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The Best Ultrawide Monitors for 2023

Explore immersive computing with the finest ultrawide monitors. Elevate gaming, productivity, and creativity with panoramic brilliance.

CR Staff
By Updated: 2024, Feb 28

Introduction to Ultrawide Monitors

Hello, folks! Today, we’re diving into the world of ultrawide monitors. You might be asking yourself, “What’s an ultrawide monitor?” It’s simple, really. An ultrawide monitor is a display that has a wider aspect ratio than your standard 16:9 monitor. This gives you a wider viewing area, which can be extremely beneficial for certain tasks such as gaming, graphic design, video editing, and other professional applications. If you’re used to working on a regular monitor, the switch to an ultrawide can be quite a revelation. Imagine having the ability to have multiple windows open side by side without having to squint or constantly click between tabs. It’s a game-changer, and once you go ultrawide, you might find it hard to go back.

The Best Ultrawide Monitors for 2023
Best-Ultrawide-Monitors-in-2023

But it’s not just about the extra screen real estate. Another advantage of ultrawide monitors is that they often come with higher resolutions, which means sharper, clearer images. This can be a boon for creatives who need to see every pixel in their work.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ultrawide Monitor

When shopping for an ultrawide monitor, there are several factors you should consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the resolution. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image will be. A 1080p ultrawide monitor might be sufficient for some users, but if you’re a creative professional or a gamer, you might want to spring for a 1440p or even a 4K model.

Next, consider the aspect ratio. Most ultrawide monitors have an aspect ratio of 21:9, but there are also super ultrawide monitors with an aspect ratio of 32:9. These are essentially equivalent to two 16:9 monitors side by side, without the bezel in the middle.

Additionally, you should think about the size of the monitor. Ultrawide monitors range in size from around 29 inches to 49 inches (measured diagonally). The best size for you will depend on your specific needs and the amount of space you have on your desk.

Benefits of Using Ultrawide Monitors

Having an ultrawide monitor can significantly enhance your productivity. The extra screen space lets you multitask with ease, which is especially useful if you’re juggling different tasks or working with multiple applications at once. You can have your email open on one side of the screen, a word document in the middle, and a web browser on the other side, all visible at the same time.

In addition, ultrawide monitors are a dream for gamers. The wide screen provides a more immersive gaming experience by filling your peripheral vision with action. Plus, many ultrawide monitors offer high refresh rates and quick response times, which can give you a competitive edge in fast-paced games.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Watching movies or TV shows on an ultrawide monitor is a unique experience, as it can mimic the aspect ratio of a movie theater screen. This means fewer black bars and a more cinematic viewing experience. Lastly, some people find that ultrawide monitors are easier on the eyes, as they can reduce the need for scrolling and zooming.

Best Ultrawide Monitor for Office Work

While there are many great ultrawide monitors on the market, one stands out for office work: the Dell UltraSharp 49 Curved Monitor (U4919DW). This monitor has a massive 49-inch screen with a 32:9 aspect ratio, making it perfect for multitasking. It also has a high resolution of 5120 x 1440, which means you’ll get crisp, clear images.

The U4919DW has a sleek, professional design that will look great in any office. It also has a USB-C port, which allows for easy connection to laptops and other devices. Plus, it has a built-in KVM switch, which lets you control two computers with a single keyboard and mouse.

However, the U4919DW is not perfect. It has a relatively low refresh rate of 60Hz, which might not be ideal for gaming. It’s also quite expensive, so it might not be the best choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Despite these drawbacks, the U4919DW is a fantastic monitor for office work. It offers plenty of screen space for multitasking, a high resolution for sharp images, and a number of useful features that can enhance your productivity.


Quick Summary

Image Product Description Price
1

Alienware Monitor

Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DWF) Crisp QD-OLED display for immersive gaming.
2

Cooler Master Monitor

Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB Ultra-wide ARGB gaming monitor.
3

Asus ROG Swift Monitor

Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ 35″ curved monitor with G-Sync and HDR.
4

Samsung Odyssey Monitor

Samsung Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor 49″ dual-curved display with 240Hz refresh.
5

LG UltraGear Monitor

LG 45 UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor 45″ OLED gaming display with ultra-fast response.
6

Philips Brilliance Monitor

Philips Brilliance 499P9H Superwide 49″ monitor for productivity.
7

Dell UltraSharp Monitor

Dell UltraSharp 49 Curved Monitor (U4919DW) 49″ dual QHD display for multitasking.
8

Asus ProArt Monitor

Asus ProArt PA34VC Professional Curved Monitor 34″ professional-grade curved monitor.
9

LG Monitor

LG 49WL95C-W 49″ ultra-wide monitor for creative work.

The Research

How we tested?

