The Best Curved Monitors for Work and Play
While curved TVs might not have become as popular as manufacturers had hoped, curved monitors are finding more and more supporters. Curved screens offer a more immersive experience while streaming media or gaming, giving you wider viewing angles and better color accuracy at extreme angles. They also are more comfortable to use, reducing how much you have to move your eyes and head to see your whole screen; while it may not seem like a big deal, if you work long hours at a computer, you can definitely notice how tired and achy your eye and neck muscles get after 8, 10, or 12 hours of web browsing and word processing.
Curved monitors also have the advantage of offering larger screens and bigger aspect ratios without taking up tons of wall or desk real estate. Even 49-inch ultrawide screens can help conserve precious desk space by giving you the benefits of a dual-monitor setup in a single screen. Most curved monitors feature a 16:9 or 21:9 aspect ratio, letting you see more of your programs and windows, which is especially useful for creative professionals and content creators.
If you’re looking to buy a new display and are eyeing a curved monitor, but aren’t exactly sure where to start, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Resolution – You’ll want to choose a monitor that has the right resolution for what you’re going to use it for. If you want a standard screen for casual use or office work, a 1080p full HD monitor will suit your needs just fine. If you work with images and video or are a serious gamer, you’ll want to spring for a 1440p or even a 4K display for the best color accuracy and detailing.
Refresh Rate – Your monitor’s refresh rate is how many images it can process in a second. Meaning a screen with a 120Hz refresh rate can process 120 images per second. So the higher the refresh rate, the smoother your motion will be. Video editors, animators, and gamers will want to spring for a higher refresh rate, either 120 or 144Hz; there are monitors what allow for even higher refresh rates as well, letting you overclock your screen to 200 or even 240Hz.
Connectivity – How your new monitor connects to your computer is an important factor to consider. Newer GPUs use DisplayPort connections for faster and smoother video playback while older ones and game consoles use HDMI cables. If you use multiple mobile devices for work, you may want to choose a monitor that has USB-C connectivity for charging as well as file transfers; some USB-C ports also allow you to daisy-chain monitors together, letting you create a multi-monitor setup without overburdening your GPU.
Audio – It may seem silly, but not all monitors have integrated speakers. While it might not seem like a big deal, if your desk is on the smaller side, having to set up external speakers can take up precious space you need for your keyboard, mouse, or other work supplies. If you prefer private listening, make sure your monitor has a headphone jack so you can use your favorite headset while streaming media or while attending virtual classes and meetings.
Price – Monitors are one of those things that you can spend as little or as much as you want while getting pretty similar features across the board. However, there are some premium models that offer adaptive sync technologies, ultra-fast response times, and extra features like RGB lighting which have price points to match. And if you’re looking for a no-nonsense monitor for your home computer, there are budget-friendly options that still give you great resolution and color accuracy without making you drain your bank account.
We want you to be able to find the best curved monitor for your needs, so we’ve rounded up 15 top picks from brands like Samsung, ViewSonic, and LG. We’ve broken down their features and price points, making it easy to see which one best suits your work or gaming space. Check them out below to find your next curved monitor.
1. Samsung CJ791
BEST OVERALL
The Samsung CJ791 is an excellent, well-rounded curved monitor for work, casual internet browsing, and even gaming. Its 34-inch screen allows you to work in two windows at once, mimicking dual-monitor setups without taking up your whole desk. The two Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports are perfect for fast file transfers and even daisy-chaining displays if you need a second screen.
It has integrated speakers, which are great for creative professionals who work with sound, streaming media, and virtual meetings. With 1440p resolution, a native 100Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync compatibility, images and videos will look amazing, and you won’t have to deal with any annoying screen flickering.
Buy: Samsung CJ791 34-Inch Curved Monitor $699.99
2. LG 49WL95C-W
BEST ULTRAWIDE
This monitor from LG truly fits the name “ultrawide.” With a 49-inch screen, you’ll get the same real estate as two 27-inch monitors without having to rearrange your desk. It features picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture modes which makes it great for when you need to multitask in different windows and programs.
