Interested in an ultra-wide monitor?
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about ultrawide displays, as well as the best deals currently available.
The ultrawide format provides you with more horizontal screen space which makes gaming and movies more immersive, work more productive and your monitor will simply look cooler.
Type | Monitor | Size | Resolution | Panel | Refresh Rate | VRR | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Budget UltraWide Monitors | 29” | 2560x1080 | IPS | 100Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable) | ||
30” | 2560x1080 | VA | 200Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Unstable) | |||
30” | 2560x1080 | IPS | 200Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Compatible) | |||
34” | 3440x1440 | IPS | 100Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable) | |||
Best UltraWide Gaming Monitors | 34” | 3440x1440 | VA | 144Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Unstable) | ||
34” | 3440x1440 | IPS | 160Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Compatible) | |||
34” | 3440x1440 | IPS | 144Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable) | |||
38” | 3840x1600 | IPS | 144Hz | G-SYNC Ultimate + FreeSync | |||
Best OLED UltraWide Gaming Monitors | 34" | 3440x1440 | QD-OLED | 165Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable) | ||
45" | 3440x1440 | OLED | 240Hz | FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable) | |||
Best Professional UltraWide Monitors | 34” | 5120x2160 | IPS | 60Hz | None | ||
40” | 5120x2160 | IPS | 60Hz | None |
These are our top-recommended ultrawide models; Continue reading the review summaries below to find out why! We’ll also include a few noteworthy alternatives where appropriate.
Note that we have a separate guide for the best 32:9 super-ultrawide monitors!
You can view our changelogs for this buying guide at the end of this article.
Best Budget UltraWide Monitors
If you’ve got a limited budget, do not despair — you can still get an excellent ultrawide monitor! In this category, you’ll find the best ultrawide monitors ranging from under $200 up to ~$350.
LG 29WQ600
Cheap UltraWide Monitor That’s Actually Good
Size: 29”
Resolution: 2560×1080
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 100Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable)
The Pros:
- Decent pixel density
- Accurate colors, wide viewing angles
- Plenty of features including FreeSync and MBR up to 100Hz
The Cons:
- Tilt-only design
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
If you’re looking for a new ultrawide monitor, we highly recommend you save up at least for the LG 29WQ600 as it offers extraordinary value for the money. Don’t buy it at its $250 MSRP, it’s often on sale for ~$180.
For ~$250, get one of the other three budget ultrawide monitors included in this guide.
Image Quality
The LG 29WQ600 features an IPS panel with 99% sRGB gamut ensuring accurate, consistent and vibrant color reproduction fit for entry-level designers and photographers.
Further, its 2560×1080 resolution provides plenty of screen real estate and vivid details thanks to the solid pixel density of 96 PPI (pixels per inch).
Other panel-related specs include a 1,000:1 static contrast ratio, a 250-nit peak brightness and wide 178° viewing angles, all of which are standard for an IPS display at this price range.
The monitor also supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), but only via software emulation as it lacks proper color gamut, brightness and contrast for a notable improvement of the picture for HDR content.
Basically, enabling HDR for compatible content will just make the picture washed out, but in rare cases, it may look slightly better. Since this type of HDR support doesn’t really increase the monitor’s price, it can be ignored.
Features
Thanks to the AMD FreeSync variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, you’ll be able to enjoy a gaming experience without any screen tearing and stuttering or added input lag if you have a compatible graphics card by AMD or NVIDIA (GTX 10-series or newer).
The VRR range of the LG 29WQ600 is 40-100Hz. So, you get LFC support for tear-free gameplay up to 100FPS.
Other useful features include On-Screen Control (for adjusting OSD settings in a desktop app), Screen Split (partitions the desktop into different layouts for easier multitasking), Black Stabilizer (improves visibility in darker games), Dynamic Action Sync (minimizes input lag), custom crosshairs and picture presets (FPS, RTS, etc.).
Lastly, the monitor has a 5ms response time speed, which is more than quick enough to eliminate prominent trailing of fast-moving objects in video games at 100Hz on IPS panels.
Design & Connectivity
The LG 29WQ600 design is tilt-only but it’s VESA mount compatible (100 x 100mm). Connectivity options include HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2, a headphone jack, USB-C (DP 1.4 Alt Mode, no power delivery), a headphone jack and dual 7W integrated speakers.