In our quest to uncover the best ultrawide monitors of 2023, we embarked on a rigorous testing process that combined technical analysis with real-world usage scenarios. Our team of experts evaluated a wide range of models, considering factors such as display quality, refresh rates, color accuracy, connectivity options, and ergonomic features.

How we picked?

To ensure comprehensive and unbiased assessments, we utilized a variety of content, from multimedia entertainment to productivity tasks. High-resolution images, videos, and graphics were examined for clarity and vibrancy, while fast-paced games tested refresh rates and response times. Moreover, intricate design and editing tasks were executed to evaluate the monitors’ practicality for creative professionals.

Our selection process was guided by meticulous criteria.
We considered display technology, with a focus on OLED, QLED, and Nano IPS panels, favoring those that delivered exceptional contrast, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles. Adaptive refresh rates and high resolutions were prioritized, enhancing both gaming and content creation experiences. Furthermore, ergonomic adjustments, such as height, tilt, and swivel, played a role in determining user comfort and usability.

Who should get this?

Who stands to benefit from these ultrawide monitors? The answer encompasses a diverse audience. Gamers seeking immersive gameplay will appreciate the expanded field of view and adaptive refresh rates that reduce motion blur. Content creators, including designers, video editors, and photographers, will find the extended screen real estate invaluable for multitasking and enhancing workflow efficiency. Business professionals can benefit from the improved productivity offered by simultaneous application windows, while enthusiasts of entertainment media will relish in the cinematic experience these monitors provide.


Best Ultrawide Monitors for 2023

Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DWF)

Alienware Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Alienware 34 curved QD-OLED gaming monitor is a beast in disguise. The first thing that caught my eye was its futuristic design, resembling a spaceship. But the real magic is in its QD-OLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. Its 175Hz refresh rate and NVIDIA G-Sync Ultimate technology, made my gaming experience smooth and stutter-free.

  • What We Don’t Like

    While the AW3423DWF is a gaming gem, it’s not perfect. The monitor lacks built-in speakers, which can be a letdown for some users. Additionally, its high price tag might not suit everyone’s budget.

Product Specification

Display Size 34 inches
Display Technology QD-OLED
Resolution 3440×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Excellent color accuracy
  • Fast response time
  • High refresh rate

Cons

  • Lacks built-in speakers
  • High price tag

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

If you’re a hardcore gamer looking for an immersive experience, the Alienware 34 curved QD-OLED monitor is worth considering. Its high price tag is justified by its top-notch performance.


Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB

Cooler Master Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB is a visual treat with its unique ARGB lighting at the back. This lighting adds an extra layer of ambiance to your gaming or working environment. Moreover, its 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology ensure a smooth gaming experience.

  • What We Don’t Like

    One downside of this monitor is its mediocre built-in speakers. They don’t deliver the sound quality that you’d expect from a monitor in this price range. Also, the ARGB lighting, while visually pleasing, doesn’t offer any functional benefits.

Product Specification

Display Size 34 inches
Display Technology VA panel
Resolution 3440×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Unique lighting feature
  • High refresh rate

Cons

  • Mediocre built-in speakers
  • ARGB lighting doesn’t offer functional benefits

9.5
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB is a good choice for gamers who want a high refresh rate and a touch of flair with the ARGB lighting. However, if sound quality is a priority for you, this might not be the best choice.


Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ

Asus ROG Swift Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ is a dream come true for gamers. The first thing that caught my attention was its impressive 200Hz refresh rate, a feature that hardcore gamers would absolutely adore. The HDR performance is top-notch, and the monitor’s Quantum-dot technology offers a wide color gamut, making the visuals stunningly lifelike.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the monitor is not without its flaws. The hefty price tag might be a deterrent for some. Also, despite having an excellent display, the fan noise can be slightly bothersome at times.

Product Specification

Display Size 35 inches
Display Technology Quantum-dot
Resolution 3440×1440 pixels

Pros

  • High refresh rate
  • Excellent HDR performance

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Fan noise can be distracting

9.8
Our Score

Our Verdict

If budget is not a hindrance and you’re looking for an immersive gaming experience, the Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ is one of the best ultrawide monitors out there.


Samsung Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor

Samsung Odyssey Monitor

  • What We Like

    Next up, we have the Samsung Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor. The futuristic design and the dazzling 49-inch Dual QHD display are absolutely mesmerizing. The 240Hz refresh rate is a godsend for competitive gamers, and the Quantum-dot technology ensures vibrant colors.

  • What We Don’t Like

    On the downside, the massive screen size might be overwhelming for some, and the monitor does require a lot of desk space. Plus, the high price tag might not sit well with budget-conscious buyers.

