Home News The Best Curved Monitors in 2025

The Best Curved Monitors in 2025

Author : Savannah Apr 03,2025

Upgrading your gaming setup with a curved gaming monitor is one of the best ways to enhance your immersion. These monitors wrap into your peripheral vision, drawing you into the game and offering a more engaging experience. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking an edge in esports or a solo player looking to get lost in a storyline, the best curved gaming monitors of 2025 are tailored to meet your needs.

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 AsusBest Budget Curved Gaming Monitor: AOC C27G2Z

0See it at AmazonBest Value Curved Gaming Monitor: Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

0See it at AmazonBest Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor: Acer Predator X34 OLED

0See it at AmazonBest Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor: MSI MPG 491CQP

0See it at AmazonThe market for curved gaming monitors has expanded significantly, offering a variety of options to suit different gaming needs. For shooter enthusiasts, a monitor with low input latency and a high refresh rate is essential. If you're after the most immersive experience, a deeper curve could be the better choice. It's all about finding the right fit for your gaming style.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

With over a decade of experience as a gaming journalist, I've written for major gaming publications and tested countless monitors. My expertise allows me to recommend the best gaming monitors for various users, understanding that it's not just about specs like panel type, refresh rate, and resolution, but how these elements come together to create a standout gaming experience. At IGN, our team of gamers ensures that our reviews are thorough and reliable, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions. After exploring the best curved gaming monitors, don't forget to check out our guides on the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets to complete your gaming setup.

1. Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

Best Curved Gaming Monitor

Our top pick: Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor offers next-level HDR and a comprehensive suite of gaming features. See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at AsusProduct Specifications:

Screen size: 34" 800R
Aspect ratio: 21:9
Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440
Panel type: OLED, G-Sync compatible
HDR compatibility: DisplayHDR 400 True Black
Brightness: 1,300 cd/m2
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Response time: 0.03ms (GtG)
Inputs: 1 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

PROS:

Stunning HDR performance
Deep and immersive curve
High peak brightness, infinite contrast
Built-in KVM and meaningful gaming features

CONS:

Deep curve isn't ideal for productivity

The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands out as the premier curved gaming monitor. Its 800R curve enhances immersion, and its OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and high brightness. Priced typically over $1,000, it offers exceptional HDR gaming with 1,300 nits of peak brightness and deep blacks for a dynamic range that's stunning for both gaming and movies. It's also suitable for content creation, with a crisp 3,440x1,440 resolution and wide color gamut support, though its deep curve might slightly distort text, making it better suited for entertainment.

With a 240Hz refresh rate and low input latency, it's built for smooth gameplay and comes with various gaming modes, including a black equalizer and sniper modes to enhance your competitive edge. The built-in KVM switch makes it convenient for multi-platform gamers. Overall, the PG34WCDM justifies its price with its outstanding performance and features.

AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor: AOC C27G2Z

0Budget gamers will appreciate the 1080p 1500R curved screen and high refresh rate. See it at AmazonProduct Specifications:

Screen size: 27" 1500R
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
Panel type: VA FreeSync
Brightness: 300 cd/m2
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Response time: 0.5ms
Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort

PROS:

Great responsiveness
High refresh rate
Good colors and contrast

CONS:

HDMI limited to 120Hz

AOC's C27G2Z offers a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers. With a 27-inch screen and a 1500R curve, it provides an immersive experience at an accessible price, typically under $200. The VA panel delivers a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, enhancing color depth, though it doesn't match IPS panels in viewing angles. Its 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it suitable for competitive gaming, ensuring smooth motion and minimal ghosting. The only drawback is the HDMI limitation to 120Hz, but this isn't a significant issue with modern graphics cards that support DisplayPort.

While AOC offers a 32-inch version, the 27-inch model is recommended to avoid the screen door effect at 1080p resolution. Both sizes offer impressive value, making the C27G2Z a great choice for budget gamers.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor: Alienware AW3423DWF

0This 34-inch 2K monitor features an exceptional QD-OLED panel and solid gaming performance. See it at Best BuySee it at AmazonProduct Specifications:

Screen size: 34" 1800R
Aspect ratio: 21:9
Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440
Panel type: QD-OLED, FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync compatible
Brightness: 1,000 cd/m2 (peak)
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Response time: 0.5ms
Inputs: 1 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort, 4 x USB 3.2 Type-A

PROS:

Great value
Fantastic picture thanks to QD-OLED panel
High refresh rate

CONS:

