Curved gaming monitors offer an enhanced gaming experience through their immersive design. The wider the screen and the curvier the panel, the more of your vision becomes engrossed in your game.
The key advantage of a curved monitor lies in its ability to bring the screen’s edges closer to your line of sight, resulting in a consistent image across the display. While curved gaming monitors vary in their features, most are ultrawide with a 21:9 aspect ratio, offering a heightened level of immersion compared to flat, 16:9 monitors. The curvature of a monitor, indicated by its radius (e.g., 2500R or 1000R), determines the degree of curvature – higher numbers represent a smoother curve, whereas lower numbers indicate a more aggressive one.
To ensure the best gaming experience while purchasing a curved gaming monitor, it’s crucial to take into account factors like refresh rate, response time, and input lag.
In the article, we’ve compiled a list of the best curved gaming monitors for your consideration.
1. Dell Alienware AW3423DW: The Best Gaming Monitor
Product Specifications:
- Size: 34 inches
- Pixel Type: QD-OLED
- Max Refresh Rate: 175 Hz
- Variable Refresh Rate: Yes
- Native Resolution: 3440 x 1440
- HDR10: Yes
- Curve Radius: 1800R
The Dell Alienware AW3423DW is the best curved gaming monitor. It’s best for gaming because it has a fast 175Hz refresh rate and quick response time. This means that even in fast-moving scenes, you won’t see blur behind objects. It also works really well with NVIDIA graphics cards because it supports something called native G-SYNC variable refresh rate (VRR). But don’t worry if you don’t have an NVIDIA card or want something cheaper – the Dell Alienware AW3423DWF is almost the same and costs a bit less, but still works great for games.
Both of these monitors have really good picture quality. They use a special kind of panel called QD-OLED that makes black colors look perfect, especially in dark rooms. The colors look really nice too, thanks to something called quantum dot technology. The screen is wider than normal and it curves a bit, so when you’re playing games, it feels like you’re inside the game because you can see more around you.
Just one thing to remember is that these monitors, like the AW3423DW and AW3423DWF, can have a problem called burn-in if you leave the same picture on the screen for a really long time. But for most gamers, this won’t be a big problem. For most gamers, this isn’t something to worry about. However, if you’re worried, you might want to consider the Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 S32BG85 and the Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 S32BG75. These are also really good 4k monitors with curved screens that are 32 inches wide. These monitors use Mini LED backlighting to be brighter than the Dell ones, but they don’t show black colors as perfectly. If you don’t prefer really wide screens, these are a good choice. They work well with the latest gaming consoles too. However, if you’re looking for the best performance for gaming on a computer, the Dell monitors are for best gaming perfomance you can experience.
Pros:
- Smooth Gameplay
- G-SYNC Compatibility
- Vibrant Visuals
- Immersive Design
- Wider View
- Sharp Detail
- Enhanced Dynamic Range
- Customizable RGB lighting adds a touch of personal style.
Cons:
- OLED panels may be prone to burn-in, especially with static images.
- Premium features translate to a higher cost.
- Viewing angles might result in slight color variations.
- Some units may exhibit minor variations in brightness across the screen.
- Peak brightness might not match certain high-end LED displays.
2. Dell S3222DGM: Best 32-Inch 1440p Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 32-inch
- Panel Type: VA
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Curvature: 1800R
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440
- Response Time: 1ms
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Weight: 16.4 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: FreeSync Premium
The 32-inch Dell S3222DGM gaming monitor stands out as an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking for high performance without breaking the bank.
We’d all adore having $1,000 burning a hole in our pockets to spend on a brand-new gaming monitor. The Dell S3222DGM, however, is aiming for the kind of budget that the majority of us actually have in the real world.
It is a 32-inch monster with a VA panel producing 2560 by 1440 pixels and operating at up to 165Hz. he 1440p resolution, which many consider to be the ideal combination of performance and visual detail for real-world gaming. In terms of pixel density, that makes for a fairly large 1440p panel.
Actually, Windows is where the low pixel density hurts the most. This monitor is not for you if you prefer clear fonts and a large desktop.
What is its true performance then? The first impressions are decent to average. Even taking into account the low expectations established by the modest spec list, this panel isn’t the brightest or punchiest we’ve ever seen. However, there isn’t anything genuinely incorrect, no banding, and no indication of compression. Simply put, the lack of inherent visual pop and vibrant colours makes it less fascinating right away.
