• A new option for the Copilot key has been spotted in testing
• Windows 11 users are getting the ability to remap it to 'Do nothing'
• This comes on top of work already underway to redefine the key to Right Ctrl or the context menu

Microsoft's latest revolutionary idea for Windows 11 is to have a key on your keyboard which can be remapped to do absolutely nothing.

Windows Latest noticed the latest twist in the tale of the Copilot key, as highlighted by regular leaker PhantomOfEarth on X, who spotted the development hidden in a recent Windows 11 preview build.

In the choices to customize the Copilot key – which, by default, summons Windows 11's Copilot AI (of course) – there's a new option to simply 'Do nothing'.

Yes, that's correct – you can change the key to simply be a pointless piece of plastic that does precisely zip. (Or at least you'll be able to in testing, when this ability comes into play, that is, although some Windows 11 testers have reportedly seen it live in preview already).

As you may have seen earlier this year, Microsoft is working on bringing fresh options to the Copilot key that include customizing it to invoke the context (right-click) menu, and to turn it back into Right Ctrl (which was the key that the Copilot button replaced on Copilot+ laptops and some keyboards).

Analysis: do nothing, be happy

What's the point of a key that does nothing? Good question. Maybe it's the keyboard equivalent of a stress ball – you can hammer on that key as much as you want when you're really annoyed, and it won't splurge a load of characters into the document you're working on as you exorcise your frustrated demons.

Okay, so maybe not, but perhaps the idea is that this is aimed at people who really hate the Copilot key, but haven't decided what they might want to remap it to. So, they can go ahead and elect for the key to do nothing if it's accidentally hit, while they figure out what they might want to redefine in its place. That's stretching things, admittedly, but it's the best guess I have.

At any rate, it's a harmless enough option, although it feels inescapably odd to have a 'blank' key on your keyboard. How far we've fallen since the Copilot key was first revealed and trumpeted by Microsoft as the biggest thing to happen to keyboards in 30 years since the Windows key was introduced. And indeed more recently, Microsoft promoted the Copilot key as the "button you can press to fix everything", so there's some irony that it could soon (optionally) become the button you can press to fix 'nothing' in a very literal sense.

Don't forget that you don't have to wait for Microsoft's Copilot key remapping functions to arrive in the release version of Windows 11. You can use the Keyboard Manager in PowerToys to do this instead, although it'll be far neater to have these options in Windows 11's settings, of course.

• Microsoft has contacted LG regarding a McAfee pop-up served via the monitor maker's app (which in turn is installed by Windows Update)
• As an 'immediate next step' LG has disabled this pop-up
• However, there are still issues to address around the automatic installation of the LG monitor app, and the way Windows Update itself operates with third-party software

Microsoft has fixed a controversial situation whereby Windows 11 users with LG monitors were being hit by a pop-up for McAfee antivirus, and that advert has now been banished from the OS — but there's still more that Microsoft needs to do here.

Windows Latest noticed that Pavan Davuluri, who is head of Windows at Microsoft, flagged up what's happened on X.

In response to a nudge from Epic's Tim Sweeney on the matter, Davuluri said: "We've connected with the team at LG and as an immediate next step, they have agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up from their app. We appreciate LG working with us toward a shared goal of a better experience for our mutual customers. We will keep improving here with our ecosystem partners."

In case you missed this story from earlier in the week, Windows 11 users with an LG display are reportedly getting an LG monitor app (from the Microsoft Store) automatically installed on their PCs via Windows Update simply after hooking up the monitor.

The real kicker was that following this, the mentioned McAfee pop-up (pushing a trial for the antivirus) was repeatedly bothering those users, with the ad delivered via the LG monitor app. So, what Microsoft is telling us here is that as an immediate first step, that McAfee pop-up is no longer part of LG's Windows app, and won't be darkening the desktops of any LG monitor owners any longer.

The (pop-up-less) monitor app is presumably still being piped through by Windows Update, though, and hopefully the next step for Microsoft will be to address this.

Analysis: software giants in glass houses?

Windows Update really shouldn't be installing any third-party software without the user's permission, that much is clear (or first-party for that matter). It's fine to flag available updates, wherever they come from or whatever hardware they may be for, but highlighting them is one thing, and going ahead with an auto-installation is another.

Okay, so LG has agreed to disable this pop-up, and it's good that this has happened swiftly, as it was, of course, a huge annoyance. Indeed, it's very worrying that this could happen at all, really (and in case you missed it, LG's TVs have also come under fire this week).

LG had already addressed this controversy with a rather lengthy statement that read: "LG Electronics reiterates that McAfee is not installed automatically and is never installed without the user's explicit consent. The LG Monitor App Installer is distributed through Microsoft's official Windows distribution process, which included McAfee as an option.

"McAfee will be installed only if a user actively chooses to proceed with the installation and provides consent. Under no circumstances is McAfee installed automatically or without user authorization. The LG Monitor App Installer does not access, collect, or transmit any customer personal data."

What this appears to be saying is that McAfee's actual antivirus app isn't installed without consent. It's not denying that the McAfee pop-up appeared without consent, or that the LG Monitor app is installed in the background in Windows without the user's knowledge. It only notes that the LG Monitor app is "distributed through Microsoft's official Windows distribution process", as if that makes everything okay, or somehow not LG's fault.

It is, of course, Microsoft's fault as well – both parties need to take responsibility, and fix not just the McAfee pop-up appearing, but the LG Monitor app being automatically installed simply when a monitor is connected to a Windows 11 PC. (Which is reportedly the case, I should add – I haven't experienced this myself, as I don't have an LG display, but a whole heap of feedback is present suggesting it's exactly what happens).

In short, the immediate disabling of the McAfee trial pop-up is a start, but we need a swift follow-up addressing the LG app itself and how that's dealt with in Windows 11. And more broadly, how third-party apps in general interact with Windows Update, because as already noted, this situation should never have been allowed to happen in the first place (no matter what LG, or any other hardware partner, is doing with their apps).

Furthermore, there's no shortage of people on Reddit noting that Microsoft has been keen enough to act here, but not so keen on curbing its own advertising-related excesses in Windows 11.

As one Redditor says of Microsoft: "Now all they need to do is crack down on their own bloatware…"

Although to be fair to Microsoft, it is acting to rein in some of the upselling and promotional noise that Windows 11 has come to be associated with. More work needs to be done on this front, though, for sure.

Update: We reached out to LG for a statement, and it has denied claims of auto McAfee installations, stating: "LG Electronics reiterates that McAfee is not installed automatically and is never installed without the user’s explicit consent. The LG Monitor App Installer is distributed through Microsoft’s official Windows distribution process, which included McAfee as an option.

"McAfee will be installed only if a user actively chooses to proceed with the installation and provides consent. Under no circumstances is McAfee installed automatically or without user authorization. The LG Monitor App Installer does not access, collect, or transmit any customer personal data."

Original story follows below...

• LG monitors are reportedly installing bloatware on Windows 11 PCs
• The LG Monitor App Installer carries a McAfee pop-up and is automatically installed when connecting an LG monitor to a PC
• There's a fix for this, but it's a rather fiddly affair

It's no secret that Windows 11 users have voiced frustrations regarding bloat on the operating system for years, and unfortunately, LG's monitors are reportedly making the situation worse.

As reported by Windows Latest, LG monitors are installing McAfee bloatware on Windows 11 PCs without consent, and there's evidence of this in the changelog of LG's monitor app on the Microsoft Store.

Even if you don't install the app yourself, Windows Update will do so, and then treat you to a McAfee pop-up. All you have to do is plug in the LG monitor to your PC, and the automatic installation of McAfee is also shown by checking the Windows Reliability Monitor, which documents a 'successful Windows update' for the LG Monitor App Installer package.

We've reached out to LG for a comment, but haven't received a response yet. In the meantime, though, there appears to be a fix that requires users to do the following: press the Windows key and R, and type 'gpedit.msc', then hit Enter.

From that point, navigate your way to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Device Installation > "Prevent automatic download of applications associated with device metadata", then select the 'Enabled' box and apply.

In theory, this should stop any unwanted applications from being installed, specifically with devices like LG monitors that do so via device metadata.

And if you already installed the LG monitor app manually, you should remove it, because as noted, the description on the Microsoft Store suggests McAfee is a fundamental part of the monitor application.

Bloatware can be problematic for Windows 11 users because it hogs system resources, and LG is adding to that system drain, not to mention the annoyance of continually seeing that pop-up.

Alongside LG, Microsoft hasn't provided a statement on the matter yet. I'd expect Windows 11 users will want an answer of some kind, especially because of the rather fiddly steps involved to prevent these automatic installations — and frankly, this shouldn't require extra effort from anyone.

• Samsung announces new OLED panels for laptops, capable of '1,600 nits' in peak brightness
• The new tandem OLED panels have a 40% higher brightness requirement than older single-layer OLED panels
• The new panels will be used in MSI, Lenovo, Asus, and Dell laptops that have the latest DisplayHDR True Black 1400 certification

OLED panels are continuously improving year after year, as seen in recent tandem OLED displays from Samsung – and fortunately, the tech giant isn't resting on its laurels.

As reported by TweakTown, Samsung has introduced new tandem OLED panels for Lenovo, Asus, MSI, and Dell laptops, with claims of up to 1,600-nit peak brightness in small windows. This will apply to laptops that have the latest DisplayHDR True Black 1400 certification.

Notably, the push up to 1,400 nits certification is a '40% higher' brightness requirement compared to older single-layer OLED panels, which is ideal for bright rooms and environments.

This is thanks to the presence of tandem OLED panels, which work by stacking at least one or more OLED layers together, providing significantly increased brightness levels and efficiency.

Samsung notes it has started a 'full-scale' supply of the new tandem OLED panels for laptops, starting with the Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition, and later for laptops from Asus, MSI, and Dell.

The boost to 1,600 nits is a significant enhancement for gaming and movie-watching experiences on these laptops. While the Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura is certainly more of a premium laptop for creators, it's also capable of gaming using Nvidia's RTX 5000 series laptop GPUs.

With that in mind, issues with auto brightness limitations (ABL) that would often spoil bright gaming or movie scenarios should now be further diminished, as tandem OLED helps tackle those drawbacks.

Samsung hasn't mentioned any plans for its new panels being used for standalone OLED monitors just yet, but naturally, this should be the next step once these new laptops launch. For now, there are plenty of OLED gaming monitors (i.e., LG UltraGear OLED 27GX700A) capable of higher nits available on the market.

• Users says they've observed LG gaming monitors automatically installing unwanted software on PCs
• LG's terms of service warn that conversations may be "captured and processed" on TV with the latest version of webOS
• The terms say you must now warn guests they may be recorded "in compliance with applicable wiretapping… laws"
• Update 22 July 2026: LG has issued a statement to TechRadar about the claims of unwanted installations and privacy concerns

Update: LG has issued the following statements to TechRadar regarding the following story.

"LG Electronics reiterates that McAfee is not installed automatically and is never installed without the user’s explicit consent. The LG Monitor App Installer is distributed through Microsoft’s official Windows distribution process, which included McAfee as an option. McAfee will be installed only if a user actively chooses to proceed with the installation and provides consent. Under no circumstances is McAfee installed automatically or without user authorization. The LG Monitor App Installer does not access, collect, or transmit any customer personal data.

"LG Electronics (LGE) reaffirms that LG TVs do not collect, record, or store ambient conversations. Voice recognition is an optional, user-initiated feature that processes voice data only when activated by the user to fulfill a specific request. Customers can use Smart TV features without enabling voice recognition. LGE is committed to protecting customer privacy and ensuring transparency in how user data is handled."

The rest of the story is as originally published, with some notes highlighting LG's response above.

How smart should a smart TV be? According to LG's latest TV terms and conditions, the answer is "not quite smart enough to comply with wiretapping laws", because that's now your responsibility if LG captures the voice of a guest in your house through its AI voice services. Though the situation with LG monitors appears to be even more dramatic.

As Gamers Nexus reports, some LG monitors appear to be installing adware on Windows PCs without asking for permission: in addition to the LG Monitor App Installer, they also install McAfee Scam Detector. (Update: LG disputes the Gamers Nexus' claim McAfee is installed without the user's consent.)

LG's own app requires full access to all system resources, which potentially includes all your online activity, logins, hardware, location and more (Update: LG says that it does not collect or transmit any personal data) — while McAfee has a long history of being installed on devices as 'bloatware', and people are not reacting positively to suddenly finding it on their PC. (Update: LG says that it can only be installed with the user's consent.)

Comment from r/LGOLED

There may be a perfectly innocent explanation for all of this, but when big tech firms keep getting caught doing bad things because they thought they could get away with it, it's no wonder people are assuming the worst.

Comment from r/hardware

The bit that's causing consternation regarding smart TVs is part 6(d) of the new LG Electronics terms of service, headed Voice Recognition and Privacy Compliance.

As Notebookcheck's Hannes Brecher notes, the section states that it's your responsibility "to obtain all necessary consents from any third parties whose voices may be captured by the Product and to notify household members and guests that their voices may be captured and processed, in compliance with applicable wiretapping, eavesdropping, and privacy laws."

There are three ways around that. One, you can turn off all microphone-based features. Some people won't mind that, but they can be useful — especially asking it for settings you don't know how to find.

Two, you can avoid installing the latest software — but that means you won't get any security updates, which are important (to protect your privacy, ironically, among other things).

Or you can disable your TV's connection to the internet so it can't send information back, but that obviously makes it less useful, and will also disable the voice controls anyway.

I think the terms and conditions are an attempt at corporate ass-covering rather than something sinister: the preceding paragraph talks specifically about when "a product with voice recognition functionality is used" and it's possible that "family members, guests, children, and bystanders" might be overheard; if you're choosing to activate AI-based voice features then of course voices are going to be captured and processed in order for those features to work.

At the same time, it does seem broad enough to let LG use people's voices as AI inputs, rather than just accidental capture. And in the context of what LG's doing with PC monitors (not to mention AI training's very, ahem, casual relationship with consent and copyright), that's a worry — and people online increasingly have no tolerance for anything like this, as the responses on Reddit and Gamers Nexus' original YouTube video have shown.

Comment from r/hardware

• TCL CSOT is reportedly now mass producing the first inkjet-printed OLEDs for consumers
• MSI just revealed a new 27-inch monitor which seemingly uses this 4K panel
• Inkjet printing is a more affordable way of making OLEDs and it will usher in cheaper monitors and laptops, and eventually TVs further down the line

TCL CSOT has seemingly taken a big step towards putting inkjet-printed OLED panels in the homes of consumers, and mass production of these screens is now reportedly underway.

OLED-Info reports that the Chinese manufacturer has kicked off production with an initial 27-inch 4K panel with a refresh rate of 120Hz. It offers a brightness of up to 300 nits and 99% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut (meaning lifelike and accurate color representation).

This inkjet-printed screen is destined for monitors, but bigger panels for the likes of TVs are expected to be in the cards for the future. For starters, though, we're looking at production for monitors and also laptop OLEDs.

This is still the very early stages for TCL, and OLED-Info clarifies that we are only talking about 'low volume' production on the firm's Gen 5.5 inkjet line for now. Still, it's an important step to take, but producing the panels is one thing, and it'll take some time for these to be incorporated into monitors which are then shipped to retailers where consumers can buy them.

Note that the Gen 5.5 inkjet line has produced OLED panels before, just not displays destined for consumer products (they were screens for commercial use in the medical field).

It seems that the freshly announced MSI Pro Max OLED 271UPJW12 uses this TCL 4K panel, although that isn't explicitly stated in the press release for the new model published by TechPowerup. All the specs match up, though, and it couldn't really be any other screen anyway – and this revelation is another sign to back up OLED-Info's contention that mass production is now up and running.

MSI boasts of the monitor: "With a 164 PPI density and an optimized RGB Stripe sub-pixel layout that closely resembles the uniform RGB structure of traditional LCDs, this advanced design effectively eliminates color fringing, optimizing text and image clarity."

We don't get a price from MSI, but that's not surprising at this stage, because as noted, the release is likely still some way off yet.

Analysis: what's the big deal with inkjet-printed OLEDs anyway?

As we've covered in the past, there are some distinct advantages with using an OLED printed by an inkjet compared to traditional (Fine Metal Mask) OLED panels. They are more power-efficient, and the inkjet-printed (IJP) OLEDs will also have a longer lifespan, but most crucially, they're cheaper.

TCL has previously told us that these IJP panels are 20% cheaper than existing OLEDs (and they can be made 30% faster, too). Analyst firms believe that these printed panels could be up to 35% cheaper in the future, when production is higher volume and more refined (with less waste).

The upshot should be OLED monitors which are a good deal more affordable, not to mention laptops with OLED screens that hit cheaper price points – and as noted, TVs eventually, too. The lower power usage will also be a major benefit for notebooks in terms of extending battery life, given that the display is one of the biggest drains on the battery.

The overall affordability of OLED will also be helped by TCL's inkjet-based creations, because the dominant panel makers – LG Display and Samsung – will be forced to be more competitive with their pricing. Add to that the emergence of BOE's Generation 8.6 panels, which went into mass production last month – again offering a more economical way to produce OLEDs thanks to much larger substrates – and this poses yet more competition, meaning there'll be some distinct downward pressures on OLED pricing.

The catch is that it will take some time for this to happen, especially in the world of bigger screens for the likes of OLED TVs – but make no mistake, it is happening.

Alienware AW3426DW: Two-minute review

There's a new 34-inch ultrawide powerhouse in town, with the brand-new Alienware AW3426DW QD-OLED. After testing it with several games and movies, it's clear to me that this monitor stands well above its predecessors in terms of quality.

Unlike its predecessor, the Alienware AW3425DW, this display uses 5th-gen tandem OLED technology, delivering significantly higher brightness, improved efficiency, and better text clarity. The Penta (five-layer) tandem OLED stack also solves one of the biggest issues I've had with previous QD-OLED monitors, where brightness dimming from the automatic brightness limiter (ABL) would result in inconsistent brightness levels.

Frankly, coming from a 45-inch LG 45GS95QE QD-OLED ultrawide display that utilizes an 800R curve, I wasn't expecting to be blown away with greater immersion — but the AW3426DW delivers so much that I don't think I can do without a tandem OLED display going forward.

It also helps that Dolby Vision HDR support is included, which uses dynamic metadata to help shift brightness levels and tone mapping for each scene, and it's best used on games or movies that specifically support it.

For example, Battlefield 6's visual quality is elevated to a new level, specifically in sequences with chaotic explosions and fire particles that spread across the screen. You can see how good Dolby Vision is, when bright highlights are incredibly detailed, and since tandem OLED minimizes the need for ABL, there are no noticeable brightness dimming issues.

In games that don't support Dolby Vision, you can switch this off from the on-screen display (OSD) and enjoy HDR using the HDR Peak 1300 Bright or Display True Black 500 modes, although the former might have slightly more noticeable ABL. Other than a few errors that forced me to restart my PC after switching HDR modes and losing display signal, HDR functionality is great on the AW3426DW.

Without a doubt, this is one of the best gaming monitors money can buy, and certainly one of the best ultrawide monitors in 2026.

Alienware AW3426DW: Price & Availability

• How much does it cost? $799.99 / £709 / around AU$1,150
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US and UK

For everything that the AW3426DW ultrawide has to offer, effectively making it one of the best ultrawide OLED monitors money can buy right now, the $799.99 / £709 price is more than reasonable. It's around the same price as its predecessor, the AW3425DW, but is much better, mostly thanks to its tandem OLED tech, but also thanks to its new anti-reflective coating.

Having used a far more expensive LG 45-inch ultrawide, which still sells at just above $1,000 / £1,000 (original retail price was $1,699.99 / £1,699.99), the AW3426DW is a steal in my book.

The LG display might have a virtual reality-like 800R curvature, but it's heavily limited in comparison due to its older WOLED panel, and utilizes the same 3440x1440 display resolution as the new Alienware 34-inch monitor does at 45 inches, which means pixel density is worse on the 45GS95QE.

If you're not ready to make the jump to the flagship Alienware AW3926QW 5K2K ultrawide launching later this year, especially due to the leap in GPU power requirements (it'll be more demanding than gaming at 4K), then the AW3426DW is the best monitor to opt for.

• Value: 4 / 5

Alienware AW3426DW: Specs

Alienware AW3426DW: Design

Dell has kept the design for the Alienware AW3426DW simple, and it's almost identical to the previous AW3426DW model. The new monitor features the same sturdy stand and base, and I love the shiny and sleek finish it has.

In terms of connectivity, it's effectively the same again with two HDMI 2.1 ports that support variable refresh rate (VRR), along with a single DisplayPort 1.4. Fortunately, you can charge your devices while using the display, thanks to the USB-C 5Gbps downstream port, with a charging output of 15 W.

I'd appreciate it if this display had a slightly deeper curvature (perhaps 1500R) over its 1800R curve; however, that's likely my own bias coming from near-constant use of an 800R curved monitor, which is overkill to say the least.

Most Alienware monitors keep OSD navigation easy via a simple button, and that's also the case here. However, one personal gripe of mine is the lack of a remote control.

