Top Curved Monitors of 2025 Reviewed News - Latest Updates and Information

Upgrading your gaming setup with a curved monitor can significantly enhance your immersion, drawing you into the heart of the action and making your favorite games more engaging than ever. Whether you're a competitive esports player seeking an edge or a single-player enthusiast looking to dive deep into rich storylines, the right curved gaming monitor can make all the difference. Here are the top picks for the best curved gaming monitors of 2025.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Curved Gaming Monitors:

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at Asus### AOC C27G2Z

0See it at Amazon### Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

0See it at Amazon### Acer Predator X34 OLED

0See it at Amazon### MSI MPG 491CQP

0See it at AmazonThe market for curved gaming monitors has exploded, with numerous brands offering a range of options. While many monitors might look similar on paper, their real-world performance can vary significantly. Depending on your gaming style, certain features will be more important. For shooters, prioritize monitors with low input latency and high refresh rates. For a more immersive experience, consider a monitor with a deeper curve to pull you into the game world.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

With over a decade as a gaming journalist, I've reviewed countless monitors for major gaming publications. My experience has given me a deep understanding of what makes a gaming monitor exceptional, tailored to different user needs. At IGN, we're dedicated gamers, and every review undergoes rigorous scrutiny to provide you with accurate, reliable recommendations. We aim to help you make informed decisions, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck. After reading this guide, explore our recommendations for the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets to complete your ultimate gaming setup.

1. Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

Best Curved Gaming Monitor

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor boasts next-level HDR and an impressive suite of gaming features, making it a top choice for immersive gaming. See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at AsusProduct SpecificationsScreen size34" 800RAspect ratio21:9 Resolution3,440 x 1,440Panel typeOLED, G-Sync compatibleHDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400 True BlackBrightness1,300cd/m2Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.03ms (GtG)Inputs1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1, USB Type-C (DP and PD), 2 x USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A PROSStunning HDR performanceDeep and immersive curveHigh peak brightness, infinite contrastBuilt-in KVM and meaningful gaming featuresCONSDeep curve isn't great for productivityThe Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands out as the best curved gaming monitor available. Its deep 800R curve enhances immersion, while the OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. With a price around $1,000, you get 1,300 nits of peak brightness for stunning HDR gaming, and its OLED technology ensures deep blacks for a high dynamic range. This monitor is also suitable for content creation with its 3,440x1,440 resolution and wide color gamut support, though its deep curve may slightly distort text for productivity tasks. For gaming, it offers a smooth 240Hz refresh rate and low input latency, along with various gaming modes to enhance your competitive edge. The built-in KVM switch adds convenience for multi-platform gamers.

AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

### AOC C27G2Z

0Budget-conscious gamers will appreciate the AOC C27G2Z's affordable price and impressive features, including a 1500R curved screen and high refresh rate. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size27" 1500R Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA FreeSyncBrightness300cd/m2 Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.5msInputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPortPROSGreat responsivenessHigh refresh rateGood colors and contrastCONSHDMI is limited to 120HzAOC's C27G2Z is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance. At under $200, you get a 27-inch VA panel with a 1500R curve, offering a good balance of immersion and practicality. The monitor's 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it suitable for competitive gaming, and its 3,000:1 contrast ratio delivers deep blacks. While its colors and viewing angles may not match those of IPS panels, they are still vibrant enough for gaming. Note that to achieve the full 240Hz, you'll need to use the DisplayPort connection, as HDMI 2.0 is limited to 120Hz.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

### Alienware AW3423DWF

0This QD-OLED monitor offers exceptional value, delivering stunning visuals and robust gaming features at a competitive price. See it at Best BuySee it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size34" 1800RAspect ratio21:9Resolution3,440 x 1,440Panel typeQD-OLED, FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync compatibleBrightness1,000 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate165HzResponse time0.5msInputs1 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort, 4 x USB 3.2 Type-APROSGreat valueFantastic picture thanks to QD-OLED panelHigh refresh rateCONSLow SDR brightnessHDMI 2.0 onlyThe Dell Alienware AW3423DWF is a standout choice for those seeking the best value in curved gaming monitors. Priced at just over $600, it offers an impressive QD-OLED panel with vivid colors and high brightness, making it an affordable entry into OLED gaming. While its SDR brightness is lower, its HDR performance peaks at 1,000 nits, delivering exceptional contrast and visual quality. With a 165Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time, it's well-suited for competitive gaming, and its compatibility with both FreeSync and G-Sync ensures smooth gameplay. Given its reduced price from the original $1,100, it's an unbeatable value.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