Inject some motion into the proceedings, and the picture becomes clearer, pun intended. The ‘MPRT’ setting completely destroys brightness, so it is a non-starter. The response is therefore “super fast,” with no overshoot and a respectable but not exceptional response. Approximately what one would expect given the 4ms rating for “super fast.”
But when you include the 165Hz refresh, you have a fairly convincing monitor for online shooters who need to react quickly. You would undoubtedly be better suited with a higher-refresh 1080p IPS monitor with a quicker response if that is your top requirement. The Dell S3222DGM, however, does an adequate job with the low latency stuff if you’re looking for something with a wider scope.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that the Corsair Xeneon 32QHD165, a 32-inch 165Hz 1440p panel display, can be purchased for up to $800. Thus, even though the Dell S3222DGM isn’t particularly innovative technologically, it offers good value for the money.
Advantages:
- Remarkable value for the price.
- Offers decent all-around image quality.
- Responsive and reasonably quick performance.
Considerations:
- Absence of HDR support.
- Visual impact may not be particularly striking.
3. Gigabyte M32UC: Best 4K Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 32-inch
- Panel Type: VA
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Curvature: 1500R
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Response Time: 1ms MPRT
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz (Overclockable to 160Hz)
- Weight: 17.9 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: AMD FreeSync Premium
Presenting the Gigabyte M32UC, an exceptional 4K curved gaming monitor that blends affordability, performance, and features seamlessly.
The landscape of gaming has evolved, bridging the gap between an economical 4K monitor and a rapid 4K monitor. While lower resolution displays are available for less, the Gigabyte M32UC demonstrates that a substantial screen and fast performance can be obtained at a reasonable price.
If you’re looking for a monitor that’s not too large or falls in the mid-range category, consider exploring some 16:9 curved monitors, like the Gigabyte M32UC. The Gigabyte monitor still offers a large 32-inch screen with an aggressive 1500R curve. What sets it apart is its higher 4k resolution, resulting in sharper and more detailed visuals. This is especially appealing for console gaming since its HDMI 2.1 bandwidth allows you to maximize the potential of the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Moreover, the monitor boasts a maximum 160Hz refresh rate, which is beneficial for PC gaming enthusiasts.
It’s worth noting that the Gigabyte M32UC doesn’t handle motion as effectively as some monitors, resulting in more visible smearing when objects move quickly. Nevertheless, it compensates for this limitation with a unique backlight-strobing feature. This feature operates across a broad range of refresh rates and can work alongside Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), something not commonly found. This innovation enhances motion clarity by reducing persistence blur.
Gigabyte adeptly blends a suite of features into this package, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, 1ms MPRT, FreeSync Premium Pro support, and a USB 3.2 hub.
Out of the box, the M32UC achieves a commendable 144Hz refresh rate—an aspect demanding a potent graphics card to fully exploit at 4K resolution. However, connectivity via DisplayPort 1.4 enables overclocking the panel through the OSD, elevating the refresh rate to 160Hz. This feature could be excessive for most users but presents an appealing option for those with ambitious gaming setups or upcoming high-performance GPUs.
Given the blend of resolution and refresh rate, even top-tier GPUs might not consistently optimize performance. This is where the M32UC’s FreeSync capabilities prove essential. Syncing the panel with the graphics card when it operates below the screen’s maximum refresh rate significantly minimizes screen tearing.
The 32-inch 4K panel delivers an impeccably crisp gaming experience. Playing games like Destiny 2 showcases the M32UC’s ability to preserve fine details and vibrant colors without struggles in saturation.
While the M32UC carries a DisplayHDR 400 rating, its HDR capabilities are not its highlight. Lacking certain essential traits of a genuine HDR monitor—such as higher brightness and local dimming—it remains an unremarkable HDR contender. The monitor’s design, while subtle, doesn’t add to its attractiveness.
Pros:
- No frills approach
- Affordable 4K
- Up to 160Hz refresh overclocked
- Great panel performance
- Handy USB hub
Cons:
- Stand is pretty basic
4. ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B: Best Affordable Ultrawide Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 34-inch
- Panel Type: VA
- Aspect Ratio: 21:9
- Curvature: 1500R
- Resolution: 3440 x 1440
- Response Time: 1ms
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Weight: 19 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: FreeSync Premium
ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B is a best choice for those seeking an affordable ultrawide curved gaming monitor that doesn’t compromise on performance.
The ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B emerges as a budget-friendly offering that delivers a remarkable package. With a 34-inch ultrawide display, 165Hz refresh rate, swift 1ms response time, and even HDR support, all for a price of $370, this monitor offers an impressive value proposition.
Employing VA panel technology, which aligns with its attractive pricing, the monitor tends to compromise slightly on pixel response performance. Nevertheless, this compromise isn’t drastic.
Brightness levels peak at an impressive 550 nits—a commendable achievement at this price range. Accompanied by DisplayHDR 400 certification, albeit entry-level, this combination holds potential for a decent entry-level HDR experience. With a VA panel boasting a native contrast ratio of 3,000:1, the stage is set for a visually immersive experience.
ASRock claims a 1ms MPRT response, yet VA panels typically lag behind the best IPS counterparts. Unfortunately, the fast MPRT mode of ASRock’s monitor comes at the cost of a significant drop in brightness, making it a less appealing choice.
While it might not match the best 1ms GtG IPS screens, the response is adequate for its price point. The same applies to the 165Hz refresh rate and overall input latency. For those engaged in extreme esports, a higher-refresh 1080p panel might be preferable. However, for the majority, the PG34WQ15R2B delivers ample speed.
The ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B astonishes with its appealing features given its price tag. The 34-inch ultrawide format remains a favored choice for immersive gaming, complemented by the vibrant VA panel and potent backlight. Running the screen in HDR mode enhances the backlight’s impact (which also benefits SDR content). Coupled with reasonable pixel response and a sufficiently high refresh rate, this monitor caters to the needs of most gamers.
Pros:
- VA panel is punchy.
- High 165Hz refresh rate.
- Immersive 34-inch ultrawide display.
Cons:
- Pixel response performance is moderately decent.
- Initial setup may require some adjustments.
5. Pixio PXC277 Advanced: Budget-Friendly Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 27-inch
- Panel Type: VA
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Curvature: 1500R
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440
- Response Time: 1 ms
- Refresh Rate: 165 Hz
- Weight: 14.97 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible
This 27-inch monitor features a 1440p panel with a 165Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, and even HDR support—a remarkable package at this price point.
The 1440p resolution on the 27-inch panel strikes an ideal balance between size, pixel density, and GPU load. Furthermore, the 165Hz refresh rate caters to all but the most demanding esports enthusiasts with 1ms response time.
While HDR support is present, it’s important to note that the backlight lacks the sophistication of full-array local dimming. With a maximum brightness rating of 320 nits, the monitor doesn’t meet contemporary brightness standards. As for image quality and gaming experience, initial impressions are favorable. The default panel calibration is reasonably accurate, and issues such as sharpening filters or uneven backlighting—common among inexpensive panels—are notably absent.
Despite not being the most vibrant, the display’s vibrancy is acceptable, while the VA panel’s natural contrast provides commendable black levels. The standard SDR mode offers a satisfying desktop experience.
However, the HDR performance falls short of expectations. While it processes HDR signals with adequate color accuracy, it doesn’t deliver an authentic HDR experience. Compression issues in HDR calibration cause excessive brightness in certain areas.
The monitor’s appearance defies its budget-friendly status, thanks to slim bezels on three sides and a sleek metal stand. However, the external power supply and tilt-only stand somewhat mar the overall impression.
The Pixio PXC277 Advanced delivers on its promises. While concessions are typically expected at this price, they aren’t necessary here. The monitor excels in most aspects, showcasing its capabilities without compromising on the essentials.
Strengths:
- High-quality 1440p 165Hz panel.
- Excellent contrast for vivid visuals.
- Decent pixel response time.
Considerations:
- Limited HDR support.
- Tilt-only stand-
- Slightly pointless panel curve
7. Dell S2722DGM: The Best 1440p Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 27-inch
- Panel Type: VA
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Curvature: 1500R
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440
- Response Time: 1ms
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Weight: 9.4 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: FreeSync Premium
The Dell S2722DGM emerges as a leading choice for a top-notch 1440p curved gaming monitor, featuring impressive specifications made for an exceptional gaming experience.
Advantages:
- The combination of 1440p resolution and 165Hz refresh rate offers an excellent gaming experience.
- The VA panel’s inherent strong contrast contributes to an immersive visual environment.
- The monitor is reasonably priced, making it an affordable choice for gaming.
Cons:
- The monitor lacks HDR support.
- While response time is adequate, it falls short of excellence.
