Upgrading your gaming setup with a curved gaming monitor is one of the most effective ways to enhance your immersion. The best curved gaming monitors of 2025 wrap into your peripheral vision, drawing you into the heart of the action and making it easier to get lost in your favorite games. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking an edge in esports or a single-player enthusiast looking to dive into a captivating storyline, these monitors are the top picks for you.
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 Amazon
In the past, selecting a great curved gaming monitor was straightforward. Today, the market is flooded with countless brands and similar-looking products that don't always perform the same in real-life scenarios. Depending on your gaming preferences, certain qualities become more important. For fans of shooters, a monitor with low input latency and a high refresh rate is essential. If you're after the most immersive experience, a monitor with a deeper curve might be the best choice. It's all about understanding the details.
The Expert: Why Trust Us
As a gaming journalist with over a decade of experience, I've written for numerous major gaming publications and tested more monitors than most people will encounter in a lifetime. My expertise allows me to identify what makes a gaming monitor exceptional, especially tailored to different types of users. It's not just about panel type, refresh rate, and resolution; it's how these elements come together to create a standout product. At IGN, where I cover monitors, our mission is to provide you with the best recommendations to save money and ensure a great gaming experience.
Our reviews at IGN are scrutinized by multiple experts to ensure you receive accurate and timely information. We connect the dots for you, presenting the best options in comprehensive guides like this one. After reading, don't forget to check out our picks for the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets to complete your setup and elevate your gaming experience.
1. Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM
Best Curved Gaming Monitor
Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM
0This deep-dish 34-inch ultrawide packs next-level HDR and an impressive suite of gaming features. See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at Asus
Product 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: 1,300cd/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 great for productivity
The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands out as the best curved gaming display available. In my review, I found it to be an outstanding option for both gaming and productivity. Its deep 800R curve enhances immersion, while the cutting-edge OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness.
Priced typically a little over $1,000, this monitor boasts a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, ideal for HDR gaming. Its OLED panel offers deep, inky blacks that enhance dynamic range, making it perfect for movies and games alike.
It's also well-suited for content creation and professional work, with a crisp 3,440x1,440 resolution on a 34-inch screen. It features excellent factory calibration and wide color gamut support, though the deep curve may slightly distort text, making it better suited for entertainment than productivity.
With a 240Hz refresh rate, the monitor ensures exceptionally smooth motion and low input latency. It includes various gaming modes, such as a black equalizer for better visibility in shadows and sniper modes that zoom in on the screen center for improved accuracy. For multi-platform gamers, the built-in KVM switch allows seamless switching between devices, bringing your peripherals along.
The PG34WCDM sets a high standard for curved gaming monitors and justifies its premium price with its exceptional performance.
AOC C27G2Z
Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor
### AOC C27G2Z
0Budget-minded gamers will love the tight 1080p 1500R curved screen and high refresh rate. See it at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Screen size: 27" 1500R
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
- Panel type: VA FreeSync
- Brightness: 300cd/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 is limited to 120Hz
AOC is known for delivering high-value gaming monitors, and the C27G2Z is no exception. This monitor offers a solid picture on a spacious 27-inch screen, an immersive curve, and exceptional responsiveness with its 240Hz refresh rate, all for under $200.
The VA panel with a 1500R curve provides a deep 3,000:1 contrast ratio, roughly double that of competing IPS monitors, resulting in richer, more engaging colors perfect for gaming. The monitor's standout feature is its responsiveness, with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, making it suitable for high-level competitive gaming and reducing ghosting.
To achieve its full refresh rate, you'll need a DisplayPort connection, as the HDMI 2.0 ports are limited to 120Hz. However, this isn't a significant issue, as modern graphics cards support DisplayPort and consoles can still use HDMI for 120Hz gameplay.
