Upgrading your gaming setup with a curved gaming monitor can significantly enhance your immersion, drawing you deeper into the world of your favorite games. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking an edge in esports or a single-player enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in rich storylines, the right curved monitor can transform your experience. Below, you'll find the best curved gaming monitors of 2025 tailored to various needs and budgets.
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 AmazonThe market for curved gaming monitors has expanded significantly, offering a variety of options that cater to different gaming styles. For those focused on fast-paced shooters, monitors with low input latency and high refresh rates are crucial. If you're seeking the most immersive experience, a monitor with a deeper curve can envelop you in the action. Understanding these nuances will help you select the perfect monitor for your gaming needs.
With over a decade of experience as a gaming journalist, I've had the privilege of reviewing monitors for major gaming publications and testing numerous models. My expertise allows me to understand what makes a gaming monitor exceptional, particularly in how its features cater to various user types. At IGN, our team of dedicated gamers ensures that every review is thorough and accurate, providing you with the essential information to make informed decisions. Beyond monitors, we also cover the best graphics cards, gaming keyboards, mice, and headsets to help you build the ultimate gaming setup.
Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM
0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor boasts next-level HDR and an impressive suite of gaming features, making it our top pick for curved gaming monitors. See it at AmazonSee it at NeweggSee it at AsusProduct SpecificationsScreen size34" 800RAspect ratio21:9 Resolution3,440 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 excels in delivering an outstanding gaming and entertainment experience. Its deep 800R curve enhances immersion, while its OLED panel ensures vibrant colors and exceptional brightness, peaking at 1,300 nits for HDR gaming. This monitor also supports productivity with its crisp 3,440x1,440 resolution and excellent factory calibration, although its deep curve may slightly distort text.
For gamers, the PG34WCDM offers a 240Hz refresh rate and low input latency, along with various gaming modes like a black equalizer and sniper modes. Its built-in KVM switch adds convenience for multi-platform gamers, making it an excellent choice despite its high price.
### AOC C27G2Z
0Budget-minded gamers will appreciate the AOC C27G2Z's tight 1080p 1500R curved screen and high refresh rate, all at an affordable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size27" 1500R Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA FreeSyncBrightness300cd/m2 Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.5msInputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPortPROSGreat responsivenessHigh refresh rateGood colors and contrastCONSHDMI is limited to 120HzThe AOC C27G2Z delivers impressive performance for its price, featuring a 27-inch VA panel with a 1500R curve. This monitor offers a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, providing deep blacks and engaging colors ideal for gaming. With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, it's well-suited for competitive gaming, although it requires a DisplayPort connection to reach its full potential.
For those considering a larger option, the 32-inch version is available at the same price but may show a screen door effect due to its 1080p resolution.
### Alienware AW3423DWF
0This 34-inch curved monitor features an exceptional QD-OLED panel, offering great value and impressive 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 a stellar value at its current price point, offering the benefits of a QD-OLED panel. This technology provides vivid colors and high brightness, peaking at 1,000 nits for HDR gaming. While its SDR brightness is lower, it remains suitable for gaming away from direct sunlight.
With a 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.3ms response time, this monitor is responsive enough for competitive gaming and supports both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. It's an excellent choice for those looking to experience OLED without breaking the bank.
### Acer Predator X34 OLED
0See it at AmazonSee it at B&H Product SpecificationsScreen size34Aspect ratio21:9Resolution3440x1440Panel typeOLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,300 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time 0.03msInputs2 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 stands out as the premier ultrawide curved gaming monitor of 2025. Its 800R curve enhances immersion, and the OLED panel delivers stunning colors and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits for superior HDR performance. With a 240Hz refresh rate and support for both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync, this monitor ensures smooth gameplay.
While it's well-suited for gaming and content creation, its deep curve may not be ideal for productivity tasks due to potential text distortion. The lack of an sRGB mode is a minor drawback, but its overall performance makes it a top choice for gamers.
### MSI MPG 491CQPX
0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor offers a spacious 32:9 aspect ratio, perfect for both gaming and productivity. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size49", 1800RAspect ratio32:9Resolution5,120x1,440Panel typeQD-OLEDHDRVESA DisplayHDR True Black 400Brightness1,000 cd/m2 (peak)Refresh rate240HzResponse time 0.03msInputs2 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 demandingThe MSI MPG 491CQPX is ideal for those needing expansive screen real estate, offering the equivalent of three 1440p monitors side by side. Its 1800R curve and QD-OLED panel provide vibrant colors and high brightness, while its 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time ensure exceptional performance for gaming and esports.
While it's perfect for multitasking, this monitor requires a powerful GPU to maximize its refresh rate. Its burn-in protection features can be intrusive, but they're backed by a three-year warranty, offering peace of mind.
Selecting the right curved gaming monitor involves considering your specific needs. If you're primarily a gamer, focus on features like refresh rate and response time. For productivity or creative work, consider aspects such as resolution and curvature.
Resolution: Higher resolutions like 1440p and 4K offer crisper images but require more powerful hardware. Ultrawide monitors provide additional horizontal space, enhancing immersion and productivity.
Size: Choose a size based on your available space and desired gaming experience. 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: IPS panels are known for color accuracy and viewing angles, while VA panels offer better contrast. OLED monitors provide the best contrast and color but come with concerns about burn-in.
Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for general use, with 1,000 nits for HDR content.
Refresh Rate: For gaming, a minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with higher rates like 240Hz offering smoother gameplay for competitive gamers.
Curvature: Curvature is measured in "R" numbers; lower numbers indicate deeper curves. Deeper curves enhance immersion but can distort text, making them less suitable for productivity.
Additional Features: Look for features like variable refresh rate (VRR) support, built-in KVM switches, and configuration software to enhance your gaming experience.
The trend for 2025 continues to favor OLED technology, with many brands introducing new models across various price points. Mini-LED monitors are also gaining traction, offering a balance between brightness and contrast. Additionally, the integration of smart TV features into gaming monitors is becoming more prevalent, catering to gamers who need versatile displays.
Curved monitors can enhance immersion, especially on larger screens. The impact varies with the monitor's size and the curvature's depth, but it doesn't affect performance or responsiveness.
These numbers represent the radius of the monitor's curvature. Lower numbers indicate deeper curves, which can increase immersion but may slightly warp text and images.
Curved monitors with gentle curves (1500R and 1800R) are suitable for most work tasks. Deeper curves may cause distortion, making them less ideal for tasks like writing or spreadsheets. However, ultrawide curved monitors can be beneficial for video editing due to their wider horizontal space.
### 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