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Top Curved Monitors of 2025 Reviewed

Author : Aaron

May 23,2025

Upgrading to a curved gaming monitor can significantly enhance your gaming experience by boosting immersion. The best curved gaming monitors wrap into your peripheral vision, creating a more engaging and immersive gaming environment. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking an edge in esports or a single-player enthusiast looking to dive deeper into your favorite storylines, I've compiled a list of the top curved gaming monitors for 2025 to help you make an informed decision.

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

With numerous brands flooding the market, selecting the perfect curved gaming monitor can be overwhelming. The key is to identify what qualities matter most to you. For fans of fast-paced shooters, a monitor with low input latency and a high refresh rate is essential. If you're aiming for the most immersive experience, a monitor with a deeper curve could be the right choice for you. It all boils down to understanding your specific gaming needs.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

As a gaming journalist with over a decade of experience, I've reviewed countless monitors for major gaming publications like IGN. My expertise spans understanding what makes a monitor exceptional for different types of gamers, beyond just panel type, refresh rate, and resolution. At IGN, our reviews are thoroughly vetted to ensure you get accurate, reliable recommendations. After reading this guide, be sure to check out our picks for the best graphics cards, gaming keyboards, mice, and 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 an immersive gaming experience with top-tier HDR and a 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 ideal for productivity

The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands out as the premier choice for gamers seeking both immersion and performance. Its deep 800R curve and cutting-edge OLED panel deliver vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. Priced just over $1,000, this monitor offers 1,300 nits of peak brightness for superior HDR gaming. Its OLED technology ensures deep blacks, enhancing dynamic range for movies and games alike.

While perfect for entertainment, its deep curve might slightly distort text, making it less suitable for productivity. However, with a 240Hz refresh rate and various gaming modes, including a black equalizer and sniper modes, it's a powerhouse for competitive gaming. The built-in KVM switch is a bonus for multi-platform users, allowing seamless switching between devices.

AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

### AOC C27G2Z

0This budget-friendly monitor offers a 1500R curved screen and a high refresh rate for under $200. 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 renowned for delivering value-packed gaming monitors, and the C27G2Z is no exception. With its 27-inch VA panel and 1500R curve, it provides a solid picture at an accessible price. Its 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it a strong contender for competitive gaming. While the colors and viewing angles may not match those of IPS panels, the VA panel's deep contrast ratio and engaging colors are perfect for gaming.

To achieve the full refresh rate, a DisplayPort connection is required, but HDMI users can still enjoy up to 120Hz. If you're considering a larger size, be aware that the 32-inch version might show visible pixels, which could be distracting.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

### Alienware AW3423DWF

0This 2K gaming monitor features an exceptional QD-OLED panel and solid gaming performance. 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 available for just over $600. Its QD-OLED panel delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and high brightness. With a peak of 1,000 nits, it offers an outstanding HDR experience for both gaming and movies.

Though its SDR brightness is lower, it's still suitable for indoor use. The 165Hz refresh rate, combined with the responsive nature of OLED, ensures smooth gameplay. This monitor's excellent performance, especially at its reduced price, makes it an easy recommendation.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

### Acer Predator X34 OLED

0This ultrawide monitor offers superior HDR brightness and a 240Hz refresh rate. See 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 not ideal for productivity
No sRGB mode

The Acer Predator X34 OLED is the top choice for ultrawide curved gaming monitors in 2025. Its 800R curve enhances immersion, while the OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits for lifelike highlights. With G-Sync and FreeSync support, and a 240Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth gameplay.

Although it lacks an sRGB mode, it includes a P3 mode for standardized colors, making it suitable for content creators. Its 21:9 aspect ratio is particularly beneficial for video editing, allowing for more efficient timeline viewing.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

### MSI MPG 491CQPX

0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor offers expansive screen real estate and fast performance. 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 display
Great 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 the go-to choice for those seeking a super ultrawide monitor. Its 49-inch QD-OLED screen offers expansive real estate, replacing the need for multiple monitors. With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time, it's perfect for professional esports.

Its 1800R curve and 5,120 x 1,440 resolution allow for multitasking, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity. Despite its size, it's priced under $1,000, offering great value. However, it requires a powerful GPU to fully utilize its capabilities, and some users may find its burn-in prevention features overly aggressive.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

When selecting a curved gaming monitor, consider your primary use. For gamers, focus on features like resolution, size, panel type, brightness, refresh rate, curvature, and additional features.

Resolution: Higher resolutions offer crisper images but require more powerful hardware. Common resolutions include 1080p, 1440p, and 4K. Ultrawide monitors typically extend the horizontal resolution.

Size: Choose a size based on your available space and desired gaming experience. A 24-inch monitor is ideal for 1080p, 27 inches for 1440p, and 32 inches for 4K.

Panel Type: IPS panels offer great colors and viewing angles, VA panels provide better contrast, and OLED panels deliver the best contrast and color with potential burn-in risks.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for non-direct sunlight use, and 1,000 nits for HDR gaming.

Refresh Rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with higher rates like 240Hz beneficial for competitive play.

Curvature: The "R" number indicates the curve's radius. Lower numbers mean a deeper curve, which can enhance immersion but may distort text.

Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support, built-in KVM switches, and configuration software for enhanced gaming experiences.

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 saw numerous upcoming models that promise to offer more accessible prices and innovative features. Smart gaming monitors that integrate streaming and TV functionalities are also on the rise, catering to gamers in smaller spaces or multi-purpose setups.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

Curved monitors can enhance immersion, especially on larger ultrawide displays. Their impact on performance is minimal, but the visual experience can be significantly improved.

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

These numbers represent the curvature radius. Lower numbers indicate deeper curves, which can increase immersion but may distort text. Deeper curves are better suited for gaming than productivity.

Are curved monitors good for work?

Curved monitors with gentler curves (1500R, 1800R) are suitable for most work tasks. Deeper curves may be less ideal for text-heavy work but can benefit video editors by providing more horizontal space.