Some of LG's UltraGear ultrawide displays come with a remote control, which eliminates the need to physically reach over to the monitor button to change display settings. Fortunately, though, the Alienware Command Center application on Windows acts as an alternative option to access and control some of the OSD options.

The biggest highlight of the AW3426DW's design is its new anti-reflective coating. There's almost little to no glare when using this display in a bright environment, even with sunshine beaming in from open curtains.

Yes, a lot of this is thanks to the 5th-gen tandem OLED panel and the display's high brightness levels, but the anti-reflective coating is just as important in this case, with a 30% glare reduction — and at night, brightness truly blossoms better than I've ever seen before.

• Design: 4.5 / 5

Alienware AW3426DW: Features

The AW3426DW has a wide range of features available via its OSD, notably multiple HDR modes: DisplayHDR True Black 500, HDR Peak 1300, HDR Peak 1300 Bright, and Dolby Vision. The latter is what I used for most movies, specifically those that are made for Dolby Vision, especially since it dynamically shifts brightness levels and tone mapping based on each scene — but more on HDR later.

I'm not a massive fan of Picture-in-Picture or Picture-by-Picture (PIP or PBP) modes on monitors, specifically with multiple inputs. However, there are several options available in terms of positioning and sizing, which are more than welcome on any ultrawide display, where productivity is one of the main appeals.

For competitive players, the eSports mode should come in handy, as it transforms the display into a 25-inch monitor, with the option to position the active area at the top, center, or bottom of the screen. It's a reasonable option to include in a monitor with a 280Hz refresh rate, and one that has a 0.03ms GtG response time, and helps simulate a 25-inch monitor gaming experience.

VRR works fine on both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 inputs, ensuring frame rates are high, matching the 280Hz refresh rate, and reducing screen tearing. Nvidia's G-Sync is also enabled to improve smoothness and latency, so screen tearing isn't a concern on this display whatsoever.

• Features: 4.5 / 5

Alienware AW3426DW: Performance

I tested this monitor playing several games, such as Destiny 2, Crimson Desert, Dragon's Dogma 2, Resident Evil Requiem, and Battlefield 6, and I was left amazed at how impressive the AW3426DW performs. With Dolby Vision enabled in supported games (i.e., Battlefield 6), visuals are absolutely breathtaking, with highly detailed bright and dark areas on screen amid blood-soaked action.

With Dolby Vision enabled, there are effectively no ABL issues, or at the very least, if there are, it isn't very noticeable. Of course, it's not just Dolby Vision's inclusion alone doing the heavy lifting in this respect, but also the fact that this is a 5th-gen tandem OLED display, directly increasing brightness capabilities.

Not every game or movie has Dolby Vision support, and that's exactly why the other HDR modes are vital — and I'm happy to report that HDR Peak 1300 Bright is fantastic. It doesn't come without its faults, and in particular, gamers should be ready to deal with some level of ABL.

However, again, because of the tandem OLED layers, I could play games like Destiny 2 or Dragon's Dogma 2 and enjoy very bright experiences without losing detail in bright and dark areas on screen. It's also a huge benefit that the AW3426DW is seemingly well calibrated out of the box in terms of color profile and HDR calibration, as I hardly had to configure any settings in that regard.

Essentially, Dolby Vision should only really be used for movies and games where it's supported, and HDR modes such as HDR Peak 1300 and DisplayHDR True Black 500 for most games that don't support Dolby Vision.

There aren't many games that can reach the 280 frames per second mark (at least when playing on higher graphics settings), but if you have a powerful enough rig, it's a joy to experience a game that feels so smooth when in motion.

It's also pleasing to see that text clarity issues have been solved, which stems directly from the RGB stripe subpixel layout, and that makes this a great choice for any PC user looking for a QD-OLED display that caters to both work and play.

• Performance: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Alienware AW3426DW?

Buy the Alienware AW3426DW if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also Consider

MSI MPG 491CQP QD-OLED

While significantly bigger than AW3426DW QD-OLED, the MSI MPG 491CQP arguably provides more immersion via its 32:9 49-inch wide screen. It's not a tandem OLED; however, it's currently around a very similar price to Alienware's new display and still provides great quality in HDR performance.

Read our full MSI MPG 491CQP QD-OLED review

How I tested the Alienware AW3426DW

• Tested for a week
• Played several modern games and watched multiple movies
• Tested mostly using Dolby Vision and HDR Peak 1300 Bright modes

I used the Alienware AW3426DW for a week, mostly for gaming and watching movies. The games I tested include: Destiny 2, Resident Evil Requiem, Dragon's Dogma 2, Dead As Disco, Battlefield 6, and Crimson Desert. Some of the movies include Avengers: Infinity War and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.

I also spent the same amount of time using the AW3426DW for work duties and found that it eliminates one of the biggest pain points on OLED monitors, which is text fringing. I had no issues with reading text or simply navigating on web browsers, and also found that both HDR and SDR are visually fine to use outside of gaming (or non-HDR activities).

The monitor was also placed in a brightly lit room for most of the review period, with direct sunlight positioned directly on it, and found that there was little to no glare, thanks to the anti-reflective display.

• First reviewed July 2026

‘We will not go back to normal in the foreseeable future’. Responding to the oil crisis, EU energy chief Dan Jørgensen urged people to work from home, and travel less.

Working from home has skyrocketed since the Coronavirus pandemic, with approximately 42 percent of Britons either working fully remote, or hybrid.

With the added pressure of increasing fuel costs - energy bills for households in Britain could increase by more than £200 a year - this number is unlikely to decrease in the near future.

The influx of flexible working and working from home is not just convenient for employees – these structures are actually shown to improve work performance.

In fact, a 2025 report from International Workplace Group (IWG) found that flexible working could boost productivity by 12% in the UK, contributing a staggering £24 billion to the economy each year, and digital working technologies are at the heart of this shift.

Unfortunately for these employees, an innovation gap remains. Working patterns have evolved quickly, but technology hasn’t always kept pace. From microphone troubles to discussions missed, it’s easy for those working from home to feel separated from the office conversation.

Technology optimized for remote work means well-connected, happy employees, a true boost to company culture and improved productivity.

The value of a seamless experience

When looking for employee technology, business leaders should choose devices that put an emphasis on connection and productivity. When meetings bring together both remote and in-person employees, no one wants to feel left out of the room where it happens. Thankfully, the technology is out there – however for many operations its potential just remains untapped.

Ultra-wide monitors, for example, provide panoramic digital canvases that recreate a more natural and inclusive meeting experience. Combined with integrated video conferencing, they help ensure every participant shares the same seamless view of discussions, documents, and data.

Other solutions that promote connectivity between long-distance employees include all-in-one collaboration displays with integrated cameras, microphones and speakers to provide a streamlined meeting experience. Designed with remote employees – or clients - in mind, these displays ensure inclusive and engaging communication with those at home.

AI-powered room control systems add another level of intelligence to modern meeting space. Today’s smart meeting rooms can automatically adjust camera angles, lighting, and microphone pickup zones depending on who’s speaking and where attention is focused. Features like voice enhancement and real-time captioning help make meetings more accessible for everyone.

The recently implemented European Accessibility Act has shone a spotlight on the struggles faced by disabled workers, pushing organizations to ensure accessibility for all. Technologies which can filter out background noise allow those with hearing difficulties to follow along without asking for constant repetition.

With 35% of those of working adults in the UK experiencing some form of hearing difficulties at work, these innovations are invaluable for a modern organisation.

There are many frustrations that typically come with hybrid meetings: participants out of shot, cropped presentations and conversations cut off due to poor audio, but these boardroom technologies help address this. With the right calibration and positioning, physical and digital workspaces are brought closer together than ever before.

The importance of home tech

Keeping employees happy doesn’t just stop at well-designed in-office displays - at home, the same principle applies. Smart monitors, for instance, are setting a new standard for versatility. These hybrid devices offer a new level of flexibility by combining the features of a traditional monitor and smart TV, with built-in productivity apps for work.

The latest innovations are designed for hybrid working, allowing employees transition seamlessly between work, entertainment, and even home management. A great smart monitor helps workers to manage their entire routine from singular device, from answering emails, to streaming shows, to turning up the heating. All systems can be managed at once, mirroring the seamless workflows that come with a hybrid work style.

When choosing technology for home environments, it’s not surprising that design and space efficiency is often top of the priority list. A single, stylish device that fits well into any living room or home-office space is valuable for any hybrid or remote employee. Space-efficient gadgets can enhance user experience and reduce complexity, through features like cable management, slim displays, and compatibility with multiple devices and connections.

The less bulky a monitor is, and the fewer cables it’s trailing, the more ergonomic the workspace - that’s when work gets done. As simple as it sounds, offering employees technologies hardware that complements the user’s space goes a long way to improving satisfaction and productivity.

Portability

Whether employees are fully remote, hybrid, or office-based, portable technology has become essential. Home workers may split their time between kitchen tables, coffee shops and coworking spaces, while hybrid employees often commute long distances into the office a few days each week.

In 2026, work no longer happens in one fixed location - it happens everywhere, from train carriages to kitchen counters while making lunch between meetings.

This underscores the need for ultra-lightweight, durable laptops that can be transported from workspace to workspace, while still delivering strong visibility and performance no matter the setting.

Today’s leading business laptops are designed with this flexibility in mind. Large, high-resolution devices make multitasking, spreadsheets and data-heavy work easier on the go.

High resolution screens improve visibility during long work sessions, ideal for workers replacing multi-monitor setups with one large portable screen. Anti-glare screen technology allows for working outdoors, and can reduce eye fatigue whilst improving readability.

For business leaders trying to choose the best laptops for their team, don’t just consider how work gets done... consider where work gets done.

Flexible working is here to stay

Hybrid working is the foundation of modern corporate life. Teams are built across cities, countries and even continents, and work is woven together with family and personal lives. The modern office is rarely a single location; it’s a space that changes and moves with workers throughout the day.

This is why simple, adaptable systems which put the worker first are pulling ahead to become the top of workplace tech in 2026.

The best business devices are those which bridge the physical gap between employees, driving collaboration, creativity and connection, helping people do the best work wherever they are.

Don't forget to save your data with the best backup software.

This article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro Perspectives, our channel to feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today.

The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/pro/perspectives-how-to-submit

The RAM crisis is gradually ruining PC and console gaming, with higher prices, notably with Microsoft increasing prices for its Xbox consoles. Gamers only have AI to blame, as data centers and their demand worsen memory availability.

Fortunately, OLED monitors are not in the category of hardware seeing price hikes as a result of the RAM crisis, and unsurprisingly so, since they don't require RAM.

Affordability is key, and Prime Day has opened the door to cheaper OLED monitors. A prime example is the Alienware AW3425DW OLED ultrawide available on Amazon for £589.33 (was £693.70), providing an immersive visual experience for any PC gamer, especially one upgrading from a 16:9 display.

This model is very similar to my former Alienware AW3424DWF ultrawide, but this AW3425DW model features a faster 240Hz refresh rate instead of 165Hz, and HDMI 2.1 compatibility.

There's so much to enjoy when upgrading from a regular LED display to an OLED, as it completely revitalizes the visual experience when gaming. Scenery that is supposed to be dark will indeed be entirely dark, making games like Resident Evil Requiem even more immersive with its horror.

I've still got my eye on Alienware's 5K2K display, but if you're out for something more affordable, the AW3425DW is the one to opt for.

More Prime Day deals in the UK

• Amazon Prime: get a 30-day free trial
• Amazon Devices: Fire, Ring & Blink from £13.99
• Amazon Haul: up to 30% off
• Apple: up to 33% off AirPods & Apple Watch
• Appliances: up to 45% off Ninja & Tefal
• Beauty: up to 60% off Philips & Oral-B
• Essentials: household goods from £5
• Fans: from £20
• Fashion: up to 50% off
• Gaming: £90 off PlayStation 5
• Headphones: up to 50% off Beats & Sony
• Laptops: from £149
• Tablets: Samsung & Lenovo from £79.99
• Toys: up to 25% off Lego and Tonies
• TVs: from £129.99
• Vacuums: up to 40% off Shark & Roborock
• Wearables: up to 30% off Garmin & Oura

The gaming monitor market is filled with high-quality displays that offer enough features to provide the most immersive gaming experience. OLED monitors are right at the forefront of monitors in achieving the latter, with exceptional deep black levels thanks to their high contrast ratio.

It's not all just about the panel type, though. The display resolution, refresh rate, response times, and brightness levels all play a significant part in allowing monitors to blossom, and all of those aspects also determine pricing (outside of potential market condition changes).

That's exactly where the LG UltraGear 45GX950A-B comes into play. It's a 5K2K ultrawide OLED monitor, which means its display resolution is 5120x2160, with even sharper image quality than a 4K display. It's easily one of the best gaming monitors in 2026, and is the kind of monitor that would define an 'ultimate endgame' gaming experience in terms of visuals.

Despite the obvious and eventual GPU upgrade I'll have to make when using a 5K monitor, it hasn't stopped me from keeping my eyes peeled for it, particularly whenever it receives a significant price drop.

Fortunately, it's Prime Day, which means you can find it for $1,429.69 (was $1,999.99) on Amazon in the US, and for £1,472.49 (was £1,649) in the UK. However, the competition on the horizon is enough to make you consider waiting a little while before jumping all in on the UltraGear display.

Having used the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE OLED ultrawide — which is very similar to the GX9, with the only difference being its 3440x1440 resolution — I can say that the step up in resolution would make LG's 5K2K display worth every cent, despite its high price.

With the new Alienware AW3926QW 5K2K OLED ultrawide slated for launch by the end of June, LG's top-of-the-line monitor might have its money's worth. Thanks to the AW3926QW's 39-inch display size, there's a higher pixel density at 5K2K, meaning image quality will be much sharper than what the LG GX9 has to offer.

It is an RGB stripe tandem OLED panel, which reduces text fringing and provides significantly higher and more consistent brightness compared to other OLED monitors.

Most importantly, the big takeaway is that the AW3926QW's price is rumored to be at $1,100 (around £824 / AU$1,572). That's a very generous and affordable price tag, since other monitors with the same specifications are far more expensive.

The great thing is that more details on pricing should be coming very soon, so there's a good reason to weigh the options between the two monstrous displays.

Want a weird and wonderful way to upgrade your gaming PC? Then you might want to consider the Corsair Xeneon Edge, which has had a $50 price cut from a variety of retailers, and is still in stock on Corsair's own website.

I mention that it's still in stock as Best Buy also had the same deal, but has now sold out.

• Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale

The Corsair Xeneon Edge is a slim 14.5-inch touchscreen display with a 2560 x 720 resolution, and can plug into your PC via USB-C or HDMI. It can show off various apps and widgets, and also displays important information about your PC, such as the temperatures of your components.

You can even mount it in your PC's case (Corsair make compatible cases, but you can do a bit of DIY and attach it to any case) for an eye-catching visual, and a great way to keep an eye on your PC's vitals whilst playing.

The fact that it's so versatile makes the Corsair Xeneon Edge a popular, if niche, product, and the new price (down from $249.99 to $199.99) seems to have given it a boost in popularity, so don't hang about if you're looking for a cool new way to make your PC stand out (whilst also being genuinly useful).

Today's best Corsair Xeneon Edge deal

More Prime Day deals in the US

• Amazon Devices: Fire Sticks & Echo from $18
• Amazon Haul: viral gadgets, tech & appliances from $1.99
• Apple: MacBooks, AirPods & AirTags from $29
• Beauty: 50% off toothbrushes & hair tools
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs from $69.99
• Garden: tools, mowers, planters from $24.99
• Headphones: 50% off Beats, Bose & Samsung
• Laptops: Apple, HP & Dell from $199
• Mattresses: Sealy, Serta & more from $186
• Patio: outdoor furniture, rugs & decor from $19.99
• Sports: 50% off fitness gear, treadmills & clothing
• Vacuums: Dyson, Shark & Bissell from $34

Gigabyte MO32U24: Two-Minute Review

Gigabyte’s gaming monitors have been hit and miss lately, but I had high hopes for the 32-inch, 4K, 240Hz MO32U24, which uses a 4th-generation QD-OLED panel and has a new, HDR-boosting feature called HyperNits.

Is this the one?

Like Gigabyte’s other non-Aorus-branded gaming monitors, the MO32U24 has a sober design that eschews RGB and geometric flourishes for a basic-looking stem and stand. That’s no bad thing, as many buyers will want a monitor that suits gaming, multimedia and work.

It’s easy to assemble (one clip and a thumbscrew), there’s a generous amount of adjustment in every direction and the small-footprint stand will suit competitive gamers who sit right up close to the screen.

QD-OLED screens banished spidery text a generation ago and this fourth-gen version is no different. Even fine fonts look sharp and the UHD resolution means you can comfortably work with four windows or large spreadsheets all day without straining your eyes.

The screen also uses Gigabyte’s ObsidianShield coating, which ‘boosts true-black performance’ and improves scratch resistance. It has a semi-gloss finish and does an impressive job of reducing reflections.

However, I was particularly interested to see how the HyperNits brightness enhancement affected the 1,000-nit HDR performance. Gigabyte says it “intelligently enhances overall brightness… while preserving highlight details.” In reality, it makes the MO32U24’s excellent HDR a bit better.

While some details still get lost in large, bright areas, an impressive amount of detail simultaneously remains visible in highlights and shadows: bright lights (fire, lightning, candles, windows and torches) shine piercingly out of true-black backgrounds without blowing out.

This noticeably improves multimedia immersion (especially in open-world games). I also liked that I could leave it activated when working without going blind.

Meanwhile, colors are bright and saturated and transitions are smooth and noise-free. The 240Hz refresh rate and the rapid 0.03ms pixel response banish blurriness around rapidly moving objects and only god-tier pro-FPS players might complain. G-Sync prevents image tearing.

Gigabyte’s OSD is intuitive, responsive and all the usual presets and gaming features are easily accessed via a joystick button. Gigabyte’s Game Assist features include an on-screen timer and refresh rate display, on-screen crosshairs, a sniper-zoom box, green-screen night vision and flash dimming. Some are useful, but others feel gimmicky.

Potentially of more interest to FPS players is the customizable Tactical Switch button, which drops the display area to 24 or 27 inches, sets the resolution to 1440p, Full HD or HD and/or changes the aspect ratio to 4:3 or 5:4.

Beyond that, there are considerable automated OLED care options that don’t get in your way, a full set of ports (including a two-port USB hub) and two 5-watt speakers, which provide useful audio for day-to-day multimedia use (but have very little bass).

In more recent years, Asus has dominated in this space, but no longer. It has a few quirks, but the Gigabyte MO32U24 has the chops where it matters.

Gigabyte MO32U24: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $1,000 / £800 / AU$1,499
• When is it available? The Gigabyte MO32U24 is out now
• Where can you get it? It’s available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions

The Gigabyte MO32U24 is available now in most regions. It’s a premium model, so it’s not cheap. Furthermore, the global price spread is quite wide and it sits in a crowded segment where prices for rivals and previous-gen models are changing frequently (and significantly) in sales.

This means the value proposition is hard to pin down. Nonetheless, you do get a lot of gaming monitor for your money and it’s currently one of the very best on the market.

• Value: 4 / 5

Gigabyte MO32U24: Specs

Gigabyte MO32U24: Design

• Utilitarian design with small base footprint
• Responsive and intuitive OSD controls
• Generous amount of tilt, swivel, pivot and height adjustment

Some gaming monitors have over-designed, spiky stands that take up more space than is necessary on your desk in order to make a statement — often with RGB lighting to hammer home the point.

The Gigabyte MO32U24 is more sober (unlike siblings from its Aorus sub-brand) in that its no-nonsense stem, base and bezel are relatively plain-Jane in their appearance, but are arguably better for it.

The stem easily clips onto the screen and the small-footprint base attaches to it via a single thumbscrew. You’re left with a solid stand that doesn’t wobble unless you shake the whole desk.

The whole monitor doesn’t look flashy, which will suit those who want to use it for office work in an office environment. However, esports players can still sit right up close to it with their keyboards.

I’m not quite sure what happened to the Gigabyte Control Center app. It used to be very good at adjusting all your monitor settings from the Windows desktop.

The latest version is barely functional, so you need to access settings using the joystick button at the base. Mercifully, it's intuitive and responsive and you can set up multiple (one- or two-click) shortcuts to your most commonly used features.

To its left is the off switch. To the right is the ‘Tactical Switch’ which can instantly change the display size, resolution and aspect ratio to suit esports players or activate one of the monitor’s other Game Assist features.

Those Game Assist features include multiple styles of on-screen crosshair that can be moved around the screen. These are particularly useful for games like Hardcore CoD (even though it feels like it’s close to cheating).

There’s an Eagle Eye zoom ‘sniper’ box which can magnify an area of the screen (it’s adjustable but sits in the middle by default). I’d say this really was cheating if I found it usable in any way whatsoever, but my testing found it to be little more than annoying.

There’s also Night Vision mode which changes the whole display to ‘night vision green’ for people who want to pretend they’re in real-life special forces, or something.