The classic 27-inch Dell S2722DGM combines that screen area with a native resolution of 2560 x 1440, giving you an outstanding pixel pitch for fine detail. With a 1440p resolution, you can achieve great frame rates without having to worry about a 4K display’s GPU demands. Its ability to produce such resolution at 165Hz is also praised.
Its 2ms GtG response time is just a bit slower than the best IPS panels’ 1ms and 0.5ms ratings in terms of speed. However, if you’re truly after speed, you can find quicker panels. Given the inherent strong contrast of the technology, at least, this VA panel has a high contrast ratio.
Regarding visual quality, the Dell S2722DGM is a fairly snappy and vibrant monitor given that it is made entirely of SDR panel. This is made possible by the strong inherent contrast, which prevents you from feeling underwhelmed when playing HDR-compatible games like Cyberpunk 2077 in SDR mode.
Avoid MPRT mode because it severely reduces the panel’s brightness and vibrancy. ‘Extreme’ mode, which is rated as 2ms, does have a slight overshoot, although it’s barely noticeable in-game. ‘Super fast’ fixes the overshoot but allows a slight blurring of darker tones.
There is no USB Type-C connectivity available. Even though the HDMI ports have a 144Hz rather than a 165Hz maximum refresh rate, the dual HDMI and one DisplayPort connections work just fine.
Most importantly, this Dell monitor is reasonably priced. Dell offers outstanding gaming panels that have every feature you require and a few extras to raise the price. And given that, it ranks among the top gaming monitors available today for most PC gamers.
8. Acer Predator X38: The Ultimate Widescreen Curved Gaming Monitor
Key Specifications:
- Screen Size: 37.5-inch
- Panel Type: IPS
- Aspect Ratio: 21:9
- Curvature: 1900R
- Resolution: 3840 x 1600
- Response Time: 1 ms GtG
- Refresh Rate: 144 Hz (175 Hz overclocked)
- Weight: 34 lbs
- Refresh Rate Technology: G-Sync Ultimate
Acer’s reputation for crafting top-notch gaming monitors shines with the Acer Predator X38, earning it a coveted position on the list of the best widescreen curved gaming monitors. The Predator X38 is not only visually striking but also boasts outstanding performance.
The Predator X38 features a sizable 37.5-inch IPS panel with a native resolution of 3840×1600, delivering exceptional brightness (especially for a curved monitor) and vibrant colors. The display’s immersive visuals are further accentuated by its ultrawide aspect ratio, providing a wide field of view that can be especially advantageous in shooter games, offering a strategic edge.
Acer has left no stone unturned when it comes to design. The monitor’s exquisite design includes built-in LEDs, speakers, and sleek thin aluminum legs. The under-glow from the bottom-facing LEDs adds a pleasing ambiance to your gaming experience. Furthermore, the setup process is remarkably smooth, thanks to the monitor’s manageable weight of 9.48kg and the pre-fitted metal stand.
The widescreen format and the 3840×1600 resolution create an immersive gaming experience. In games like Doom Eternal, the visuals are breathtaking, showcasing the prowess of the IPS panel. While it might not match Quantum Dot screens in sheer dazzle, the HDR 400 capability is sufficient to deliver satisfying HDR effects.
The Predator X38 is well-suited for driving games, offering a vertical resolution of 1600, which is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other ultrawide monitors. The combination of good height and width enhances the gaming experience both visually and functionally.
Evidently, this feature-rich gaming monitor comes with a price tag of around $1,700. While not inexpensive, the Acer Predator X38 justifies its cost by delivering unparalleled performance and a visually captivating experience.
Strengths:
- Striking and elegant design.
- Vibrant and immersive picture quality.
- Low latency for responsive gameplay.
Considerations:
- Low HDR performance
- Occasional edge glow in darker scenes.
9. LG 34GP950G-B: Best Mid-Range Gaming Monitor
Key Features:
- Size: 34 inches
- Pixel Type: IPS
- Max Refresh Rate: 180 Hz
- Variable Refresh Rate: Yes
- Native Resolution: 3440 x 1440
- HDR10: Yes
- Curve Radius: 1900R
If you’re aiming for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on gaming performance, consider exploring monitors in the upper mid-range category, such as the LG 34GP950G-B. While you may not experience the same exceptional picture quality as the Dell Alienware AW3423DW, where dark colors might appear somewhat gray, this is the trade-off for a more affordable display. The gaming experience remains impressive, thanks to its identical native G-SYNC support and 21:9 aspect ratio, coupled with a slightly subtler 1900R curve.
