ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor vs ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
If you're deciding between the ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor and the ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor, the ProArt takes the lead with its superior display resolution of 2560 x 1440 vs 1920 x 1080 on the ZenScreen. This means stunning clarity for creative tasks, making it the budget option for professionals who demand color accuracy and detail. In real-world testing, the ProArt's 350 nits brightness ensures vibrant visuals in various lighting conditions, while the ZenScreen's 220 nits can struggle in brighter environments. So if you're someone who does a lot of photo editing or design work, the ProArt's higher pixel density and better overall performance make it a no-brainer choice for your setup in 2026.
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ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
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Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor vs ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor
ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
| Criterion | ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor | ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7(4,200)Amazon | ★4.6(1,342)Best Buy |
Screen Size | 27" Viewable (27" Class) | 15.6" (39.6 cm) |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (WQHD) | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 |
Screen Type | IPS (In-Plane Switching) | IPS |
Refresh Rate | 75 Hz | 60 Hz |
Response Time | 5 ms (GtG) | 5 ms (GtG) |
Brightness | 350 nits (Typical) | 220 cd/m² (Typical); 250 cd/m² (Peak) |
Contrast | 1,000:1 (Typical) | 800:1 (Static) |
Color Gamut | 100% sRGB / 100% Rec. 709 | 45% NTSC (approx. 62-70% sRGB) |
Color Depth | 16.7M (8-bit) | 6-bit (262K colors) |
HDR | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Adaptive Sync | Adaptive-Sync (48Hz - 75Hz range) | No (Not supported) |
Viewing Angles | 178° (H) / 178° (V) | 178° (H) / 178° (V) |
Curvature | Flat | No (Flat panel) |
Speakers | 2x 2 W (Stereo) | No |
Ports | 1x Mini DisplayPort 1.2; 1x DisplayPort 1.2; 1x HDMI 1.4; 1x Dual-Link DVI-D; 4x USB 3.0 Downstream; 1x USB-B Upstream; 1x 3.5mm Audio In; 1x 3.5mm Headphone Out | 1x USB-C (Hybrid Signal Solution: Supports DP Alt Mode & USB 3.0 via driver) |
USB C | No | Yes (1x USB-C for Video + Power) |
Kvm | No | No |
Vesa | 100 x 100 mm | No (Not supported) |
Ergonomics | Height (150mm), Swivel (-90° to 90°), Pivot (90°), Tilt (-5° to 35°) | Smart Case (Tilt); Auto-rotation (Portrait/Landscape via software); Pen hole prop |
Power Consumption | 18.6 W (Typical) / 0.5 W (Standby) | 8 W (Typical); 0 W (Hard Switch Off) |
Weight With Stand | 7,720 g (17.02 lbs) | 710 g (1.57 lbs) [Monitor only]; Case adds approx. 400g |
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ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor
✓ Pros:
- • Factory calibrated and Calman Verified for excellent color accuracy (Delta E < 2) out of the box
- • Rare inclusion of legacy ports (Mini DisplayPort and DVI-D) maximizes compatibility with older workstations
- • Fully ergonomic stand supports generous height, tilt, swivel, and bidirectional pivot adjustments
- • 75Hz refresh rate with Adaptive-Sync provides a smoother experience than standard 60Hz office monitors
- • Features a 4-port USB 3.0 hub for connecting peripherals directly to the monitor
✗ Cons:
- • Lacks USB-C connectivity for single-cable laptop docking (found on the pricier 'CV' model)
- • No HDR support
- • Standard contrast ratio (1,000:1) means blacks can appear grayish in dark rooms
- • Bezels are slightly thicker than modern 'frameless' competitors
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ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor
✓ Pros:
- • Hybrid Signal Solution allows connection to both USB-C and USB-A (via driver) devices
- • Ultra-lightweight (1.57 lbs) and slim (8mm) design fits easily in laptop bags
- • Smart Case included; doubles as a protective cover and adjustable stand
- • Auto-rotation feature (Windows only) automatically adjusts orientation for documents
- • Includes a 'Pen Hole' that allows you to prop up the monitor with a pen if the case is not used
✗ Cons:
- • Low peak brightness (220 nits typical) makes it difficult to use in bright environments
- • 6-bit color depth (262K colors) results in inferior color accuracy and gradients
- • No built-in speakers or audio output jack
- • Does not have a built-in battery; drains the connected laptop's power
- • Lacks a standard 1/4" tripod socket (unlike the upgraded MB16ACV model)
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Which one is better?
The ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor is the better buy for most people - its 2560 x 1440 resolution crushes the ZenScreen's 1920 x 1080. That said, grab the ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE if you need something ultra-portable and lightweight at 25.04 oz - it's perfect for on-the-go use.
Who should buy each?
Choose the ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor if: you need high-resolution for photography, demand color accuracy with 100% sRGB coverage, or prefer a larger screen for multitasking.
Choose the ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor if: you need a lightweight display for travel, require USB-C connectivity for flexible device use, or prioritize portability over resolution. (15.6" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV 27" WQHD Monitor excels if you value factory calibrated and calman verified for excellent color accuracy (delta e < 2) out of the box. ASUS ZenScreen MB16ACE 15.6" FHD Portable Monitor is better if you prioritize hybrid signal solution allows connection to both usb-c and usb-a (via driver) devices. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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