Low SDR brightness
HDMI 2.0 only

The Dell Alienware AW3423DWF offers unparalleled value for a curved gaming monitor, now available for just over $600. Its QD-OLED panel provides stunning image quality with millions of local dimming zones and enhanced colors via quantum dots. Despite its lower SDR brightness, it excels in HDR gaming, reaching up to 1,000 nits. With a 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.3ms response time, it's highly responsive and perfect for competitive gaming, supporting both FreeSync and G-Sync. The AW3423DWF remains a top recommendation, especially given its significant price reduction.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor: Acer Predator X34 OLED

0See it at AmazonSee it at B&HProduct Specifications:

Screen size: 34"
Aspect ratio: 21:9
Resolution: 3440x1440
Panel type: OLED
HDR: VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400
Brightness: 1,300 cd/m2 (peak)
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Response time: 0.03ms
Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C

PROS:

Superior HDR brightness
240Hz refresh rate
Great color reproduction

CONS:

800R curve may not be ideal for productivity
No sRGB mode

The Acer Predator X34 OLED is the top choice for ultrawide curved gaming monitors in 2025. It offers an outstanding picture quality, fast refresh rate, and a deep 800R curve that enhances immersion. With support for G-Sync and FreeSync, it ensures smooth gameplay at 240Hz. The OLED panel delivers fantastic colors and high brightness, reaching up to 1,300 nits. Its 21:9 aspect ratio is beneficial for content creators, although it lacks a dedicated sRGB mode. The X34 OLED is the go-to option for gamers seeking the best ultrawide curved monitor.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor: MSI MPG 491CQPX

0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor offers a vast screen and impressive features. See it at AmazonProduct Specifications:

Screen size: 49", 1800R
Aspect ratio: 32:9
Resolution: 5,120x1,440
Panel type: QD-OLED
HDR: VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400
Brightness: 1,000 cd/m2 (peak)
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Response time: 0.03ms
Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB Type-C (DP/PD 98W), 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A

PROS:

Bright and color-rich display
Excellent for productivity and gaming
Fast refresh rate and response time
USB Type-C video and PD charging

CONS:

Burn-in prevention features can be intrusive
High resolution demands powerful hardware

The MSI MPG 491CQPX is perfect for those needing a large, versatile screen. Its 49-inch 32:9 aspect ratio can replace a triple monitor setup, ideal for multitasking. The QD-OLED panel offers vibrant colors and high brightness, with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time for exceptional performance. The 1800R curve, while gentle, enhances the viewing experience. It supports USB Type-C video input and charging, adding to its versatility. However, its high resolution requires a powerful GPU, and some users may find the burn-in prevention features overly frequent. With a price under $1,000, it's a cost-effective alternative to multiple monitors.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

Selecting the right curved gaming monitor involves considering your primary use. For gaming, focus on resolution, refresh rate, and response time. For productivity or creative work, consider screen size, curvature, and additional features.

Resolution: Higher resolutions provide crisper images but require more powerful hardware. Common resolutions include 1080p, 1440p, and 4K, with ultrawide monitors extending the width.

Size: The ideal size depends on your available space and gaming preferences. For 1080p, 24 inches is optimal; for 1440p, 27 inches; and for 4K, 32 inches. Larger sizes may result in a softer image.

Panel Type: Choose between IPS, VA, and OLED. IPS offers great colors and viewing angles, VA provides better contrast, and OLED delivers the best contrast and color quality but can be susceptible to burn-in.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for SDR content and 1,000 nits for HDR to experience true dynamic range.

Refresh Rate: For gaming, a minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with 144Hz being ideal. Competitive gamers may benefit from higher rates like 240Hz or more.

Curvature: Curvature is indicated by an "R" number; lower numbers mean deeper curves. Very deep curves (1000R or below) can distort images and text, making them better suited for gaming rather than productivity.

Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support (FreeSync for AMD, G-Sync for NVIDIA), KVM switches for multi-system setups, and picture-in-picture modes. Many monitors also offer gaming-specific features like black equalizers and sniper modes.

Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025

The gaming monitor market continues to evolve, with OLED and mini-LED technologies leading the way. At CES 2025, I witnessed a range of new models, from premium OLED displays to more affordable options. Smart gaming monitors are also gaining traction, offering built-in streaming and TV-like features, which are particularly appealing for gamers in smaller spaces.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

Curved monitors can enhance immersion, especially on larger ultrawide screens. However, their impact on performance is minimal.

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

These numbers indicate the curvature's radius. Lower numbers mean deeper curves, which can be more immersive but may distort text and images.

Are curved monitors good for work?

Mildly curved monitors (1500R, 1800R) are suitable for most tasks. Deeper curves may be less ideal for productivity due to potential distortion, but they can be beneficial for creatives using timelines.