Flash dimming is provided to stop virtual flash-bangs combining with the high, peak brightness and burning your retinas. Not everything is available when HDR is selected, though.

You can also use Game Assist to simply show a Timer, Counter or Refresh Rate (and move this information around the screen).

The Resolution Settings can drop the screen to 27 or 24 inches to suit FPS players who sit right up close. The available resolutions range from 1440p to 1024 x 768, with aspect ratios ranging from 16:9 through 5:4 to 4:3.

Other gaming adjustments include numerous image presets that are all adjustable. There's also AI Black Equalizer, which flattens contrast to stop enemies hiding in shadows and highlights. There are also VRR and Anti-Flicker modes to smooth out motion for console players. The monitor also supports G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro to prevent image tearing.

Other features include Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture, which can make use of all four inputs (2x HDMI, DP and USB-C) plus KVM settings that let you use the same peripherals on multiple connected devices.

Also included is an extensive collection of OLED Care options that are mostly automatic and unobtrusive. You can easily check on the screen’s status, manually activate pixel cleaning cycles and select settings that automatically dim logos and static images.

Ultimately, there’s nothing notable missing and even the most demanding tinkerers should be able to easily find display settings to suit their needs.

• Design: 5 / 5

Gigabyte MO32U24: Performance

• Outstanding HDR performance
• Fine text and low-reflection coating make it great for work
• Bright, vibrant colors and contrast boost game immersion
• Fast refresh rate and pixel response time suit FPS players

The Gigabyte MO32U24 has so many settings that every type of user should be able to quickly find a combination (by choosing a single preset or manually adjusting multiple settings) that suits their needs, whether they’re gaming or working.

Office workers will warm to sharply rendered fine fonts, a low-reflection, semi-gloss coating and a resolution that affords comfortable work with four windows at once.

When it comes to multimedia, the semi-gloss screen reduces reflections without dulling the impact of the panel’s bright colors, true blacks and outstanding contrast like a matte screen would.

Its HDR performance, which is augmented with Gigabyte’s ObsidianShield coating and HyperNits brightness enhancement, is outstanding as it can simultaneously display details in very bright and very dark scenes at once. While some details can get lost in particularly large, bright areas, it's rarely a problem.

Top tip — I recommend using the Windows HDR Calibration tool (in the Microsoft Store) to set it up, but I also recommend not following its instructions entirely — don’t make the black and white boxes disappear into each other — you’ll get a much better image if you leave the two reference images visible.

The 240Hz refresh rate and fast QD-OLED pixel response time ensure that rapidly moving objects are rendered nearly pin-sharp. I’ve seen even better performance on even faster screens, but those rarely offer the all-around graphical attributes that are also available on the MO32U24.

I never expect much from built-in monitor speakers and the two 5-watt speakers didn’t challenge this view. It’s handy to have them for casual social-media video watching but don’t expect great musical fidelity or punchy bass.

• Performance: 5 / 5

Should you buy the Gigabyte MO32U24?

Buy the Gigabyte MO32U24 if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

Are you after something else? Check out our guide to the best monitors.

BenQ MA270S: Two-Minute Review

With Microsoft seemingly intent on turning Windows into malware, Macs are increasingly appealing. But while the Apple tax is increasingly diminishing in the consumer laptop space, it’s rife when it comes to compatible monitors.

PC-focused alternatives have different colors, pixel densities and features that rarely play well with Macs, meaning users frequently fight losing battles matching what they see on their MacBook screen with a third-party monitor. But BenQ has taken note.

There are several models in BenQ’s new specialist Mac range. Most have 4K resolutions, are 27 or 32 inches in size, have 60Hz refresh rates and offer glossy or matte finishes.

There are two outliers: the 120Hz MA320UG and this, the glossy, 5K-resolution MA270S.

Setup is simple, with the clip-on stem affixing to the base with a single thumbscrew. There’s a generous amount of adjustment (including 150mm (5.9in) height and 90° bi-directional pivot) which, unlike Apple, BenQ doesn’t charge extra for.

There’s also an unApple-like plethora of ports including two HDMI, two Thunderbolt 4 and four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (two USB-C and two USB-A), with up to 96 watts of USB-C power delivery — so one cable can connect and charge a laptop.

The USB-A ports also offer 7.5W charging. They also facilitate KVM functionality to connect multiple devices. Apple’s monitors don’t.

Once connected, BenQ’s factory-calibrated screen instantly resembled the display of the MacBook sitting next to it. Like Apple’s own monitors, the MA270S has a native 5K resolution of 5120 x 2880, giving it a much higher pixel density (218 PPI) than 27-inch, 1440p PC equivalents (~109 PPI).

By default, macOS scales the interface to look like 2560 x 1440, which keeps text crisp without making everything tiny.

The IPS screen is very impressive with near-OLED levels of color saturation and LED-backlight-derived (almost completely) true blacks. Multimedia looks good at default settings (vibrant colors, respectable contrast and minimal noise in gradients), but turning on HDR significantly improves everything: more details simultaneously show up in shadows and highlights and all transitions become smooth.

The brightest highlights can blow out (with no easy fix), though, and note that the glossy coating can turn into a black mirror when displaying dark content.

A common curse of Retina displays is their sluggish speeds and the MA270S is no different. The slow, 5ms response time marries with a 60Hz refresh rate (it actually goes up to a Spinal Tap-esque 70Hz) to smear fast-moving objects across the screen, so forget about eye-friendly, fast-and-frantic gaming.

There’s no integrated webcam, but the two 3-watt speakers (surprisingly for a monitor) have well-rounded fidelity and sound good, despite not getting loud.

Despite having a joystick button, most advanced image settings are controlled by BenQ’s impressive DisplayPilot 2 app. The customizable options can easily swap between color modes and toggle settings like Low Blue Light.

Its FocuSync settings match Mac Focus adjustments and enable you to change core monitor settings using Mac settings. You can also auto-sync different color modes with different applications.

BenQ MA270S: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $900 / £1,000 / AU$1,699
• When is it available? It’s out now
• Where can you get it? It’s available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions

While it’s not a cheap monitor, the BenQ MA270S is significantly cheaper than Apple’s own Studio displays and, therefore, serves as a much-needed, more affordable, third-party alternative in a monopoly market.

• Value: 4 / 5

BenQ MA270S: Specs

BenQ MA270S: Design

• Simple, adjustable, three-part stand
• Impressive number of ports
• No built-in webcam

Apple users have always been an aesthetically appreciative bunch, and so they’ll warm to the color scheme of the BenQ MA270S, which apes that of a standard silver MacBook.

The stand is simple to assemble and offers a generous amount of movement in every direction. It's remarkable that Apple charges more for a feature like this — it’s standard on many PC displays.

The multiple ports (which offer different degrees of charging power) mean multiple devices can be simultaneously connected. Furthermore, a single keyboard and mouse can be shared across them using KVM functionality — unholy magic in the eyes of some Apple users.

The joystick button at the base of the screen only provides access to brightness, volume and input selections. To access more comprehensive settings, you’ll need the BenQ DisplayPilot 2 app and the OSD handily provides a QR code to locate it on BenQ’s own website (it’s not in the App Store).

It provides access to basic brightness settings, eye comfort and HDR, but also FocuSync settings on your Mac.

Another feature is the rubberized pad on the base of the stand. It provides slightly superior softness and friction compared to the plastic stand, so you may be more tempted to rest your phone on it.

The only element that some users might miss is a built-in webcam. Apple’s own monitors have them, but purchasers of the BenQ MA270S will have to buy a separate unit or use the one in their MacBook.

• Design: 4 / 5

BenQ MA270S: Performance

• Bright, sharp, Retina display
• Glossy finish that can become reflective
• Slow response time and refresh rate

The best thing you can say about the BenQ MA270S is that it just works. Just connecting it to your MacBook provides you with a matching image of your MacBook’s screen without having to fiddle with countless settings.

The screen displays very sharp text, colors are very bright and vibrant, and contrast is generally impressive. However, bright areas and highlights can blow out rather easily when HDR is engaged.

The big drawback is that the 70Hz refresh rate is nowhere near enough to stop the sluggish 5ms pixel response time from smearing most moving objects across the screen. As such, it’s not good for gaming.

Unusually for a monitor, the two 3-watt speakers offer well-rounded fidelity with a modicum of bass. They don’t get particularly loud, though.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Should you buy the BenQ MA270S?

Buy the BenQ MA270S if...

Don't buy it if...

Also Consider

Want more options? Check out our guide to the best monitors for MacBook Pro.

• BOE has started mass production at its huge new factory in China
• It's cranking out OLED panels for use in monitors, laptops and other devices
• These OLEDs will be more affordable, and provide competition to drive down pricing with the dominant players, LG and Samsung

In a move that's set to usher in more affordable OLED monitors and laptops, BOE has officially flicked the switch to crank the production lines into action for its Generation 8.6 panels.

The Elec reports that mass production of Generation 8.6 OLEDs began this week at BOE over in China, with the manufacturer holding an event in Chengdu to celebrate the milestone.

This was attended by some notably major laptop and monitor players, including Asus, Lenovo and MSI. As you might guess, big names from the smartphone world were present too, with Honor, Nothing, Oppo, Vivo, Xiaomi and ZTE among them.

Chen Yanshun, chairman of BOE, said: "We will meet the growing demand for premium displays from customers in China and overseas and become a trusted partner through advanced technologies and high-quality products."

The factory is capable of producing 32,000 substrates per month, were are large slabs of glass that are cut into multiple individual OLED panels.

Wondering what the first product off the assembly line was? The Elec informs us that it was a 14-inch OLED for Lenovo notebooks with a 2.8K resolution (as shown above).

Analysis: competition for LG and Samsung

What's the big deal about BOE's new Generation 8.6 panels? This tech allows for the production of much larger substrates than before, and that means a lot more OLED screens can be cut out of that big sheet, with less overall waste (the extraneous bits around the edges). Therefore, production is more economical, and the cost of the OLED panel is decreased, with that saving passed on to the manufacturer and consumer in turn.

The end result is cheaper OLED monitors, and notebooks (or tablets and other devices) with OLED screens, for us all going forward. Especially as this competition from BOE, which is taking a major move forward in the OLED space, will eventually force LG Display and Samsung to be more competitive with their pricing.

Those two companies are the dominant players in OLED displays, so it's good to see them being challenged in this way. And not just by BOE, but also TCL CSOT and inkjet-printed OLEDs – although that tech is still some way off (with mass production not expected to kick off until late in 2027).

BOE's new panels aren't just about cost savings, either, as the facility is producing a tandem OLED (with two layers) boasting a longer lifespan than a single-layer panel, to the tune of three to four times longer, and better power efficiency. (It consumes 20% to 30% less power, which is obviously crucial for laptops and battery life in particular).

Home entertainment brand TCL was out in force at Summer Game Fest 2026, with a big booth dedicated to its new line of gaming monitors right in the middle of the Play Days show floor.

Its flagship model, the TCL C2A Pro, was the big attraction and is intended to deliver "the ultimate AAA gameplay experience" no matter what you like to play.

Those that love immersing themselves in cinematic experiences like The Last of Us Part 1 or Red Dead Redemption 2 will appreciate its vibrant QD-Mini LED colors and high 2,000 nits peak brightness. It's DisplayHDR 1400 certified, denoting a high level of brightness paired with excellent contrast, too.

The crisp 4K resolution of its 27-inch panel offers a strong level of detail while the 160Hz refresh rate keeps the action butter-smooth (provided you have the hardware chops to support it, of course).

Smooth and stylish

I took the monitor for a spin and found it particularly impressive, noting its fluid motion and excellent picture clarity. That said, as a huge Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 player (with more than 370 hours clocked in-game since launch), the TCL C2A Pro has one secret weapon that makes it especially appealing — its 'Game Accelerator' dual mode.

This bumps the resolution down to 1080p and cranks the refresh rate up to 320Hz, which is perfect if you want to maximize responsiveness and your frame rate to give you the edge in such a fast-paced game. It's almost no surprise that the brand is the official partner of Call of Duty.

TCL has also nailed the monitor's aesthetics. The almost sci-fi, white panelled look is tastefully elevated by colorful RGB lighting for an overall design that's distinctly geared towards gamers without seeming overly garish. It means the monitor would also look right at home in a PS5 setup. Out of the box, it comes with a multi-function stand that's geared towards a variety of adjustments and seating positions.

With the TCL C2A Pro retailing at $799, it faces some stiff competition from cheaper alternatives with similar dual-mode features such as the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCG. Still, no competitors have TCL's proprietary QD-Mini LED tech, which the monitor shares with the brand's high-end TVs, and few can come close to offering the premium build here.

It arrives alongside the slightly cheaper TCL C2A gaming monitor. Retailing at $699, that $100 saving loses you some peak brightness (with the monitor capable of 1,200 nits rather than 2,000) and fewer local dimming zones.

There's also the budget-friendly $499 TCL P3A. It's 27 inches still, but at a more modest 1440p resolution and a 260Hz refresh rate.

• The most exciting gaming monitor announcement at Computex 2026 is the MSI MPG OLED 322URDX36, which is the "world's first" 4K monitor clocked at 360Hz. It's a triple-mode display, giving you 540Hz in 1440p and 680Hz in 1080p, too.
• ASRock is making its claim towards the premium end of the gaming monitor market, particularly with the TCo27QXB OLED, which offers 4K at 240Hz as well as 1080p at 480Hz.
• Not to be outdone, Alienware's AW3926QW brings 5K OLED to the 21:9 ultrawide form factor with the AW3926QW, which is more than fast enough at 165Hz.

Computex 2026 is coming to a close, and the world's largest computing show hasn't been shy about revealing what's next for high-end, high refresh rate gaming monitors to come. The biggest takeaway from what we've seen has been that the compromises between resolution and refresh rate appear to be a thing of the past. It's not only about 4K anymore, but also 5K, too.

That isn't to say that other resolutions aren't being catered to. 1440p in high refresh configurations continues to impress, which is particularly important if you want a viable esports panel or the smoothest utilization of FSR 4 / DLSS 4.5. These are the best monitors of Computex 2026 that we've seen and why.

MSI debuts the "world's first" 4K 360Hz display with triple-mode functionality

If you've got one of the best graphics cards, then you'll want to be running your games in 4K (2160p). We've seen displays allowing for 240Hz in this resolution in the past, but now MSI has unveiled a huge 32-inch display that further pushes things. The MPG OLED 322URDX36 is a stunning monitor, backed by its new triple mode functionality, a 5th-generation QD-OLED display.

If you're someone who takes esports games seriously, then you'll be aware that frames win games. Whether that's scoring an Ace in Valorant or making every millisecond count in Counter Strike 2, pros will tell you that a higher refresh rate can make the difference between winning and losing. It achieves a staggering 680Hz in 1080p. You can also switch between 4K at 360Hz and 520Hz at 1440p as well.

The black levels sound particularly impressive from the MPG OLED 322URDX36, as this upcoming 32-inch 4K monitor features VESA Display HDR 600 True Black, the second-darkest tier behind 1,000, and far beyond what's usually seen from 4K gaming monitors. In other words, it's remarkably fast, seems to offer exceptional color reproduction, and will let you hit those high framerates in 4K, provided you've got a capable GPU, such as the RTX 5090 or RTX 5080.

ASRock's dual-mode monitors give you the best of both worlds

ASRock is typically known for its budget and mid-range monitors, but that's a narrative that could be changing. Enter the Taichi lineup, particularly the Taichi TC027USB and the TCo27QXB OLED. The former is a 27-inch Tandem OLED display, with a native 4K 240Hz resolution, and dual mode functionality to perform at 480Hz in 1080p.

That means you get the ability to play esports games in high fidelity, but also get to switch to dazzling visuals for story-heavy or single-player releases without compromise. The TCo27QXB OLED is similar. It's a 27-inch panel that's natively clocked at 540Hz when running in 1440p.

Gigabyte unveils the "world's first" multi-mode 5K gaming monitor

Gigabyte Aorus is synonymous with pricier hardware that offers best-in-class performance, and the company's full Aorus Elite lineup this time around looks to have everything you would want from a gaming monitor in 2026.

What if you don't want to choose between just two display modes? That's the biggest strength of the "world's first" 5K multi-mode monitor, the freshly revealed FM275K16P. It's a 27-inch mini-LED display with support for three display modes: 5K at 165Hz, 4K at 220Hz, and 1440p at 330Hz, with a low response time of just 1ms GtG, a peak brightness of 1,250 nits, and a total of 2,304 local dimming zones. You'll be able to quickly adjust to the resolution and refresh rate that best accommodates what you're playing.

Two of the models in particular also impress, chiefly the FO32U24GP and FO32U24G. The first display here gives you the full 4K at 240Hz experience with a dual-mode functionality for 1080p at 480Hz. It's coupled with a 99.5% DCI-P3 gamut and a staggering peak brightness of 1,500 nits. The only main difference with the FO32U24G is that it does not have UHBR20 support.

Alienware's latest flagship is a huge 39-inch 5K OLED behemoth

We don't typically think of Dell's Alienware brand when it comes to its gaming monitors, and that seems to be something the company wants to change if the AW3926QW is anything to go by. Simply put, it's a staggering 39-inch 21:9 display with a 5K resolution and OLED panel tech, which is billed as a "world's first", too.

In what's being described as "RGB stripe Tandem OLED", the Alienware AW3926QW features VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 support, with a 1,500 curve, and multi-mode displays as well. The 5K ultrawide resolution (5,120 x 2,880) is clocked at 165Hz, which should be more than fast enough for even the best graphics cards under load. However, you can also switch out to 1080p at 330Hz for anything with more of an esports leaning, as well, which isn't typically seen in a 21:9 display of this type.

• Check out our Computex 2026 hub for all the latest news out of Taipei.

• Asus has revealed a new 24.5-inch OLED at Computex 2026
• This gaming monitor offers a 540Hz refresh rate
• It blends the best of high refresh rate TN displays with the vibrancy and accurate colors of OLED

Asus has revealed a few new gaming monitors over at Computex 2026, but the model that's turning heads is a high-end OLED offering for competitive gamers, which is billed as a "defining moment for esports displays".

Asus announced the ROG Strix OLED XG259QWPG Ace, which is a 24.5-inch monitor with a 1080p resolution and a very fast 540Hz refresh rate. Other specs that make this screen great for fast-paced competitive gamers include a 0.02ms response time and G-Sync support.

It's a tandem OLED panel, meaning the screen is built with two layers. As Asus notes, that gives it a 15% higher brightness level compared to a conventional OLED, not to mention a longer lifespan (some 60% longer according to the monitor maker).

Asus boasts: "As the very first OLED monitor to join our flagship Ace lineup, it brings together cutting‑edge panel technology and purpose‑built esports tuning to meet the exacting demands of professional gamers."

The company added: "We worked hand in hand with global tournament organizers like PGL and Blast to collect feedback from esports pros across the world. Their suggestions helped us develop this next-generation OLED esports monitor, and we can't wait to get this absolute weapon into the hands of gamers everywhere."

We don't yet have a release date or a price, but hopefully Asus will furnish us with those details soon enough.

Analysis: a no-compromise esports screen

Why does this monitor have some gamers so excited? Because it offers 540Hz at what many consider to be the perfect, more compact size for competitive gaming, all in an OLED display with a resolution of 1080p.

It's ticking a lot of boxes because it's great for super-smooth performance with shooters (or other competitive games), and yet it offers all the vibrancy of OLED, and far superior viewing angles compared to high refresh rate TN panels. Indeed, you get 10-bit color and 99.5% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut with this Asus monitor, and VESA DisplayHDR 600 True Black.

So, the upshot is a gaming monitor with very accurate and punchy colors, blending the strengths of OLED with an extremely fast refresh rate.

There's a note of disappointment from some that it isn't 1440p — or that the XG259QWPG doesn't offer a dual mode choice of 1080p or 1440p — but really, pro gamers aren't going to want to up that resolution beyond Full HD (because it's then much more difficult to get blisteringly high frame rates).

• Check out our Computex 2026 hub for all the latest news out of Taipei.

MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24: One-minute review

Exactly two years ago, MSI rolled out its debut 4K OLED gaming monitor. Now here we are with the new MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24, one of the first gaming monitors to get Samsung's newly upgraded 4K QD-OLED panel tech.

Superficially, of course, this 32-inch 4K gaming monitor is a dead ringer for its direct predecessors from MSI, most obviously the MSI MPG 321URX. It sports exactly the same chassis design, for instance, and a mostly similar feature set. But that new QD-OLED panel makes this a rather different proposition.

The resolution and refresh rate actually remain the same. So, that's 3,840 by 2,160 pixels and 240Hz maximum refresh, the latter being plenty for a 4K display. You're not going to be able to drive it beyond that speed in most games. The response times are carried over, too, which is just fine given we're talking about a lightning-quick rating of 0.03ms.

So, what exactly is different? The first hint that you've got Samsung's latest five-layer Tandem QD-OLED tech is in the full-screen brightness rating. That's up from 250 nits for previous 32-inch 4K QD-OLEDs to 300 nits. And while the peak HDR brightness remains pegged at 1,000 nits, the VESA DisplayHDR certification has been bumped up from True Black 400 to True Black 500, indicating more HDR punch.