Note that the monitor is 29″ in diagonal, but since it’s wider than a regular 16:9 widescreen monitor, it’s as tall as a 23″ 16:9 display. This might look a bit awkward at first, especially if you’re used to bigger monitors, but you’ll quickly get used to it and fall in love with the ultra-wide ratio and all the extra horizontal space.
Alternatives
2560×1080 IPS ultrawide monitors are also available as 34″ variants. However, these models have a lower pixel-per-inch ratio (81 PPI), so the image won’t be as clear and sharp, but the bigger screen does provide a more immersive gaming experience.
- Innocn 29C1F – 29″ 2560×1080 75Hz IPS monitor with USB-C (DP Alt Mode and 65W Power Delivery)
Sceptre C305B
Affordable UltraWide Curved Gaming Monitor
Size: 30”
Resolution: 2560×1080
Panel: VA
Refresh Rate: 200Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Unstable)
The Pros:
- High contrast ratio
- Decent pixel density
- AMD FreeSync up to 200Hz
The Cons:
- Some units of the monitor have flickering issues with FreeSync enabled
- Moderate ghosting in fast-paced games, mainly in darker scenes
- Tilt-only stand
About The Monitor
If you want a high refresh rate ultrawide display at an affordable price, there’s the Sceptre C305B-200UN.
Image Quality
This ultrawide gaming monitor is based on a VA panel, so you get a higher contrast ratio of 3,000:1 as opposed to 1,000:1 of the LG 29WQ600 IPS display. As a result, you get much deeper blacks and a more vivid relation between the darkest and the brightest shades.
The colors, however, are not as accurate nor as vibrant. The Sceptre C305B covers only 90% of the sRGB color space. Moreover, the viewing angles aren’t as wide, but you’ll still be able to look at the screen at most angles without the image shifting in color and contrast.
Features
What makes the Sceptre C305B exceptional is the fast 200Hz refresh rate at such a low price, which will make the gaming experience more responsive and immersive.
Now, there’s a catch. The pixel response time of VA panels isn’t as quick as that of the IPS models, especially when it comes to transitioning from deep blacks to other colors, which results in noticeable trailing of fast-moving objects.
The response time speed of the Sceptre C305B isn’t quick enough to keep up with its high 200Hz refresh rate, so you will notice more black smearing when your FPS exceeds 144FPS. However, keep in mind that this will vary from game to game and your own sensitivity to motion blur and ghosting.
You can simply limit the refresh rate to 120Hz or 144Hz, which still provides a massive boost in responsiveness and motion clarity as opposed to 75Hz.
Even if the monitor had a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz, we’d still recommend it at this price range. Think of the 200Hz refresh rate as a bonus that may not look great in all games, but in certain other games, it will work perfectly.
Further, the Sceptre C305B-200UN supports AMD FreeSync and VRR works with compatible NVIDIA cards. However, you might encounter some brightness flickering with VRR enabled.
Its FreeSync range is 48-200Hz over DisplayPort, while the HDMI ports are limited to 165Hz (HDMI 2.0) and 75Hz (HDMI 1.4).
Design & Connectivity
Unlike the 29WQ600, the Sceptre C305B has a curved screen (1800R), which adds a bit of depth and immersion to the viewing experience. The stand is tilt-only, but you can mount the screen using the provided VESA mount adapter.
Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, HDMI 2.0, a headphone jack and dual 3W built-in speakers. There are also two red LED strips at the back of the monitor.
MSI MAG301RF
Affordable UltraWide IPS Gaming Monitor
Size: 30”
Resolution: 2560×1080
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 200Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Compatible)
The Pros:
- Decent pixel density
- Accurate colors, wide viewing angles
- Quick response time
- Plenty of features including FreeSync and MBR up to 200Hz
- Ergonomic stand, USB hub
The Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
In case you don’t want to deal with slow response time and VRR brightness flickering of VA models, the MSI MAG301RF is the best budget ultrawide gaming monitor!
Image Quality
Thanks to its rapid 1ms GtG pixel response time speed, there’s no ghosting in fast-paced games even at the monitor’s maximum 200Hz refresh rate!
So, the MAG301RF is an excellent display for competitive gaming – just make sure your favorite titles support the 21:9 aspect ratio. It’s mostly Blizzard titles and Valorant that do not though.
As for the image quality, you get the standard IPS-like contrast ratio of 1,000:1, so blacks won’t be as deep as that of VA models.
Other than that, the screen can get adequately bright with a 300-nit peak brightness and it covers the entire sRGB color space for rich yet accurate colors, making it viable for entry-level color-critical work as well as gaming!
