Top Rated Curved Gaming Monitors

Ready to ditch that flat screen and dive headfirst into immersive gaming? You're in the right place. This article is for you, the first-time buyer, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the world of curved gaming monitors. We'll cut through the jargon and help you find the perfect display to elevate your gaming experience.
Why should you even consider a curved gaming monitor? They wrap around your field of view, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. This increased immersion can lead to better reaction times and a stronger connection to your games.
Top 5 Curved Gaming Monitors: A Quick Comparison
Let's start with a quick overview of some top contenders.
Model | Price (USD) | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Response Time | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Samsung Odyssey G9 | $1200 | 5120 x 1440 | 240Hz | 1ms | 1 Year |
LG UltraGear 34GN850-B | $800 | 3440 x 1440 | 144Hz (OC 160Hz) | 1ms | 1 Year |
Alienware AW3423DW | $1300 | 3440 x 1440 | 175Hz (OC) | 0.1ms | 1 Year |
MSI Optix MPG341CQR | $600 | 3440 x 1440 | 144Hz | 1ms | 1 Year |
Gigabyte M34WQ | $450 | 3440 x 1440 | 144Hz | 1ms | 3 Years |
Detailed Reviews
Samsung Odyssey G9
The Samsung Odyssey G9 is an absolute beast. Its ultrawide 49-inch display with a 1000R curvature practically envelops you. Expect a premium price for a premium experience.
The G9’s stunning visuals are coupled with a blistering 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. Its one year warranty is on the shorter side, however.
LG UltraGear 34GN850-B
The LG UltraGear 34GN850-B delivers exceptional color accuracy and wide viewing angles thanks to its Nano IPS panel. This monitor also boasts a 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160Hz) and a 1ms response time.
It's a fantastic all-around performer, making it a great choice for both gaming and content creation. The curve is less aggressive than the Odyssey G9, making it potentially more comfortable for extended use.
Alienware AW3423DW
The Alienware AW3423DW stands out with its QD-OLED panel, offering unparalleled contrast and vibrant colors. Expect incredibly deep blacks and stunning picture quality.
With a 175Hz refresh rate and a near-instantaneous 0.1ms response time, this monitor is a top performer in terms of responsiveness. It's an investment, but the visual fidelity is hard to beat.
MSI Optix MPG341CQR
The MSI Optix MPG341CQR offers a good balance of features and affordability. It features a 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and a curved VA panel.
While the color accuracy might not be on par with the LG or Alienware, it's a solid choice for gamers on a budget. Consider this if you want a good curved experience without breaking the bank.
Gigabyte M34WQ
The Gigabyte M34WQ offers a 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and a curved VA panel. Great price point.
Offers KVM switch and is a solid all around monitor for the price.
Used vs. New: Weighing the Options
Buying used can save you money, but comes with risks. New monitors offer the peace of mind of a full warranty and pristine condition.
Used: Pros include lower prices and the possibility of finding discontinued models. Cons include potential hidden defects, no warranty, and the risk of buying a damaged product.
New: Pros include a full manufacturer's warranty, pristine condition, and the latest technology. Cons include a higher price tag and potential for dead pixels out of the box (though warranties often cover this).
Reliability Ratings by Brand
While individual experiences vary, some brands generally have a better reputation for reliability. Brands like LG and Samsung are typically considered reliable, but component failures can happen with any manufacturer.
Alienware, while known for premium features, can sometimes have higher repair rates. MSI offers a good balance of price and reliability, while Gigabyte is also generally well-regarded. Always research specific model reviews for potential issues.
Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying
- Resolution: Aim for at least 1440p (3440x1440 for ultrawide) for sharp visuals.
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz is the sweet spot for smooth gaming, but 165Hz or higher is even better.
- Response Time: 1ms or 4ms is ideal to minimize ghosting.
- Panel Type: VA panels offer good contrast, IPS panels excel in color accuracy, and OLED offers the best of both worlds (at a premium).
- Warranty: A longer warranty offers better protection against defects.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right curved gaming monitor depends on your budget, gaming preferences, and desired level of immersion. Consider factors like resolution, refresh rate, response time, panel type, and warranty before making your decision.
Research specific models and read user reviews to get a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. Don't be afraid to explore both new and used options, but be aware of the associated risks.
The Samsung Odyssey G9 offers unparalleled immersion but commands a premium price. The LG UltraGear 34GN850-B provides excellent color accuracy and overall performance. The Alienware AW3423DW stands out with its QD-OLED panel and stunning visuals. The MSI Optix MPG341CQR is a budget-friendly option that still delivers a solid gaming experience. The Gigabyte M34WQ is a great all around monitor for its price.
Ready to Level Up Your Gaming?
Now that you're armed with the knowledge, it's time to start exploring your options. Click here to browse the latest deals on curved gaming monitors and find the perfect display to transform your gaming setup!

















