Is the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Yes, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K offers unparalleled performance for competitive gamers at a justified price.
Is BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor worth it? Is the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor worth it in 2026? For serious gamers focused on competitive play, this monitor is designed to provide a significant advantage, making it a valuable investment. With features tailored for esports, like a 360Hz refresh rate and DyAc+ technology, it can enhance gameplay, particularly in fast-paced titles. PageBen aims to help you make informed decisions about your tech purchases, and this monitor stands out for its specific benefits. However, if you're looking for a versatile monitor that excels in productivity or media consumption, the XL2566K may not meet your needs. Its 1080p resolution and TN panel's limitations in color accuracy and viewing angles make it less appealing for general use. Therefore, while the monitor is worth considering for competitive gamers, its value diminishes for those with broader requirements.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K boasts a 360Hz refresh rate, a feature that truly sets it apart in the competitive gaming landscape. In 2026, monitors with such high refresh rates are often priced higher, making the XL2566K's price point competitive for enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance. This refresh rate allows for the clearest motion clarity, essential for fast-paced games such as CS2 and Valorant, justifying the investment for serious esports athletes.
Moreover, the 0.5 ms response time and DyAc+ technology help reduce motion blur, providing a distinct competitive edge. These specifications are crucial for gamers who require pinpoint accuracy and quick reactions, making this monitor a wise investment for those prioritizing performance over general-use features. The adjustable stand and S-Switch controller further enhance the user experience, allowing for quick adjustments and personalized settings, which adds significant value for competitive setups.
Despite its high-performance specs, the monitor does have limitations, particularly with its 1920 x 1080 resolution. While this is adequate for gaming, it may not satisfy users looking for high-definition media consumption or multitasking capabilities. In comparison to today's market, where higher-resolution monitors are becoming more common, this could impact its perceived value for non-gaming tasks, although it remains justified for its intended purpose.
When considering the price-to-performance ratio, the XL2566K excels for competitive gamers but may feel underwhelming to those needing a versatile display. With no HDR support and limited color gamut, it falls short of modern standards for all-purpose monitors. However, the specialized features it offers for esports justify a premium price for users focused solely on competitive gaming, making it a wise investment for that demographic.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Unmatched Refresh Rate and Motion Clarity
The 360Hz refresh rate of the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K is a standout feature, especially for competitive gamers who require smooth and responsive gameplay. This refresh rate allows for faster frame rendering, translating to clear visuals during high-speed action scenes. With a 0.5 ms response time, the monitor minimizes lag and motion blur, making it ideal for fast-paced games like CS2 and Valorant. Gamers will appreciate the advantage this provides in high-stakes situations, where every millisecond counts.
Additionally, the DyAc+ technology enhances motion clarity further by reducing blurring during rapid movements. This technology is essential for players who need to track moving targets accurately, giving them a competitive edge. Overall, these features make the XL2566K an strong fit for gamers dedicated to improving their performance and securing wins in competitive scenarios.
2. Ergonomic Design and Customization Options
The XL2566K's ergonomic stand allows for full adjustment, including height, tilt, swivel, and pivot options, providing users with a comfortable viewing angle. This is particularly important for gamers who often spend extended hours in front of their monitors. The height markers on the stand ensure consistent setups, which is beneficial for tournament settings where quick adjustments are needed.
Moreover, the S-Switch controller allows for instant profile switching, enabling users to store and access different settings rapidly. This feature is invaluable for gamers who may want to switch between various games or user preferences seamlessly. These ergonomic and customizable features contribute to an enhanced user experience, making the monitor a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize comfort and efficiency.
3. Pro Player Settings and Community Engagement
The XL Setting to Share feature allows users to download and apply settings used by professional players, which can help aspiring gamers replicate the setups of their idols. This capability not only fosters a sense of community among gamers but also offers a practical advantage by enabling users to optimize their display settings for competitive play.
This feature enhances the monitor's value significantly, as it provides direct access to professional-level configurations without requiring extensive technical knowledge. By leveraging the experience of top players, users can improve their gameplay, making the XL2566K a smart investment for serious esports athletes aiming to enhance their performance.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Limited Color Performance and Resolution
One major drawback of the XL2566K is its TN panel, which offers inferior color reproduction and viewing angles compared to IPS or OLED panels. Gamers who also engage in creative tasks or media consumption may find the color accuracy lacking, limiting the monitor's versatility. The 1920 x 1080 resolution may also feel insufficient for users who desire higher-definition visuals for gaming or productivity, especially as higher resolutions have become more mainstream in the market.