Features
The MSI MAG301RF supports AMD FreeSync and it’s certified as G-SYNC Compatible by NVIDIA, ensuring flawless VRR performance up to 200FPS!
It also supports backlight strobing and offers the standard gaming features, such as Night Vision (improves visibility in dark scenes), crosshair overlays, on-screen timers and a refresh rate tracker.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is robust and versatile with up to 130mm height adjustment, -5°/20° tilt, +/- 45° swivel and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Just like the LG 29WQ600, the MAG301RF has a flat-screen IPS panel.
Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.2, two HDMI 2.0 inputs, a headphone jack and a dual-USB 2.0 hub.
Sceptre E345W-QUT
Affordable 3440×1440 UltraWide IPS Gaming Monitor
Size: 34”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 100Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable)
The Pros:
- High pixel density
- Accurate colors, wide viewing angles
- Quick response time
- Plenty of features including FreeSync up to 100Hz
The Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
If you want the cheapest 34″ 3440×1440 ultrawide monitor, the Sceptre E345W-QUT is the best option available – it even has a 100Hz refresh rate!
Image Quality
The Sceptre E345W has a flat-screen IPS panel with full sRGB color space coverage, a 300-nit peak brightness and a 1,000:1 static contrast ratio.
Moreover, its 100Hz refresh rate provides you with a significant boost in motion clarity as opposed to the standard 60Hz/75Hz displays.
In fact, we find that the difference between 60Hz/75Hz and 100Hz is more noticeable than the difference between 100Hz and 144Hz.
Further, AMD FreeSync is supported for tear-free gameplay up to 100FPS, while the quick response time speed prevents prominent ghosting in fast-paced games.
All in all, you get a crisp image quality thanks to the high pixel density of 3440×1440 resolutions with rich (although not over-saturated) colors as well as a smooth gaming experience. The monitor even supports Picture in Picture and Picture by Picture.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is fairly sturdy and offers -5°/15° tilt and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility, while connectivity options include two HDMI 1.4 ports (limited to 75Hz), HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2, a headphone jack and dual 3W speakers.
Best UltraWide Gaming Monitors
Now that we’ve got the budget variants out of the way, let’s move on to the mid-range and high-end models, available with both IPS and VA panels.
Gigabyte G34WQC-A
Affordable 3440×1440 UltraWide Monitor
Size: 34”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: VA
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Unstable)
The Pros:
- Immersive image quality with high pixel density, contrast and wide color gamut
- Plenty of gaming features including FreeSync and MBR
- Ergonomic stand and rich connectivity options
The Cons:
- Minor ghosting in fast-paced games, mainly in darker scenes
- Some units of the monitor have flickering issues with FreeSync enabled
About The Monitor
In case you want a big 34″ ultrawide monitor with crisp image quality and plenty of screen space, the Gigabyte G34WQC-A is the most cost-effective display as it also offers a high 144Hz refresh rate!
Image Quality
Based on a VA panel with a superior contrast ratio of 4,000:1, the Gigabyte G34WQC-A ultrawide monitor delivers true blacks with vivid details in the shadows and highlights of the image.
The colors aren’t quite as accurate and consistent as that of the IPS models, but they are vivid and gorgeous nonetheless. In fact, the monitor has a wide 90% DCI-P3 (125% sRGB) color gamut, so the colors will be more saturated and lifelike.
Alternatively, you can use the provided sRGB emulation mode if you want a more accurate color representation. Add to that the 3440×1440 screen resolution, and you get an incredibly immersive image quality for the price.
Now, the specified 4ms response time speed of the Gigabyte G34WQC-A might be faster than the 5ms speed of the LG 29WQ600 on paper, but in reality, it’s a different story.
Because VA panel displays have such deep black tones, dark pixels take longer to change into lighter shades. This results in visible smearing of fast-moving objects when dark pixels are involved.
Unless you’re a hardcore FPS gamer, the amount of smearing will be tolerable. To decrease the amount of perceptible ghosting, you can use the MBR (Motion Blur Reduction) technology, which via backlight strobing makes motion blur less visible.
Features
Moving on, the Gigabyte G34WQC-A supports AMD FreeSync with a 48-144Hz VRR range. However, some units of the monitor will have brightness flickering when FreeSync is enabled.
The brightness flickering is most noticeable if your frame rate fluctuates a lot and when it dips around 48FPS and triggers LFC. This mostly occurs in in-game menus and loading screens. Not all units have this issue though.