An added perk of using this monitor with an NVIDIA graphics card is its variable overdrive feature, which adjusts overdrive settings based on the refresh rate, optimizing motion appearance.
Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate its native 144Hz refresh rate that’s overclockable to 180Hz. The monitor boasts a rapid response time, ensuring minimal motion blur across various refresh rates. Furthermore, it offers even lower input lag compared to the Dell model, contributing to a slightly more responsive gaming feel. Additionally, it comes equipped with a range of gaming features you’d typically expect from a gaming monitor, including virtual crosshairs that can provide a competitive edge, often undetected by your game’s anti-cheat system.
This monitor option blends affordability with solid gaming performance, making it a noteworthy choice for gaming enthusiasts.
10. Dell S3422DWG: A Lower Mid-Range Gaming Monitor
Key Features:
- Size: 34 inches
- Pixel Type: VA
- Max Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
- Variable Refresh Rate: Yes
- Native Resolution: 3440 x 1440
- HDR10: Yes
- Curve Radius: 1800R
If you’re looking to cut costs without dipping into the budget category, considering a lower mid-range option like the Dell S3422DWG is a solid choice.
Comparing the Gigabyte M32UC, this monitor lacks HDMI 2.1 bandwidth to fully leverage the potential of current-generation gaming consoles. Moreover, due to its lower resolution, image sharpness and detail aren’t as pronounced. Nevertheless, it presents an ultrawide layout featuring a 34-inch screen with a 3440×1440 resolution, providing a more affordable alternative to the LG 34GP950G-B. Despite its lower price, it doesn’t compromise on gaming performance. The ultrawide screen creates an immersive gaming atmosphere, enhanced by the 1800R curve that brings the edges closer within your field of vision.
The monitor offers a native 144Hz refresh rate complemented by FreeSync VRR support and G-SYNC compatibility, effectively combating screen tearing. Although there might be noticeable smearing with rapidly moving objects, the overall response times remain commendable. The inclusion of a backlight strobing feature diminishes persistence blur. However, unlike the Gigabyte model, it doesn’t function concurrently with VRR and is confined to a limited range of usage. One advantage the Dell monitor holds over the Gigabyte is its ability to showcase deep blacks and achieve brighter HDR highlights.
Best Curved Gaming Monitor FAQ
What factors should you consider when purchasing a curved gaming monitor?
When making the switch to an immersive curved gaming monitor, several factors should guide your decision-making process.
- Resolution: Higher resolution offers more detailed visuals but can put a heavier load on your graphics card.
- Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate translates to smoother and faster visuals, enhancing your gaming experience.
- Response Time: Faster response times can improve your in-game reflexes and reduce motion blur.
Another critical factor is the curvature of the monitor.
Which monitor curvature level should I select?
The curvature, indicated by the curve radius, significantly influences your viewing experience. Curved panels are typically rated across a range, like 4000R to 1500R. A lower number denotes a tighter curve. The Samsung Odyssey G9’s 1000R curve is notably steep compared to others.
The distance between you and the monitor plays a role in determining the ideal curvature. Gaming monitors often feature around an 1800R curvature, well-suited for desktop gaming. A more pronounced curve, when viewed from a distance, might adversely affect viewing angles and overall enjoyment.
How is a gaming monitor tested?
There are two primary methods for testing monitors to determine the best gaming monitor. The first involves playing games on the monitor, which provides a direct experience of its gaming performance. While this subjective testing might not reveal all the specific details of a particular screen, it allows you to assess aspects like aspect ratio, native resolution, and any gamer-centric technologies they incorporate.
Comparative testing conducted side by side is particularly valuable for discerning subtle differences between each panel. When using a screen in isolation, it’s easy to overlook its comparative flaws as you become accustomed to them. By testing multiple screens back-to-back, you can effectively pinpoint and highlight specific issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Although it is much more challenging, objective testing can be quite beneficial. Proper objective testing requires dedicated hardware to measure metrics such as latency and color accuracy. This can be complex and beyond the reach of most gamers. However, a basic form of objective testing can be performed using LCD calibration pages available online. These pages offer various test screens that you can display on any web-connected panel to make qualitative assessments.
While the era of physical retail spaces for such testing is waning, a practical alternative is to bring along a notebook or similar device when checking out a screen before purchasing it. You can then explore the Lagom pages to evaluate its performance.