AOC also offers a 32-inch version of this panel, but I recommend sticking with the 27-inch size. At 32 inches, the 1080p resolution may make individual pixels visible, causing a screen door effect. If you prefer the larger size and can handle a slightly softer image, both versions are priced the same, offering great value.
3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF
Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor
### Alienware AW3423DWF
0A curved 2K gaming monitor with an exceptional QD-OLED panel and solid gaming chops. See it at Best BuySee it at Amazon
Product 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
For the best value in curved gaming monitors, the Dell Alienware AW3423DWF is unbeatable. Now priced at just over $600, this QD-OLED display offers incredible value. I gave it a glowing review at its original $1,100 price, and with the current price drop, it's an even easier recommendation.
OLED monitors are typically expensive due to their advanced panel technology, which delivers unparalleled image quality. Each pixel is individually controlled, creating millions of local dimming zones, and the quantum dot layer enhances color vividness and brightness. The result is a stunning picture, making this monitor one of the best ways to experience OLED's immersive curve at a budget-friendly price.
While its SDR brightness isn't the highest, it's adequate for use out of direct sunlight. In HDR mode, it peaks at 1,000 nits, providing an outstanding visual experience for both movies and games, enhanced by Alienware's picture presets.
The display runs at 165Hz, which, while not the fastest, offers excellent value for a QD-OLED monitor at this price. Its responsiveness, with a 0.3ms response time, surpasses most IPS or VA displays, ensuring smooth motion clarity and a competitive edge in gaming.
At its current price, there's little to dislike about this monitor. It received glowing reviews upon launch and has only improved with time and price cuts, making it a top choice for value-conscious gamers.
4. Acer Predator X34 OLED
Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor
### Acer Predator X34 OLED
0See it at AmazonSee it at B&H
Product 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 works for content creation but isn't the best for productivity
- No sRGB mode
The Acer Predator X34 OLED is the reigning king of ultrawide curved gaming monitors in 2025. It checks all the boxes for a great gaming monitor, offering an outstanding picture, fast refresh rate, deep curve, and numerous features to enhance your gaming experience.
Its deep 800R curve wraps into your peripheral vision, increasing immersion. With variable refresh rate support (Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync) and a 240Hz refresh rate, motion in your games is silky smooth.
The ultrawide 1440p resolution doesn't require a top-tier system to run, but a medium-performance graphics card is recommended for the best experience. The OLED panel delivers fantastic colors with solid factory calibration and superior brightness, peaking at 1,300 nits, which brings games and movies to life with lifelike highlights.
For content creators, the 21:9 aspect ratio allows you to view more of your timeline at once, increasing efficiency. Although it lacks a dedicated sRGB mode, it does offer a P3 mode for standardized colors.
The Acer Predator X34 OLED stands out as the premier option for ultrawide curved gaming monitors in 2025.
5. MSI MPG 491CQPX
Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor
### MSI MPG 491CQPX
049 inches of QD-OLED gaming goodness. See it at Amazon
Product 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
- Great for productivity as well as gaming
- Fast, fast, fast!
- USB Type-C video and PD charging
CONS
- Burn-in prevention features can be grating
- Resolution is demanding
If you need a spacious monitor, the MSI MPG 491CQPX is perfect. This 49-inch, 32:9 monitor features a stunning QD-OLED screen and is packed with features. It offers enough screen real estate to replace a triple monitor setup.
Super ultrawide monitors can transform your gaming and productivity experience. The 5,120 x 1,440 resolution is equivalent to three 1440p monitors side by side, allowing you to multitask efficiently. You can run a game, stream, and monitor chat simultaneously.
Despite its size, MSI hasn't compromised on performance. The display runs at 240Hz with a 0.03ms response time, ensuring exceptional motion clarity and esports-ready performance. Its 1800R curve enhances immersion, and the quantum dot layer improves colors and brightness. The internal graphene layer helps with long-term durability, and USB Type-C support allows for easy laptop connectivity and charging.