Product Specification

Display Size 49 inches
Display Technology Dual QHD
Resolution 5120×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Large screen size
  • High refresh rate

Cons

  • Requires a lot of desk space
  • Expensive

9.7
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Samsung Odyssey G9 gaming monitor is a beast in terms of performance. Its high price point is justified by its stunning display and superior gaming experience.


LG 45 UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor

LG UltraGear Monitor

  • What We Like

    The LG 45 UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor offers a truly immersive experience with its 45-inch curved screen. The OLED display produces deep blacks, enhancing the overall picture quality. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the monitor does not support full-array local dimming, which could affect the HDR performance. Also, the screen might be prone to burn-in over time.

Product Specification

Display Size 45 inches
Display Technology OLED
Resolution 3840×1600 pixels

Pros

  • Immersive curved OLED display
  • Good refresh rate

Cons

  • No full-array local dimming
  • Risk of burn-in

9.6
Our Score

Our Verdict

The LG 45 UltraGear is a great pick for those who value picture quality and an immersive viewing experience.


Philips Brilliance 499P9H

Philips Brilliance Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Philips Brilliance 499P9H is ideal for multitaskers. The large 49-inch Dual QHD display allows for efficient multitasking, and the built-in KVM switch enables easy switching between sources. The color accuracy and contrast are commendable as well.

  • What We Don’t Like

    The monitor, however, lacks a high refresh rate which might be a turn-off for gamers. The built-in speakers also leave room for improvement.

Product Specification

Display Size 49 inches
Display Technology Dual QHD
Resolution 5120×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Large screen size
  • Built-in KVM switch

Cons

  • Lack of high refresh rate
  • Average built-in speakers

9.5
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Philips Brilliance 499P9H is an excellent wide monitor screen for multitaskers and professionals who need a large and accurate display.


Dell UltraSharp 49 Curved Monitor (U4919DW)

Dell UltraSharp Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Dell UltraSharp 49 Curved Monitor (U4919DW) is another excellent choice for multitaskers. The 49-inch curved display offers an expansive workspace. The color accuracy is impressive, and the monitor is easy to set up and calibrate.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the 60Hz refresh rate might not appeal to gamers. Also, despite its excellent color accuracy, the HDR performance is average.

Product Specification

Display Size 49 inches
Display Technology Dual QHD curved
Resolution 5120×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Expansive workspace
  • Excellent color accuracy

Cons

  • Average refresh rate
  • Mediocre HDR performance

9.4
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Dell UltraSharp U4919DW is one of the best ultrawide monitors for office work and multitasking due to its expansive workspace and excellent color accuracy.


Asus ProArt PA34VC Professional Curved Monitor

Asus ProArt Monitor

  • What We Like

    The Asus ProArt PA34VC is a versatile monitor that caters to both gamers and professionals. The color accuracy is top-notch, making it ideal for graphic designers. The 100Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, and the built-in picture-in-picture (PIP) and picture-by-picture (PBP) features are handy for multitasking.

  • What We Don’t Like

    On the flip side, the monitor does not support HDR, which might be a deal-breaker for some. The contrast ratio could also be better.

Product Specification

Display Size 34 inches
Display Technology UWQHD Curved IPS
Resolution 3440×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Excellent color accuracy
  • Good refresh rate

Cons

  • No HDR support
  • Average contrast ratio

9.3
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Asus ProArt PA34VC is a versatile ultrawide monitor that caters to a wide range of users, from gamers to graphic designers.


LG 49WL95C-W

LG 49WL95C-W Monitor

  • What We Like

    Last but not least, we have the LG 49WL95C-W. The 49-inch Dual QHD display is great for multitasking. The monitor offers excellent color accuracy and comes with handy features like dual controller and on-screen control.

  • What We Don’t Like

    However, the monitor’s 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for gamers. Also, the HDR performance is average.

Product Specification

Display Size 49 inches
Display Technology Dual QHD
Resolution 5120×1440 pixels

Pros

  • Large screen size
  • Excellent color accuracy

Cons

  • Average refresh rate
  • Mediocre HDR performance

9.2
Our Score

Our Verdict

The LG 49WL95C-W is a solid choice for those looking for a large ultrawide monitor for office work or multitasking.