All of that is enabled by a new third-gen emissive OLED material which Samsung also says is twice as durable as before. That's important because it means this new QD-OLED should be even more resistant to burn-in, a potential if unlikely problem that's also covered by the three-year warranty.

Another feature of the new panel is a revised surface material that reduces the purple tint in bright ambient light that all QD-OLEDs have thus far exhibited. MSI calls it Dark Armor Film and while it doesn't entirely eradicate the issue, black levels and perceived contrast are definitely improved.

However, there is one new-gen QD-OLED feature missing from this revised 32-inch 4K panel. The true RGB-stripe subpixel structure, as seen in another MSI monitor we reviewed recently, the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36, isn't included here. On paper, RGB-stripe is desirable for precision rendering, especially fonts. In practice, this 32-inch 4K monitor has sufficient pixel density to make that a pretty moot point. It's very crisp and precise.

Whatever, the overall result of the upgrades is, if anything, more impressive than the incremental spec improvements imply. This is a gorgeous, vibrant monitor. Importantly, it's much richer and subjectively punchier than similar monitors based on LG's competing WOLED panel tech.

Full-screen SDR brightness is likewise now strong enough for almost all realistic use cases. But the real showbiz stuff is HDR gaming. The combination of 4K pixel density with the speed, contrast, lighting precision and outright pop of Samsung's latest QD-OLED tech, all heightened by the glossy screen coating, is downright fabulous.

Long story short, this new 4K QD-OLED panel really is approaching something akin to the perfect 2D display technology. There are still a few detail weaknesses. But overall, this 4K MSI beauty absolutely wallops any similar LCD display. It's not even close.

MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $1,099 / £999 / AU$1,799
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

At $1,099, the new MSI MPG 322UR X24 is a touch more expensive than MSI's first 32-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor at launch two years ago. But you do get a much improved panel.

It's also a fair bit cheaper than the likes of the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM Gen3, which uses exactly the same Samsung-sourced new-gen QD-OLED panel, but goes for about $1,299.

Of course, this is still a pretty expensive display. That's the reality with OLED technology right now. You have to pay a hefty premium versus LCD-based monitors of the same size and resolution. However, it's worth noting that there's a good chance that MSI will launch a slightly de-featured but cheaper-still variant of this monitor in the near future.

• Value: 3 / 5

MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24: Specs

MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24: Design

• Familiar looks
• Good connectivity
• Reassuring warranty cover

In terms of styling, little has changed with the new MSI MPG 322UR X24. It looks just like the MSI MPG 321URX did back at launch two years ago.

It's not the most striking monitor design. But it's pretty well built and slick enough thanks to slim bezels and a low-key, all-black design ethic. You also get a good range of adjustment, including tilt, height, swivel, rotate and pivot, albeit the latter doesn't go all the way round into portrait mode.

As for connectivity, that includes a pair of HDMI 2.1 sockets, DisplayPort 2.1, a USB-C interface with 98 watts of power delivery and a two-port USB-A hub. The USB-C connectivity means you can share this monitor between, say, a gaming desktop and a work laptop with particular ease and minimal cable clutter.

Burn-in, of course, remains somewhat of a worry with OLED display technology, even if several third party long-term tests have shown that it's not a major problem with Samsung's QD-OLED tech. So, it's good to see that MSI has included several burn-in compensating features such as pixel shifting. You also get burn-in cover as part of MSI's three-year warranty. At minimum, you needn't have any concerns during the warranty period.

Finally, fans of glossy screen coatings will be pleased to learn that the MSI MPG 322UR X24 comes so equipped. It certainly heightens the visual impact of QD-OLED panel technology, even if that comes at the cost of increased reflectivity. In short, glossy screen coatings are a preference thing, they have pros and cons.

• Design: 4 / 5

MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24: Performance

• Fantastic new QD-OLED panel
• Stupendous HDR experience
• Full-screen brightness now "good enough"

Samsung's first effort at a 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel for PC gaming monitors was pretty stellar but had a few arguable issues, including somewhat limited full-screen brightness and a purple tint that was visible in bright ambient light.

The MSI MPG 322UR X24 upgrades that experience with a new generation of QD-OLED technology that directly addresses those shortcomings. And it really is closing in on QD-OLED perfection.

First up, there's the overall vibrancy and punch. The full-screen SDR experience is now surely good enough for the vast majority of use cases and preferences. It's worth noting that the full-screen experience is, if anything, subjectively better than the official 300 nit rating implies.

That's because, unlike LG's competing WOLED tech which relies on additional white subpixels to achieve its peak brightness rating, Samsung QD-OLED panels are pure RGB tech. Long story short, QD-OLED panels have better colour brightness and this MSI monitor has some serious SDR zing as a consequence.

Of course, where it really delivers is with HDR content and games. It really is hard to overstate how much better this monitor is than any LCD-based panel, even one with full-array local dimming, when it comes to the HDR experience. This new QD-OLED panel takes the usual advantage of OLED panel tech, which is perfect per-pixel lighting, and adds even more punch and sizzle. It's spectacular.

For this monitor, MSI has also implemented its EOTF boost mode technology. It's designed to combine the best aspects of both the VESA HDR 400 calibrated mode with the HDR Peak 1000 nits mode and give the highest brightness and image detail for both darker and brighter HDR gaming scenes. In short, it does just that and means you can use EOTF boost mode for all HDR content and be confident you're getting a good experience.

Of course, along with all that goodness specific to the latest QD-OLED tech, you're also getting the razor-sharp image detail and pixel density of 4K on a 32-inch panel. It's an incredible combination, and the overall result is genuinely spectacular.

So, is it perfect? Not quite. The new panel film does indeed reduce the purple tint of QD-OLED technology in bright light. But it doesn't entirely remove it. Apart from that, well, you really are into nit-picking territory. The panel's color temperature remains just a touch warm. And the concerns I mentioned around burn-in will remain in the context of really long term use. But this monitor truly is the art of QD-OLED panel tech very nearly perfected.

• Performance: 4.5 / 5

Should you buy the MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24?

Buy the MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24 if...

Don't buy it if...

• Originally reviewed in May 2026

Gigabyte MO27U2: Two-Minute Review

We’ve seen many glitzy gaming monitors over the past few years, so it’s almost refreshing to see a premium model that eschews all the in-your-face RGB lighting and pointy bits for a more sober option that better suits a mixed work-and-play environment.

But is the Gigabyte MO27U2 actually worth buying?

It’s a tandem QD-OLED screen with a multi-layer OLED structure that boosts brightness and efficiency, while Gigabyte’s OLED Care features help reduce burn-in risk. Its latest-gen sub-pixel technology fends off the spidery text that blighted predecessors, and this, plus the high resolution, high-pixel-density, reflection-reducing, glossy coating, means it’s also very good for work: multiple windows can be comfortably used at once and large spreadsheets can be more easily viewed.

When it came to multimedia, the QD-OLED’s penchant for color vibrancy and contrast quickly came to the fore, but there were some issues.

Despite a huge number of image-tinkering options in the on-screen display (OSD) menu, finding a perfect balance of HDR contrast and image clarity proved trying. No matter what I did, highlights would blow out noticeably in bright areas while patchy image aberrations often blighted content. I haven’t seen image-processing issues like that for a while.

Switching color spaces and preset modes often felt like installing a too-small carpet: shifting in one direction might smooth out some color issues but introduce horrendous blocky artifacts to gradients. It’s not altogether terrible, but I expect better from a premium gaming monitor.

The 240Hz refresh rate keeps rapidly moving objects practically blur-free, with G-Sync helping prevent image tearing.

Motion clarity is supposedly enhanced by Gigabyte’s ‘Ultra Clear’ technology, but the setting was grayed out no matter what settings I adjusted. Indeed, fighting with settings became a regular annoyance: while some changes provided instantaneous results, others would see the monitor essentially reset and potentially require a full Windows reconfiguration. A firmware upgrade made no difference.

The new Gigabyte Control Center app also felt like a broken mess. It struggled to identify the monitor, offered fewer options than the OSD and didn’t automatically sync with them. While you might not change settings regularly, you won’t want to tinker with this too much.

Beyond the 4K QD-OLED screen, the MO27U2 hangs its hat on its gaming enhancements. The OLED variable refresh rate (VRR) anti-flicker feature will appeal to console gamers keen to reduce flicker when variable refresh rates are in play. The ‘Tactical Switch’ button quickly drops the display size down to a 24-inch mode and switches the aspect ratio to 4:3 or 5:4 to suit particularly persnickety competitive first-person shooter (FPS) players.

There’s an all-green-screen night-vision feature, an Eagle Eye sniper-zoom window plus the usual on-screen crosshairs and contrast-busting Black Equalizer features to stop enemies from jumping out of shadows. Some feel gimmicky, but they’ll appeal to niche audiences.

Another core feature is Gigabyte’s multifaceted anti-burn-in technology, backed by a three-year warranty, which potentially provides additional peace of mind.

Ultimately, though, the MO27U2 is priced as a premium gaming monitor but misses the mark in just too many areas. There are better options for similar money.

Gigabyte MO27U2: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $650 / £539 / AU$1,499
• When is it available? It’s out now in most regions
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, Australia and elsewhere

Gigabyte’s MO27U2 is available at significantly different price points all over the world, yet it’s expensive everywhere.

It’s worth comparing it with other premium UHD, 240Hz QD-OLED monitors in your region as it’s likely you’ll find a better deal, especially in Australia where the price is significantly higher, for some reason.

• Value: 3 / 5

Gigabyte MO27U2: Specs

Gigabyte MO27U2: Design

• Sober, work-friendly design
• Good connectivity
• Excellent gaming features

The Gigabyte MO27U2 has a thin yet robust glass screen that’s supported by a (refreshingly small) sturdy base. It’s simple to assemble owing to the stem clipping onto the back of the screen and screwing onto the base with a single thumbscrew.

The stem affords plenty of adjustment: there’s -5° to +21° of tilt, -15° to +15° of swivel, 90° of counterclockwise pivot and a generous 130mm (5.1in) of height adjustment. Its small footprint means competitive gamers can get right up close to it.

All of the important ports are covered. There are two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, one USB-C port (that supports DisplayPort, 18W power delivery and USB hub connectivity) plus one USB-B upstream port and two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 downstream ports. There’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack and (usefully) two 5W speakers. Some may lament offering only 18W of power delivery in the modern market, but that’s nitpicking. DisplayPort 2.1 is also an omission that few in the real world will miss.

You can access the settings by a joystick button (and two programmable buttons) at the bottom of the screen. It’s mostly responsive and intuitive, but some adjustments can reset the screen and even require setting up in Windows all over again.

I'm not sure what’s happened to the Gigabyte Control Center app, which is now barely functional. On the occasions that it did detect the display, it only provided access to a handful of settings and then wouldn’t always sync them with the screen.

A Game Assist menu provides access to ‘Game Info’ such as an on-screen timer, refresh rate display and multiple on-screen crosshairs. The Tactical Switch setting allows configuration of the shortcut button (next to the joystick button). You can also use it to automatically switch the display from a 16:9 ratio to 4:3 or 5:4. Resolution can be switched to a 24-inch mode with 4:3 and 5:4 options, something that makes a difference when playing competitive shooters.

Other features include an Eagle Eye sniper zoom box in the middle of the screen. I find this unusably annoying, but if you’re a camping sniper-type player, it might be beneficial to your ‘gameplay.’ There’s also ‘green-screen-style’ night vision (which I couldn’t get on with) plus (a welcome) flash dimming setting.

Other gaming features include AI Black Equalizer, which flattens contrast to reveal enemies hiding in shadows.

If you’ve got a console, then VRR mode can help prevent tearing in supported 120Hz games. Separately, Ultra Clear inserts black frames at 120Hz to reduce motion blur. It’s very effective and something that pro-gaming esports screens often make use of.

Other features are the usual monitor fare. There are plenty of image adjustment options and presets, so you can (at least attempt to) set up the monitor just so.

Finally, there’s a suite of OLED Care options including Pixel Clean, Static Control, Pixel Shift, Sub-Logo Dim, Corner Dim and much more. It also regularly performs an automatic maintenance cycle, but you can delay it if you’re in the middle of something important (unlike some rivals).

All in all, there are few features missing from the Gigabyte MO27U2, but it gets marked down for the terrible partner app and slow adjustment of some settings.

• Design: 4 / 5

Gigabyte MO27U2: Performance

• Impressive QD-OLED panel
• Mediocre HDR handling
• Fast 240Hz gaming performance

The tandem QD-OLED panel is generally very impressive. It gets bright (1,000-nit peak HDR brightness), with rich and vibrant colors, very good contrast and very nearly true blacks. The issue of spidery text (that we’ve seen with previous-generation panels) has been banished, and this, plus the UHD resolution and a physics-defying, low-reflection glossy screen means it’s excellent for work as well as multimedia consumption.

However, being a premium monitor means my expectations are higher. HDR performance is an issue: while details are visible in dark areas and bright lights pierce through them in localized areas of the screen, highlights get lost in bright areas too easily.

Transitions and gradients are mostly very smooth, but most adjustments will transform them into a stepped, blocky, artifact-riddled mess. This will be a minor point for many gamers, but there are better performers for similar money (not least from Gigabyte) available, so it’s marked down accordingly.

Still, the 240Hz refresh rate marries with a fast, 0.03ms pixel response time to banish blur to a degree where only the most demanding competitive FPS players might grumble. Nvidia G-Sync compatibility ensures image tearing isn’t an issue.

The twin 5W speakers might not offer the best fidelity, but they get loud and punchy and are very useful for watching casual videos from time to time, so I appreciate their inclusion.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Should you buy the Gigabyte MO27U2?

Buy the Gigabyte MO27U2 if...

Don't buy it if...

Also Consider

Want more options? Check out our guide to the best gaming monitors.

• LG has revealed a new 24.5-inch monitor in the UltraGear 25G590B
• It has a 1,000Hz refresh rate and motion blur reduction tech
• LG notes that it's designed for shooters 'where accurate aiming and near-instantaneous visual confirmation are key to victory'

LG has revealed a new display which it's billing as the 'world's first native 1,000Hz' gaming monitor.

VideoCardz spotted the press release LG issued announcing the UltraGear 25G590B, which is a 24.5-inch monitor with a Full HD (1080p) resolution and the first panel to hit the magic 1,000Hz refresh rate.

But is hitting that threshold really 'magic'? Well, it's a technically impressive achievement, but I'll discuss the reality of what this means in a moment.

First up, let's consider the rest of the specs of the UltraGear 25G590B, although not that many details have been shared so far.

What we do know is that this monitor has an IPS panel and a "low-reflection film" to reduce glare on the screen. LG has also incorporated 'Motion Blur Reduction Pro' tech that "makes fast-moving objects sharper and easier to track".

In other words, this helps you aim better in shooters – the likes of Apex Legends, Overwatch or Valorant – and this is a monitor that's "engineered specifically for first-person shooter games".

LG further notes: "This display provides ultra-fast visual updates, preserving the readability of in-game menus and interfaces while maintaining the crispness of both moving and stationary onscreen objects. The 25G590B is especially well suited to FPS games, where accurate aiming and near-instantaneous visual confirmation are key to victory."

The LG UltraGear 25G590B also has a couple of AI features (well, of course it does). The main use of AI here is to tweak the picture settings according to the game genre being played, but there's also an AI sound ability for a better spatial audio experience and clearer in-game comms, we're told, if you have a compatible headset.

LG's 25G590B gaming monitor is set to go on sale in the second half of 2026. We don't yet have a price.

Analysis: too refreshing?

Is this a monitor you'd want to buy? Well, not really – unless you're an aspiring esports professional who plays shooters, which is the target audience, as noted. Or unless you have a lot of money to throw around...

That refresh rate should certainly provide a very smooth and fluid gameplay experience, of course, and as LG notes, it's a 'native' 1,000Hz monitor that runs at that refresh rate in Full HD – as opposed to dual-mode gaming monitors that can drop to 720p resolution to achieve faster refresh rates. (And you don't really want to be pro-gaming with the loss of clarity involved in that particular fudge).

More broadly, though, how fast do refresh rates need to be? While 1,000Hz native is certainly a technical achievement, as observed, what does it mean in practice? The truth is that the vast majority of gamers won't be able to meaningfully tell the difference between 1,000Hz and, say, 360Hz.

The other point to bear in mind with a 1,000Hz monitor is that to get the full benefit of 1,000 frames per second, you need a GPU that can run the game in question at that level – which is no mean feat, even at 1080p resolution. Remember, this means being consistently at (and effectively over) 1,000 frames per second, too, which is rather different to being able to hit that frame rate occasionally.

In short, you'll need a monster graphics card, and the prices of those beefy GPUs are through the roof right now (thanks to the RAM crisis). Besides, for some games, a consistent 1,000 fps may not even be possible with a fully decked out top-end rig (although it is true that competitive shooters are designed for high frame rates).

All that said, even if there are arguments about exactly how much smoothness the human eye can detect – even for the sharper-eyed gaming pros out there – there are folks who claim that a massively high refresh rate can still be 'felt' in the gaming experience. And LG argues that its motion blur reduction tech "helps players follow rapid lateral movement with less effort [and] identify targets more clearly". This could be useful, or a gimmick – time will tell. (And speaking of gimmickry, I very much doubt that gaming pros will want AI 'intelligently' adjusting their picture settings).

The LG UltraGear 25G590B will be a pricey gaming peripheral, but it'll certainly be interesting to see how it's received by critics when the panel emerges later this year.

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36: One-minute review

OLED display tech has some killer advantages over traditional LCD panels. But it also has some weaknesses. Enter the new MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36. It's a 34-inch ultrawide model that debuts Samsung's very latest 5th Gen QD-OLED technology. Is this the OLED monitor gamers have been waiting for?

The basic proposition here is actually quite familiar. We're talking 34 inches, 21:9 aspect ratio and a native resolution of 3,440 by 1,440. That doesn't make for terribly impressive pixel density. But then this is a display that's unambiguously aimed at gamers.

The argument for this form factor is that there's decent image detail for games while not generating a massively debilitating load for your graphics card. That's important if you're going to make the most of the 360Hz refresh rate.

Speaking of which, that's the first obvious upgrade over previous 34-inch QD-OLED panels, which topped out at 240Hz. Next up is brightness. This panel is rated at 300 nits full screen and 1,300 nits peak HDR, up from 250 nits and 1,000 nits respectively. The HDR certification has also been bumped from True Black 400 to True Black 500.

Another important improvement involves ambient light. Up to now, all QD-OLED panels reflect a purple tint in strong ambient light, which compromises outright black levels and contrast. This new 5th Gen QD-OLED panel reduces, but doesn't quite eradicate the problem.

Finally, there's sub-pixel structure. This is the first QD-OLED panel generation to offer true vertical RGB-strip subpixels. To cut a long story short, that helps with detail rendering precision, including text and fonts, albeit that even with RGB-strip subpixels, this isn't a true high-DPI display and the font rendering is never going to be that crisp. But it does now match an LCD of the same size and resolution.

All told, the new panel tech is seriously sweet. It's that bit punchier on the desktop in SDR mode and, if anything, feels stronger than the 300 nit rating. But it's in games where this ultrawide QD-OLED really sings.

The combination of 0.03ms response and 360Hz refresh makes for incredibly rapid and responsive gaming. The motion clarity is pretty awesome. 21:9 monitors aren't the classic choice for esports, but this thing certainly has the speed for very competitive titles.

But the best bit is HDR gaming. MSI includes its EOTF boost mode for optimal HDR visuals and the result is stunning. This is the first OLED gaming monitor that looks almost as good in bright, sunlit game scenes as it does in darker scenes punctuated by sizzling details like lazers or neon lights.

In short, no LCD monitor, even one with full array local dimming, even comes close to the precision of the per-pixel lighting offered by this type of display. Once you've gone OLED, you won't want to go back, especially this OLED.

For the record, the feature set on offer here is strong, too, with comprehensive connectivity including USB-C with 98W of power delivery, a fully adjustable stand and a three-year warranty that includes burn-in cover.

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $899 / £999 / AU$1,899
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

At around $899, the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is retailing for around $150 more that its direct predecessor based on 3rd Gen Samsung QD-OLED tech. In the context of OLED gaming monitors, which are generally pretty expensive, that's probably a decent deal in return for the upgrades on offer.

Of course, an LCD-based panel of the same size, resolution and refresh rate can be had for half the money or less, but then that's OLED for you. It's the pricey option among the best monitors. One caveat to all this is that the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is proving popular and is often sold out of sites like Amazon and Newegg.

• Value: 3 / 5

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36: Specs

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36: Design

• Well built
• Good connectivity
• Three-year warranty

If the QD-OLED panel in the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is fancy and new, the design of the chassis and stand is largely familiar. And that's broadly no bad thing.

It's solidly built and the stand offers a full range of adjustment , including height, tilt and rotate. There's pivot, too, but only 20 degrees each way. In other words, you can't pivot this panel into portrait mode. But then it is a 21:9 aspect ultrawide gaming monitor.