If you do get a faulty unit, you can try decreasing the FreeSync range via CRU; you can simply disable FreeSync in games where flickering often occurs or use MBR instead for smoother motion clarity.
Note that MBR and FreeSync cannot be active at the same time.
Other features include HDR-400 support, PiP/PbP support, Shadow Control (improves visibility in darker games), Game Color (quick color saturation adjustments), pre-calibrated picture presets and crosshair overlays.
For more information, visit our Gigabyte G34WQC-A review.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is sturdy and offers height adjustment up to 100mm, -5°/20° tilt and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 inputs, a headphone jack and two 2W integrated speakers.
Alternatives
Similar monitors using the same (or very similar) panel include:
- Xiaomi Mi Curved Gaming Monitor 34
- AOC CU34G2X
- Cooler Master GM34-CW2
- Lenovo G34W-10 (sRGB gamut only)
All three of the above-mentioned ultrawide monitors use the same panel, so the image quality and performance will be basically identical, including the risk of getting a unit with FreeSync brightness flickering.
Therefore, you can simply choose according to your preference of the design/features or go for whichever is available/cheaper. Not sure which one to pick? Leave us a comment below!
If you don’t need a high refresh rate, check out the Samsung S34J55W 34″ flat-screen 3440×1440 VA monitor with a 75Hz refresh rate. It’s often on sale for $300.
Do you have a gaming laptop with USB-C that supports DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery?
Consider the Philips 346E2 which features a USB-C port with DisplayPort 1.2 Alternate Mode and Power Delivery up to 65W! It has a 100Hz refresh rate, 3440×1440 resolution and wide color gamut.
LG 34GP83A
Great Image Quality And Smooth Performance
Size: 34”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 160Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Compatible)
The Pros:
- Wide color gamut and HDR400
- Quick response time and 144Hz
- FreeSync and 1ms MBR
- Ergonomic design with rich connectivity options
The Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
In case you want both: a high screen resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate as well as accurate colors and quick response time, the LG 34GP83A is the best ultrawide monitor out there.
Image Quality
Based on LG’s latest Nano-IPS panel, the LG 34GP83A offers a wide color gamut with 98% DCI-P3 coverage, 10-bit color depth (8-bit + 2-bit FRC) and a 400-nit peak brightness.
Moreover, the monitor supports HDR with VESA’s DisplayHDR 400 certification, which we find too weak for a notable HDR viewing experience like that of the G9.
Thanks to the wide color gamut and decent peak brightness, though, the image quality is great.
Note that to get 3440×1440 at 144Hz, you will need a graphics card with DisplayPort 1.4; otherwise, you’ll be limited to 120Hz at 3440×1440 (with DisplayPort 1.2).
What makes this ultrawide gaming monitor different from the older 34″ 3440×1440 IPS models is its superior pixel response time speed of 1ms GtG for zero trailing and overshoot in fast-paced games.
You can also overclock the monitor up to 160Hz if you drop the color depth support from 10-bit to 8-bit.
Features
Besides the common features such as Black Stabilizer, Crosshair, D.A.S and FPS/RTS presets, the LG 34GP83A also supports AMD FreeSync (48-144Hz) with certified G-SYNC compatibility.
Design & Connectivity
The LG 34GP83A has a curvature of 1900R, it can be tilted by -5°/15°, height adjusted by up to 110mm and it’s VESA mount compatible (100x100mm pattern).
Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports (max 85Hz at 3440×1440), a dual-USB 3.0 hub and a headphone jack.
Alternatives
Keep in mind that there’s also the LG 34GN850 model, which features all the same specifications as the LG 34GP83A. It just has a slightly different design at the back of the monitor and a different OSD menu yet it’s $150 – $200 more expensive.
So, we recommend going with the LG 34GP83A model for the best value for the money.
Gigabyte M34WQ
Affordable 3440×1440 IPS UltraWide Gaming Monitor
Size: 34”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable)
The Pros:
- Wide color gamut and HDR400
- Quick response time and 144Hz
- FreeSync + MBR
- Height-adjustable stand and rich connectivity options; KVM switch
The Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
- Flat screen, not curved
About The Monitor
If the LG 34GP83A is out of your budget, the Gigabyte M34WQ is a cheaper alternative worth considering.
Image Quality
While the M34WQ is not quite as fast the 34GP83A, it’s pixel response time speed is fast enough to eliminate most ghosting in fast-paced games. You won’t get any dark level smearing associated with the VA models.
