Time never stands still in the gaming monitor market. An insatiable demand for the latest display tech keeps competitive gamers hunting for new ways to improve performance benchmarks like frame rates and color accuracy.
With dozens of new gaming monitor models launching each year, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Let’s check out three recent highlights from major players like LG, Samsung and Acer that might be worth adding to your inventory before the busy holiday shopping season.
LG UltraGear OLED 27GS95QE
Exceptional gaming monitors, like the LG UltraGear OLED, often sit at the crossroads between performance and value. Its OLED display touts an impressive refresh rate of 240Hz at 1440p — as long as the GPU can keep up. Combine this with a lightning-fast 0.03ms response time, and it’s easy to see why OLED tops the ranks for gaming performance. Additionally, its HDR mode boasts vivid colors and deep blacks for a rich gaming experience.
While the 27-inch flat screen isn’t as jaw-dropping as Samsung’s massive curved ultrawide monitors, the 1440p resolution balances fine details with smooth framerates. In addition to the DisplayPort connection, the dual HDMI 2.1 ports make this monitor a formidable option for console gaming on the Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5.
The UltraGear OLED 27GS95QE went on sale in January for $900, which is fairly expensive for a 27-inch gaming monitor. Still, it’s never bad to see high-performance LG OLED monitors for less than $1,000.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G85SD
A 34-inch curved OLED screen makes the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G85SD the best definition of the word excessive. The staggering, ultrawide 3440 x 1440 resolution won’t beat a 4K display, but it’s suitable for immersive gameplay or maximum productivity in a home office.
As with most ultrawide monitors, the main drawback of the Odyssey OLED G8 is finding a computer desk for a screen this wide. At least it’s more maneuverable than the 57-inch behemoth that is the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 G95NC from last year, which requires a second person to help lift it safely.
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G85SD launched on August 12, 2024, for $1,200 — well above the average for an ultrawide monitor. Still, there’s a built-in SmartThings hub as part of Samsung’s recent push to include smart home tech in more products to help ease the sticker shock.
Acer Nitro EDA323QU
While LG and Samsung charge premium prices for high-end features, the Acer Nitro EDA323QU recognizes that solid performance will satisfy most gamers. This flat 31.5-inch VA panel might set a few health bars aflutter with a competitive 180Hz refresh rate.
The Nitro EDA323QU hit the ground running in late July for around $300, appealing to first-time PC builders who want a capable gaming rig on a budget. At this price, it’s also a good candidate for dual-monitor setups.
While there are built-in speakers, gamers shouldn’t expect earth-shattering sound. Still, it’s a solid budget option and a good stepping stone to better monitors.
See also: Transform Your “Battle Station” With Govee’s Special Edition Evangelion Mecha-Style Gaming Lights
