ASUS ROG Swift 38 4K HDMI 2.1 HDR DSC Monitor - Large 4K Gaming

Our review of the ASUS ROG Swift PG38UQ finds it a compelling choice for players and creators who want a large 4K screen with fast response and modern console compatibility. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of UHD 3840 x 2160 detail with HDMI 2.1 support and a 1 ms GTG Fast IPS panel, which together enable true 4K 120 Hz console play and low-latency PC gaming on a single, immersive 38 in display.

Key Features

• 4K UHD 38 in: The 3840 x 2160 resolution on a 38 in panel delivers detailed desktop space and immersive game visuals for both work and play.
• 144 Hz with Adaptive-Sync: A high refresh rate plus Adaptive-Sync provides smoother motion and reduced tearing during fast-paced gaming sessions.
• 1 ms Fast IPS: ASUS Fast IPS technology achieves a 1 ms GTG response time so high frame rates remain sharp with minimal ghosting.
• HDMI 2.1 console support: Native HDMI 2.1 lets PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X run 4K 120 Hz without chroma subsampling, preserving color and clarity on console titles.
• High dynamic range: DisplayHDR 600 certification and 98% DCI-P3 coverage deliver richer contrast and wide, accurate colors for HDR content and creative work.
• Flexible connectivity: DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, HDMI 2.1, a USB hub, and a convenient tripod socket increase versatility for multi-device setups and content capture.

Who It's For

The ROG Swift PG38UQ is best for serious gamers who want a single monitor that handles both high-refresh PC gaming and native 4K 120 Hz console play. It is also well suited to creators who benefit from the 98% DCI-P3 gamut and DisplayHDR 600 for color-critical photo and video work.

Those who need extreme peak brightness for HDR mastering or who prioritize a smaller footprint should look elsewhere; the 38 in size and reported mixed brightness behavior on very dark scenes mean a dedicated HDR mastering display or smaller ultrawide might be a better match for some users.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large 38 in 4K canvas with excellent color coverage for immersive gaming and creative tasks.
• Fast IPS panel and 1 ms GTG response provide crisp motion for competitive gaming.
• Full HDMI 2.1 support enables native 4K 120 Hz on modern consoles without chroma subsampling.
• DisplayHDR 600 and 98% DCI-P3 deliver noticeably better contrast and color accuracy than typical monitors.

Cons

• Some users report mixed brightness and minor corner glow on darker scenes, so HDR uniformity is not flawless.
• A few reports mention flicker issues for certain units, so buyers should verify panel performance on receipt.

Specifications

Panel size	38 in
Resolution	3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)
Refresh rate	144 Hz (supports 4K 120 Hz via HDMI 2.1)
Response time	1 ms GTG (ASUS Fast IPS)
HDR & color	DisplayHDR 600, 98% DCI-P3
Inputs	HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, USB hub
Extras	G-SYNC Compatible, FreeSync Premium Pro, top tripod socket

Our Verdict

The ASUS ROG Swift PG38UQ is worth buying for gamers and creators who want a large, color-accurate 4K display that supports modern consoles and high-refresh PC play. It pairs low-latency Fast IPS performance with HDMI 2.1 and solid HDR credentials, offering strong value if HDR uniformity and absolute peak brightness are not your top priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this monitor support 4K 120 Hz on consoles?
Yes. HDMI 2.1 support on the PG38UQ enables native 4K 120 Hz console gaming without chroma subsampling.

Is the color good for creative work?
Yes. With DisplayHDR 600 certification and about 98% DCI-P3 coverage, the monitor is suitable for color-critical photo and video tasks.

Are there any common image issues?
Some users report mixed brightness, corner glow on dark scenes, and occasional flicker on certain units, so inspect the panel after purchase.