Further, it offers stable VRR performance without any brightness flickering. So, if you want a 34″ 3440×1440 ultrawide gaming monitor with smooth performance, the M34WQ is actually the cheapest model available.
It doesn’t have as wide color gamut as LG’s Nano IPS models, but with 91% DCI-P3 gamut coverage, you get more saturated and vibrant colors than that of the standard sRGB displays, while the peak brightness is strong at 400-nits.
The Gigabyte M34WQ also supports Aim Stabilizer Sync, which allows you to use VRR and MBR at the same time.
The main disadvantage it has over LG’s more expensive model is that it has a flat screen and most people prefer curved displays at this screen size. However, when sitting a bit further from the screen, this becomes less of an issue that most users will be able to let slide since you’re saving ~$300 by not getting the LG model.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is sturdy and offers height adjustment up to 130mm, tilt by -5°/21° and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 inputs, USB-C (with DP 1.4 Alt Mode and 18W PD), a headphone jack, a dual-USB 3.0 hub, a built-in KVM switch and dual 3W integrated speakers.
Dell AW3821DW
Best 38″ UltraWide Gaming Monitor
Size: 38”
Resolution: 3840×1600
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
VRR: G-SYNC Ultimate + FreeSync
The Pros:
- Big screen with a high resolution
- Vibrant and accurate colors
- Quick response time speed
- G-SYNC up to 144Hz
- Plenty of additional gaming features
- Ergonomic stand, USB ports
- DisplayHDR 600
The Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
- No sRGB mode
About The Monitor
In case you want an even bigger ultrawide monitor, the Dell Alienware AW3821DW is the best 38″ model for gaming currently available.
Image Quality
This giant ultrawide curved monitor isn’t only bigger than its 34″-35″ counterparts, it also has a higher screen resolution of 3840×1600 pixels.
So, you still get the perfect pixel density of 110 PPI as well as a larger screen.
The Nano IPS panel of the Dell AW3821DW supports 10-bit color and has a wide 95% DCI-P3 color gamut (131% sRGB), but it lacks an sRGB emulation mode. So, if you care about accurate sRGB colors, you’ll need a colorimeter to profile the monitor.
It also supports DisplayHDR 600 and has a peak brightness of 600-nits as well as a 32-zone local dimming solution.
In addition, its rapid 1ms GtG response time speed provides flawless performance in fast-paced games.
Keep in mind that you will need to use 8-bit color for 144Hz, whereas for 10-bit color, you’ll need to lower the refresh rate to 120Hz due to DP 1.4 bandwidth limitations.
Features
The Dell AW3821DW has a dedicated G-SYNC module for impeccable VRR performance, and it also supports VRR with AMD graphics cards over DisplayPort.
Other features include Dark Stabilizer, on-screen timers, a refresh rate tracker and various picture presets.
For more information, visit our Dell AW3821DW review.
Design & Connectivity
The AW3821DW features a gorgeous and robust design with up to 130mm height adjustment, -5°/21° tilt, +/- 20° swivel and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports (maximum 85Hz), a headphone jack and a quad-USB 3.0 hub. At the back of the monitor, there are RGB LEDs, while the screen curvature is 2300R for added immersion.
Alternatives
- LG 38GL950G – monitor based on the same panel with a dedicated G-SYNC module, but weaker DisplayHDR 400 support yet higher price tag. It does have an sRGB mode, but for less than the price difference, you can just get a colorimeter.
- LG 38GN950 – monitor based on the same panel without the G-SYNC module and with the same DisplayHDR 600 certification (though fewer 12 dimming zones). It has an sRGB mode, but it’s also more expensive than the AW3821DW.
The availability and pricing of these 38″ ultrawide gaming monitors is all over the place depending on the region, sales and whatnot, so feel free to leave us a comment below if you need help picking the best model for the price.
If you’re looking for a 38″ ultrawide monitor mainly for productivity work and not gaming, check out the ViewSonic VP3881a instead. It’s cheaper, but it doesn’t have any of the gaming features the Dell/LG monitors offer. However, it offers better color accuracy with 14-bit 3D LUT and Delta < 2 factory calibration.
You can also get a cheaper 38″ 3840×1600 75Hz ultrawide display, such as the LG 38WN75C and the BenQ EW3880R.
