TN / Esports#6 in our TN / Esports rankingsProven 360Hz DyAc+
BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K review
BenQ ZOWIE's 24.5-inch 1080p 360Hz TN with DyAc+, independently measured and often cheaper than the newer DyAc 2 models.
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Quick verdict
The XL2566K is an older ZOWIE model that no longer appears in ZOWIE's current US catalog but remains available. TechSpot called it the clearest monitor it had tested with DyAc+ enabled, holding about 330 nits while strobing and usable from roughly 100Hz to 360Hz. It is a proven choice if you find it cheaper than the DyAc 2 models.
As TechSpot noted, DyAc+ cannot combine with adaptive sync, viewing angles are poor, and the image is only good for competitive play.
24.5″ · 1080p · 360Hz · TN (Fast TN) · DyAc+
Buy it if
- You play shooters at a steady 240 to 360 fps.
- You find it priced below the XL2566X+.
Skip it if
- You want the newer DyAc 2.
- You want VRR while strobing.
Key specifications
| Exact model | XL2566K — older model no longer shown in ZOWIE's current US catalog; still listed on Amazon |
|---|---|
| Size / aspect | 24.5″ / 16:9 |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 |
| Refresh rate | 360Hz |
| Dual mode | No |
| Panel family | TN |
| Panel subtype | Fast TN |
| Subpixel layout | RGB stripe (LCD) |
| Coating | Matte anti-glare |
| Curvature | Flat |
| Backlight | Edge-lit LED with DyAc+ strobing |
| Motion technology | DyAc+ strobing, usable from about 100Hz to 360Hz (not with VRR) |
| Adaptive sync / VRR | Not usable with DyAc+ |
| HDR | None |
| DisplayPort | 1x DisplayPort 1.4 (360Hz) |
| HDMI | 2x HDMI 2.0 (240Hz) |
| USB-C | None |
| USB ports | Unknown |
| KVM switch | No |
| Audio | Headphone stand; audio output not verified |
| Stand | Height, tilt, swivel, pivot; carrying handle and foldable headphone stand |
| VESA mount | Unknown |
| Warranty | Unknown (not verified for the US) |
Specifications are manufacturer-stated unless marked as measured. “Unknown” means we could not verify the value, not that it is zero or absent.
Advantages and drawbacks
Advantages
- Very clear motion with DyAc+ (TechSpot).
- About 330 nits while strobing.
- About 2.5 ms processing lag.
- Stand with pivot, handle, and headphone hook.
Drawbacks
- Older model outside ZOWIE's current US catalog.
- No VRR with DyAc+.
- Poor TN viewing angles.
- HDMI 2.0 limited to 240Hz.
What independent testing reports
| Metric | Reported result | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness with DyAc+ | About 330 nits | DyAc+ Premium mode | TechSpot, June 14, 2023 |
| Grey-to-grey response | 3.96 ms average | High overdrive, across refresh rates | TechSpot, June 14, 2023 |
| Grey-to-grey response | 2.82 ms average | Premium overdrive at 360Hz, with more overshoot | TechSpot, June 14, 2023 |
| Processing lag | About 2.5 ms | TechSpot measurement | TechSpot, June 14, 2023 |
| Contrast | 1,091:1 | Static contrast | TechSpot, June 14, 2023 |
These are third-party results, not our tests. Different outlets use different methods, so compare numbers only within the same source.
Motion, response, and latency
TechSpot measured 3.96 ms average response in High overdrive and 2.82 ms at 360Hz in Premium mode with more overshoot, plus about 2.5 ms processing lag. DyAc+ worked well from about 100Hz to 360Hz but requires fixed frame rates because it cannot run with adaptive sync.
Image quality and HDR
TechSpot measured 1,091:1 contrast and 353 nits peak, with decent color after calibration but poor viewing angles.
Connectivity, PC, and console notes
One DisplayPort 1.4 for 360Hz and two HDMI 2.0 ports limited to 240Hz.
Warranty and ownership
As an LCD, no burn-in concern. Warranty terms not verified.
Warranty: Unknown (not verified for the US)
Alternatives worth comparing
BenQ ZOWIE XL2566X+
24.1″ · 1080p · 400Hz · TN (Fast TN)
Newer 400Hz model with DyAc 2.
Questions buyers ask
Is the XL2566K discontinued?
It no longer appears in ZOWIE's current US monitor catalog, but new units remain listed on Amazon. Availability may change.
Final recommendation
A proven DyAc esports monitor worth buying when it undercuts the DyAc 2 models.
Sources
- BenQ Zowie XL2566K 24.5" Review — TechSpot, June 14, 2023 (independent testing)
- ZOWIE monitor catalog (US) — BenQ ZOWIE (US) (manufacturer specification)
- Amazon listing for this exact model (ASIN B0B38D5L49), matched on September 30, 2026 by its listing title. We do not show Amazon prices or ratings.
First published . Last substantive update .