When it comes to finding the best ultrawide gaming monitor, there are numerous considerations that must be taken into account. From size and design, to compatibility, to budget, and overall performance, an informed purchase decision should take all these features into account. In this article, we’ll explore the elements which should be considered when selecting the best ultrawide gaming monitor, and provide some top picks.
Screen size is likely the first attribute to consider when selecting an ultrawide gaming monitor. The size of a monitor will significantly affect the gaming experience, offering more flexibility to the player. For example, a 34 inch monitor will provide a much larger field of view than a 24-inch monitor. Additionally, ultrawide aspect ratios—such as 21:9 and 32:9—provide a much more immersive gaming experience, allowing gamers to take full advantage of the graphics.
In addition to size and aspect ratio, a gaming monitor must also be compatible with certain devices. Many monitors feature a range of ports, including HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, and others. If the monitor and the devices are not compatible, it is unlikely that a high-quality gaming experience will be achieved. High-end gaming monitors may also feature NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, allowing the frame rate to be synchronized with the graphics card to reduce tearing.
The performance of a gaming monitor should also be taken into account. Monitor refresh rates can range from 60 Hz to 144 Hz and beyond, offering better response time and a more smooth gaming experience. Another factor to consider is the input lag, which measures the amount of time it takes for a screen to react to a signal. Generally, a lower input lag time is better for gaming.
It is also important to consider the budget when selecting the best ultrawide gaming monitor. While more expensive monitors may provide better performance and more features, this may not be necessary for everyone. Generally, most gamers should look for a mid-range monitor that offers features like a fast refresh rate, a high contrast ratio, and wide viewing angles.
To help find the best ultrawide gaming monitor, here are some top picks that should serve as a good starting point: the ViewSonic XG35, the Acer XR382CQK, the MSI Optix MPG341CQRV, and the LG 34GN850-B. All of these monitors offer a wide range of features, including a large ultrawide aspect ratio, excellent contrast and color precision, 144 Hz refresh rate, and multiple ports.
Screen Resolution
Monitor resolution should also be taken into consideration when looking for the best ultrawide gaming monitor. Most gaming monitors are going to have a resolution of 1080p or 1440p, with some 4K displays on the market as well. However, for most gamers, the higher resolution may not be necessary, as the increased resolution will not improve the gameplay experience. In some cases, a higher resolution monitor may actually reduce your frames per second as GPUs can struggle to keep up with the increased demands.
Color Accuracy
Color accuracy is a vital component to consider when selecting the best ultrawide gaming monitor. A higher color accuracy means more vibrant and accurate colors, giving gamers an immersive experience while playing. High-end gaming monitors should feature an 8-bit color depth, which translates to a 16.7 million color palette. You may also find monitors with a 10-bit color depth, providing a 1.073 billion color palette.
Viewing Angles
The viewing angles of a gaming monitor are also important, as they determine how well the display can be viewed from different angles. Monitors with wide viewing angles will provide a better gaming experience, as the visuals remain consistent from any angle. For example, an IPS panel will offer 178-degree viewing angles, ensuring that images are clear regardless of your seating position.
Design and Ergonomics
The design and ergonomics of a gaming monitor are also essential for an enjoyable gaming experience. A monitor with an adjustable stand will allow you to customize the height and tilt of the screen for optimal viewing comfort. Additionally, many gaming monitors feature narrow bezels, allowing you to set up multiple monitors for a more immersive display.
Image Quality
The image quality of a gaming monitor can make or break your gaming experience. High-end gaming monitors should offer excellent image quality, allowing you to see small details in darker scenes or vibrant colors in brighter scenes. Other characteristics to look for include low response time, dynamic refresh rate, and a high refresh rate.
Connectivity
Finally, it is also important to consider the type of ports and connectivity offered by a gaming monitor. Whether you are connecting to a laptop, console, or PC, the monitor should offer the appropriate ports and cables for the device. Many monitors offer HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, and USB Type-C ports, along with other options.