In case you’d like a big ultrawide monitor, but can’t afford any of these 38″ models, there’s the Innocn 40C1R with a 40″ ultrawide panel albeit with a 3440×1440 resolution. It still has decent 93 PPI as well as 144Hz, VRR, wide color gamut and USB-C with 90W PD.
Best OLED UltraWide Monitors
Nowadays, you can even find an ultrawide monitor with an OLED panel for superior image quality and performance.
Dell AW3423DWF
Best HDR UltraWide Monitor
Size: 34”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: QD-OLED
Refresh Rate: 165Hz
VRR: FreeSync Premium Pro
The Pros:
- Instantaneous response time, low input lag, VRR up to 165Hz
- Infinite contrast ratio, wide color gamut, high peak brightness
- Plenty of useful features
- Fully ergonomic design, USB hub
The Cons:
- No MBR
About The Monitor
Thanks to its QD-OLED panel, the Dell Alienware AW3423DWF offers the best image quality and smoothest performance out of all monitors included in this guide – and it’s actually cheaper than the Dell AW3821DW.
Image Quality
The main advantage of OLEDs is that they have self-emissive pixels, so each pixel can individually turn off for true blacks. This results in a basically infinite contrast ratio and no backlight bleeding, glowing or haloing.
However, OLEDs cannot get quite as bright as high-end LED-backlit LCDs. Regardless, with a peak brightness of 1,000-nits for 1 – 3% white windows and a sustainable brightness of 250-nits for a 100% white window, it can still deliver outstanding image quality with vivid and punchy highlights.
The Dell AW3423DWF also has a wide color gamut with 99.3% DCI-P3 and 95% Adobe RGB gamut coverage (149% sRGB gamut size). The colors are vibrant, consistent and accurate with Delta E < 2 factory calibration, allowing you to use the monitor for color-critical work. You’ll also find adjustable sRGB and DCI-P3 color gamut clamps.
Now, the main drawback of OLED technology is the risk of permanent image burn-in.
The QD-OLED panel is more resistant to it than regular OLEDs, and you even get a three-year warranty that covers burn-in. As long as you don’t leave a static image for too long and use the integrated (automatic by default) pixel and panel refresher features, this won’t be an issue though.
The 3440×1440 resolution results in a pixel density of 110 PPI, so you won’t get quite as crisp details and text as that of the higher resolution ultrawides we’ll get into next; however, you still get a lot of screen real estate and reasonably sharp text and details.
Since the Dell AW3423DWF has RGB subpixels in an unconventional triangular layout, some color fringing can be detected on small text when viewing it from up close.
This isn’t noticeable in games and videos, but if you work with a lot of text and are sensitive to this type of visual artifact, it might bother you a bit. Hopefully, Windows and macOS can address this via ClearType and HiDPI updates.
Features
Another big advantage of OLEDs is the instantaneous pixel response time speed, which results in buttery-smooth motion clarity with zero ghosting and overshoot regardless of the refresh rate; input lag is also imperceptibly low.
The monitor also supports VRR up to 165FPS for tear-free gameplay.
Other features include crosshair overlays, on-screen timers, a refresh rate tracker, Dark Stabilizer, PiP/PbP, RGB lighting and various picture presets. Sadly, MBR is not available.
Check out our full AW342DWF review for more information.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is sturdy and offers a good range of ergonomics with up to 110mm height adjustment, -5°/21° tilt, +/- 20° swivel, +/- 4° pivot and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Next, the screen has a subtle 1800R curvature for added immersion and a semi-glossy finish that offers a more vivid image quality than the regular matte anti-glare coatings, but it’s not quite as good against reflections.
Connectivity options include two DisplayPort 1.4 inputs, HDMI 2.0 (limited to 100Hz), a headphone jack, a line-out port and a quad-USB 3.0 hub.
Alternatives
- Dell AW3423DW – the same monitor but with a G-SYNC module and a higher 175Hz refresh rate; however, it’s up to $200 more expensive and has fewer features
Corsair Xeneon Flex
Best Premium HDR UltraWide Monitor
Size: 45”
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: W-OLED
Refresh Rate: 240Hz
VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable)
The Pros:
- Instantaneous response time, low input lag, VRR up to 240Hz
- Infinite contrast ratio, wide color gamut, decent peak brightness
- Plenty of useful features, USB hub
- Bendable screen
The Cons:
- No MBR
- Low pixel density
- Tilt-only stand and not VESA mount compatible without an adapter
- Expensive
About The Monitor
If you want a bigger ultrawide monitor with an OLED panel, the Corsair Xeneon Flex 45WQHD240 might be for you.