You can also connect two computers at once, letting you quickly and easily transfer files from your home and work computers, diagnose problems in your laptop or desktop, and work on multiple projects. With a USB-C input, you can connect a second display, external storage device, and even charge your phone. It also has an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts screen brightness to suit your space, reducing eye strain.
3. Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
BEST FOR GAMING
If you’re serious about gaming, you need to check out the Odyssey Neo G9 monitor from Samsung. This massive, 49-inch screen features native refresh rates up to 240Hz and input response times as low as 1ms, giving you the edge you need in online matches. With picture-by-picture modes, streamers can monitor chat and streaming software while playing games without needing a second monitor.
It’s compatible with both G-Sync and FreeSync variable refresh rate software, so you can connect your PC or gaming console to it and get buttery smooth action. The monitor also has a sleek, futuristic design and integrated RGB LED lighting to complement your battlestation.
4. Sceptre 30-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor
BEST BUDGET CURVED MONITOR FOR GAMING
For gamers who want to upgrade their displays or add a second monitor and are working with a budget, the Sceptre 30-inch curved monitor is a great option. This monitor can give you refresh rates up to 200Hz and it works with AMD FreeSync Premium variable refresh rate technology to prevent screen tearing and stuttering.
With 3 HDMI inputs and a DisplayPort input, you can connect your desktop, laptop, and consoles to create the ultimate gaming station. The super narrow bezel gives you more viewable area and working space, and the picture-by-picture mode lets you view multiple windows and programs simultaneously, which is great for streamers and content creators.
Buy: Sceptre 30 inch Curved Gaming Monitor $279.98 (orig. $499.99) 44% OFF
5. Dell S3221QS 32-Inch
BEST 4K
This monitor from Dell is designed for both work and play. The 32-inch screen gives you excellent native 4K resolution with HDR support for super detailed images and video as well as better color volume. The narrow bezel on 3 sides gives you more working area, and you can either use the included pedestal stand to place the monitor on your desk or you can wall mount it with a compatible VESA mount to free up desk space.
It features 2 HDMI ports, a DisplayPort input, and two USB 3.0 inputs so you can connect all of your devices. It also has a security slot for tethering your monitor to your desk to prevent theft. This monitor also has one of the best prices you can find on a 4K display.
Buy: Dell S3221QS 32 Inch Curved 4K Monitor $329.99 (orig. $432.99) 24% OFF
6. AOC CU34G2X
BEST 2K
If you want ultra-high definition video and images, but aren’t quite ready to take the leap into 4K, this display from AOC is a good compromise. It produces 1440p resolution, which hits a sweet spot between 4K UHD and 1080p full HD. It also has a native refresh rate of 144Hz and input response time as low as 1ms, making it perfect for everything from remote work to intense gaming. The 34-inch screen has 4 USB 3.0 inputs, 2 DisplayPort inputs, and 4 HDMI ports, allowing you to connect every device you need to get through your work day, classes, or weekend gaming session.
7. AOC AGON AG493UCX
BEST FOR CREATIVE PROFESSIONALS
If you’re a creative professional, the AOC AGON 49-inch curved monitor would be a perfect upgrade or addition to your workstation. This monitor supports up to 121 percent of sRGB and 90 percent Adobe RGB color volumes for better accuracy, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility virtually eliminates screen tearing.
With an input response as low as 1ms, you’ll get near real-time responses from your mouse or drawing tablet for smoother, less frustrating work. It also has USB-C docking capabilities, allowing you to connect a laptop or second desktop for working in multiple programs or transferring files. It’s also backed by a 4 year warranty covering bright spots and dead pixels, giving you peace of mind for your new monitor.
8. Samsung LC24F396FHNXZA
BEST BUDGET
This display from Samsung is a great option if you’re looking for a new display, but are also working with a limited budget. For under $200, you’ll get a 24-inch screen with 1080p HD resolution and an input response time as low as 4ms. It also supports AMD FreeSync for smoother motion, and it has an EyeSaver mode that filters harmful blue light, reducing eye strain. It even has an Eco Mode which reduces power consumption, helping make your workstation or home office a bit more environmentally friendly.