### Acer Predator X34 OLED

0This ultrawide monitor combines stunning visuals with high refresh rates, making it ideal for immersive gaming. See it at AmazonSee it at B&H Product SpecificationsScreen size34Aspect ratio21:9Resolution3440x1440Panel typeOLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,300 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time 0.03msInputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-CPROSSuperior HDR brightness240Hz refresh rateGreat color reproductionCONS800R curve works for content creation but isn't the best for productivityNo sRGB modeThe Acer Predator X34 OLED is the top choice for ultrawide gaming monitors, offering a perfect blend of immersive visuals and performance. Its 800R curve and 240Hz refresh rate deliver a seamless and engaging gaming experience, supported by G-Sync and FreeSync. The OLED panel's vibrant colors and high peak brightness of 1,300 nits make it ideal for both gaming and movie watching. While it lacks an sRGB mode, its P3 mode ensures standardized colors for content creators. This monitor is a premium choice for those looking to elevate their gaming setup.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

### MSI MPG 491CQPX

0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor provides expansive screen real estate and top-notch gaming performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size49", 1800RAspect ratio32:9Resolution5,120x1,440Panel typeQD-OLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,000 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time 0.03msInputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB Type-C (DP/PD 98W), 2 x USB 2.0 Type-APROSBright and color richGreat for productivity as well as gamingFast, fast, fast!USB Type-C video and PD chargingCONSBurn-in prevention features can be gratingResolution is demandingThe MSI MPG 491CQPX is the ultimate choice for those needing a vast amount of screen space. With a 49-inch, 32:9 aspect ratio, it's equivalent to three 1440p monitors side by side, perfect for multitasking and immersive gaming. Its QD-OLED panel offers rich colors and high brightness, while the 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time ensure smooth gameplay. The monitor's 1800R curve enhances the viewing experience, and its USB Type-C connectivity with PD charging adds versatility. However, its high resolution demands a powerful GPU, and some users may find its burn-in prevention features overly aggressive.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

Selecting the perfect curved gaming monitor involves considering several key factors based on your specific needs. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice:

Resolution: Higher resolutions offer crisper images but require more powerful hardware. Common resolutions include 1080p, 1440p, and 4K. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal resolution while maintaining the same vertical resolution.

Size: The right size depends on your space and gaming goals. A gentle curve and 16:9 aspect ratio are ideal for aesthetics, while a larger ultrawide monitor with a 21:9 aspect ratio offers more usable space. Consider the screen door effect at larger sizes with lower resolutions.

Panel Type: Choose between IPS for great colors and viewing angles, VA for better contrast, or OLED for the best contrast and color. OLED monitors are trending but come with considerations like burn-in risk.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for SDR and 1,000 nits for HDR to ensure vibrant visuals.

Refresh Rate: For gaming, a minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with 144Hz being ideal. Higher rates like 240Hz or above benefit competitive gamers.

Curvature: The curvature is denoted by an "R" number, with lower numbers indicating a deeper curve. A deeper curve can enhance immersion but may distort text, making it less ideal for productivity.

Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support (VRR) like FreeSync or G-Sync for smooth gameplay. Other features like built-in KVM switches, picture-in-picture modes, and customizable settings can enhance your gaming experience.

Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025

The gaming monitor industry continues to evolve, with OLED technology leading the charge. At CES 2025, I witnessed a range of new OLED monitors from major brands, catering to different audiences and price points. Mini-LED monitors are also emerging as an alternative, offering solutions to OLED's brightness and burn-in issues. Another notable trend is the integration of smart TV features into gaming monitors, which could be a game-changer for gamers in small spaces or students in dorms.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

Curved monitors can enhance immersion, particularly on larger ultrawide displays. While they don't affect performance or responsiveness, they can draw you into the game world more effectively.

What is 800R, 1500R, and 1800R?

These numbers represent the curvature's radius. Lower numbers mean a deeper curve, with 800R being more immersive but potentially distorting text. Choose based on your use case; deeper curves are best for gaming, while gentler curves are better for mixed use.

Are curved monitors good for work?

Curved monitors with a 1500R or 1800R curvature are suitable for most work tasks. However, very deep curves may distort text, making them less ideal for productivity. Ultrawide curved monitors are particularly beneficial for video editors due to their increased horizontal space.