Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

One of the trends in gaming monitors today is the move to ultra-wide formats. These monitors are wider, brighter, and have higher refresh rates for a more immersive gaming experience.

Choosing an ultrawide gaming monitor as one of the important upgrade components, here's how you feel:

• More immersive gameplay: The ultra-wide aspect ratio allows you to see the game more comprehensively, as if you were in the game world.
• Less strain on the graphics card: Compared to traditional monitors, ultrawide monitors put less strain on the graphics card while displaying the same picture content.
• Great Pricing: With the advancement of technology, ultra-wide gaming monitors are becoming more affordable today.

The highest-rated ultra-wide gaming monitor on the market right now is the Alienware 34 QD-OLED. Thanks to its excellent OLED panel, the display is capable of displaying breathtakingly vibrant colors that bring gaming to life. Alienware monitors often have promotions, and if you're on a budget, you can consider the ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B this inexpensive ultra-wide gaming monitor.

One of the criteria that determines whether a display is "ultrawide" is its aspect ratio. The most common ultrawide monitor has a 21:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 3440 x 1440. However, there are now wider 32:9 displays to choose from, with resolutions ranging from 3840 x 1080 to 5120 x 1440 and even 7680 x 2160 ultra-high resolution.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Alienware 34 QD-OLED (AW3423DWF) 目前最好的超宽游戏显示器

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 34 inches
• Panel Type: OLED
• Aspect ratio: 21:9
• Resolution: 3440 x 1440
• Response time: 0.1 ms
• Refresh rate: 165Hz
• Brightness (peak): 1000 nits
• 刷新率技术：AMD FreeSync Premium Pro

Merit:

• The mirror coating makes the colors more vibrant
• Ultra-fast response times
• Excellent full-screen brightness

Shortcoming:

• The price is still relatively expensive
• The pixel density is medium

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

The Alienware 34 QD-OLED is not only the best ultrawide gaming monitor out there, but probably one of the best gaming monitors out there. The resolution of 3440 x 1440 guarantees immersion while also employing the currently popular OLED panels.

The monitor boasts a 0.1ms response time, a 165Hz refresh rate, 3440 x 1440 resolution, 1000 nits peak brightness, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technology. The prices for these configurations are reasonably reasonable, and there are often discount promotions.

The Alienware 34 QD-OLED is available in two models, the AW3423DW and the AW3423DWF. I recommend the AW3423DWF model. It removes G-Sync support (but still works well with Nvidia graphics cards) and lowers the 10Hz refresh rate (which doesn't have much impact), but in exchange, it comes with a striking coating instead of the usual matte coating. It may seem like a tiny detail, but it's this mirror coating that makes this OLED display really stand out.

The mirror coating perfectly brings out the deep black levels and ultra-high contrast ratio of the OLED panel, which can significantly enhance the HDR gaming experience.

In addition to the luxurious panels and coatings, this Alienware monitor comes with a stand that is practical but doesn't take up the table, and the overall look is one of the best on the market. It's important to note that since the screen is still essentially a widescreen 1440p panel, the pixel density isn't very high, although the ultra-wide ratio makes it look bigger. Also, as with most OLED displays today, text clarity isn't its strength. Similarly, if you use your monitor on your desktop for a long time and you always show static elements like the taskbar, you need to be aware of screen burning.

The Alienware 34 QD-OLED is by far the best all-around display we've used.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

ASUS Phantom PG34WQ15R2B The most cost-effective ultrawide monitor

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 34 inches
• Panel Type: VA
• Aspect ratio: 21:9
• Resolution: 3440 x 1440
• Response time: 1ms
• Refresh rate: 165Hz
• Brightness (peak): 550 nits
• 刷新率技术：FreeSync Premium

Merit:

• Brightly colored VA panels
• 165Hz refresh rate
• 34 inches of ultra-wide immersion

Shortcoming:

• The pixel response speed is just enough
• The settings need to be adjusted slightly

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

The best budget ultrawide monitor comes from a new face in the world of gaming monitors – the ASUS Phantom PG34WQ15R2B. Despite its recent entry into the market, ASUS has adopted a confusing naming scheme for its monitors, but don't let those names dissuade you.

Please don't lower your expectations too much, as the ASUS Phantom PG34WQ15R2B offers spec sheets that are very similar to the Alienware 34 QD-OLED mentioned above in some areas, such as a 3440 x 1440 resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate.

PG34WQ15R2B has a VA panel that's affordable but still has decent brightness at 550 nits. That's enough to make it DisplayHDR 400 certified and provide a relatively good HDR experience. The display's claimed 91% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage is also pretty good.

In terms of other specs, the monitor supports FreeSync Premium technology (which should be available on a good monitor in 2024) for all your variable refresh rate needs. Surprisingly, the bracket is also excellent. Usually an affordable monitor stand tends to be a shortcoming, but this one offers all the adjustments you could ask for and doesn't take up too much desk space.