Buy: SAMSUNG LC24F396FHNXZA 23.5 $139.99 (orig. $189.99) 26% OFF
9. Dell S3220DGF
BEST MID-RANGE
This display is a great mid-range option, giving you an almost perfect balance between price, screen size, and features. You’ll get 1440p resolution, a native refresh rate of 165Hz, and AMD FreeSync compatibility. You’ll also have 2 HDMI ports, a DisplayPort input, and 5 USB 3.0 inputs, making this an excellent addition to any workstation. The 32-inch screen has an anti-glare coating to help reduce eye strain as well as HDR support for better detailing and color volume. It’s also Energy Star certified, helping reduce its operating costs and to help keep your office or gaming space eco-friendly.
Buy: Dell S3220DGF 32-Inch 2K QHD FreeSync Curved LED Gaming Monitor with HDR $438.84
10. ASUS ROG SWIFT PG35VQ
BEST SPLURGE
If you want the best of the best when it comes to computer monitors, and you’re willing to pay for it, the ASUS ROG Swift is the best choice. This 35-inch screen is packed to the gills with premium features like: 1440p resolution, 21:9 aspect ratio, 2ms response time, 200Hz refresh rate, G-Sync compatibility, HDR support, and 90 percent DCI-P3 color accuracy. It also has a peak brightness of 1,000 nits so you can enjoy your display in almost any lighting environment. It’s 500,000:1 contrast ratio and 512 dimming zones ensures that you get the deepest blacks and brightest whites to make images and video come to life.
The back of the monitor features RGB LED lighting to add a touch of style to your workstation or gaming setup, and the integrated headphone amp enhances audio for a more immersive gaming experience and richer sound when streaming music, movies, and shows. The stand has integrated cable management to help keep your desk looking neat and organized. This display also has integrated cooling fans with controls to help dissipate excess heat and keep your monitor running at optimal temperatures, helping it last longer and provide a viewing and gaming experience that is almost unparalleled.
Buy: ROG SWIFT PG35VQ $1999.00
11. ViewSonic VX2458-C-MHD
BEST FOR SMALL DESKS
If your work or gaming desk is on the small side, this 24-inch display from ViewSonic is a great option. It’s smaller screen and stand footprint are perfect for conserving space. It also has dual integrated speakers, eliminating the need for extra equipment that can clutter your work space; and with a headphone jack, you can use your favorite headset for private listening while streaming media or in virtual classes and meetings. And just because the screen is small, that doesn’t mean it has to skimp out on features. You’ll still get 1080p full HD resolution, FreeSync compatibility, 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response times.
Buy: ViewSonic VX2458-C-MHD 24 Inch 1080p Curved 144Hz 1ms Gaming Monitor $312.11
12. MSI OPTIX MPG341CQR
MOST STYLISH
For anyone who wants their monitor to look good as well as work hard, the MSI Optix 34-inch curved monitor is a perfect choice. This display features a sleek, futuristic glossy finish accented with RGB LED lighting on the back panel as well as the front edge; you can customize color and lighting schemes with the MSI DragonCenter app. The stand has a brushed metal look and copper accents to set it apart from other displays.
And it’s not just a pretty face: this monitor gives you 1440p resolution 144Hz refresh rates, HDR support, an ambient light sensor, and a 1ms response time. If you’re a gamer or work from home and attend a lot of virtual meetings, there are quality of life additions to make content creation and projects easier. It has a webcam cradle and tripod mounts for easier video conferencing or streaming as well as a mouse cable bungee to help reduce friction from wired mice; which is perfect for fast-paced games as well as creative professionals.
Buy: MSI Optix 34-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor $549.99 (orig. $644.99) 15% OFF
13. Philips 27E1CA
BEST FOR WORKING FROM HOME
Whether you work from home full time or have a hybrid work environment, you need a no-nonsense monitor to help you keep up with your workload. This 27-inch screen from Philips has everything you need to tackle projects and meetings. The narrow bezel gives you more working area while the dual integrated speakers eliminate the need for extra equipment.
