Top Curved Monitors of 2025 Reviewed

Upgrading to a curved gaming monitor can significantly enhance your gaming immersion. The best curved gaming monitors of 2025 are designed to wrap into your peripheral vision, drawing you deeper into the action, whether you're competing in esports or exploring rich game narratives. Let's dive into the top picks that cater to various gaming needs and budgets.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Curved Gaming Monitors:

Our top pick: Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM

0See it at Amazon | See it at Newegg | See 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

Choosing the right curved gaming monitor can be overwhelming with the vast array of options available. Whether you're into fast-paced shooters or immersive single-player adventures, there are key features to consider that will enhance your gaming experience. For shooter enthusiasts, a monitor with low input latency and a high refresh rate is crucial. If immersion is your goal, a monitor with a deeper curve might be the better choice. Understanding these nuances is essential to selecting the perfect monitor.

The Expert: Why Trust Us

With over a decade as a gaming journalist, I've had the opportunity to test countless monitors for major gaming publications like IGN. My experience allows me to pinpoint what makes a gaming monitor exceptional, especially for different types of gamers. It's not just about specs like panel type, refresh rate, and resolution; it's how these elements combine to deliver a standout experience. At IGN, our reviews are vetted by multiple experts to ensure you get reliable, comprehensive insights. We connect the dots for you, making it easier to find the best gaming gear.

After exploring our top picks, don't forget to check out our guides on the Best Graphics Cards, Best Gaming Keyboards, Best Gaming Mice, and Best Gaming Headsets to round out your setup. Elevate your gaming experience with the right equipment.

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 suite of gaming features designed to elevate your gameplay. See it at Amazon | See it at Newegg | See 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 is a top choice for gamers seeking immersion and performance. Its deep 800R curve enhances immersion, while its OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. Priced around $1,000, it offers peak brightness of 1,300 nits for outstanding HDR gaming. Its 3,440x1,440 resolution and 240Hz refresh rate ensure crisp visuals and smooth gameplay. It's also well-suited for content creation, though the deep curve may slightly distort text.

2. AOC C27G2Z

Best Budget Curved Gaming Monitor

AOC C27G2Z

0A budget-friendly option that delivers a high refresh rate and responsive performance. 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 limited to 120Hz

The AOC C27G2Z offers excellent value at under $200. Its 27-inch screen with a 1500R curve provides an immersive experience, and the VA panel boasts a 3,000:1 contrast ratio. With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, it's well-suited for competitive gaming. However, to achieve the full refresh rate, a DisplayPort connection is necessary.

3. Dell Alienware AW3423DWF

Best Value Curved Gaming Monitor

Alienware AW3423DWF

0A 34-inch curved 2K monitor with an exceptional QD-OLED panel, now at a more accessible price point. See it at Best Buy | See 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

The Dell Alienware AW3423DWF offers incredible value with its QD-OLED panel and immersive curve. Priced around $600, it's an affordable way to experience OLED's stunning visuals. Its 165Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time ensure a smooth gaming experience, making it a great choice for both casual and competitive gamers.

4. Acer Predator X34 OLED

Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor

Acer Predator X34 OLED

0An ultrawide OLED monitor with a deep curve and high refresh rate for an immersive gaming experience. See it at Amazon | See 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 may not be ideal for productivity
• No sRGB mode

The Acer Predator X34 OLED stands out with its 800R curve, 240Hz refresh rate, and OLED panel, making it an excellent choice for immersive gaming. Its high peak brightness of 1,300 nits ensures vibrant HDR visuals, and the 21:9 aspect ratio is great for content creators. While it lacks an sRGB mode, its P3 mode offers standardized colors.

5. MSI MPG 491CQPX

Best Curved 32:9 Super Ultrawide Monitor

MSI MPG 491CQPX

0A 49-inch QD-OLED monitor with a super ultrawide aspect ratio for expansive gaming and productivity. 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
• Great for productivity as well as gaming
• Fast refresh rate and response time
• USB Type-C video and PD charging

CONS:

• Burn-in prevention features can be grating
• High resolution demands powerful hardware

The MSI MPG 491CQPX offers a transformative gaming and productivity experience with its 49-inch super ultrawide screen. Its QD-OLED panel ensures vibrant colors and high brightness, while the 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time cater to competitive gamers. Its large size requires a powerful GPU, but it's a cost-effective alternative to multiple monitors.

How to Choose a Curved Monitor

Selecting the perfect curved gaming monitor involves considering several factors based on your gaming and usage needs.

Resolution: Higher resolutions like 1440p and 4K provide sharper images but require more powerful hardware. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal resolution for a wider field of view.

Size: Choose a size that fits your space and gaming style. For 1080p, 24 inches is ideal; for 1440p, 27 inches; and for 4K, 32 inches. Larger sizes may lead to a softer image.

Panel Type: IPS panels offer great colors and viewing angles, while VA panels provide better contrast. OLED monitors deliver the best contrast and color but can be prone to burn-in.

Brightness: Aim for at least 350 nits for standard use, and 1,000 nits for HDR gaming to ensure vibrant visuals.

Refresh Rate: For gaming, 120Hz or 144Hz is a good starting point. Competitive gamers may benefit from 240Hz or higher for reduced input latency.

Curvature: The "R" number indicates the curve's radius. Lower numbers mean a deeper curve, enhancing immersion but potentially distorting text.

Additional Features: Look for variable refresh rate support like FreeSync or G-Sync, built-in KVM switches, and configuration software for added convenience and performance.

Upcoming Curved Gaming Monitors in 2025

The gaming monitor market continues to evolve, with OLED and mini-LED technologies leading the way. CES 2025 showcased numerous upcoming models, with a focus on both premium and mid-range options. Smart gaming monitors are also on the rise, blending the functionality of gaming monitors with smart TVs for versatile use in smaller spaces.

Curved Monitor FAQs

Are curved monitors better for gaming?

Curved monitors can enhance immersion, particularly on larger ultrawide screens. The impact of curvature varies, but it doesn't affect performance or responsiveness.

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

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

Are curved monitors good for work?

Curved monitors with gentle curves (1500R, 1800R) are suitable for most tasks. Deeper curves may distort text, making them less ideal for productivity but great for gaming.

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