Image Quality
While it has a notably larger screen than the AW3423DWF, it has the same 3440×1440 resolution, meaning that you’ll get a lower pixel density (83 PPI), therefore, text and details won’t be quite as sharp.
However, considering that you’ll be sitting further away from a 45″ screen than you would from a 34″ display, the individual pixels won’t be noticeable in games and videos. In fact, at around 42″ (or ~107cm) away from the screen, your eyes won’t be able to distinguish the pixels at all.
The Corsair Flex uses LG’s W-OLED panel with a WRGB subpixel layout, so colored fringing on tiny text is also an issue here. Further, it doesn’t get as bright as the AW3423DWF since it’s limited to around 160-nits for 100% white windows, 650-nits for 10% and up to 800-nits for 1-3% white windows.
100% White Window Max Brightness (SDR) | 100% White Window Max Brightness (HDR) | 10% White Window Max Brightness (HDR) | 1 - 3% White Window Max Brightness (HDR) | |
---|---|---|---|---|
AW3423DW, AW3423DWF, Samsung G8, MSI 342C | 250-nits | 250-nits | 450 ~ 550-nits | 1000-nits |
Samsung OLED G9 | 250-nits | 250-nits | 500-nits | 1000-nits |
ASUS PG27AQDM | 250-nits** | 160-nits | 850-nits | 900-nits |
LG 27GR95QE | 200-nits | 130-nits | 650-nits | 650-nits |
LG 45GR95QE | 160-nits | 160-nits | 650-nits | 800-nits |
Corsair Xeneon Flex | 190-nits | 160-nits | 650-nits | 800-nits |
LG OLED42C2 | 180-nits* | 120-nits | 700-nits | 700-nits |
ASUS PG42UQ | 200-nits** | 120-nits | 800-nits | 800-nits |
LG OLED48C3 | 200-nits | 150-nits | 800-nits | 800-nits |
Gigabyte FO48U | 110-nits | 110-nits | 500-nits | 600-nits |
LG 48GQ900 | 130-nits | 130-nits | 600-nits | 600-nits |
*PC Mode, Game Optimizer enabled
**Uniform Brightness enabled
It also doesn’t have quite as wide color gamut (98% DCI-P3), but it has a higher 240Hz refresh rate for smoother motion.
Useful features include VRR, crosshair overlays, a refresh rate tracker, various picture presets and PiP/PbP. The monitor has a bendable screen, allowing you to bend it from flat-screen to a steep 800R curve.
Design & Connectivity
The stand of the monitor is tilt-only and the screen is not VESA mount compatible.
Further, the screen has a light matte anti-glare coating that prevents reflections, but adds a bit of graininess to the image.
Corsair plans to release a mounting accessory in Q1 2023.
Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, DP 1.4 with DSC, USB-C with DP Alt Mode and 30W Power Delivery, two USB 3.0 ports at the back and two at the front, a headphone jack and an additional upstream USB-C port.
Alternatives
- LG 45GR95QE – LG’s version based on a similar panel, but with a fixed 800R curvature. It has a more ergonomic stand, but LG doesn’t offer a 3-year burn-in warranty like Corsair and Dell (for their AW3423DW/F models).
Best Professional UltraWide Monitors
Looking for an ultrawide monitor for professional use, such as spreadsheets or photo/video editing? Check out the best models available!
MSI PS341WU
5120×2160 Professional UltraWide Monitor
Size: 34”
Resolution: 5120×2160
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
VRR: None
The Pros:
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate and consistent colors
- High pixel density
- Ergonomic design and rich connectivity options
The Cons:
- Expensive
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
The MSI PS341WU is one of the first ultrawide displays to feature a screen resolution of 5120×2160 pixels. Some refer to it as 4K ultrawide or even 5K ultrawide, but MSI simply calls it ‘5K2K’.
Image Quality
Besides offering a high resolution that results in an incredibly rich pixel density of 163 pixels per inch (same as 3840×2160 on 27″ screens), the MSI PS341WU has the latest Nano IPS panel technology with 98% DCI-P3 color gamut.
So, you get flawless details, plenty of screen space and stunning color quality.
The monitor also has VESA’s DisplayHDR-600 certification, but its static contrast ratio of only 1,200:1 will cause most of the extra HDR details to be lost.
