Gaming enthusiasts might be attracted by the Acer Predator XB273K, which delivers 27 inches of 4K display with maximum refresh rates of up to 160Hz, besides HDR capabilities. Achieving flawless operation proves challenging when dealing with modern consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. The guide surpasses standard specifications by providing in-depth information about connectivity and console installation and revelation tips for complete performance optimization of this strong display.
Many users search for solutions specific to the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K and its unique features.
Table of Contents
Part 1: Understanding the Connectivity Puzzle – DisplayPort, HDMI, and DSC
The XB273K offers DisplayPort and HDMI inputs, but the versions matter significantly for achieving that coveted 4K 160Hz with HDR.
- DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC: DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC provides PC gamers with the perfect solution. By using Display Port 1.4, users gain the capacity to handle 4K visuals at high refresh rates, but DSC (Display Stream Compression) would improve their user experience. With Display Stream Compression technology, the monitor can send a complete high-resolution and high-frequency HDR signal through one DisplayPort 1.4 cable.
- Enabling DSC: You should verify your devices for Display Stream Compression functionality because DSC enables it automatically after updating graphics card drivers. A DSC control feature usually exists inside your graphics card control panel through the Nvidia Control Panel or AMD Radeon Software.
- Check monitor OSD (On-Screen Display) menu: The monitor has an On-Screen Display menu where users should locate settings labeled “DP Format” or “DSC” to enable complete 4K 160Hz HDR signal transmission. Set the monitor to the highest resolution level using “1.4+DSC” or equivalent options.
- HDMI 2.1: Good News! The BestBuy link indicates that the monitor features HDMI 2.1. Prior models did not have it and were limited. HDMI 2.1 is crucial for next-gen consoles. HDMI 2.1 has enough resources to support 4K at 120Hz with HDR.
Part 2: Console Setup – Getting 4K 120Hz HDR on PS5 and Xbox Series X
Connecting your console isn’t always plug-and-play. Here’s how to optimize settings:
Xbox Series X:
- Use the Included Cable: Always use the high-speed HDMI cable with your console.
- TV & Display Options: Go to Settings > General > TV & display options.
- Resolution: Select “4K UHD”.
- Refresh Rate: Select “120 Hz”.
- Video Fidelity & Overscan: Under “Advanced,” go to “Video fidelity & overscan.”
- Color Depth: Choose the highest bit depth available (likely 10-bit or 12-bit).
- Color Space: Set to “Standard (Recommended)”.
- Allow 4:2:2: Enable this if you experience issues; it’s a form of chroma subsampling that can help with bandwidth.
- Enable VRR (Variable Refresh Rate): If your XB273K model supports FreeSync/VRR, enable it in both the console settings and the monitor’s OSD.
PlayStation 5:
- Use the Included Cable: Use the high-speed HDMI cable provided by Sony.
- Screen and Video Settings: Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
- Resolution: Set to “Automatic” or “2160p” (4K).
- 4K Video Transfer Rate: Set this to “Automatic.” If you have issues, try setting it to “-1” or “-2”, which will reduce chroma subsampling (similar to 4:2:2 on Xbox).
- HDR: Set to “On When Supported.”
- Enable VRR: If your specific XB273K model is supported, enable VRR. Go to Screen and Video and enable VRR.
- Enable 120 Hz Output: Set to Automatic
Part 3: The 27″ Acer Predator XB273K Hidden Menu (Proceed with Caution!)
Disclaimer: Accessing the factory/service menu can void your warranty or cause issues if settings change incorrectly. Proceed at your own risk.
There are reports online that you may be able to get into the service menu by holding down a combination of buttons, like the power button and the joystick, as you power on the monitor. Please note that this may not work on all revisions, and proceed with extreme caution.
- What You Might Find: The hidden menu may offer advanced controls over color calibration, overdrive settings, and potentially even firmware updates (though updating firmware through the service menu is highly discouraged unless you have specific instructions from Acer).
- Document Everything: Before changing anything, take photos or write down the original values. This is crucial for reverting to the default settings if something goes wrong.
Part 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues with your 27″ Acer Predator XB273K
Flickering at High Refresh Rates: This can be caused by several factors:
- Cable Issues: Use a high-quality, certified DisplayPort 1.4 cable or the HDMI 2.1 cable with your console.
- DSC Problems: Try disabling and re-enabling DSC or adjusting the DP Format setting in the monitor’s OSD.
- Graphics Card Driver Issues: Update your graphics card drivers to the latest version.
- Overdrive Settings: Experiment with different overdrive settings in the monitor’s OSD. An overdrive setting that is too high can cause artifacts.
No HDR on Console:
- HDMI Port: Ensure you use the monitor’s correct HDMI 2.1 port.
- Console Settings: Double-check the HDR settings on your console (as detailed above).
- Monitor OSD: Ensure HDR is enabled in the monitor’s menu.
Image Looks Washed Out:
- The compatibility between color space settings on your PC/console and monitor should focus on matching RGB settings with YCbCr.
- Adjust the monitor brightness alongside contrast through its settings.
Conclusion:
Users who want every benefit from the 27″ Acer Predator XB273K gaming monitor must perform precise configuration steps. You can enable a 4K high-refresh-rate gaming display by exploring both connectivity console settings and the hidden menu (do so carefully). The guidelines presented here serve as your initial point, but you must refer to your monitor manual and check online resources for official information and troubleshooting advice.
