CES 2025 showcased a plethora of new gaming monitors, highlighting significant advancements in display and graphics technology. QD-OLED technology solidified its position, with major brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG unveiling impressive models. Many featured 4K 240Hz and even 1440p 500Hz options, utilizing higher-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections. The MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50 from MSI exemplifies this trend. Burn-in protection also advanced, with Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor automatically activating a black screen when the user is away, a welcome improvement over manually powering down the monitor. While initial pricing remains high, future price drops are expected as the technology matures.
Mini-LED technology, though less prominent, remains a viable option. MSI's MPG 274URDFW E16M, with 1,152 local dimming zones and 1000 nits peak brightness, offers a potentially more affordable alternative to QD-OLED, boasting 4K 160Hz and a 1080p 320Hz option. Its AI-driven dual-mode, however, remains questionable. Mini-LED's advantages—high brightness, excellent contrast, and no burn-in risk—make it a strong contender, especially with sufficient dimming zones to minimize blooming.
The race for higher refresh rates and resolutions continues. 4K 240Hz and 1440p 500Hz monitors are now a reality, with Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P, achieving VESA TrueBlack 500 certification, standing out. MSI resurrected TN panels with the MPG 242R X60N, boasting a remarkable 600Hz refresh rate, albeit at the cost of color accuracy and viewing angles. 5K monitors also gained traction, with Acer's Predator XB323QX (5K, 144Hz) and LG's pair of "5K2K" ultrawide monitors (5120 x 2160) leading the charge. The latter even includes a bendable display on the Ultragear 45GX990A. Asus further extended the resolution boundaries with its 6K ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV aimed at creators.
Smart monitors are blurring the lines between TVs and gaming monitors. While some, like the Samsung G80SD, may have mixed reviews, the convenience of integrated streaming services is appealing. HP's OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor, LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA, and Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor, with its 4K OLED panel and neural processing for upscaling, exemplify this growing trend.
In conclusion, CES 2025 demonstrated a significant leap forward in gaming monitor technology. The advancements in QD-OLED, Mini-LED, refresh rates, resolutions, and smart features promise an even better year for gamers in 2025.