As for connectivity, we're talking DisplayPort 2.1, two HDMI 2.1 ports, USB-C with 98W of power delivery and a two-port USB-A hub. In other words, pretty much all your connectivity bases are well covered. Just note that if you aren't interested in the USB-C connectivity, MSI may well release a cheaper version of this display in future with that feature either stripped out or with the power delivery reduced.

MSI also includes a three-year warranty with burn-in cover. The issue of OLED burn-in is likely to run and run. We are now several years into the the availability of QD-OLED gaming monitors and they are broadly proving pretty robust, albeit they will exhibit some light burn-in with heavy use.

Along with the three-year warranty and plenty of burn-in compensating features like pixel shifting, it's worth noting that Samsung claims that this latest 5th Gen QD-OLED panel is twice as durable as the previous generation. That bodes well for long-term resistance to burn-in.

Oh, and if you were wondering, yes, the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 has a glossy rather than matte screen coating, which is great for contrast and visual punch, but does come at a cost in terms of added reflectivity.

• Design: 4 / 5

MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36: Performance

• Improved brightness
• Sizzling HDR visual
• Incredible speed

Out of the box the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 is immediately brighter and punchier than its predecessor, albeit the difference isn't immedaitely dramatic. That said, the overall vibe is, if anything, more impressive than the 300 nit full-screen brightness rating implies.

Part of that is thanks to the fact the QD-OLED panels use pure RGB subpixel technology. Monitors using LG's competing WOLED tech rely on an additional white subpixel to achieve their brightness ratings.

That can be problematic because most real-world content as opposed to test patterns are a mix of colors rather than pure white. For color brightness, the white subpixel either won't boost brightness at all, or can blow colors out. Consequently, QD-OLED has better true color brightness.

Anywho, for almost all use cases, this new generation of QD-OLED panel tech has sufficient SDR full-screen brightness. But for HDR content, it positively sizzles. It's at its very best rendering a game scene that's a mix of very bright and very dark elements, all rendered at the same time with incredible precision and contrast.

Think an inky black background punctuated by a bright strip light, a control panel full of fizzing LEDs, or sparks, gunfire and lazers. On this monitor, that kind of thing looks stupendous.

MSI has also once again included its EOTF boost mode functionality. It basically combines the best aspects of the VESA HDR 500 mode with the Peak 1300 nits mode, enabling the highest brightness for both darker and brighter gaming scenes. In practice, you can use EOTF boost mode for pretty much all HDR content and get the best possible experience, instead of having to switch modes to suit the scene lighting. That's a real benefit.

The MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 admittedly isn't quite so impressive in brighter outdoor game scenes. But full-screen brightness is much improved on previous generations of OLED in that respect and pretty close to being a solved problem.

Along with all the HDR goodness is the usual speediness of OLED. This new pane ups the refresh rate to 360. Combined with the ridiculously quick 0.03ms pixel response, the result is pretty outrageous response and clarity. This is a very fast display.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Should you buy the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36?

Buy the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 if...

Don't buy it if...

• Originally reviewed in May 2026

• IJP OLED could be 30% to 35% cheaper than current OLED production
• Challenges remain, especially power consumption and blue OLED lifespan
• Expect to see the tech in premium laptops first, but TVs are on the cards

A new report says that the long-awaiting arrival of inkjet-printed OLED will slash the price of OLED production, making the tech much more cost-effective and the resulting displays much more affordable.

That's good news in the relatively short term for laptops (such as a near-future OLED MacBook Pro), and for smaller displays in devices such as phones and in-car consoles. And in the longer term it's good news for TV buyers too.

The dominant production technology in OLED production is FMM, which is short for Fine Metal Mask. According to display analysts Omdia, FMM costs are getting lower — but inkjet printing will be even cheaper, with a price difference of between 30 to 35% compared to FMM production. Given that OLED is an expensive tech to produce, that could make a big difference.

And price isn't the only benefit. Inkjet printing offers some significant advantages over FMM. However, it's important to note that those lower costs are a prediction for the future, not a measurement of how much IJP OLED costs to produce at the moment.

This is still a very new screen tech, and that means it's still expensive to manufacture because the yields — meaning the amount of panels produced that are good enough to sell — still need to be improved.

We've been told by TCL, the biggest player in the IJP OLED game right now, that it'll be several years before it's affordable in mass-market TVs — but in laptop and even monitor-sized panels, the tech is rolling out.

What's so exciting about inkjet-printed displays?

For manufacturers, the lower cost of inkjet printed displays isn't the only benefit. It's set to be much more efficient once it's working at full quality — Omdia says that for 16.3-inch OLED laptop displays, manufacturers can produce 10% more panels from a single substrate compared to FMM processes — and the machines cost less to buy.

That's the good news. But there are still some challenges for inkjet-printed OLEDs to overcome. One of the key challenges has been the lifespan of blue OLEDs made using the IJP process: according to TCL CSOT, in 2020 the lifespan of its blue pixels was just 40 hours. Power consumption was also a significant issue.

However, by late 2025 TCL CSOT had improved the longevity of its blues by ten times to 400 hours, and it had reduced power consumption by one-third — the technology has continued to develop since then.

This is a very fast-moving sector, and there's big money being spent on developing it: TCL CSOT alone has invested $4 billion in its T8 plant, which will be located in Guangzhou in China. It's intended to produce 22,500 substrates per month.

Those panels will be destined for monitors, notebooks and tablets, but TVs are on the roadmap too: as we reported last year, TCL has been showing off TVs with panels up to 65 inches in size. Mass production of the first panels from the plant is likely to commence in late 2027.

Thinking of buying a new TV?

Try our TV size and model finder! You tell it how far you sit from your TV, we'll tell you what size to buy based on viewing angle advice from image quality experts, and we'll recommend our three top TVs at that size for different prices.

• MSI has launched two new monitors, the MSI MPG 322UR X24, and the MSI MAG 321UP X24
• Both are 4th-gen QD-OLED monitors, using several new features to improve immersion
• DarkArmor Film and Uniform Luminance work to improve black levels and keep brightness consistent, respectively

QD-OLED displays are consistently lauded as the best on the market, thanks to their deep black levels, which ensure picture quality unmatched by mini-LED and regular LED monitors. However, it doesn't come without a few drawbacks, and that's what MSI's new displays promise to solve.

MSI has launched two new 31.5-inch OLED monitors, which were previously revealed at CES 2026: the MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24 and the MSI MAG 321UP QD-OLED X24.

Both models are 4th-gen QD-OLED displays, packed with several new features such as an AI Care Sensor to prevent burn-in by switching the display off when a user leaves the monitor's view. The most notable features are 'DarkArmor Film' and 'Uniform Luminance', both shaped to help revitalize and enhance the viewing experience.

DarkArmor Film is a new design made to increase black levels by 40% and increase the screen's scratch resistance. Most importantly, MSI claims it eliminates the 'purple tint' often seen on OLED displays in brightly-lit environments.

This should stop sunlight or other light sources from causing frustrating glares, which was the cause of the purple tint, and it's evident in MSI's demonstration video (available above), with the difference showcasing the DarkArmor Film display as the victor.

On top of that, both the 322UR and 321UP utilize Penta Tandem OLED technology, significantly enhancing brightness and improving light efficiency by up to 30% by stacking five light-emitting layers, a feature popular among new-gen OLED TVs and monitors.

Perhaps the bigger feature of the two is MSI's Uniform Luminance, which seeks to eradicate the aggressive auto brightness limiter (ABL) issues that plague OLED displays. Switching from small to bigger windows would result in very noticeable brightness shifts, leading to a jarring and inconsistent viewing experience.

Uniform Luminance uses customizable HDR curves to produce smoother transitions between light and dark scenes, ultimately reducing the impact of aggressive ABL and keeping brightness levels consistent.

Listings at several online retailers have the MSI 322UR QD-OLED X24 available at £895 / $1,099 / AU$1,799, and the MSI 321UP QD-OLED X24 available at $899.99 / (around £799 / AU$1,499). Undoubtedly, these are monitors worth keeping an eye out for, and ones I could see added to my wishlist.

• Alienware has launched a new 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED monitor
• The AW2726DM marks a significant change in the monitor market, making OLEDs much more affordable
• It's available for $350 / £369 / AU$699 in the UK, US, and Australia

It's been a long time coming, but OLED monitors have finally approached a stage of affordability for PC gamers and those focused on productivity — and it looks as though Alienware has spearheaded that change.

As reported by Notebookcheck, Alienware has launched a new 27-inch 1440p QD-OLED monitor, the Alienware AW2726DM, available at $350 / £369 / AU$699.

It utilizes a 0.03ms GtG response time, a 240Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync Premium support, HDMI 2.1 support, and most importantly, a 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio for perfect black levels — and it has easily entered my wishlist for a second desktop display.

Notably, the AW2726DM is lacking in brightness compared to more expensive QD-OLED models, with only 200 nits of brightness, and it's clear this is where corners have been cut to keep the price as low as possible.

However, that doesn't take away from the massive benefits the display has, as QD-OLED is popular for ensuring each scene in a movie or game has the best color and picture quality via deep black levels, and is mostly noticeable in darker scenes. The display is best used in an environment without light glaring on the screen, as it may easily spoil visuals due to the monitor's entry-level 200 nits of brightness.

The biggest takeaway is the $350 / £369 / AU$699 price, as this effectively makes other IPS or regular LED monitors at the same size and resolution obsolete, as the AW2726DM is now in the same price region, delivering tough competition for non-OLED displays.

It's hard to defeat an OLED panel in most cases, and while mini-LED monitors come close to delivering similar deep black levels, they can't fully compete, with their only main advantage being greater brightness.

Samsung previously made its intentions clear to make OLED more affordable, and while it has done that, Alienware's case stands out, as it has opened the floodgates for even more affordable OLED displays to enter the market.

This is simply because the price tag for the AW2726DM is the lowest I've ever seen for the display type without there being a discount. We may be looking at a future where OLED finally becomes fully mainstream in the desktop monitor market, and I couldn't be happier.

It's unfortunate that the RAM crisis is still impacting PC hardware in 2026 and is projected to continue through the upcoming months. Almost all PC hardware has been impacted by supply issues, which have ultimately led to obscene consumer prices due to memory and storage shortages.

However, it shouldn't be a big surprise that not all PC-related hardware has been impacted, and fortunately, gaming monitors are on that list. I'm also lucky enough to have hardware components in my desktop gaming PC that are capable of gaming at high resolutions with high graphics settings enabled in games.

The same applies to my LG UltraGear 45GS95QE 45-inch OLED ultrawide, with an 800R curvature that provides the best immersion you could ask for when gaming. The only problem is the 3440x1440 display resolution, which means you may notice individual pixels, impacting visual quality.

That's where Amazon's Spring Sale comes into play, and fortunately, there are numerous OLED and mini-LED monitors discounted that I'm eyeing as ideal replacements.

One in particular is the LG UltraGear GX9 5K2K OLED, available on Amazon for $1,426.99 (was $1,999,99). This monitor serves as a significant step up from the 45GS95QE, with a 5120x1440 display resolution, which perfectly fits the 45-inch screen size for fantastic visuals, better than you'd experience at 4K.

Another great option is the LG UltraGear 32GX850A-B 4K OLED, available on Amazon for $749.99 (was $1,299.99). It's not an ultrawide, so there's no curvature whatsoever with this display, but the 4K display resolution on a 32-inch OLED panel is certainly comparable to the immersive quality of an ultrawide.

It's not all about OLED, though. The best alternative would be a mini-LED, especially because mini-LED monitors often provide greater brightness compared to OLED, without the risk of burn-in.

The KTC 27-inch 4K dual-mode mini-LED is available on Amazon for $424.97 (was $499.99). Its non-dual mode counterpart, the KTC 27-inch 4K mini-LED, is also available for $305 (was $359.99). Both provide very high levels of brightness, with the former equipped with an HDR1400 VESA certification.

Having used both OLED and mini-LED displays, the latter shouldn't be underestimated, as the high brightness advantage over OLED is very noticeable, and can easily transform a game's visuals.

As 27-inch displays, it's much easier to play almost any game, without worries of the aspect ratio not being supported by certain games, which is still an issue with ultrawides.

There are plenty of monitors to highlight on sale, with excellent qualities for immersion, and it's a great distraction from the RAM crisis and its impact on other PC hardware components.

The RAM crisis continues to wipe out some PC hardware components, with price hikes limiting consumers' purchasing options, notably for GPUs, storage, and undoubtedly, memory kits. It's all thanks to the ongoing AI boom, which shows no signs of bursting, and could last throughout 2026.

Fortunately, not all PC components are impacted by the crisis, and OLED gaming monitors remain untouched. It's not a huge surprise, since gaming monitors don't use RAM, but anything PC-related is at risk of being hit by the raging crisis.

OLED gaming monitors are undoubtedly the best monitors when it comes to contrast levels. They provide the best black levels in images, meaning you're getting the optimal picture quality across games and movies.

Enter: the Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG, available on Amazon for $799 (was $999). For UK folks, the Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG is available on Amazon for £829 (was £1,049). This is a TrueBlack Glossy OLED 4K display that effectively reduces reflections and improves deep black levels, even in brightly lit environments.

The ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG is also a dual-mode monitor, which makes 4K gaming at a 165Hz refresh rate or 1080p at 330Hz possible, with the latter being ideal for competitive gamers. Its counterpart, the XG32UCWMG, also has a dual-mode feature, but is 4K at 240Hz and 1080p at 480Hz.

It's great to see OLED monitors prices gradually fall, and while the discounts here aren't exactly massive, they serve as examples of how OLED displays are becoming far more mainstream.

If you're lucky enough to own capable PC hardware for 4K gaming, these Asus ROG Strix monitors are among the best options to purchase, while the focus narrows on components directly impacted by the RAM crisis.

The PC hardware market's current state is unprecedented, and the RAM crisis struck suddenly, so it's not impossible to see shortages or price hikes of other components unrelated to RAM at some point in the future. Thankfully, that currently doesn't (and hopefully shouldn't) include gaming monitors.

While OLED displays are becoming more affordable, I'd act as fast as possible while the trend of plummeting prices lasts.

• Apple's next-gen Studio Display is official and still starts at $1,599
• It sticks with a 27-inch screen, but upgrades the camera, ports, and audio
• It's joined by the new high-end Studio Display XDR, replacing the Pro Display XDR

It’s hard to believe, but Apple’s Studio Display first hit the market back in March 2022. It marked a return to a consumer monitor from the Cupertino-based tech giant, which had previously made several Cinema Displays. Now, though, Apple is ready to usher in its next-generation Studio Display, and the upgrades look pretty solid, albeit they don't change much with the screen itself.

The new Studio Display still boasts a 27-inch 5K Retina display with support for P3 wide color, up to 600 nits of brightness, and more than 14 million pixels, all wrapped in a sleek silver aluminum frame. Apple didn’t upgrade the refresh rate here, though, as the Studio Display still tops out at 60Hz.

Here’s what is new: the 12-megapixel Center Stage camera now supports Desk View and offers an improved audio experience. Sound flows through a six-speaker system with four force-canceling woofers and two tweeters, which Apple says deliver 30% more bass than the first generation. There are still four ports on the back: two USB-C ports that can handle power delivery up to 96W and two new Thunderbolt 5 ports.

The Studio Display still starts at $1,599 / £1499 / AU$2,599 with a tilt-adjustable stand. But Apple has also introduced the Studio Display XDR, which replaces the Pro Display XDR. The Studio Display XDR is significantly more expensive — starting at $3,299 / £2999 / AU$5,499 — but features a 27-inch 5K Retina XDR display with a mini-LED backlight and over 2,000 dimming zones. It boasts a 120Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync to automatically adjust based on the content shown. Brightness reaches up to 1,000 nits in SDR and up to 2,000 nits in HDR, all while supporting a wider color gamut.

Just like the regular Studio Display, the Studio Display XDR also gets the upgraded 12-megapixel camera, enhanced audio system, and Thunderbolt 5 ports. We’ll have much more to say soon, but for now, Apple’s Studio Display and Studio Display XDR go up for preorder on March 4, 2026, and begin shipping on March 11, 2026.

The Studio Display gets Thunderbolt 5, a better camera, and deeper bass

Apple's updates to the core Studio Display really don't change much with the actual display itself. Rather, the focus here is three-fold: updating the 12-megapixel CenterStage camera, tossing in two Thunderbolt 5 Ports, and improving the already pretty great audio system.

That being said, if you were holding out hope for a ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate, that isn't a part of the second-generation Studio Display. Luckily, though, Apple's keeping the existing starting price for the Studio Display at $1,599. The screen here is still the 27-inch 5K Retina display, which delivers punchy, vibrant, and accurate colors at 60Hz and supports Wide Color. It's all wrapped in a premium build and offers great plug-and-play capabilities with any Mac.

Studio Display XDR looks like a powerhouse

Now, while it replaces the Pro Display XDR, the Studio Display XDR looks like a powerhouse, albeit an expensive one, with many of the features folks were hopeful for in the regular Studio Display.

The Studio Display XDR is also a 27-inch monitor, but it offers 2,304 local dimming zones from an advanced mini LED backlight with higher peak brightness for SDR and HDR content, as well as an adaptive ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate that will automatically adjust based on what content is on the screen, ranging between 47Hz and 120Hz. It lands with a 5120-by-2880 resolution, and Apple is especially emphasizing that HDR content will pop here.

More unique for the Studio Display XDR, it features a Medical Imaging Calibrator and new DICOM medical imaging presets to let radiologists use this display view diagnostic images. That means if a radiologist plugs in the Studio Display, XDR is appropriately calibrated to display those scans and images. Apple notes that the macOS Medical Imaging Calibrator is pending FDA clearance but expects it to be available soon in the US.

Apple's also packing in the same 12-megapixel CenterStage camera, the three microphones, and the same six-speaker Spatial Audio supporting sound system into the Studio Display XDR. For the starting price of $3,299, it comes with a tilt-and-height-adjustable stand, but you can also mount it with a VESA mount accessory.

The Studio Display XDR ditches the lattice rear design of the former Pro Display XDR and is built on the same design language as the standard Studio Display — it's just a bit heavier and thicker.

All in all, Apple is now treating its entire display lineup — well, the two it offers — under the unified Studio Display branding. The standard Studio Display remains clearly geared toward most consumers, but based on the specs, it doesn’t appear to deliver a dramatic visual upgrade, as it seems to use the same panel.

Meanwhile, the Studio Display XDR includes a stand and packs in many of the features we were hoping would trickle down to the standard model. We’ll need to go hands-on and properly test both displays to draw final conclusions, but for now, they go up for preorder tomorrow, March 4, 2026. And yes, you do get a  1-meter Thunderbolt 5 cable in the box for both.

• More details of the Apple Studio Display 2 have leaked
• 32-inch and 27-inch models could be incoming
• Apple has several product launches lined up for next week

We have more rumored details around possible successors to the Apple Studio Display, and it would seem that there are two models on the way, potentially offering different sizes and specs to tempt discerning monitor buyers.

The new information comes from Macworld (via MacRumors), and is based on "internal Apple files". There are two models referred to in these files, with the codes J427 and J527, and that suggests two different Studio Display 2 variations are incoming.

We might be about to see both a 32-inch and a 27-inch Apple Studio Display 2, according to the report, with the larger model offering a superior sound system and an improved port selection, as well as the extra screen space.

Both models are apparently set to get ProMotion support for refresh rates up to 120 Hz, while HDR support on both also looks likely. At least one Thunderbolt 5 port, supporting a 5K resolution at 120 Hz, has been mentioned.

A launch next week?

In terms of the design, we're not expecting any changes, and no aesthetic tweaks are mentioned in this report. The current Apple Studio Display offers a 27-inch screen and is up to 58.3 cm (23 inches) tall, depending on the stand you get with it.

This latest report follows on from several previous leaks around this upgraded monitor. Considering the first model came out in 2022, a second-generation model is definitely now due, potentially featuring a switch to mini-LED technology for its display.

Early in February, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported that shipping times for the Studio Display were starting to slip, suggesting that a refresh is in the works, with an upgraded internal chip – quite possibly the A19 used in the iPhone 17.

Gurman reckoned that a new model might appear sometime near the start of March – and wouldn't you just know it, Apple has a big week of product announcements coming, starting on Monday. Watch this space.

• JapanNext 31.5-inch 6K panel increases pixel density for sharper interface elements
• 60Hz refresh and 8ms response focus on productivity usage
• 500 nit brightness and 1500:1 contrast suit standard office lighting

JapanNext has released the JN-IPS326K-HSPC9, a 31.5-inch IPS monitor with a 6016 x 3384 resolution aimed primarily at home and office users.

This resolution exceeds the 3840 x 2160 pixel count commonly associated with 4K displays, resulting in a pixel pitch of 0.1159mm on this panel size.

In practical terms, that density means text and interface elements can appear finer, although the benefit depends largely on scaling settings and viewing distance.

