one of the products that supports 3D display technology in the market. Therefore, based on the 120Hz characteristic, coupled with 3D display technology, BenQ decided to get into the gaming market as our initial market approach. We invited professional gamers to be involved in our new product development, so the XL2410T is designed based on what gamers are looking for, and it has become the world's first display unit that professional gamers got involved with during the R&D process.
What are the key characteristics that differentiate gaming monitors from standard monitors? What things should gamers be looking for in a monitor?
This is the first time professional gamers have been directly involved in the development of a flat-panel monitor for competitive gaming. BenQ recognizes that professional gamers possess indispensable experience and knowledge about display devices. The performance of monitors used is so critical to a gamer, that even the slightest flaw or performance boost affects the outcome of their play. Also by working together with ZOWIE GEAR, a professional gaming gear company, BenQ utilized its expertise in the display product field to develop a product with the aspects of competitive gaming in mind.
XL2410T has two hotkeys available; the first changes the display mode: Full; Aspect; Overscan; 1:1; 17”; 19”; 19” Widescreen and 22” Widescreen. Whereas the second hotkey is Smart Scaling, which lets the user adjust picture size in original input to the screen’s limit. Together with Display Mode function, users can play in the resolution size they are used to with their previous monitor, or adjust their screen size to match what their teammates are using for easier communication and reference. From BenQ’s Gaming Display Mode options, users can choose to use FPS Mode, which was made possible by working alongside the legendary Counter-Strike players, Emil “HeatoN” Christensen and Abdisamad “SpawN” Mohamed, as the best setting for personal shooting games, or from the two User Game modes for more dedicated and personalized settings.
What do you think differentiates your gaming monitor from the competition such as ASUS and Samsung who both offer 120Hz monitors that are 3D capable?
BenQ has been actively involved in the gaming community by collaborating with various parties in the gaming industry. We strongly believe that only through the continuous exchange of ideas with professional gamers that designs and specifications of a truly optimized gaming monitor can be achieved. BenQ aims to be the very best in the gaming fields, and truly stands by the message “Enjoyment Matters.” The insights we’ve gained in FPS (First Person Shooting) games through our collaboration with “HeatoN” and “SpawN” have proven invaluable in the development of BenQ’s professional gaming monitor. The successful launch of the XL2410T was received with popular acclaim in the gaming community.
Are you using HDMI 1.4 to allow for 3D through HDMI? If not, why did you choose to go with a previous HDMI version?
No, because the XL2410T allows for 3D through DVI cable.
How did you research what gamers needed? Outside of the two Counter Strike players you brought in what kind of research did you do?
BenQ developed the XL2014T to fit the needs of gamers. In order to do so, we have co-worked with Zowie, a professional gaming gear company. Therefore, the product development and testing stages are all done with gamers at Zowie and their gaming team. With their assistance, the XL2410T can truly be considered a professional LED gaming monitor – again, with “Game Mode” developed with the help of Counter-Strike players – Emil “HeatoN” Christensen and Abdisamad “SpawN” Mohamed. BenQ is also a sponsor of STARTALE, a top Korea-based professional StarCraft II team. We look forward to our partnership with STARTALE as we venture into the field of RTS (Real-Time Strategy) games.
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