Our favorite curvy screens

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Your setup may experience a whole new level of immersion when you use the best curved gaming monitor. Wraparound screens aren’t for everyone, but some PC games—especially first-person shooters with large worlds—may be more enjoyable when they fill your field of vision with images. Because there are more OLED and tiny LED options for curved screens coming to market than ever before, we’re constantly searching for new models to test.

Like the top contenders for gaming displays, not all curved monitors are created equal. Each display will have unique specifications and features intended for different types of players. For instance, you would be better off purchasing a curved panel with a high refresh rate than a simple 60Hz one if you frequently play first-person shooter games. The same is true for panel type; if you want colors that really shine in immersive adventures and artistic indie games, you should choose an OLED display with strong HDR compatibility.

We have put together a comprehensive list of the top curved gaming monitors along with an overview of their features to save you from going crazy while looking for a curved screen. Ultrawide monitors and massive displays that can compete with the top gaming TVs are among our selections. To ensure that money isn’t a barrier, we’ve tested a range of displays at various price points. This should encourage everyone to attempt incorporating a curve into their setup.

QUICK LIST

• BEST OVERALL : LG UltraGear 45GR95QE-B
• BEST FOR MOST : Samsung Odyssey G7
• BEST BUDGET : BenQ EX3203R
• BEST PREMIUM : Alienware AW3423DW
• BEST VALUE : AOC CU34G2X

(Image credit: gamesradar)

1. LG UltraGear 45GR95QE-B

The best curved gaming monitor

SPECIFICATIONS

Screen size: 45-inch

Screen type: 21:9

Panel: OLED

Resolution: 3440 x 1440

Refresh rate: 240Hz

Brightness: 450 nits

Response time: 0.03ms GtG

Viewing angle: 178°

Contrast ratio: 1,500,000:1

Features: 800R curve, HDR10, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Display Port 1.4, 2x USB-A, 3.5mm headphone, optical output

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Although the LG UltraGear 45GR95QE-B is an expensive curved gaming monitor, we believe it is well worth the money if you want the greatest OLED performance available. Even while its 45-inch size is not as large as that of its primary competitor, the Samsung OLED G9, it will nonetheless take up most of your desk and surround you with vivid images.Qualities: With its fast 240Hz refresh rate and amazing HDR capabilities, the UltraGear 45GR95QE-B is far from a one-trick pony. Regardless of your preference for intense adventures or fast-paced first-person shooters, this screen will make your Steam collection pop. Because of its ultrawide design, it is less useful when used with a PS5 or Xbox Series X, but you could still connect all of your gaming systems to this monster because it has an abundance of HDMI and DisplayPort ports.

Design: Upon closer examination, the UltraGear 45GR95QE’s design demonstrates LG’s considerable effort. During unboxing, little elements like the display’s one-click stand system contribute to creating an impact, and the decorative RGB black lighting is pre-programmed to dazzling before anything even reaches the screen. It goes without saying that you should get a friend to help you set up this monitor because it is really huge.

The UltraGear 45GR95QE-B stands out in a crowded market because to little additions like an included remote and amazing decorative RGB lighting, and its 800R curve merits it a spot on this particular list. Once more, for about the same price, both this screen and the Samsung OLED G9 provide a fairly similar experience; but, in terms of OLED brilliance, LG’s display comes out on top.

Performance: LG’s OLED displays are exceptional; all you have to do to see why is to use this monitor to wander under the glow of Cyberpunk 2077’s Night City or immerse yourself in an independent adventure like Tunic. The display’s 1440p resolution is its one significant flaw, but if you’re not accustomed to using a high-end 4K monitor on a regular basis, you might not even notice the density difference.

Conclusion: The UltraGear 45GR95QE is undoubtedly one of the best screens we’ve evaluated in 2023 and the one we’ll keep in mind whenever we talk about the greatest curved monitors in the future. One of the best PC experiences you can have without attaching a VR headset to your head is probably this one, which is a major selling point for wraparound screens in general.

(Image credit: pcgamer)

2. Samsung Odyssey G7

The best curved gaming monitor for most people

SPECIFICATIONS

Screen size: 27-inch

Aspect ratio: 21:9

Panel type: IPS

Resolution: 2560 x 1440

Refresh rate: 240Hz

Brightness: 350 nits

Response time: 1ms GtG

Viewing angle: 178° / 178°

Contrast ratio: 2500:1

Features: 800R curve, HDR10, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Display Port 1.4, 2x USB-A, 3.5mm headphone, optical output

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

With features like high refresh, HDR, quantum dot technology, adaptive sync, local dimming, and more, the Samsung Odyssey G7 C27G7 is currently our top choice for curved gaming monitors among most users.
Qualities: The Odyssey G7 C27G7, a 27-inch panel with a 32-inch counterpart also available, is a 1440p 240Hz screen that perfectly strikes the right balance between speed, reaction, and quality. Although the VA panel technology employed here has a reputation for having slow pixel response and sluggish performance, those worries are unfounded in this case.