Designed for office environments

This business monitor operates at 60Hz with an 8ms response time, specifications that indicate a focus on routine productivity rather than competitive gaming performance.

Brightness is rated at 500 nits and contrast at 1500:1, figures that align with upper mid-range IPS office displays currently available, and the panel covers 100% of the sRGB color space and 96% of DCI-P3, with support for HDR10 content.

While those numbers suggest suitability for photo or video editing, HDR performance on edge-lit IPS panels can vary depending on content and environmental lighting conditions.

This device supports a 178-degree horizontal and vertical viewing angle, which is consistent with IPS technology and helps maintain stable colors across wider seating positions.

The monitor includes Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture modes, allowing two input sources to be displayed simultaneously within a single-screen workspace.

Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light settings are available for extended sessions, and HDCP support is provided across HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C connections.

Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 connection, and a USB-C 3.1 interface capable of delivering up to 90W of power.

A built-in KVM switch allows users to control multiple connected systems with one keyboard and mouse, which may simplify desk arrangements involving separate devices.

Additional features include an audio output, integrated 2W speakers, compatibility with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, and support for 75 x 75mm VESA mounting.

The stand supports tilt, swivel, height adjustment, and pivot functions, offering flexibility for different seating positions and workspace layouts.

At €899, about $1,061, on JapanNext's website, the JN-IPS326K-HSPC9 sits among the more affordable 6K monitors currently available.

For comparison, Asus offers the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV at $1,289.99 through Best Buy, with specifications that include dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and broader stated color coverage.

At a higher price point, Dell lists the UltraSharp 32 6K U3224KB for $2,499.99 on its United States online store.

Given JapanNext sells its own 27-inch 5K monitor for under €700, it's not surprising that its latest monitor seriously undercuts the competition.

Like many PC gamers, I've been following the ongoing RAM crisis with despair. With memory becoming highly sought-after, prices have been steadily climbing, meaning that some of the most affordable ways to upgrade your PC – namely by upgrading the RAM or increasing the storage of your device – are no longer affordable.

Don't give up hope, however. Until memory prices stabilize, and hopefully drop, there are plenty of other ways to upgrade your PC without spending a small fortune. It's a mark of the strange times we're in that buying a new monitor is now more affordable than upgrading your RAM.

Buying a new monitor is one of the most impactful and easy upgrades you can make. It's impactful as a monitor is essential for any PC setup, and it's the thing you'll be looking at the most when using your device. By investing in a larger monitor – one with a higher resolution, or improved tech behind the screen – you'll instantly see the benefits.

This is also an easy upgrade to make, as you don't need to open up your PC to install a monitor – just plug it into your PC's graphics card or integrated graphics and you're done! This also applies to laptops, as connecting one to a monitor can give you much more space to work, or a more immersive user experience. If you're replacing your monitor, you don't need to throw it away, as you could always try a multi-monitor setup for even better productivity.

With Presidents' Day sales kicking off, now is a particularly great time to upgrade your PC with a new monitor without having to worry about memory prices. I've hand-picked the five best monitor deals I've found, based on my decades of experience as a tech journalist and PC gamer.

Today's best monitor deals

More of today's best Presidents' Day sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 40% off appliances, furniture & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off clothing, tech & furniture
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off furniture, rugs & decor

The Presidents' Day sales are already in fully swing across multiple retailers, and if you're looking for a new gaming monitor you can grab the Samsung Odyssey G93SD OLED at Best Buy for just $999.99 (was $1,699.99).

• Shop the full Presidents' Day sale at Best Buy

It's lauded as one of Samsung's best ultrawide monitors, and having used plenty of super-ultrawide displays myself I can certainly vouch for it. Its screen size is 49 inches, with a 240Hz refresh rate, Nvidia G-sync compatibility, and most importantly, an OLED panel.

Both 800R curved regular ultrawides and super ultrawide are the closest you can get to a VR gaming experience without a VR headset – the immersion is truly magnificent. It works best for those who have used 16:9 monitors consistently, as it's a step up for better perspectives in several games, and, if you're lucky, some movies that support the 32:9 aspect ratio.

• Check out more Presidents' Day monitor deals at Best Buy

OLED is still undefeated

You may have heard people say that once you go OLED, you can't go back, and that certainly resonates with me. The difference between OLED and regular LED monitors (even mini-LED in some ways) is astonishing, and the difference is clear when you view them side by side.

The backlight bleed on LEDs is mostly evident during darker sequences in games or movies, stripping away image quality and clarity, but with an OLED, there's none of that.

You can enjoy darker scenes with deep black levels without the constraints of backlight bleed, since OLED panels don't use a backlight, making them perfect for horror games, or even productivity cases against darker backgrounds.

More of today's best Presidents' Day sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 40% off appliances, furniture & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off clothing, tech & furniture
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off furniture, rugs & decor

Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF: One-minute review

OK, let's try to get one thing clear. The Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF is brand new. It's a super-fast 27-inch OLED gaming monitor that runs at an epic 500Hz refresh rate. It's brighter than previous Samsung 27 inchers. But it doesn't actually sport Samsung's very latest OLED panel technology.

Indeed, the whole narrative around the various generations of Samsung's QD-OLED technology has gotten very complicated of late. In some ways, it's easier to say what this monitor is not than what it is.

With that in mind, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF lacks a couple of the very latest QD-OLED panel features. First, it doesn't have the so-called RGB-stripe subpixel structure. And it lacks the new panel filter that reduces the purple-tint problem in ambient light.

We'll get to the implications of those shortly. But for now, what we're dealing with here is a 27-inch 1440p OLED monitor with a very high refresh rate that will appeal to gamers who value speed above almost, but not quite, all else.

If it's sheer speed you demand, look no further than the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF. The combination of 500Hz refresh and the usual OLED upside of incredible pixel speed makes for a sizzling gaming experience. This monitor is seriously fast.

It's also punchy thanks to updated QD-OLED panel technology. However, this isn't actually Samsung's very latest tech and that does show in a few areas. The non-standard triangular subpixel structure slightly compromises sharpness, while the QD-OLED purple-tint problem in bright ambient light remains.

More particular to this monitor are disappointing SDR calibration, a lack of USB-C connectivity and somewhat lofty price point. All of which means this isn't an automatic choice for those seeking a 27-inch 1440p gaming monitor. But for esports addicts and other speed freaks, it will still be hard to overlook.

Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $799 / £699 / AU$1,699
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

At $799 in the US, £699 in the UK and $1,699 in Australia, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF is pretty steep for a mere 27-inch 1440p monitor.

At this price point you can choose from all manner of LCD monitors (many featured in our best monitors buying guide) up to 49 inches, offering all kinds of resolutions and aspect ratios from 4K and beyond.

Of course, this is an OLED gaming monitor, and they all come with a price premium. However, even in that context, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF isn't exactly cheap. We've seen 27-inch OLEDs below $500 now and then, albeit not models that run at 500Hz.

• Value: 3 / 5

Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF: Specs

Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF: Design

• Slim bezels
• Compact base
• Large power supply brick

If you liked the look of Samsung's previous Odyssey gaming monitors, you're going to love the new Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF. Because it's a dead ringer in design terms.

For the most part, that's good news. This is a slick-looking and well constructed monitor with a modern vibe, thanks to slim bezels on all four sides of its QD-OLED display panel.

It also offers decent ergonomics with both height and tilt adjustment and a reasonably compact stand base that doesn't take up too much desktop space. The main blot on the ergonomic and design copybook, therefore, is the massive external power supply brick.

No doubt it helps to keep the chassis of the monitor slim, but it does make cable management and general tidiness that bit trickier. Speaking of cables, notable by its absence is support for a USB-C input cable.

You do get HDMI and DisplayPort, both of which support the full 500Hz refresh rate. And, yes, this is unambiguously a gaming monitor, so USB-C is that bit less relevant. But at this price point, you'd have thought Samsung might have thrown it in, anyway. That way you can easily, say, share this monitor between your gaming desktop and a work laptop.

• Design: 4 / 5

Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF: Performance

• Extremely fast
• Vibrant colors
• Limited SDR presets

The headline feature of the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF is its 500Hz refresh rate. Combined with the incredible response speed of all OLEDs, which the monitor industry pretty much universally rates at 0.03ms, and you have a recipe for incredible speed.

That's very much the subjective experience, too. This thing is hella quick, with remarkably little motion blur and essentially no discernible input lag. Put simply, esports fans who play online shooters and appreciate this kind of speed will love this thing.

Of course, the most serious of esports aficionados will probably still favour an even higher refresh rate and smaller 1080p monitor. So, the question then becomes, how is this monitor for everyone else?

Well, with a 2560 by 1440 native resolution, the pixel density is moderate at best compared to a 4K panel of the same size. So, this isn't the crispest or sharpest of displays. That's slightly exacerbated by the panel's triangular rather than RGB-stripe subpixel structure. If you like sharp fonts, this isn't the display for you.

It also suffers from the usual purple tint in bright ambient light that all QD-OLED displays suffer. Well, all bar a new generation of panels, but that tech isn't used here. Then there's the matte anti-glare coating. Sure, it reduces reflectivity. But it also robs this monitor of that sense of inky, almost infinite contrast that glossy OLED monitors deliver in the right circumstances.

Make no mistake, this is still a punchy, vibrant display, as indicated by an increased full-screen brightness rating of 300 nits. By way of example, there's a dark indoor scene in Cyberpunk 2077 involving sizzling arcs of electricity leaping across the screen. And it's absolutely stunning. That's perfect per-pixel lighting, OLED style, for you. No LCD monitor comes close. But with a glossy coating, it would have been even more incredible.

The Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF's factory calibration in SDR mode could be a lot better, too. The OSD doesn't actually offer the usual sRGB or DCI-P3 color presets, and none of the various modes that are offered deliver a properly balanced SDR experience. They're all overly warm in terms of color temperature, and are also oversaturated.

In mitigation, SDR content is actually really nicely calibrated in HDR mode. So, you can actually just run this thing in HDR mode for everything. But the SDR calibration and preset limitations are a little odd.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Should you buy the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF?

Buy the Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 G60SF if...

Don't buy it if...

• Originally reviewed in February 2026

• Gigabyte has revealed new OLED monitors at CES 2026
• A new HyperNits HDR feature seeks to improve brightness levels and avoid dimming issues
• Tandem OLED is also used here to boost brightness and reduce burn-in risks

CES 2026 is coming to a close, and there have been plenty of big reveals regarding gaming, but we're not done yet – a major manufacturer might just have solved one of the biggest issues with OLED gaming monitors.

As reported by KitGuru, Gigabyte has unveiled its new OLED gaming monitors at CES 2026, utilizing a new HDR feature called 'HyperNits' to address OLED Average Picture Level (APL) issues. To put it simply, HyperNits promises to increase overall brightness levels, but avoid blowing out highlights.

The Auto Brightness Limiter (ABL) on OLED monitors is present to protect them from burn-in and increased power consumption, kicking in when APL levels are high – in other words, when bright areas take up a significant portion of the screen.

This has been problematic for gaming scenarios, as games (or even movies) can constantly shift from dark to bright or vice versa, which can lead to a frustrating experience of overall brightness dimming. It's one of the few advantages mini-LED displays have over OLEDs – ABL still exists to some extent on mini-LEDs, but it's not nearly as aggressive as it is on OLEDs.

This was noticeable in my Mobile Pixels 34-inch mini-LED ultrawide review, where blooming and haloing were the downsides, but brightness was consistent even when APL levels were at 100% (gaming in full-screen), showcasing mini-LED's main advantage over OLED.

Gigabyte's HyperNits seeks to improve brightness consistency with OLED displays, with a claim of '30% more brightness' overall when the feature is enabled on the new MO27Q28GR OLED monitor (a mouthful of a model name, I know).

It's also a major plus that the MO27Q28GR is using a tandem OLED panel. This is tech that improves brightness levels, power-efficiency, and reduces the risk of OLED burn-in by stacking two OLED layers together.

With both of these innovations working together, we could be looking at a major advancement for OLED displays from here on out.

Analysis: OLEDs could move further ahead of mini-LEDs if this works

OLEDs remain on top in the battle against mini-LEDs, and some would even argue that there was no battle to begin with. Deep black levels on both are great for gaming immersion, but OLED takes the win in that department – although it's not quite the same story in terms of brightness.

While there are many OLED displays capable of 1,000 nits or more in HDR, the mentioned APL issues stop them from maintaining high brightness levels without noticeable dimming, whereas mini-LEDs are great at consistently high brightness.

If the combination of tandem OLED and HyperNits can avoid such brightness limitations, we could be looking at a scenario where mini-LED is completely left behind, potentially losing what's arguably the only major advantage it has over OLED monitors.

TechRadar will be extensively covering this year's CES, and will bring you all of the big announcements as they happen. Head over to our CES 2026 live news page for the latest stories and our hands-on verdicts on everything we've seen.

You can also ask us a question about the show in our CES 2026 live Q&A and we’ll do our best to answer it.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok for the latest from the CES show floor!

• Nvidia has improved its G-Sync technology to eliminate motion blur entirely
• G-Sync Pulsar works via pulsing technology with individually split backlight sections
• Pulsar-compatible monitors are set to launch on January 7, 2026

CES 2026 is well underway, and while Nvidia has held back on any new GPU announcements, there's plenty for gamers to be excited about in 2026 regarding DLSS 4.5 and improvements to motion clarity when gaming.

Nvidia has unveiled its new G-Sync Pulsar technology, set for launch on January 7, with brand new Acer, Asus, AOC, and MSI Pulsar-compatible gaming monitors launching on the same date. This new technology seeks to evolve Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) to eliminate motion blur issues while allowing users to benefit from smooth gameplay.

G-Sync in its current form has been around for a long time now, and this new version was previously teased at CES 2024 - but now it's finally ready and being released in new monitors for gamers to enjoy.

With VRR, monitors usually work to ensure that your frame rate in-game matches that of the GPU's frame rate, helping to reduce visual issues like tearing and stuttery gameplay. It was a successful addition, but not without issues of motion blur coming into play.

Nvidia previously launched Ultra Low Motion Blur (ULMB and ULMB 2) models to address motion blur issues, but this only worked at fixed refresh rates and would cause flickering if not used at those fixed rates. This ultimately prevents it from working alongside VRR (aka Nvidia's G-Sync) since that includes a dynamic adjustment of your display's refresh rate.

Now, Team Green has found a new solution with G-Sync Pulsar. This only works on Pulsar-compatible displays (of course) via multiple horizontal backlight sections, which each utilize pulsing via a 'rolling scan'. Nvidia states that these pulses happen at '25% of the frame time', giving pixels enough time to stabilize before being backlit.

Essentially, this provides much better motion clarity, as you can see in the image above, since motion hold times are four times shorter than they were previously (which were the cause of motion blur). What this means in simpler terms is gaming at 250fps will feel like gaming on a 1,000Hz monitor when using G-Sync Pulsar.

It's a huge advancement in VRR technology for Nvidia and one that monitor manufacturers should include going forward – fortunately, that starts with the likes of the Asus ROG Strix Pulsar XG27AQNGV, and others starting at $599.

This is the next generation of motion clarity, and while Nvidia's focus is on AI, G-Sync Pulsar and DLSS 4.5 indicate that it's not leaving gaming behind completely – and I'm certainly glad about that.

TechRadar will be extensively covering this year's CES, and will bring you all of the big announcements as they happen. Head over to our CES 2026 live news page for the latest stories and our hands-on verdicts on everything we've seen.

You can also ask us a question about the show in our CES 2026 live Q&A and we’ll do our best to answer it.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok for the latest from the CES show floor!

• Acer has revealed a range of new products at CEs 2026
• The main announcement is a fresh line of laptops featuring the new Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors
• Other reveals included an esports monitor and a Predator-branded e-scooter

The ball is rolling on CES 2026, and that means lots of new hardware reveals. It's an exciting time of year for us here at TechRadar, and it looks like Acer hasn't disappointed, with a range of new products coming in hot.

Leading the pack are several new laptops equipped with Intel's new 3rd-gen Core Ultra CPUs, including the Aspire AI, Swift AI, Swift Edge AI, Swift Go AI, and several new gaming laptops in the Predator and Nitro ranges. Yes, those have 'AI' tacked onto the end of the product name for no good reason, too.

I'm only gently chiding Acer for this, though, as it's become common practice across multiple laptop brands in recent years to include 'AI' in the name. In my inquiries, nobody has been particularly forthcoming about why they're doing this, but it's likely a combination of desire to demonstrate these new laptops' AI capabilities (thanks to the new Intel Core Ultra 300 chips powering them, which boast superior AI performance compared to the previous 200 generation) and pressure from Microsoft to champion Copilot, its AI assistant that now comes baked into Windows 11.

Overall, though? I have to say that these new laptops look good. The Aspire and Swift models come in both 14- and 16-inch display sizes, with the super-premium Swift Edge 14 AI weighing in at less than 1kg with a thickness of 13.95mm, making it one of the thinnest and lightest laptops in its performance class. The new Predator Helios Neo 16S AI is also impressively thin and light for a gaming laptop, packing an RTX 5070 GPU but with a chassis less than 19mm thick.

New visuals

The reveals didn't stop there, though. New monitors are up next: we saw two gaming-focused models under the Predator brand, one curved and one esports-oriented (with a ludicrous '1000 Hz dynamic mode' for maximizing your framerate), along with another gaming monitor from the Nitro family, which offers a 27-inch 5K panel. Meanwhile, digital creatives were served by the new ProDesigner PE320QX, which delivers a stunning 6K resolution and 1.07 billion color support.

Elsewhere in the display space, we saw a new projector, the Vero HL1820. Side note: did you know Acer makes home cinema projectors? I did, but several of my coworkers didn't! As part of the eco-friendly Vero product line, it's constructed with a chassis composed of 50% post-consumer-recycled materials.

There was also a host of connectivity products, primarily some new routers, including the Predator Connect X7S 5G CPE: a wireless router that uses 5G and 4G connectivity to deliver lightning-fast Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for gaming and streaming wherever you may go. Peripherals were included too, with the new Predator Cestus 530 gaming mouse and Galea 570 headset.

Get scootin'

The most unusual reveal, however, was the Predator ES Storm Pro E-scooter. Described as a 'performance-focused e-scooter designed for varied urban conditions', it features a foldable aluminum frame, ten-inch tubeless tires, and of course, RGB lighting. It's a Predator-branded product, after all.

Now, this isn't the first electric scooter Acer has produced; the ES series has been kicking around for a little while now, so it's not surprising to see Acer wheel out a new one at an event like CES. What is surprising is that this model proudly bears the Predator branding. I don't know if there's a lot of crossover between the PC gaming and e-scooter markets, but clearly Acer thinks so.

With IPX5 water resistance and a riding range of approximately 60km on a single charge thanks to regenerative braking technology, it certainly looks pretty sweet. But I don't really know a damn thing about e-scooters, so that's just about all the analysis I can offer on this particular product reveal!

• Samsung will fully unveil the 'world's first' glasses-free 3D 6K gaming monitor at CES 2026
• It comes shortly after the abxylute 3D One handheld was announced
• Glasses-free 3D gaming seems to be making a resurgence

I've seen 1,000Hz monitors, 5K2K displays, and a 3D handheld in 2025, and now, Samsung has introduced a new 'world's first', which will join the list of recent hardware, in what appears to be a sudden resurgence of 3D displays.

As we previously reported, Samsung announced its new lineup of monitors, one of which includes a glasses-free 3D 6K gaming monitor, in what is lauded as the 'world's first'. It will utilize real-time eye tracking to achieve a smooth and responsive experience for gamers, and will be fully revealed at CES 2026.

It should be quite clear that using this display will require a powerful GPU for gaming; the hardware demands when gaming at 4K are already high, and a push up to the 6K resolution will certainly need more powerful hardware for users to achieve higher frame rates.

More importantly, though, this is yet another sign that the push for 3D gaming experiences is seeing an increase in popularity among manufacturers; the most recent example is the abxylute 3D One announced in 2025, which is another glasses-free 3D device, and it's available for pre-order, set to ship this February.

While 3D displays have stuck around for a long while, it's not exactly common to have them catered towards gaming experiences, but it looks like Samsung wants to change that.

It will be interesting to see how this works alongside the 6K resolution in games, and Samsung has highlighted a few in particular, such as The First Berserker: Khazan, Lies of P: Overture, and Stellar Blade. The major drawback will be the games that don't officially support 3D, especially for a monitor that will surely come with a hefty cost.

Analysis: isn't 6K a little too much?

While Valve's Steam player base doesn't count for all PC gamers, it's certainly a significant portion of PC players, and the Steam surveys often indicate that most users are gaming at 1080p (53.68%), with a decent number at 1440p (21.77%), but 4K (5.47%) is still far behind both, from December's results.

Since 4K monitors still aren't fully mainstream in terms of wider usage, a jump to 6K in resolution seems to be unnecessary.

I'm quite interested to see how the glasses-free 3D gaming will pan out, and whether that will improve immersion, but I'm not quite convinced that PC gamers need or want to game at 6K just yet – especially during the current PC market craze of high prices.