The stand has integrated cable management to keep your desk organized, and the display itself has several blue light filtering and flicker reducing modes to help reduce eye strain; which is great news for anyone who spends long hours staring at a screen. It also has plug-and-play compatibility with both Windows and Mac computers, so you won’t have to worry about it not working with your desktop no matter what operating system you use.
Buy: Philips 272E1CA 27 $229.99
14. Cooler Master 34-Inch Ultrawide Frameless Curved Monitor
BEST FOR MULTI-MONITOR SETUPS
This 34-inch display from Cooler Master is perfect for anyone who uses two or more monitors for work, streaming, or gaming. You can use the included, adjustable stand to place the display on your desk or mount it to the wall or a monitor arm for a custom configuration. It also allows you to have a UHD monitor for working with graphics, video, or 3D modelling; it has a 1440p resolution, FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility, 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and HDR support. It also has integrated speakers, letting you free up desk space by eliminating the need for extra equipment.
Buy: Cooler Master 34 Inch 21:9 Curved PC Gaming Monitor $689.00
15. LG 38GN950-B
BEST 144HZ
Whether you are serious about gaming or a creative professional, it’s important to have a monitor with a high refresh rate to prevent stuttering, tearing, and flickering. The 38-inch Ultragear monitor from LG is one of the best high refresh rate displays available. It has a native refresh rate of 144Hz and an input response time as low as 1ms for near real-time responses to your mouse, keyboard, and drawing tablets. It also works with G-Sync to automatically adjust refresh rates to your GPU or gaming console for smoother motion.
The screen supports 98 percent DCI-P3 color volume for better accuracy, and with 1600p resolution and 450 nits of brightness, you’ll be able to enjoy your monitor in almost any lighting environment. The anti-glare coating helps reduce overhead and ambient lighting disruptions while also reducing eye strain.
Buy: LG 38GN950-B 38” Ultragear Curved Monitor $1,739.99
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1. LG UltraWide Monitor
If you want a really, really, really big monitor, consider this option from LG, it has a curved display that is 49″ wide. That makes it perfect for any big creative project, or just looking at all of those Chrome tabs you never close. It has plenty of ports, including USB-C and HDMI. The attractive curved base complements the curved display as well.
Pros: Eye-catching and nearly borderless display. Extra-large display for bigger projects. Adjustable stand.
Cons: Will require a lot of desk space.
2. SAMSUNG Odyssey G5 Series 32-Inch Gaming Monitor
This monitor from Samsung is specifically designed for gaming, and it has a substantial but not overwhelming 32″ display. The monitor has a 144Hz refresh rate for a responsive gaming experience. The screen has a 1000R curvature, which is designed to mimic the curvature of the human eye for reduced strain.
Pros: Top brand. Fast refresh rate and responsive features. Economical option
Cons: Some other Samsung monitors have more features.
Buy: SAMSUNG Odyssey G5 Series 32-Inch Gaming Monitor
3. Sceptre 27" Curved 75Hz LED Monitor
The Sceptre has a refresh rate of up to 165HZ which makes it ideals for gaming, streaming or surfing. The Sceptre also has a 1800R screen curvature and also uses Blue Light Shift to cut down on eye fatigue. The Sceptre includes a gaming mode and an edgeless screen for an optimal gaming experience. The monitor is also VESA wall mount compatible.
Pros: 165HZ refresh rate, making it good for gaming. Can be VESA mounted.
Cons: Built-in speakers could be better.
Buy: Sceptre 27" Curved 75Hz LED Monitor
4. Samsung Electronics 27" Curved Monitor
The Samsung has an impressive response rate of 4ms and AMD FreeSync technology, which creates a smooth image during fast scenes, making it an excellent option for streaming. The ultra-slim design is less than 0.5 inches thick and has a 1800R screen curvature with a built-in Eye Saver Mode that reduces blue light emission and lessens the effects of eye fatigue.
Pros: Fast response, and designed to reduce eye fatigue.
Cons: Its refresh rate is only 60Hz, which may not make it ideal for gaming.
Buy: Samsung Electronics 27" Curved Monitor
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