Comparison Table

Feature LG 49WL95C-W Asus ProArt PA34VC Dell UltraSharp 49 Philips Brilliance LG 45 UltraGear Samsung Odyssey G9 Alienware 34 Curved Cooler Master GM34 Asus ROG Swift
Image LG 49WL95C-W Asus ProArt Dell UltraSharp Philips Brilliance LG 45 UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor Samsung Odyssey G9 Gaming Monitor Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DWF) (2) Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ
Screen size 49 inches 34 inches 49 inches 49 inches 49 inches 49 inches 34 inches 34 inches 35 inches
Resolution 5120 x 1440 3440 x 1440 5120 x 1440 5120 x 1440 5120 x 1440 5120 x 1440 3440 x 1440 3440 x 1440 3440 x 1600
Aspect ratio 32:9 21:9 32:9 32:9 32:9 32:9 21:9 21:9 21:9
Panel type VA IPS IPS IPS OLED VA QD-OLED VA IPS
Refresh rate 60Hz 120Hz 60Hz 60Hz 120Hz 240Hz 175Hz 165Hz 200Hz
Response time 5ms (GtG) 4ms (GtG) 5ms (GtG) 5ms (GtG) 1ms (GtG) 1ms (GtG) 0.1ms (GtG) 3ms (GtG) 3ms (GtG)
HDR HDR10 HDR400 HDR10 HDR10 HDR10 HDR10+ DisplayHDR 1000 HDR400 HDR10
Color gamut 99% sRGB, 85% DCI-P3 100% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3 99% sRGB, 85% DCI-P3 99% sRGB, 85% DCI-P3 135% sRGB, 100% DCI-P3 95% DCI-P3 100% DCI-P3 100% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3 100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3

Buying Guide: Best Ultrawide Monitors

Display Size and Resolution:

Ultrawide monitors come in various sizes, typically ranging from 29 to 49 inches or more. Consider your desk space and how much screen real estate you need for your tasks. Higher resolutions like 3440×1440 or 5120×1440 provide sharper images and more screen space for multitasking.

Display Technology:

Different display technologies, such as IPS, VA, and OLED, offer varying color accuracy, viewing angles, and contrast ratios. IPS panels provide vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, while VA panels offer deep blacks. OLED panels offer exceptional color contrast but might have the risk of burn-in.

Refresh Rate:

For gamers, a higher refresh rate (e.g., 144Hz, 240Hz) results in smoother motion and reduced motion blur. This is crucial for an immersive gaming experience. However, if you’re using the monitor mainly for office work, a standard 60Hz refresh rate might suffice.

Adaptive Sync Technology:

Look for monitors that support technologies like AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync. These technologies reduce screen tearing and stuttering in games by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s output.

Color Accuracy and HDR:

If you’re into graphic design, photo editing, or video production, color accuracy is crucial. Consider monitors with high color accuracy and support for HDR (High Dynamic Range) for enhanced contrast and vibrant visuals.

Ergonomics:

Adjustable stands with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot options allow you to customize the monitor’s position for optimal comfort during long work or gaming sessions.

Built-in Features:

Some monitors come with built-in features like KVM switches, which make it easy to switch between multiple computers, or Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for multitasking.

Reviews and User Feedback:

Research user reviews and expert opinions to gain insights into real-world performance, reliability, and any potential issues of the models you’re interested in.

Warranty and Customer Support:

Check the manufacturer’s warranty and customer support reputation to ensure assistance in case of any technical problems.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving world of computing, the quest for the perfect display experience has led us to the realm of ultrawide monitors. These exceptional devices offer a panoramic view that expands horizons for gamers, creators, and professionals alike. As we’ve delved into the diverse offerings of the best ultrawide monitors in the market, it’s clear that these devices transcend mere screens; they’re gateways to immersive realms of entertainment, productivity, and artistic expression.

The array of choices presented in this guide showcases the innovation and dedication of leading manufacturers. From the LG 49WL95C-W’s expansive workspace to the Asus ProArt PA34VC’s precision for graphic designers, every monitor caters to a unique set of needs. The Dell UltraSharp U4919DW’s optimal color accuracy, the LG 45 UltraGear OLED’s deep blacks, and the Samsung Odyssey G9’s 240Hz refresh rate demonstrate the diversity of offerings tailored to different preferences.

While the Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED’s futuristic design and the Cooler Master GM34-CWQ ARGB’s visual flair enhance the gaming experience, the Philips Brilliance 499P9H’s built-in KVM switch and the Asus ROG Swift PG35VQ’s 200Hz refresh rate redefine productivity and performance.

As you embark on the journey of selecting the best ultrawide monitor for your needs, remember that each device’s features, specifications, and design hold the potential to transform how you work, game, and create. Whether it’s for the gaming enthusiast, the multimedia multitasker, the creative professional, or the business user, these monitors invite you to step into a world of vivid colors, seamless motion, and boundless possibilities.

In the end, the best ultrawide monitor for you is the one that aligns with your unique requirements and aspirations. Consider the factors that matter most to you – be it screen size, resolution, refresh rate, color accuracy, or connectivity – and let this guide serve as a beacon as you embark on a new era of computing, empowered by the extraordinary capabilities of ultrawide monitors.