We'll have to wait and see from hands-on reviews at CES 2026 and onwards, but I'm mostly focused on whether this will be popular enough to push 3D gaming further into the mainstream PC gaming market.

TechRadar will be extensively covering this year's CES, and will bring you all of the big announcements as they happen. Head over to our CES 2026 news page for the latest stories and our hands-on verdicts on everything from wireless TVs and foldable displays to new phones, laptops, smart home gadgets, and the latest in AI.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok and WhatsApp for the latest from the CES show floor!

• Primary RGB Tandem 2.0 promises increased brightness for 2026 screens
• This is the next-gen version of the tech used in the LG G5 OLED TV
• LG's OLED comes in two categories: Tandem WOLED and Tandem OLED

LG Display makes the OLED panels for tons of the best OLED TVs and PC monitors too, and that means any changes to its panels will have an enormous ripple effect. So a video teasing its 2026 technology and panels is intriguing – as is a big rebrand that (sort of) adds simplicity to its naming conventions.

LG is rebranding its panels in the run-up to CES 2026, where it'll be showing off its latest generation of products. And the first part of the rebranding is to label its panels for monitors and TVs as 'Tandem WOLED'. The W stands for 'white' in reference to the extra white light sources used LG's OLEDs to increase brightness. 'Tandem' means there are multiple layers of OLED pixels used within the panel.

The second part of the branding is to label OLEDs for mid-sized devices – laptops, tablets, in-car systems and so on – as 'Tandem OLED'. These panels don't use an extra white element, and have a structure of RGB sub-pixels on each layer – the 'Tandem WOLED' panels, in contrast, use only one color of pixel per layer.

That's not all. LG Display is also teasing multiple OLED panels and 'Primary RGB Tandem 2.0' technology, which seems to go against the simplicity of the rebranding, but will presumably come under the umbrella of 'Tandem WOLED' overall.

But what's interesting isn't the name – it's what it's likely to deliver. The first generation of Primary RGB Tandem panels is used in models such as the LG G5 and Panasonic Z95B as well as in some of the best gaming monitors, so it looks like a significant upgrade for their successors is imminent.

What is LG Display teasing for 2026?

According to FlatpanelsHD, the Primary RGB Tandem 2.0 technology "is expected to push brightness further than in 2025". And in a YouTube video showcasing "the next level of gaming: Tandem WOLED", LG Display is teasing multiple large WOLEDs for gaming monitors.

The video features one panel that's been rumored for some time, a curved 39-inch WOLED with a 5K 5120x2160 resolution. That appears to be more subtly curved than previous panels.

And it also shows a 27-inch Tandem WOLED with "high ppi" that FlatpanelsHD suspects is UHD/4K based on its model number, 27U. That would pit it directly against Samsung Display's 27-inch 4K QD-OLED. The video also shows a previously announced panel, the 27Q, which is a 540Hz 1440p panel with dual-mode 720Hz.

However, the video doesn't tell us much about picture quality improvements to expect from the 2.0 version of the tech, which would be more relevant for TVs – the video claims up to 1,500 nits of peak brightness, but that's what the previous version promised too.

We'll hear much more from LG Display – and from everyone else in the TV industry – at CES 2026, which is only a few weeks away now. In the meantime, LG has unveiled its new Micro RGB TVs, which make use of a next-gen mini-LED backlight.

• Philips and AOC have unveiled new 1,000Hz gaming monitors
• They claim they're the 'world's first' 1,000Hz gaming monitors, despite AntGamer's upcoming monitor slated for 2026
• Both will utilize the same panel with a dual-mode feature

With CES 2026 on the horizon, we can expect several new PC hardware products to arrive, and fortunately, Philips and its sister brand AOC have already unveiled new monitors that may seem extreme, to say the least.

As reported by our friends at PC Gamer, Philips and AOC have revealed two 1,000Hz refresh-rate gaming monitors: the Philips Evnia 27M2N5500XD and the AOC Agon Pro AGP277QK, both of which will use the same panel. They will both support dual mode, allowing users to quickly switch from their default QHD resolution and 500Hz to HD at 1,000Hz.

Philips and AOC claim this is the 'world's first' 1,000Hz gaming monitor, but that will largely depend on which monitors go on sale first: the Evnia 27M2N5500XD, the Agon Pro AGP277QK, and the AntGamer monitor (previously announced in September), all slated for 2026.

Aside from a 2000:1 contrast ratio, VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, and 1ms GtG response time, we don't yet have full specifications on the Philips and AOC displays. However, with new hardware expected in January, it shouldn't be long before we get the whole picture on these monitors.

However, many (including me) may be wondering who exactly these monitors are for, as 1,000Hz seems like overkill, even for competitive gamers. It's also worth noting that image quality when using the dual-mode switch will be significantly reduced, as it will fall to HD (1920 x 1080) rather than QHD (2560 x 1440).

Analysis: I don't mean to be a killjoy, but nobody needs a 1,000Hz gaming monitor

With a 500Hz refresh rate, it's already borderline overkill, as most users won't notice a difference between 144Hz and 240Hz. A push to 1,000Hz, however, sounds completely unnecessary, as there are almost no modern games that are capable of pushing beyond 240fps, and you're asking for a lot to even reach that frame rate.

I suppose it will come down to how much both of these monitors will cost, and if any of the current 27-inch dual-mode monitors are anything to go by, I'm expecting this to be very expensive.

I'm sure there will eventually come a time when such high refresh rates are relevant, but as of now, I see this as nothing but overkill from Philips and AOC. Who knows. Maybe I'll be proven wrong.

Feeling the Black Friday blues? If you missed our Black Friday gaming monitor deals, you can still get this MSI Optix G32C4W Curved Gaming Monitor at Walmart for $129 (was $249).

Curved monitors have become more popular for gaming over the past few years because of how they increase immersion. The curved screen matches the natural curve of your eye, which makes it easier to take in details and reduces the strain on your vision, too.

This particular MSI curved gaming monitor is very similar to the MSI Optix G27C4 we recommended in the past, just with a larger 31.5-inch screen instead of a 27-inch one. I'd argue that the bigger screen makes it even better. It also matches the VA LED panel, speedy refresh rate and response time, all for a terrific low price.

Today's best cheap gaming monitor deal

VA panels are a special kind of LED display that use vertically aligned (thus, VA) liquid crystals to increase brightness and contrast, which really shine in the MSI Optix G32C4W. The visuals really pop with the 178-degree viewing angle and 1500R curvature - not quite top-tier, but desirable for the price.

It's got other perks to improve visuals, too. The 165Hz refresh rate (higher than the average mid-range gaming laptop I've seen) and 1ms response time keep gaming sessions snappy, and AMD FreeSync minimizes any screen tearing you might find.

As for connectivity options, it includes two HDMI (1.4) ports and one Display Port (1.2). These aren't the top-of-the-line, either, but match the capabilities of a monitor that can't go 4K and sticks to full HD 1080p.

For more, I'd recommend browsing our best gaming monitors and best ultrawide gaming monitors. We also have recommendations for the best monitors in general, including gaming.

Time is running out on your chance to land a new monitor this Cyber Monday, and I think I may have found the best gaming monitor deal yet. The AOC Q27G41ZDF 27-inch QD-OLED is on Best Buy for $369.99 (was $549.99), thanks to a very generous $180 price drop.

• Shop Best Buy's full Cyber Monday sale

It should be well known that QD-OLED panels are the best at producing deep black levels, with the best contrast ratios you'll find on any display. That's exactly why this AOC 27-inch monitor, priced at $369.99, is an absolute steal that you shouldn't scoff at, and it's the cheapest OLED gaming monitor for desktops that you'll find this Cyber Monday. With a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.3ms response time, and a 2560x1440 display resolution, there's plenty for both console and PC gamers to love about this deal.

(Not in the US? See today's best deals in your region below!)

Today's best AOC Q27G41ZDF 27-inch QD-OLED Cyber Monday deal

Honestly, I don't think there's an easier choice to make this Cyber Monday. QD-OLED panels are the best at ensuring black levels on screen are as accurate as possible, which works like a charm in movies and games.

The QD-OLED benefit should be enough to stand on its own as a selling point, at such an affordable $369.99 price, but when you throw in the boost of a 240Hz refresh rate, it's a hard one to scoff at.

I've used quite a fair amount QD-OLED displays and a some mini-LED monitors, and I can tell you that while the latter does a great job at deep black level accuracy, it doesn't match up to OLED. This looks like one that's on the pursuit of many gamers, so I'd make a move for it now before it's too late!

More Cyber Monday deals in the US

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

Christmas is fast approaching, which means there are tons of sales on monitors – and better yet, it's Cyber Monday. Don't worry, I've selected the best deals I could find, and some of them we've already tested.

• Shop Amazon's full Cyber Monday sale

While the MSI MPG 491CQPX was on sale during Black Friday at $899.99, that ship has now sailed.

Instead, the MSI MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED is on Amazon for $699.99 (was $899.99), thanks to a $200 price drop. Considering the benefits of improved multitasking and deep black levels due to the QD-OLED panel, you're getting a display that's well worth the money.

One of the biggest deals that has carried over into Cyber Monday is the Samsung 27-inch ViewFinity S8 (S80D), which is now $199.99 at Amazon US (was $419.99). It's another huge saving, due to a generous $220 discount. With its 4K display resolution, this monitor is easily one of the cheapest high-end displays you'll find throughout Cyber Monday, and should suit a wide range of activities.

The BenQ PD2725U is still on sale for $699.99 at Amazon – a $100 saving on one of the best monitor options available. Its 4K resolution and accurate color reproduction make for casual users and gamers too. The same applies to the Dell S2725QS, which is now $224.99 at Amazon US (was $299.99), another 4K display.

Amazon's Cyber Monday monitor deals – quick links

• MSI MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED: was $899.99 now $699.99 at Amazon
• Samsung 27-inch ViewFinity S8 (S80D): was $419.99 now $199.99 at Amazon
• BenQ PD2725U: was $799.99 now $699.99 at Amazon
• Dell S2725QS: was $299.99 now $224.99 at Amazon

Today's best US Cyber Monday monitor deals

Today's best UK Cyber Monday monitor deals

Dip into our in-depth buying guides below to learn more about the best monitors for every scenario:

• Best gaming monitor
• Best monitors for home working
• Best monitor for programming
• Best monitor for graphic design
• Best monitor for MacBook Pro
• Best monitor for photo editing
• Best monitor for video editing
• Best monitor for a dual screen set-up
• Best vertical monitor

More Cyber Monday deals in the US

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

More Cyber Monday deals in the UK

• Amazon: up to 66% off tech & essentials
• AO: up to £500 off Dyson, Bosch & Hisense
• Argos: up to 50% off appliances, tech & toys
• Boots: save on 1,000s of beauty products
• Currys: deals on Ninja, Shark & Lenovo
• Dell: laptops from £279
• Dyson: up to £550 off vacuums
• EE: Switch 2 bundles from £20/month
• John Lewis: up to 50% off tech & fashion
• Lego: sets & accessories from £2.99
• Samsung: deals on appliances & phones
• Very: up to 40% off tech, toys & fashion

Black Friday may be over, but Cyber Monday deals are in full effect and Asus just dropped one of the best 4K gaming monitor discounts I've ever seen. The Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM is down to $899 (was $1,299) at Amazon, which is definitely not something you see everyday for a gaming monitor of this caliber.

• Shop Amazon's full Cyber Monday sale

For under $1,000 during Cyber Monday, you're getting a 32-inch panel, lightning quick 240Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, and gorgeous 4K QD-OLED picture quality. That's a rare deal you shouldn't let slip by if you have the PC to back it up.

Today's best Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM Cyber Monday deal

Usually, I recommend choosing either a 4K monitor or a high-refresh rate panel depending on the type of games you like to play. But with a deal this sweet, why not get both?

The Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM features a beautiful 32-inch QD-OLED panel that will bring your single-player story titles to life in a way you just won't get from LCD, IPS, or even mini-LED panels. If you haven't cruised through Cyberpunk 2077's Night City with ray tracing enabled on an OLED monitor, you are seriously missing out. If you're an HDR aficionado, you'll be happy to know the ROG Swift OLED is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified.

And you're getting amazing specs for competitive online games, too. A 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time is definitely nothing to scoff at, letting you play at up to 240 FPS in games like Counter-Strike 2 where a few frames are often the difference between victory and defeat.

It also comes packed with several quality of life features. Panels this big and powerful get hot - but the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM has a custom heatsink and solid airflow to combat that.

With burn-in being a real (and annoying) issue, the PG32UCDM has built-in Asus OLED care to keep your monitor in peak condition, no matter how long your gaming sessions get. And you can fine tune just about every setting you can think of in Asus DisplayWidget, including brightness, contrast, shadow boost, and more.

Don't wait for Cyber Monday to end - cash in on one of the best gaming monitor deals I've ever seen while you still can.

Shop more of today's best Cyber Monday sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $119
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 30% off appliances, holiday decor & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off Christmas decor, clothing & furniture
• T-Mobile: up to $1,100 off latest iPhone 17
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off Christmas, furniture & decor

4K screens are now so affordable that everyone looking for a new monitor or a replacement should absolutely consider one. They pack as many pixels as four separate mainstream full HD monitors - but don't cost four times the price.

For Black Friday, I have researched what I consider to be the best value for money 4K displays for the average consumer.

• Samsung 27-inch Viewfinity S7 4K is the best overall 4K monitor at just $180 (down from $400) at Amazon
• Amazon's Topmonitor 4K 15.6-inch is best if you want the cheapest 4K monitor at just $96 (down from $120)
• Toshiba has the most affordable 43-inch 4K display at just $130 (down from $300) at Amazon
• And if you have enough space on your desk, then why not opt for the TCL 55-inch F35-series 4K panel at an amazing $170 (down from $330)

You will have noticed that most of the products listed in this guide are 4K TVs - which are the best way to get UHD resolution on a reasonably large screen without breaking the bank.

Even absolute budget models like the $130 Toshiba 43-inch Class C350 4K LED Fire TV will be better kitted than your average entry level (and far more expensive) 4K monitor.

The C350 has a full fledge remote control with Alexa built in (great for swapping video inputs), a pair of built-in speakers, digital audio out, a LAN connector, headphone output, three HDMI ports and two USB inputs.

Others have useful features like Picture in Picture allowing two devices to share a screen.

Another reason I am a fan of using large 43-inch TV as monitors is the availability of mature, solid operating systems like Fire TV, Google TV or Roku which allows users to load compatible apps and even screen cast content directly on the screen.

I'd direct gamers to this gaming monitor buying guide, creatives to this photoshop monitor guide and those looking for 5K or 8K monitors to that one.

• Shop all Black Friday 4K screens at Amazon.com from $98
• Check out all Black Friday 4K panels at Amazon.co.uk
• See all 4K displays at BestBuy from $139
• Discover dozens of 4K TVs at Walmart from $140

32-inch monitors and smaller

43-inch screens

50-inch displays or larger

Across multiple storefronts, Black Friday is hitting hard with sales on plenty of PC hardware, but now we turn our attention to gaming monitors. Fortunately, the LG UltraGear 45GX90SA-B OLED on Best Buy is $899.99 (was $1,699.99), saving you a massive $800.

The same LG UltraGear 45GX90SA-B OLED on Amazon is £1,178.97 (was £1,299.97) for UK buyers, saving £121.

If that's not a convincing sale for UK folks, then fortunately, the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE-B OLED on LG's store is £999 (was £1,499.99), with a huge £500 in savings.

Shop Best Buy's full Black Friday sale

While my model is the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE-B OLED, it's hardly much different from the 45GX90SA-B on sale, with one of the only major differences being the latter's addition of speakers, remote control, and WebOS. Both displays are phenomenal at gaming immersion, with an 800R curvature at the 3440x1440 display resolution.

(Not in the US or UK? See today's best deals in your region below)

Today's best LG UltraGear 45-inch OLED Black Friday deals in the US

Today's best LG UltraGear 45-inch OLED Black Friday deals in the UK

Having bought the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE-B OLED, I can easily recommend it to any gamer looking to dive into an ultrawide experience, as it's now my favorite gaming monitor on the market.

Both 45GX90SA-B and 45GS95QE-B share almost the exact same specifications, except the former has a webOS and built-in speakers. There are plenty of games that you'll be able to dive into again and experience in a new way, because yes, the 800R curve combined with OLED is truly great.

Shop more of today's best Black Friday sales

• Amazon: up to 66% off tech & essentials
• AO: up to £500 off Dyson, Bosch & Hisense
• Argos: up to 50% off appliances, tech & toys
• Boots: save on 1,000s of beauty products
• Currys: deals on Ninja, Shark & Lenovo
• Dell: laptops from £279
• Dyson: up to £550 off vacuums
• EE: Switch 2 bundles from £20/month
• John Lewis: up to 50% off tech & fashion
• Lego: sets & accessories from £2.99
• Samsung: deals on appliances & phones
• Very: up to 40% off tech, toys & fashion

Every day, our eyes spend on average 6 more hours interpreting light from screens than we do in natural daylight.

While it is widely accepted that content shapes our mood, we often overlook how the way we engage with that content affects us too. In today’s world, we need to understand that vision is not just about processing light or pixels; it’s also about how our brains and bodies respond to light itself.

This interaction can influence our emotions and productivity in subtle but powerful ways, from stirring restlessness to fostering calm or worsening fatigue.

We can’t change daylight, but we can change our screens. The monitors we choose in our tech ecosystem are central to our experience.

For example, the difference between 60Hz and 144Hz refresh rates isn’t just a number — it determines how fluidly we perceive motion. Choices in color temperature, brightness levels and screen contrast influence not just what we see, but how long we can sustain attention without strain.

Beyond pixels and numbers, there are hidden wellness implications. Poor-quality displays can contribute to eye strain, posture problems, disrupted sleep cycles and even reduced attention spans.

While monitors alone are not a health solution, thoughtful choices can ease daily discomforts and support healthier habits – without sacrificing performance.

User-centric innovations — such as adjustable stands, low blue light technology and adaptive brightness — represent the shift toward user-centric displays that enhance our mood and reduce strain.

How light affects human vision and health

The display format, especially how monitors manage light, plays a key role in user comfort and wellness. The way light is emitted and filtered from monitors influences how users see, focus and feel over time.

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy, is based on how specific wavelengths interact with cells, particularly mitochondria, to influence biological processes. Studies show that PBM can enhance adenosine triphosphate production (ATP), reduce oxidative stress, and promote tissue repair.

While much of this research has focused on healing and neurological conditions, the same principles highlight how display light may impact user experience and wellness over time. It’s not unlike adjusting the lighting in your living room. If they’re too bright, it’s uncomfortable; if they’re too dim, it’s hard to focus.

While I’m not an expert in light therapy, one can suggest that monitors that manage light more naturally, can create that ‘just right’ balance that decreases stress and keeps users comfortable for hours at a time.

We already have monitors that significantly reduce blue light without compromising the quality of screen content, and I know systems that will mimic natural daylight are the next step to innovating for enhanced user comfort.

Vision and perception

Human vision responds to refresh rates, brightness and color balance in ways that affect comfort and productivity. Therefore, our choice of monitors silently influences us.

Refresh rates above 144Hz are essential to reduce motion blur and visual fatigue in fast-moving work. This is key to designers, video editors or gamers across the board looking for a monitor that can keep up with their needs, but not for users primarily looking at text.

Inadequate refresh rates could cause flickering, screen tearing and stuttering, which adds unnecessary strain to the users’ eyes and even headaches or nausea after prolonged exposure.

Adaptive features such as automatic brightness and contrast adjustment help maintain visual comfort without sacrificing performance. Equally vital are color accuracy to ensure true-to life visuals and reduce eye strain from color inconsistencies.

Smart visual systems enable users to process light in ways that influence both perception and wellness. The blue light spectrum spans roughly 380–500nm, with a peak around 435nm.

With the right monitor, users don’t need to compromise on the performance of their displays. Advancements in technology are creating displays that limit blue light while projecting images that feel more natural to the eye without the yellowish tint of traditional software filters.

While the current industry is primarily focused on blue light in the 415-455 nm range, hardware-based filtering in monitors make it so that there is no yellowish tint and enables a more realistic viewing experience.

Unlike software-based solutions, hardware-level blue light modulation is built directly into the LCD panel, ensuring even and consistent light output that remains comfortable during long periods of use. This marks a major evolution in how display technology addresses the intersection of vision science and human wellness.

Understanding these effects helps explain why some monitors feel effortless to view, while others quickly lead to visual fatigue — highlighting how thoughtful engineering can make screen time more natural and sustainable.

Wellness implications

The design of monitors also quietly influences wellness. Excessive blue light can disrupt circadian rhythms, while flicker and glare may contribute to fatigue or headaches.

Although all light exposure can inhibit melatonin production, nighttime blue light has a particularly potent effect – much like drinking coffee late in the evening; it can delay the body’s natural signal to wind down.

Features like low blue light and adaptive brightness aren’t medical fixes but can make daily screen use healthier and more sustainable. Today, monitors are being designed to reduce blue light emissions to below 1% while maintaining realistic visuals, representing a new frontier in aligning displays with long-term comfort.