Other-panel related specs include a 450-nit peak brightness (600-nit for HDR content), 178-degree viewing angles, a 60Hz refresh rate, a 5ms response time speed and, naturally, 10-bit color support (8-bit + 2-bit FRC).
Design & Connectivity
In order to reach 5120×2160 at 60Hz, you will need to use either DisplayPort 1.4 or USB-C. The HDMI 2.0 port limits the resolution to 3440×1440.
Connectivity options on the monitor are as follows: DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 inputs, a USB type C port (DP 1.4 Alt Mode, 15W PD), a headphone jack, a microphone jack, an audio combo jack, an SD card reader, three downstream USB 3.0 ports and an upstream USB 3.0 port.
You can elevate the screen of the monitor up to 100mm, tilt it by -5°/20°, +/- 35° swivel and VESA mount it using the 100 x 100mm pattern.
Alternatives
- LG 34WK95U – LG’s monitor based on the same panel. It has Thunderbolt 3 with up to 85W PD, but it’s backlight is not flicker-free, it’s more expensive, and some units have image retention issues.
If you’re looking for a cheaper DCI-P3 ultrawide monitor for color-critical work, check out the BenQ PD3420Q.
Dell U4021QW
40″ 5120×2160 Professional UltraWide Monitor
Size: 40”
Resolution: 5120×2160
Panel: IPS
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
VRR: None
The Pros:
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate and consistent colors
- High pixel density
- Ergonomic design and rich connectivity options; USB-C 90W PD
The Cons:
- Expensive
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio (as expected from this panel technology)
About The Monitor
In case you want something bigger, check out the Dell U4021QW.
Image Quality
If the MSI PS341WU is a 27″ 4K monitor that’s 33% wider, the U4021WQ is a 32″ 4K monitor that’s 33% wider. So, you still get that high 140 PPI pixel density for crisp details and plenty of screen space.
Further, the monitor has a subtle 2500R screen curvature and an IPS panel with a 300-nit peak brightness and 178° wide viewing angles.
It covers 98% of the DCI-P3 color space, features an sRGB emulation mode and has excellent Delta E < 2 factory calibration.
Design & Connectivity
The stand offers height adjustment up to 120mm, +/- 35° swivel, -5°/20° tilt and 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility.
Connectivity options are abundant and include DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports (limited to 30Hz at 5120×2160), four downstream USB 3.0 ports, one upstream USB-B port, two USB-C ports (one with Thunderbolt 3 and 90W PD), a headphone jack, RJ45 and a built-in KVM switch.
Conclusion
Did you manage to choose the best ultrawide monitor for you?
Let us know if you need any further assistance in the comments below!
All in all, you can’t go wrong with the Gigabyte M34WQ or the LG 34GP83A if you can afford it; they offer incredible image quality as well as smooth performance and plenty of useful features.
In case you got a limited budget, you should at least save up for the MSI MAG301RF if you’re a competitive gamer.
If you can afford something a bit fancier, the Dell AW3423DWF and the Dell AW3821DW (depending on your budget and preference) will provide you with otherworldly gaming and viewing experience.
Changelog +
- March 31, 2023:
– Added the Corsair Xeneon Flex. - December 22, 2022:
– We now have a separate guide for 32:9 ultrawide monitors. - November 23, 2022:
– Replaced the Dell AW3423DW with the AW3423DWF model. - October 23, 2022:
– Added the Sceptre E345W-QUT. - September 17, 2022:
– Replaced the LG 29WP60G with the LG 29WQ600.
– Added the LG 49WQ95C. - June 15, 2022:
– Replaced the AOC CU34G2X with the Gigabyte G34WQC-A. - March 15, 2022:
– Added the Dell AW3423DW. - February 22, 2022:
– Replaced the LG 29WK600 with the LG 29WP60G. - November 25, 2021:
– Checked up on the guide to ensure that our picks are still the best options available. - November 17, 2021:
– Added the Gigabyte M34WQ and the Dell U4919DW. - October 2, 2021:
– Replaced the Gigabyte G34WQC (discontinued) with the AOC CU34G2X. - August 3, 2021:
– Replaced the LG 38GN950 with the Dell AW3821DW.
– Removed the LG 34GL750, the LG 34UC80 and the Acer X35.
– Added the MSI MAG301RF, the Samsung Neo G9 and the Dell U4021WQ to the table. Review sections will be added soon. - April 15, 2021:
– Added the Dell C3422WE as a premium alternative to the LG 34UC80.