These limitations can be especially impactful for users who need a monitor for both gaming and general use. The lack of HDR support further diminishes the monitor's appeal for those seeking rich, vibrant images in games and movies. This compromises the overall value for anyone not strictly focused on competitive gaming, making it less ideal for a broader audience.
Connectivity Shortcomings
The absence of USB-C connectivity is a notable limitation, particularly as more devices adopt this standard for video and power delivery. While the monitor provides essential ports like 1x DisplayPort 1.4 and 2x HDMI 2.0, it may lack compatibility with modern devices that primarily feature USB-C outputs. This could restrict users looking for a future-proof investment or those wanting to easily connect various peripherals.
Additionally, the lack of built-in speakers means users must rely on external audio solutions, which can clutter a setup and add to overall costs. For gamers who prefer an all-in-one solution, these limitations may discourage investment in the XL2566K, especially when competing options offer more comprehensive connectivity features.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The 24.5" viewable screen size is optimal for fast-paced gaming, providing an immersive experience without overwhelming the player with excessive screen real estate. This size, combined with the 16:9 aspect ratio, is standard for esports monitors, allowing gamers to maintain focus on their gameplay. While larger screens are available, this size strikes a balance between visibility and comfort, especially during long gaming sessions.
Using a Fast TN panel, the XL2566K delivers superior speed but compromises on color accuracy and viewing angles compared to IPS or OLED alternatives. With viewing angles of 170° (H) / 160° (V), users may experience color distortion when viewed off-axis, which can be a drawback for those who need solid performance in collaborative environments or creative tasks. However, for gaming, the speed of the TN panel is typically prioritized, and this panel excels in that regard.
The 320 nits brightness is decent but not outstanding, particularly when compared to competitors offering higher brightness levels, which can enhance visibility in bright environments. While the brightness is sufficient for most indoor gaming setups, users in well-lit spaces may find it lacking compared to modern alternatives. This could affect the monitor's versatility for different lighting conditions.
While lacking USB-C or modern connectivity features, the inclusion of 1x DisplayPort 1.4 and 2x HDMI 2.0 is still adequate for most gaming setups. However, as more devices adopt USB-C, this absence may limit compatibility with newer hardware. The 1x 3.5mm headphone out is a standard feature but reflects a more traditional design that may not meet the expectations of gamers looking for integrated audio solutions.
The monitor supports VESA mounting with a 100 x 100 mm pattern, which is beneficial for users seeking a customized setup or more desk space. The fully adjustable stand, offering height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, ensures ergonomic comfort during extended gaming sessions. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for competitive play, where comfort can impact performance over time.
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Who Is This For?
The BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K is best suited for competitive gamers who prioritize performance and speed above all else. With its 360Hz refresh rate and 0.5 ms response time, it provides the clarity and responsiveness needed for high-stakes esports. Gamers who focus on titles like CS2 or Valorant will find immense value in the features designed to reduce motion blur and enhance gameplay.
However, this monitor is not ideal for casual users or those who require a versatile display for productivity and media consumption. With its 1920 x 1080 resolution and TN panel limitations, it may not meet the expectations of users seeking vibrant colors or high-definition visuals for non-gaming tasks. Therefore, individuals looking for a multi-use monitor should consider other options, while the XL2566K remains a strong choice for dedicated esports players.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You are a competitive gamer focused on titles requiring high refresh rates.
- •You prioritize motion clarity and responsiveness over color accuracy.
- •You want customizable settings based on professional players' configurations.
✗ Skip if:
- •You need a monitor for both gaming and productivity tasks.
- •You prefer higher resolution or better color reproduction for media consumption.
In summary, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K 24.5" FHD 360Hz Esports Monitor is a worthwhile investment for serious gamers seeking a competitive edge in fast-paced environments. PageBen encourages you to consider your specific gaming needs and check current prices to ensure you're making an informed decision. If you prioritize motion clarity and speed, this monitor is likely to meet your expectations and enhance your gaming experience.