All in all, PG34WQ15R2B impressed us during the testing process and was very enjoyable to play. It is still in use in the PC Gamer office. Considering that its initial price is relatively cheap in its class, and there are frequent discount campaigns, making it one of the cheapest ultrawide gaming monitors on the market, it is highly recommended.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM - The best 240Hz ultrawide gaming monitor right now

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 34 inches
• Panel Type: OLED
• Aspect ratio: 21:9
• Resolution: 3440 x 1440
• Response time: 0.03 ms
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Brightness (peak): 1300 nits
• 刷新率技术：AMD FreeSync Premium Pro，G-Sync 兼容

Merit:

• Improved full-screen brightness
• 240Hz refresh rate
• Extremely fast response times and HDR displays

Shortcoming:

• The brightness is still not perfect
• The price is quite high

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM is one of only a few second-generation OLED gaming monitors currently on the market, and it comes with LG's ultra-fast WOLED MLA Gen 2 panel.

This LG panel gives you a 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time. That's right, it's 0.03 milliseconds. In short, this panel is very fast in every way.

Reaching the officially advertised 240Hz refresh rate requires a high-end graphics card, and even the best graphics cards out there can be a struggle in some games. However, since it is a 3440 x 1440 resolution ultrawide display, the overall pixel count is much less than that of a 4K display.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

However, the image quality has not been sacrificed for the sake of speed. If you've seen LG's OLED TVs, you'll know that LG's screen display is excellent. The Swift OLED PG34WCDM is no slouch. The second-generation OLED panel really brings a huge boost in terms of image display. Compared to other LG OLED displays we've tested before, it has more vibrant colors.

But OLED displays also have some drawbacks. Burn-in is an issue to be aware of, even if the monitor has taken some steps to minimize the risk of burn-in. Also, the OLED panel is made in such a way that it causes some strange phenomena when displaying text, which seems to bother some people more than others. Another factor is cost. The Swift OLED PG34WCDM is even more expensive than the best ultrawide gaming monitors we've picked up due to updates. Hopefully, its price will be slashed as much as the Alienware, or this speed machine might not get the attention it deserves.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 G93SC - The best 49-inch ultrawide gaming monitor right now

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 49 inches
• Panel Type: OLED
• Aspect ratio: 32:9
• Resolution: 5120 x 1440
• Response time: 0.03ms
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Brightness (peak): 1000 nits
• 刷新率技术：FreeSync Premium Pro

Merit:

• Stunning 32:9 OLED panel
• A true HDR experience
• Excellent design and manufacturing process (in general)

Shortcoming:

• Expensive
• The 32:9 aspect ratio isn't for everyone
• The pixel density is average

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

The Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 G93SC is the best 49-inch ultrawide gaming monitor out there. It's slightly cheaper than the G95SC, which comes with some extra smart TV features, but it's not very important for PC gamers.

Thanks to the 49-inch QD-OLED panel, the OLED G9 has a horizontal resolution of 5120 x 1440, which is higher than many other ultrawide gaming monitors. This gives you plenty of leeway to explore your desktop space or a large number of Chrome tabs, or can provide an ultra-wide gaming experience that fills the entire field of view.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

It's really the most immersive ultrawide monitor we've ever seen. The combination of the incredible contrast and color of the OLED screen with the 49-inch screen size provides an enviable gaming experience in games that support that resolution. One thing to note: not all games support such a high horizontal resolution. However, games that support that resolution will make for an amazing viewing experience on the large OLED G9.

The OLED G9 has a refresh rate of up to 240Hz, putting it on the same level as our recommended fastest ultrawide panel, the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM. Importantly, it's also faster than the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD with the same panel. And, while usually the OLED G9 sells for a higher price, we've also seen it at a much cheaper discounted price than its ASUS counterpart.

Still, it's an expensive OLED display. The ultra-wide OLED display market is the first time we've seen this newer screen technology on the market, but it also comes with a high price tag. Want to save money? The Asus Phantom PG34WQ15R2B can be considered as an alternative.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 G95NC - The best 57-inch ultrawide gaming monitor right now.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 57 inches
• Panel Type: VA
• Aspect ratio: 32:9
• Resolution: 7680 x 2160
• Response time: 1 millisecond
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Brightness (peak): 1000 nits
• 刷新率技术：FreeSync Premium Pro

Merit:

• Unthinkably ultra-high pixels
• Dramatically improved local dimming
• Amazing gaming experience

Shortcoming:

• Mini-LED technology still has limitations
• The ergonomic design is questionable
• Very expensive

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

It's probably the only 57-inch ultra-wide gaming monitor on the market right now.

However, that's not why the Neo G9 G95NC was selected for this article. , we make way for this giant monitor because it really gives a new meaning to the term "ultrawide". We thought it might have another title, "Super Silly Big Wide", but I don't think the term would catch on. Here's the point: it's huge, and the resolution is very user-friendly.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Breaking the specs of traditional ultrawide gaming monitors, the Neo G9 G95NC boasts a resolution of 7680 x 2160. If you divide this number by 2, you'll get a separate 4K panel, which is the equivalent of two 4K panels bundled together.