Design: Although it may be divisive, the G7’s ultra-tight 1000R panel is unquestionably a defining characteristic. In comparison to many other models, the bend is somewhat forceful, but one could counter that most people assume that is what a curved display is.

In terms of design, the G7 has the same Odyssey setup as the majority of Samsung’s gaming monitor lineup. With its distinctive circular vortex around the back and RGB front lights, it adds a subtle sci-fi futuristic touch.

Performance: This monitor feels and looks as fast as Samsung claims it can, with response times of under 1 ms. It also provides outstanding contrast and color matching to IPS panels in other places, creating an extremely appealing combination.

Cons: Given the DisplayHDR 600 certification, the rather disappointing HDR implementation and comparatively high pricing are the only drawbacks. Other than that, this is a great curved gaming monitor that does a lot of things well.

Conclusion: Although Samsung’s intermediate monitor isn’t flawless, it will certainly satisfy those seeking a charming curved display. Whether that is a good or bad thing depends on your personal preferences. However, because it is more curved than its competitors on this list, it is theoretically more true to its archetype.

(Image credit: wepc)

3. BenQ EX3203R

The best budget curved gaming monitor

SPECIFICATIONS

Screen size: 32-inch

Screen type: 16:9

Panel: VA

Resolution: 2560×1440

Refresh rate: 144Hz

Brightness: 450 nits

Response time: 4ms GtG

Viewing angle: 178° / 178°

Contrast ratio: 3000:1

Features: 1800R curve, HDR10, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Display Port 1.4, 2x USB-A, 3.5mm headphone, optical output

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Curved gaming monitors don’t have to break the bank, as the BenQ EX3203R demonstrates. You can go from flat to curved without going bankrupt. Although it may not be an elegant OLED display, we would nonetheless suggest it if you’re trying to save money.

Features: The EX3203R’s 1440p 144Hz panel isn’t particularly advanced in terms of specifications. But given that it’s a 32-inch monitor that will take up most of your work space, it is sized appropriately. It is also a rather good choice for gamers with a midrange gaming PC because it supports FreeSync and has HDR 400 capabilities.

Design: With a black and silver color scheme that’s more likely to blend in with existing setups, the EX3203R gives a more universal productivity vibe than BenQ Mobiuz screens. Because of its somewhat understated 1800R, it’s a wonderful choice for gamers who aren’t sure if bendy displays are a suitable fit for them.

Performance: The BenQ EX3203R has a high refresh rate and a VA panel with good contrast levels. Since the screen is curved, it naturally has excellent viewing direction even though it makes a small compromise in the areas of viewing angle and color production.

We would have like 1 ms gtg, however the EX3203R only offers 4 ms, therefore it is not very responsive. If you’re not a professional shooter, though, this shouldn’t be considered a deal breaker because many displays on the market offer comparable response speeds, especially if you go for less expensive versions.

Conclusion: The 32-inch BenQ EX3203R provides more of a one-panel solution for your curved gaming monitor demands, and you should take advantage of any discounts or deals when it’s available. Despite being a few tech revolutions old, it still provides excellent performance, visuals, and gaming experiences.

(Image credit: tomsguide)

4. Alienware 34 AW3423DWF

The best premium curved monitor

SPECIFICATIONS

Screen size: 34-inch

Aspect ratio: 21:9

Panel type: OLED

Resolution: 3440 x 1440

Refresh rate: 165Hz

Brightness: 350 nits

Response time: 0.1ms GtG

Viewing angle: 178° / 178°

Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1

Features: Freesync Premium Pro, 99.3% DCI-P3, 2x DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB hub

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

The Alienware 34 AW3423DWF, the follow-up to one of our all-time favorite displays, just so happens to be our top choice for a gaming monitor for 2023. Its ultrawide curvature gives it the premium designation on this list, and its stunning OLED panel is enough to divert your attention from any complaints or shortcomings. It builds upon what made the original slap.

Features: The Alienware 34 AW3423DW, the company’s original OLED gaming display, was well-received by us with few complaints. One of our major complaints with the new “F” version, meanwhile, is the matte anti-glare covering that stifles some of its visual capabilities. Black tones are as inky as they should be now that it has a glossy finish, and the HDR experience is evident.

Design: Immediately, you’ll notice that this monitor isn’t as wacky-looking as the Alienware Aurora R15, its PC equivalent. With regard to displays, Dell’s approach to screen design is strangely akin to the reverse, as its ultrawide display maintains a more traditional appearance with subtle space-age elements. That’s not at all a bad thing, because the less likely a product is to fit into your environment, the weirder it seems.

Performance: The Alienware 34 AW3423DW performs a decent job of avoiding the brightness warnings that are typically linked to OLED screens. Furthermore, it still has the incredible fast response times and unparalleled viewing angles that we adore about organic LEDs.