This monitor demands a powerful computer to maximize its 240Hz refresh rate. Some users find the burn-in protection features overzealous, but they're effective and backed by MSI's three-year warranty.
While not for everyone, this monitor offers a seamless alternative to multiple monitors and is often available for under $1,000, making it a cost-effective choice.
How to Choose a Curved Monitor
Choosing a curved gaming monitor involves considering your intended use. If you're solely focused on gaming, your options narrow. For productivity or creative work like video editing, other factors come into play.
Resolution: Higher resolutions provide crisper images but require more powerful graphics cards. Common resolutions are 1080p (1,920x1,080), 1440p (2,560x1,440), and 4K (3,840 x 2,160). Ultrawide monitors extend the width while maintaining the same height for increased clarity.
Size: The right size depends on available space and your desired gaming experience. A gentle curve and 16:9 aspect ratio are suitable for aesthetics, while larger ultrawide (21:9) monitors offer more usable space. For 1080p, 24 inches is ideal; for 1440p, 27 inches; and for 4K, 32 inches. Larger sizes may result in a softer image.
Panel Type: There are three main panel types: IPS, VA, and OLED. TN panels are less common and typically offer poorer picture quality. IPS panels provide great colors and viewing angles, VA panels offer better contrast, and OLED panels deliver the best contrast and color with the risk of burn-in.
Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for non-direct sunlight use, with 400 nits for VESA DisplayHDR certification. For HDR gaming, a peak brightness of at least 1,000 nits is recommended.
Refresh Rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 144Hz as the ideal starting point. Higher refresh rates like 240Hz or 360Hz offer lower input latency and better motion clarity for competitive gaming.
Curvature: Curvature is denoted by an "R" number, with lower numbers indicating a deeper curve. Curves of 1000R or below are best suited for gaming due to potential text distortion.
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, and configuration software can enhance your experience.
Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025
The gaming monitor industry is constantly evolving. At CES 2025, I saw many upcoming models firsthand. The biggest trend is the continued rise of OLED monitors across various price points and form factors. Mini-LED monitors are also emerging as an alternative, offering improved brightness and burn-in resistance at the cost of contrast. Smart gaming monitors, blending features of TVs and monitors, are gaining traction, especially for users in small spaces or dorm rooms.
Curved Monitor FAQs
Are curved monitors better for gaming?
Curved monitors can enhance immersion, particularly on larger ultrawide displays. The impact depends on the monitor's size and the depth of the curve. Performance-wise, curvature doesn't affect responsiveness.
What is 800R, 1500R, and 1800R?
These numbers represent the curvature's radius. Lower numbers indicate a deeper curve, which can enhance immersion but may warp text and images slightly. Deeper curves are better suited for gaming than productivity.
Are curved monitors good for work?
Curved monitors with gentle curves (1500R or 1800R) are suitable for most work tasks. Deeper curves may distort text, making them less ideal for typing or spreadsheets. Ultrawide curved monitors are excellent for video editing due to their increased horizontal space.
Where to Get the Best Curved Gaming Monitors in the UK
### AOC C27G2
1£214.97 at Amazon
### Asus TUF Gaming VG34VQEL1A
1£615.99 at Amazon
### Best Curved G-Sync Gaming Monitor LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B
0£1,199.95 at Overclockers
### Best Curved FreeSync Gaming Monitor MSI Optix MAG342CQRV
0£509.00 at Amazon
### Best G-Sync Compatible Curved Gaming Monitor Asus TUF Gaming VG35VQ
2Best G-Sync Compatible Curved Gaming Monitor£712.15 at Argos
### Best Ultra-Ultrawide Curved Gaming Monitor Samsung Odyssey G9
0Best Ultra-Ultrawide Curved Gaming Monitor£1,199.00 at Amazon
### Best Curved Gaming Monitor for Esports MSI Optix MAG301CR2
1£369.95 at Amazon
### Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
0£1,749.00 at Samsung