However, instead of a high-end OLED panel, the display features an equally novel backlight technology – Quantum Mini-LED. As a result, it's not inferior in brightness and aesthetics (DisplayHDR 1000!). )。 Although it's not as good as OLED in some ways, you can still expect a 1ms response time and a decent contrast ratio. At least you don't have to worry about screen burn-in.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

With a refresh rate of up to 240Hz, the monitor is also a fast monitor that's great for gaming. However, with any modern gaming graphics card, you may not be able to run the game with the entire panel. At least that's the case in most modern games – maybe some simple games can do. But you'll most likely use this screen for picture-in-picture mode to get two semi-independent 4K panels side by side.

This ultrawide monitor does an excellent job of clarity and detail. Since it's the size of two 4K panels placed side by side, the pixel density is comparable to a 32-inch 4K display at 140DPI. It's incredibly good, and you can only feel how great it is when you actually experience such a clear picture on a 57-inch monitor.

Of course, it is also extremely expensive. This was to be expected, but it was still distressing to see the beginning of the double digits.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

华硕 ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Screen Specifications:

• Screen size: 49 inches
• Panel Type: OLED
• Aspect ratio: 32:9
• Resolution: 5120 x 1440
• Response time: 0.03 ms
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Brightness (peak): 1000 nits
• 刷新率技术：FreeSync Premium、G-Sync 兼容
• 其他功能：HDR10+、DSC、ELMB Sync、AI Crosshair

Merit:

• Mesmerizing picture quality
• Bright colors
• Easier to drive than standard 4K displays
• Immersive

Shortcoming:

• Annoying aliasing will still appear at the edges of the text
• There was a slight creak in the base

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

This monitor features an OLED panel that offers superior picture quality, including perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and excellent color performance. The 32:9 aspect ratio provides immersive visuals that are perfect for gaming and multitasking. With a peak brightness of 1000 nits for a good HDR experience even in a brightly lit room, it also supports HDR10+ for more realistic images and a wider range of colors.

FreeSync Premium and G-Sync compatibility is compatible with Nvidia and AMD graphics cards, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD is a powerful and high-performance ultra-wide gaming monitor. Excellent picture quality, ultra-wide aspect ratio, high refresh rate, and HDR support make it a great choice for gamers looking for the best gaming experience.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

How do I test a gaming monitor?

It's important to focus on the actual experience rather than just running the score, not on paper.

Tested for daily use

• Using a dark background and a light browser or explorer window (or vice versa) allows you to see how your display will look backlit and how it will look at different brightness requirements.
• For modern OLED displays, the effect of the Auto Brightness Limiting (ABL) feature can also be checked.

Gaming testing

• Using a fast-paced shooter game allows you to test the responsiveness of your monitor.
• Games with stunning graphics, such as Cyberpunk 2077, can be used to test HDR effects.

Other tests

• A series of experiential tests are also required to spot any ghosting, backlight issues, or overall blurring of the image.
• Focusing too much on specific screen benchmarks and ignoring the obvious issues that can arise in everyday gaming use is putting the cart before the horse.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Is an ultrawide monitor good for gaming?

Absolutely! An ultrawide monitor can dramatically impact your gaming experience, whether it's making you more immersive in a first-person shooter or simply giving you extra screen space in a strategy game or turn-based game.

In the past, you had to tweak a lot of settings and even modify the game's configuration file to fit the wide field of view of the ultra-wide panel. Now there are almost no such troubles! (Except Elden Ring......)

The vast majority of games on the market now support 21:9 or even 32:9 aspect ratios out of the box.

However, you'll also need to choose an ultrawide monitor that's designed for gaming, as a regular office ultrawide screen may not be enough. You'll need a monitor with a refresh rate of 120Hz or higher and a native vertical resolution of at least 1440p. It's also best to be compatible with FreeSync or G-Sync technology.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Can an ultrawide monitor split screen?

Partly yes, not all ultrawide monitors offer split-screen functionality, and usually only the "ultrawide" part of the ultrawide screen is available, such as the 49- or 57-inch monitors mentioned in our list of recommendations, which basically have screens equivalent to two side-by-side monitors.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Can an ultrawide monitor go up to 4K?

The short answer is: no, because 4K has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 and is exclusive to a 16:9 aspect ratio. However, ultrawide screens can surpass 4K displays in horizontal dimensions.

You need to pay attention to the second number in the resolution specification, which indicates the vertical height of the display resolution. If that number is 2160 or higher, then that resolution is more than 4K, such as the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 G95NC monitor, which is basically equivalent to two side-by-side 4K gaming monitors.

Play the game and have fun! The best ultrawide monitors to buy in 2024

Does an ultrawide monitor affect the frame rate?

Since the 21:9 resolution of the ultrawide adds extra width, it puts some extra strain on the graphics card's frame rate performance. However, upgrading from a 2560 x 1440 screen to a 3440 x 1440 ultrawide screen has a smaller performance impact than upgrading directly to a 4K (3840 x 2160) display.

It depends on the number of pixels that the GPU needs to process, and multiplying the two values of the resolution specification together gives you the total number of pixels. You can easily see that upscaling to 4K has a much larger resolution boost than a standard ultra-widescreen resolution.