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Top Curved Monitors of 2025 Reviewed

Author：Kristen Update：Apr 11,2025

Upgrading your setup with a curved gaming monitor is a fantastic way to enhance your immersion. The best curved gaming monitors of 2025 wrap into your peripheral vision, drawing you into the action and allowing you to lose yourself in your favorite games. Whether you're a competitive gamer seeking an edge in esports or a single-player enthusiast eager to dive into rich storylines, these top picks are designed to meet 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 AmazonThe market is flooded with countless brands, making the choice of a great curved gaming monitor more challenging than ever. Each brand offers similar specs, but real-world performance can vary significantly. Depending on your gaming preferences, you'll want to prioritize different features. For fans of shooters, a monitor with low input latency and a high refresh rate is essential. If you're seeking the ultimate immersive experience, a monitor with a deeper curve is your best bet. It's all about finding the perfect match for your gaming style.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

As a gaming journalist with over a decade of experience, I've tested numerous monitors for various publications, including IGN. My expertise allows me to understand what makes a gaming monitor exceptional, not just in terms of panel type, refresh rate, and resolution, but how these elements come together to deliver an outstanding experience. At IGN, our team of gamers ensures that every review is thorough and reliable, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions. We aim to save you money while ensuring you have an unparalleled gaming experience.

After exploring the best curved gaming monitors, don't forget to check out our guides on the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets to complete your setup. An immersive gaming experience awaits.

1. Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

Best Curved Gaming Monitor

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor with a deep 800R curve delivers next-level HDR and an impressive array of gaming features. Its OLED panel offers stunning colors and outstanding brightness, making it a top choice for both gaming and productivity. With a price around $1,000, you get a peak brightness of 1,300 nits for HDR gaming, deep blacks, and a crisp 3,440x1,440 resolution that's perfect for content creation. The 240Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, while gaming modes like the black equalizer and sniper modes enhance your competitive edge. A built-in KVM switch also allows for seamless switching between devices. 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 is an outstanding curved gaming monitor that offers both immersion and performance, justifying its premium price tag.

AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

### AOC C27G2Z

0This budget-friendly monitor delivers excellent performance with a 27-inch 1080p screen and a 1500R curve. Its VA panel provides good colors and contrast, and the 240Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. Priced under $200, it's an excellent choice for gamers looking to maximize value. However, it's worth noting that to achieve the full refresh rate, you'll need to use a DisplayPort connection. 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 stands out as a high-value option for gamers on a budget, offering an immersive experience without breaking the bank.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

### Alienware AW3423DWF

0This 34-inch curved monitor boasts a QD-OLED panel that offers exceptional picture quality and gaming performance. Now priced just over $600, it's a fantastic value, providing vivid colors and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits in HDR mode. Its 165Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it ideal for competitive gaming, while its immersive 1800R curve enhances your gaming experience. 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 top choice for those seeking the best value in a curved gaming monitor, delivering premium features at a more accessible price.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

### Acer Predator X34 OLED

0This 34-inch ultrawide monitor offers a deep 800R curve and an OLED panel with superior HDR brightness, making it perfect for immersive gaming. With a 240Hz refresh rate and support for Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync, it ensures smooth gameplay. Its peak brightness of 1,300 nits and fantastic color reproduction enhance both games and movies. While it lacks an sRGB mode, its P3 mode provides standardized colors for content creation. See 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 is the premier choice for ultrawide curved gaming monitors in 2025, offering a balance of performance and immersion.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

### MSI MPG 491CQPX

0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor with a 32:9 aspect ratio offers an expansive screen that can replace a triple monitor setup. Its 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time ensure exceptional performance, while its 1800R curve provides a gentle but immersive experience. With USB Type-C connectivity and 98W PD charging, it's versatile for both gaming and productivity. However, its high resolution demands a powerful GPU, and burn-in protection features may be overly intrusive. 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 the ultimate choice for those needing expansive screen real estate, offering a transformative experience for both gaming and productivity.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

Choosing the right curved gaming monitor involves considering several key factors based on your specific needs. If you're focused on gaming, prioritize features like resolution, refresh rate, and curvature. For productivity or creative work, consider additional aspects such as panel type and size.

Resolution: The resolution determines the clarity of the image. Common resolutions include 1080p, 1440p, and 4K. Ultrawide monitors extend the width for a broader field of view. Higher resolutions offer crisper images but require more powerful hardware.

Size: The monitor's size should match your available space and desired gaming experience. A 24-inch monitor is ideal for 1080p, while 27 inches suits 1440p. For 4K, 32 inches is recommended. Larger sizes may result in a softer image, particularly at 1080p.

Panel Type: There are three main types: IPS, VA, and OLED. IPS panels offer great colors and viewing angles, VA panels provide better contrast, and OLED panels deliver the best contrast and color. Each has its strengths, so choose based on your priorities.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for standard use and 1,000 nits for HDR gaming to experience wide dynamic range.

Refresh Rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 144Hz being ideal. Competitive gamers may benefit from higher rates like 240Hz or 360Hz for lower input latency and better motion clarity.

Curvature: The curvature is measured by the "R" number, indicating the radius of the screen's arc. Lower numbers mean deeper curves, which can enhance immersion but may distort text and images at very deep levels (1000R or below).

Additional Features: Look for support for variable refresh rate (VRR) to eliminate screen tearing. Features like built-in KVM switches, picture-in-picture support, and configuration software can enhance the monitor's usability and performance.

Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025

OLED technology continues to dominate the market, with multiple brands introducing new models across various form factors and price points. Mini-LED monitors are also gaining traction as an alternative, offering solutions to OLED's brightness and burn-in concerns. Smart gaming monitors are another trend to watch, integrating features like game and movie streaming, making them versatile for users with limited space.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

Curved monitors can enhance immersion, particularly on larger ultrawide screens. While the curvature itself doesn't impact performance, it can create a more engaging gaming experience by drawing you into the center of the screen.

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

These numbers indicate the curvature's radius. Lower numbers (like 800R) signify deeper curves, which are more immersive but may distort text. Higher numbers (like 1800R) offer gentler curves, suitable for both gaming and productivity.

Are curved monitors good for work?

Curved monitors with milder curves (1500R or 1800R) are versatile for most tasks. Very deep curves are better suited for gaming, as they may warp text and images. Ultrawide curved monitors can be particularly useful for video editing due to their wider timelines.