Upgrading to a curved gaming monitor can significantly enhance your gaming immersion, drawing you deeper into the action. Whether you're competing in esports or exploring a captivating single-player storyline, the right curved monitor can elevate your experience. Here's a guide to the best curved gaming monitors of 2025, tailored to various needs and budgets.
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 AmazonChoosing the perfect curved gaming monitor can be daunting with the vast array of options available. Whether you're a fan of fast-paced shooters or immersive RPGs, the right monitor can make a huge difference. Gamers focused on shooters should prioritize monitors with low input latency and high refresh rates, while those seeking immersion might prefer a deeper curve for a more engaging experience.
The Expert: Why Trust Us
With over a decade as a gaming journalist, I've tested numerous monitors and written for major gaming publications. My expertise lies in understanding what makes a monitor exceptional for different users, beyond just specs like panel type, refresh rate, and resolution. At IGN, our team of gamers ensures our reviews are thorough, helping you make informed decisions to enhance your gaming setup.
For a complete gaming experience, explore our guides on 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 boasts superior HDR and a robust set of gaming features, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and productivity. Its deep 800R curve enhances immersion, while the OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and high brightness. With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time, it's a top contender for gamers seeking the best visual experience. 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 productivity
AOC C27G2Z
Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor
### AOC C27G2Z
0This monitor is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious gamers, offering a 27-inch 1500R curved screen with a 240Hz refresh rate. Its VA panel provides excellent contrast and color, making it a great value under $200. 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 120Hz
3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF
Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor
### Alienware AW3423DWF
0This 34-inch monitor offers exceptional value with its QD-OLED panel and a 165Hz refresh rate, providing stunning visuals at a competitive price. It's an ideal choice for gamers looking to experience OLED without breaking the bank. 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 only
4. Acer Predator X34 OLED
Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor
### Acer Predator X34 OLED
0This ultrawide monitor stands out with its 240Hz refresh rate and deep 800R curve, offering an immersive gaming experience. Its OLED panel provides superior HDR brightness and color reproduction, ideal for gamers seeking the best visual quality. See it at AmazonSee it at B&HProduct 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 mode
5. MSI MPG 491CQPX
Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor
### MSI MPG 491CQPX
0This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor offers a vast 32:9 aspect ratio, perfect for gamers and productivity enthusiasts alike. With a 240Hz refresh rate and rich colors, it's an excellent choice for those needing extensive screen real estate. 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 demanding
How to Choose a Curved Monitor
Selecting the right curved gaming monitor involves considering your primary use. For gamers, prioritize resolution, refresh rate, and panel type. For productivity, consider size, curvature, and additional features like built-in KVM switches.
Resolution: Higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K offer crisper images but require more powerful graphics cards. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal resolution for a wider field of view.
Size: The ideal size depends on your space and gaming preferences. For 1080p, 24 inches is recommended; for 1440p, 27 inches; and for 4K, 32 inches.
Panel Type: IPS panels offer great colors and viewing angles, VA panels provide better contrast, and OLED panels deliver the best contrast and color but may have burn-in risks.
Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for general use and 1,000 nits for HDR gaming.
Refresh Rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 240Hz or higher being ideal for competitive play.
Curvature: The "R" number indicates the curvature's radius. A lower number means a deeper curve, which can enhance immersion but may distort text.
Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support, built-in KVM switches, and other features that enhance your gaming and productivity experience.
Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025
The trend for 2025 continues to lean towards OLED monitors, with many brands introducing new models across various price points. Mini-LED technology is also gaining traction as an alternative, offering high brightness without the burn-in risk of OLED. Additionally, smart gaming monitors are becoming more prevalent, integrating streaming services and TV-like features.
Curved Monitor FAQs
Are curved monitors better for gaming?
Curved monitors can enhance immersion, particularly on larger screens. However, their performance in terms of responsiveness remains the same as flat monitors.
What is 800R, 1500R, and 1800R?
These numbers represent the curvature's radius. Lower numbers indicate a deeper curve, which can be more immersive but may cause slight distortion on text and images.
Are curved monitors good for work?
Curved monitors with gentle curvatures (1500R or 1800R) are suitable for work, especially for tasks like video editing that benefit from a wider field of view. Deeper curves may be less ideal for text-based work due to potential distortion.
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