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Top Curved Monitors of 2025 Reviewed

by Carter Apr 11,2025

Upgrading your setup with a curved gaming monitor is one of the most effective ways to enhance your gaming immersion. The best curved gaming monitors wrap around your peripheral vision, drawing you into the action and making it easier to get lost in your favorite games. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking that extra edge in esports or a single-player enthusiast looking to dive deep into a compelling storyline, I've selected the top curved gaming monitors for 2025 to suit 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 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 AmazonIn the past, selecting a top-notch curved gaming monitor was straightforward, but today's market is flooded with options. With countless brands offering similar specs on paper, it's essential to understand the nuances that make a monitor stand out in real-world use. Gamers looking for an edge in shooters should prioritize monitors with low input latency and high refresh rates, while those seeking the most immersive experience might prefer a monitor with a deeper curve.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

With over a decade as a gaming journalist, I've contributed to major gaming publications and tested an extensive range of monitors. My expertise allows me to pinpoint what makes a gaming monitor exceptional and how it caters to different user needs. At IGN, our reviews are thorough, ensuring you receive accurate, actionable insights. We connect the dots for you, presenting the cream of the crop in concise guides like this one.

For a complete gaming setup, don't forget to explore our recommendations for the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets.

1. Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

Best Curved Gaming Monitor

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor with a deep curve delivers unparalleled HDR and a suite of gaming features, making it an ideal choice for both gaming and productivity. See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at AsusProduct SpecificationsScreen size34" 800RAspect ratio21:9Resolution3,440 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, offering a deeply immersive 800R curve and an OLED panel that provides vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. Priced around $1,000, it boasts a peak brightness of 1,300 nits for stunning HDR gaming and deep, inky blacks for enhanced dynamic range. Its 3,440x1,440 resolution is perfect for its size, providing crisp visuals akin to two 1440p monitors without the bezel. Though its deep curve may slightly distort text, it's a powerhouse for entertainment. With a 240Hz refresh rate and various gaming modes, including a sniper mode, it's designed to give you a competitive edge. The built-in KVM switch also makes it easy to switch between different devices.

AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

### AOC C27G2Z

0The AOC C27G2Z is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers, offering a 27-inch 1500R curved screen with a high refresh rate and impressive responsiveness. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size27" 1500RAspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA FreeSyncBrightness300cd/m2Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.5msInputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPortPROSGreat responsivenessHigh refresh rateGood colors and contrastCONSHDMI is limited to 120HzAOC's C27G2Z delivers a lot of value for under $200. Its VA panel with a 1500R curve offers a deep 3,000:1 contrast ratio, making colors vibrant and blacks deep. The 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it suitable for competitive gaming, providing excellent motion clarity and minimal ghosting. However, to achieve the full refresh rate, you'll need to use the DisplayPort connection, as HDMI is limited to 120Hz. While the 32-inch version is available, sticking with the 27-inch model is recommended to avoid the screen door effect at 1080p resolution.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

### Alienware AW3423DWF

0The Dell Alienware AW3423DWF offers outstanding value with its QD-OLED panel, delivering exceptional picture quality and gaming performance. 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 the best value curved gaming monitor, especially now priced around $600. Its QD-OLED panel, enhanced with quantum dots, offers vivid colors and increased brightness, making it a standout choice. Despite its lower SDR brightness, it peaks at 1,000 nits for HDR, providing a stunning experience for both games and movies. The 165Hz refresh rate, combined with the responsiveness of OLED technology, ensures smooth gameplay, supported by both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync. This monitor's high-quality visuals and performance make it a compelling option at its current price point.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

### Acer Predator X34 OLED

0The Acer Predator X34 OLED is a top-tier ultrawide monitor, offering a deep curve, fast refresh rate, and superior HDR brightness for an immersive gaming experience. See it at AmazonSee it at B&HProduct SpecificationsScreen size34Aspect ratio21:9Resolution3440x1440Panel typeOLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,300 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.03msInputs2 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 leading ultrawide curved gaming monitor for 2025, offering a deep 800R curve that enhances immersion. Its OLED panel delivers fantastic colors and supports a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, ideal for HDR gaming and movies. With a 240Hz refresh rate and compatibility with both G-Sync and FreeSync, it ensures smooth, lag-free gameplay. While its deep curve may not be ideal for productivity, it's perfect for gaming and content creation, especially with its 21:9 aspect ratio that provides a wider view of timelines.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

### MSI MPG 491CQPX

0The MSI MPG 491CQPX is a 49-inch QD-OLED monitor that offers vast screen real estate and top-tier gaming performance, perfect for those seeking a super ultrawide experience. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size49", 1800RAspect ratio32:9Resolution5,120x1,440Panel typeQD-OLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,000 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.03msInputs2 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 demandingFor those needing expansive screen real estate, the MSI MPG 491CQPX is a game-changer. This 49-inch, 32:9 monitor replaces a triple-monitor setup with its 5,120 x 1,440 resolution, perfect for multitasking in gaming and productivity. Its QD-OLED panel provides vibrant colors and high brightness, supported by a 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time for superior motion clarity. With USB Type-C connectivity and 98W PD charging, it's versatile for connecting various devices. However, its high resolution demands a powerful GPU, and its burn-in prevention features can be frequent but come with a reassuring three-year warranty.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

Selecting the right curved gaming monitor involves considering your primary use. For gamers, focus on resolution, size, panel type, brightness, refresh rate, curvature, and additional features.

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

Size: The ideal size depends on your space and gaming preference. For 1080p, 24 inches is optimal; for 1440p, 27 inches; and for 4K, 32 inches. Larger sizes can lead to a softer image.

Panel Type: Choose between IPS for color accuracy, VA for better contrast, or OLED for the best contrast and color. OLED monitors are trending but watch out for potential burn-in.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for standard use, and 1,000 nits for HDR.

Refresh Rate: For gaming, 120Hz is the minimum, with 144Hz ideal. Competitive gamers might benefit from higher rates.

Curvature: The "R" number indicates the curve's depth. Deeper curves (e.g., 800R) are more immersive but may distort text.

Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support, built-in KVM switches, and other gaming-specific features.

Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025

This year's trends at CES showcased a focus on OLED technology across various models, with mini-LED as a rising alternative. Smart gaming monitors, blending the functionalities of TVs and monitors, are also gaining traction, offering streaming and live TV features, which could be particularly appealing for gamers in smaller spaces or dorm rooms.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

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

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

These numbers represent the curvature radius. Lower numbers indicate a deeper curve, which can enhance immersion but may slightly distort text.

Are curved monitors good for work?

Mildly curved monitors (1500R, 1800R) are suitable for general work, while deeper curves might be distracting for tasks involving text. Ultrawide curved monitors are particularly beneficial for video editing due to their wider view of timelines.