Similar to most ultrawide curved screens, the 34-inch Alienware panel only supports 1440p resolution. A small disappointment for those of you who are accustomed to the highest possible pixel density. We would contend, though, that the OLED would divert your attention from worrying about UHD, as titles like Cyberpunk 2077 appear to be vivid gateways to a distant dystopian future (not that I’d want to travel to Night City).

Conclusion: Setting aside 4K The Alienware 34 AW3423DW is a superb curved OLED display. It’s also just a fantastic screen all around, but in 2023, if you’re specifically seeking to splurge on a superb curved panel with top-notch features, this is the one we’d recommend.

(Image credit: tomshardware)

5. AOC CU34G2X

The best value curved gaming monitor

SPECIFICATIONS

Screen size: 34-inch

Aspect ratio: 21:9

Panel type: IPS

Resolution: 3440 x 1440

Refresh rate: 144Hz

Brightness: 300 nits

Response time: 1ms GtG

Viewing angle: 178° / 178°

Contrast ratio: 3000:1

Features: Freesync Premium Pro, 99.3% DCI-P3, 2x DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB hub

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Look no farther than the AOC CU34G2X if you want to benefit from an ultrawide display without having to shell out a lot of money. Even while this 34″ beast doesn’t have a particularly striking appearance, its incredible value specifications will make you salivate, especially if you’ve ever tried competitive gaming.

Features: With its stunning 1440p 144Hz display, the AOC CU34G2X works well with mid-range computers that want to focus more on frame rate than graphics settings. Nevertheless, nothing prevents you from utilizing it with a variety of desk-mounted devices; only bear in mind that the PS5 and Xbox Series X won’t support its 21:9 aspect ratio, unlike your setup.

Design: The red and black attire of the AOC CU34G2X is a rather classic “gaming” clothing. It depends depend on your tastes whether or not you’re genuinely into it, but it does appear to be a screen meant to showcase your Steam collection. Instead of a conventional pedestal, it has the same V-shaped stand that many screens use, but more intriguingly, it positions some of its USB ports on one of its back slants. The placement of the two DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 connections under the customary lip is a little odd, but overall, it was a good choice.

Performance: After testing, we found the AOC CU34G2X to offer a reasonably pleasing visual experience. According to its specifications, it was made with competitive play in mind, and using it to play old-school shooters like Counter-Strike and Valorant seemed fast.

Although the AOC CU34G2X does, regrettably, fall somewhat short in terms of color vibrancy and HDR performance, this doesn’t detract from our recommendation because the AOC CU34G2X is excellent for gaming. Just be careful not to overdo color-sensitive operations with Photoshop or other programs.

Conclusion: The AOC CU34G2X is a fantastic bargain curved monitor that supports lower spec competitive gameplay if you can locate it on sale. Of course, there are solutions with better specifications available, but we still believe this screen provides a lot for the amount it normally costs.

Best curved monitor: FAQs

Is a curved monitor good for FPS gaming?

For first-person shooter games, curved monitors can be great, especially if you enjoy having a wide-angle view of the battlefield. A tight 800R curve will put you in the eyes of your on-screen character, but if immersion is what you’re after, performance factors like refresh rate may be more important.

What is a good curved monitor size?

The diameters of curved monitors range from about 24 to 50 inches, and larger screens may offer a more engaging experience. Naturally, not every monitor has the same aspect ratio, so you can select between standard 16:9 models and ultrawide screens that will fill your workspace.

What is the best curve for a gaming monitor?

Most players will usually choose to stay with a 1000R curve because its field of view is closest to that of the human eye. That being said, you might want to experiment with a tighter 800R curve if your goal is to fully immerse yourself in PC visuals and increase immersion. Naturally, the advantages will only be felt if you sit closer to the screen, so think about if that will work for your particular arrangement.

Is a curved monitor better for gaming?

Curved monitors increase immersion in a variety of genres, but whether they’re better overall depends on the individual. A tight curve may not be felt by you if you would rather sit farther away from your screen, and we believe that desktop gamers stand to profit the most from display type.

(Image credit: gamesradar)

How we test curved gaming monitors at Trusty Picked

Reasons to believe in Trusty Picked For many hours, our specialists evaluate video games, films, and technology so you may select the finest option for you. Learn more about our policy regarding reviews.

Testing screens takes many hours, and curved gaming monitors are no different. To ascertain whether any model represents good value for money, our committed staff of astute screen expects examines each screen in comparison to our specifications, display, features, and performance criteria.

We pay particular attention to the viewing experience when it comes to curved gaming monitors to make sure the bend is genuine. What good is an attractive screen if it isn’t aesthetically pleasing? This entails testing the capabilities of the panel by playing the newest games and evaluating crucial features like refresh rate, resolution, color, and contrast.

You can learn more about how we test displays at GamesRadar+ here, and you can examine our whole Hardware Policy for a summary of our philosophy towards gaming technology.