The ongoing innovation in the visuals design space underscores the notion that monitors are becoming more than static panels. They are intelligent tools designed to support wellness, creativity and productivity simultaneously.

Conclusion

The future of monitors lies in designs that reflect how people actually see and work. While the most innovative displays may come at a premium, the cost is small compared to the hours users spend in front of them each day.

Just as companies invest in ergonomic chairs or standing desks, investing in high-quality monitors pays dividends in comfort, focus and reduced fatigue over time. By combining visual science, wellness-minded features and intelligent adaptation, displays can help users stay focused, comfortable and creative in a digital-first world.

We've featured the best monitors for home working.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: Two-minute review

I was specifically drawn towards the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 in hopes that its Ambiglow RGB feature would enhance my gaming experience, and I'm quite happy to report that it did, with color shifts that made my favorite games like Resident Evil 4 remake and Cyberpunk 2077 blossom even more – but not without some downsides. As I mentioned in a previous feature, my love for super-ultrawide monitors hasn't faded, but I've felt I needed a break from them.

Issues with desk space and games not supporting the 32:9 aspect ratio are one thing, but the 49-inch display size made the Auto Brightness Limiter (ABL) far more noticeable than it would be on a smaller display, as I realized when testing on other OLED ultrawide monitors like the Alienware AW3423DWF OLED ultrawide.

In my experience, I couldn't fully enjoy the Ambiglow feature as much as I thought I would, considering the length of the display (which can serve as a compliment to how immersive it is), and yes, I tried it without another monitor mounted on top of it, and came to the same conclusion. It's also worth noting that the Ambiglow feature can sometimes fail at representing accurate colors.

That doesn't mean it's bad by any means, but it made me realize that I likely would have enjoyed the feature far more on the 34-inch 1440p or 42-inch 4K Philips Evnia models. It just gets to a point where you wonder if the 32:9 aspect ratio is a little bit too much, but ultimately, if those aren't dealbreakers for you, you'll absolutely love this display.

On a more positive note, though, gaming in titles like Call of Duty or Battlefield 6 on this display gives you an extra edge and lets you take advantage of a 240Hz refresh rate. If you have the hardware capable of pushing high frame rates, you'll reap the benefits with smooth gameplay and a 0.03ms Grey-to-Grey (GtG) response time, minimizing ghosting and blur as pixels transition.

It's not just multiplayer FPS shooters where this shines, as this is an exceptional display in narrative-driven action games, and truly makes you feel like you're at the center of the action. The increased point of view you get with super ultrawide displays, as such, should not be understated, providing a cinematic experience to get lost in, and I felt that across the numerous single-player games I tested on this display.

The 49M2C8900 is another display that highlights how much better OLED is when compared to regular LED or even mini-LED monitors. Sure, mini-LED displays can provide better, more consistent brightness levels, notably because there's no frustration with ABL. However, OLED is simply undefeated when it comes to deep black levels, and you can see that in my Wallpaper Engine screenshots below – truly fascinating.

Just to highlight, if you're a big fan of horror games that take full advantage of dark environments or even those with constant color changes like Cronos The New Dawn, then there's plenty of fun to be had with this display. The images don't do it enough justice, and some might even suggest there's major bloom or over exposure, but that isn't the case at all with this display.

It gets even better when Ambiglow is working at its best, blending in perfectly with jumpscares or sequences in games where colors shift rapidly on screen, lending extra ammunition to an immersive visual experience. I can definitely see this being loved by those who aren't particularly enthused by Ambiglow when buying this monitor, as opposed to me, who was underwhelmed with its inconsistencies.

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: Price & Availability

• How much does it cost? $1,500 (retail) / £799 / AU$1,799
• When is it available? Available now (first released in 2023)
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

The Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 is a pricey super ultrawide monitor, retailing at $1,500 and around £1,649.99 in the UK, which would have been an instant dealbreaker for me and many others. Still, it's been available since 2023, so pricing has inevitably plummeted, meaning you can find it at much lower prices – specifically £799 (around $1,050) – with more active sales seeing it drop even further.

Is it worth the retail price it was at previously? No, and that's no shade on the display's quality, because $1,500 is a tough ask for any gaming monitor. However, at its current pricing, I can easily recommend this for anyone who's adamant to dive into the QD-OLED super ultrawide gaming experience, with the added productivity benefits.

However, it's worth noting that if you do plan on getting this display, it's best to act fast, as it can be quite difficult to find it at various online stores. It doesn't appear to be discontinued yet, but new Philips Evnia monitors are likely on the horizon to take the limelight.

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: Specs

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: Performance & Design

Again, on a more consistent basis, I was left happy using the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900, as it gave me what I needed for almost all of my games (excluding those that don't support the 32:9 aspect ratio).

It's simple, really: if immersion is your top priority and you've never used a display like this, I have no doubt this will be right up your alley. I must admit that I'm an ultrawide enthusiast, so I do have an element of bias towards these displays. Still, if anything, that ultimately makes me more critical of them with nitpicks – but aside from the issues with Ambiglow and ABL, there are hardly any complaints from me with this display.

When ABL isn't an issue, you really notice just how great high brightness is for gaming, and thanks to the QD-OLED panel, I had no problems with any form of ghosting or smearing, which is something you might find with a VA mini-LED monitor, like the Mobile Pixels 34-inch ultrawide monitor I reviewed.

It's also worth noting that while this monitor is FreeSync Premium Pro certified, it supports G-Sync, so both AMD and Nvidia GPU users will be able to enjoy screen-tearing-free gameplay.

Speaking of GPUs, it would be worth investing in a beefy GPU; to give you an idea, I was using the Asus TUF RTX 4080 Super OC GPU (the second GPU behind the RTX 4090), and the 5120x1440 display resolution gives it a run for its money, knocking Cyberpunk 2077's frame rate down to its knees around 50 to 60fps with ray tracing enabled and Frame Generation disabled.

In terms of design, there's a lot to love regarding the Ambiglow feature when it's functioning without glitches, and, excusing my personal issues with the width of these super ultrawide monitors, I believe many others will appreciate color shifts and effects even more than I do.

I didn't get to use a monitor mount, and the stand that comes with it is serviceable, but I would recommend buying a desk mount as the stand's base takes up a decent amount of space on the desk – and the screen itself is already wide enough, taking up a majority of the room available.

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: Productivity & OSD

It isn't just gaming where it shines, though, as productivity was a highlight while testing this display. If you thought that the 32:9 aspect ratio would serve as a detriment to your work-from-home duties, think again, because I was left very pleased with what the 49M2C8900 had to offer.

I tend to multitask a lot when working, with multiple browser tabs left open, and perhaps some videos playing in the background, and this is the monitor built just for that. Yes, there are readability issues, as you'll find with a wide variety of OLED displays with fringing around text, but this has never been a major issue for me, and it wasn't the case with this display either.

While my review unit didn't come with a remote control, the addition of one is a godsend, and another aspect I don't see nearly enough monitor manufacturers considering. I haven't got my hands on the remote control at all, but I don't need it, as I know that anything other than constantly reaching for the power button and OSD control behind the display is significantly more convenient.

The OSD itself is serviceable with numerous tabs on settings for Ambiglow (in the Ambiglow tab), SmartImage, and other input and audio options. Besides the option of a remote control or the OSD control on the monitor rear, the Philips Evnia Precision Center software works wonders as a replacement, allowing you to change settings via mouse and keyboard.

Should you buy the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED?

Buy the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED if...

Don't buy it if...

Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED: also consider

How I tested the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED

I used the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD-OLED for just over a month, for both work and play, testing numerous games and movies to grasp the performance of the screen and the Ambiglow color capabilities.

This is a 32:9 display, so multiplayer shooters like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 were tested to take full advantage of the screen estate and enhanced perspective of action on screen. It's incredibly ideal for games that rely on instant reactions and better views of peripherals, and it's one of the highlights that I noticed consistently.

After using a handful of displays now (particularly QD-OLED), I've been able to differentiate the pros and cons of these displays compared to regular LEDs or mini-LED, which is why I'm certain that this is among the best you'll ever find on the market.

It's the final countdown on Prime Day deals, and that means if you're adamant on acquiring a new gaming monitor, it's time to put your money where your mouth is, as many deals will exire tonight at midnight.

Cutting straight to the chase, the best deal here is the LG 34GS95QE UltraGear 34-inch OLED gaming monitor, which is now available at $696.99 (previously $1,299.99), almost 50% off for one of the most immersive displays available.

Thanks to its 800R curvature, and having used the larger 45GS95QE (45-inch) version, I can assure you that the 34GS95QE is one of the best gaming monitors on the market. It's got the best On-Screen Display (OSD) I've used on a gaming monitor, with swift and smooth transition animations to enable settings, alongside deep, inky black levels due to its 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio.

However, it's not just LG's UltraGear displays that have had pice cuts; there's plenty more to find from the likes of Asus, Acer, and MSI, and I'm here to highlight the best discounts, because the clock is ticking fast!

Amazon Prime Day gaming monitor deals in the US

Amazon Prime Day gaming monitor deals in the UK

Amazon's Prime Day sale in the US – quick links

• Amazon Devices: 50% off TVs, Ring & Fire Sticks
• Apple: AirPods + iPads from $99
• Back to school: deals from $5.99
• Beauty: 80% off toothbrushes & skincare
• Headphones: $120 off Bose, Apple & Sony
• Health: electric toothbrushes from $24.99
• Kitchen: 54% off Ninja, Nespresso & Keurig
• Laptops: record-low prices from $175
• Tablets: iPads and Samsung from $54.99
• Toys: 40% off Lego, scooters & Toniebox
• TVs: cheap TVs from $59.99
• Vacuums: Shark, Bissell & Dyson from $49.99

Amazon's Prime Day sale in the UK – quick links

• Amazon Devices: up to 50% off Echo & Ring
• Appliances: Ninja & De'Longhi from £29.99
• Gaming: Nintendo Switch 2 – in stock now
• Headphones: Anker & Sony from £15.98
• Health: up to 68% off Philips, Remington & Oral-B
• Home: fans from £12.99
• Laptops: Lenovo, Asus and HP from £159.99
• Phones: up to 20% off Apple & Samsung
• Tablets: Lenovo & Samsung from £119
• Toys: up to 50% off Lego & Mattel
• TVs: cheap TVs from £109
• Vacuums: Shark and eufy from £99
• Wearables: up to 25% off Huawei & Samsung

It's a bit of a surprise, to be honest, but Amazon Prime Day is still only hours away, and we may have already struck gold with a delightful deal that will reshape your visual PC gaming experience. The LG 45GX900A 45-inch Ultragear OLED ultrawide is now available for $999.99 (previously $1,699.99), almost 50% off its original price.

• Browse all the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days discounts

With a 45-inch display size, an OLED panel complementing the 3440x1440 resolution, and an 800R curve, this is the monitor you'll want to aim for to acquire a new level of immersion while gaming. It's currently at its lowest price ever on Amazon, and at $999, it's hard to beat – and I wonder if any monitor deals this Amazon Prime Day will top this one.

(Not in the US or UK? See today's best deals in your region below)

Today's best LG 45GX9 Prime Day deals in the US

You have two options here: the LG 45GX900A-B, which takes advantage of a 3440x1440 resolution, offering incredible immersion thanks to its 800R curvature, or the LG 45GX950A-B UltraGear OLED, a monitor that is arguably the best you could buy due to its crystal-clear image quality via a 5120x2160 resolution.

Many have been asking for a 4K ultrawide, and LG has answered. The knockdown to its current $1,597 price is genuinely reasonable, as it doesn't get much better than that when it comes to visual enjoyment in games.

However, don't let that write off the LG 45GX900A-B, as both are more than capable of changing the way you see your games – and having purchased a similar model (without built-in speakers), the LG 45GS95QE-B UltraGear OLED, I can tell you not to worry about seeing pixels due to its 45-inch screen size and 3440x1440 resolution.

More of today's best LG UltraGear Prime Day deals in the UK

More of today's best Prime Day deals

• Amazon Devices: from £19.99
• Blink: cameras from £14.49
• Fire TV Stick: from £19.99
• Kindles: up to £70 off
• Laptops: from £149.99
• Ring: up to 60% off cameras & doorbells
• Tablets: Fire Tabs from £49.99
• TVs: from £169.99

I've long been a big fan of ultrawide displays, and QD-OLED display tech has taken them to new heights and into the ranks of the best gaming monitors. With inky deep black levels, fast refresh rates, and a widened perspective, they're hard to beat.

Super-ultrawide displays take things up a notch with an expansive 32:9 aspect ratio – and the Philips Evnia QD-OLED 49M2C8900 is one such example. I've been using this 5120x1440 OLED for a while, and it provides exceptional image quality across games and movies.

Impressive though it is, however, I've now reached a point where I'm casting wistful looks at the standard ultrawide in the corner of my room. Super-ultrawide monitors may be the epitome of immersive PC gaming for some, but I'm done with them for a while.

The light-not-so-fantastic

One of the most intriguing features of the 49M2C8900 super-ultrawide is its Ambilight RGB feature.

This works in much the same way as Philips' excellent Ambilight TVs do, casting patterns of light on to the wall behind the screen to match what's happening on it and further increasing the sense of immersion.

As with other Ambilight Evnia monitors, the 49M2C8900 has several Ambilight modes to choose from, including 'Follow Audio' and 'Follow Video'. The latter does a good job at capturing colors on screen accurately, and playing intense, fast-paced action titles such as Split Fiction while using it was mind-blowing at times.

However, in my experience, and on this model at least, this version of Ambilight can also be very inconsistent, with cases of random colors flashing on the rear even when there was a static image on screen.

I also found the 49-inch screen size to be a drawback for Ambilight. The screen is simply too wide and takes up such a significant amount of space on my desk that it's hard to even notice the color shifts happening (even without my second monitor mounted on top).

I could also use that as a positive for the actual screen itself, as its brightness (when it's not dimming every few minutes, which I'll get into) was enough to make me forget the RGB lights were on – but then I could equally say that the RGB lights need to be brighter, too.

I've also found the OLED Auto Brightness Limiter (ABL) to be a problem. There's a good reason for this feature to exist in OLED displays – namely, to help prevent them from overheating and burn-in, with the latter in particular being a big potential drawback to the display tech.

Unfortunately, the aggressive ABL on the Philips Evnia QD-OLED 49M2C8900 goes a bit too far: it kicks in regularly while gaming, and particularly when a large portion of the display gets bright.

This can easily pull you out of your immersion; Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the best games to play when using HDR, thanks to the ray tracing tech available, but while I was able to enjoy the usual great contrast and colors an OLED screen provides, the constant brightness dimming proved distracting.

With my Alienware AW3423DWF, the same ABL disturbances occur, but only when using the HDR 1000 mode. That isn't the case with this Philips Evnia display, as it dims in both SDR and HDR.

It was also an issue with the Asus 49-inch QD-OLED super ultrawide I tested, albeit it wasn't this bad or noticeable, so I'm not sure if there's a pattern with super ultrawides or if I just have the worst luck.

More is less

Don't get me wrong, this Evnia monitor is fantastic in many ways and can give you the extra edge in both single-player and multiplayer titles, if you've got the hardware capable of playing at the 5120x1440 resolution. But whether it's super-ultrawide fatigue on my part or just issues with the models I've tried, these behemoths are just not doing it for me right now.

It's partly a space issue: they leave so little behind for other devices or components. With my 34-inch Alienware QD-OLED ultrawide I can still fit my laptop, Lian Li desktop PC large case, and speakers on my desk, but the 49-inch Evnia display leaves little to no room at all.

And then there's the price – the Phillips model launched at $1,500 / £1,650, and though it's now dropped a fair bit, if you can find it, there are better options in our best monitors guide for less.

Ultimately, I'll stick with a standard ultrawide display for now – after all, you can have too much of a good thing.

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Acer Predator X32 X: One-minute review

The Acer Predator X32 X is not the first 32-inch 4K gaming monitor we've seen using Samsung's QD-OLED panel technology, but it does pack a particularly strong feature set at an awfully punchy price.

As ever, the central appeal here is a stunning 32-inch QD-OLED panel with full 4K resolution and 240Hz refresh. That means you not only have a large, cinematic viewing experience. You also get great pixel density, and therefore super-sharp visuals with oodles of detail.

This isn't the very latest OLED technology, so there are some limitations that I'll come to shortly, but Acer has upped the ante over some of the similarly priced competition. Retailing for $1,199.99 (about £885 / AU$1,800), the Predator X32 X has really strong supporting features, including USB-C connectivity with 65W power delivery and a KVM switch, the latter allowing you to share this monitor with two PCs or maybe a PC and a console.

Just be sure to note that we're talking here about the Acer Predator X32 X and specifically the model with the Xbmiipphuzx suffix. It's distinct from the mere Acer Predator X32 V2bmiiphx, which is similar, but only runs at 165Hz and doesn't offer the USB-C and KVM switch. Oh, and also don't confuse this with the Acer Predator X32 X3, which seems very similar but is actually based on LG's competing WOLED panel tech.

Yes, it's all a bit confusing, and those alpha-numeric jumbles are a branding disgrace, but none of that prevents this monitor from going toe-to-toe with the best gaming monitors on the market right now.

Acer Predator X32 X: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $1,199 (about £855/AU$1,800)
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US and UK, with Australia availability TBD

At $1,199.99 in the US (about £885/AU$1,800), this isn't the absolute cheapest 32-inch gaming monitor based on Samsung's 4K QD-OLED panel. It's also difficult to find in the UK right now, as some retailers like Amazon and Overclockers will have a listing for the monitor, but list it as unavailable and don't give current pricing. I've reached out to Acer about the stock issues in the UK and will update this review if and when I hear back from the company.

One of the things that makes the UK stock issues frustrating, though, is that the Predator X32 X is one of the most competitive 4K QD-OLED gaming monitors out there.

Few if any comparably priced 32-inch 4K OLEDs include both USB-C with power delivery and full KVM switch capability. If you want to share this monitor across, say, a gaming PC and a laptop, that's just perfect.

Even if you don't, you're paying little to nothing extra for the option to do something like that in the future. That makes this Acer a bit of a no-brainer if you're shopping among the various 32-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor options on the market right now, like the Alienware 32 AW3225QF or MSI MAG 321UPX.

• Value: 4.5 / 5

Acer Predator X32 X: Specs

Acer Predator X32 X: Features

• USB-C with power delivery
• KVM switch

Though I've seen plenty of best 4K monitors implement Samsung's QD-OLED panel tech, the Acer Predator X32 X is unusual in implementing a curved panel surface. It's fairly gentle at 1700R, but curved monitors aren't to absolutely everyone's taste.

For the record, it also comes with a glossy panel coating for maximum contrast. Again, there's a degree of personal preference in the whole glossy-versus-matte thing, so whether this is a plus or a minus will depend on which side of that divide you land.

More universally welcome is the excellent connectivity. As you'd expect, there's both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 (two of the former, one of the latter). But the extras start with USB-C with 65W power delivery.

You can get USB-C interfaces with over 90 watts of power. But a high performance gaming laptop needs plenty more still. Few, if any, monitors can keep a true gaming laptop fully juiced. So, this Acer's USB-C interface still delivers on the premise of single-cable connectivity for a thin-and-light portable.

To that you can add a USB-A hub and KVM switch capability. That suits the broader capabilities of this monitor pretty handily. As a 4K 32-inch monitor, it's ideal for getting serious work done. But the 240Hz refresh and OLED panel tech are also fantastic for gaming.

With the KVM switch, you can attach both a gaming rig and, say, a work laptop, and seamlessly share a keyboard and mouse across both PCs. The Acer Predator X32 X isn't unique in this class to offer those features. But it is one of, if not the cheapest, we've seen to do so, and it's something not many of even the best monitors on the market don't offer.

• Features: 4.5 / 5

Acer Predator X32 X: Design

• Narrow bezels
• Good adjustability
• Requires a large power adapter

Design considerations are always subjective. But there's no doubting the Acer Predator X32 X is unambiguously aimed at gamers, what with its sharp lines and RGB mood lighting. Minimalist and sleek it ain't.

That said, the most gamery design flourishes including the RGB lighting are at the rear. The front of the monitor is relatively low key with slim bezels on all four sides of the QD-OLED panel.

Likewise, the "Predator" branding on the lower bezel is pretty small. So, it wouldn't actually look that out of place in a work environment.

It's also nicely engineered and has height, tilt and swivel adjustment. Overall, it feels well built and worthy of the relatively elevated price tag. Ergonomically, our only significant complaint is the massive external power brick. Integrated PSUs are just that little bit slicker and neater.

• Design: 3.5 / 5

Acer Predator X32 X: Performance

• Perfect per-pixel lighting
• Incredible fluid and responsive gameplay
• Full-screen brightness can be somewhat muted

The Acer Predator X32 X doesn't throw up any huge surprises, performance-wise. For the most part, that's good news. I've seen lots of these 32-inch 4K gaming monitors using Samsung's QD-OLED technology, and they are pretty incredible, and that's just as true here as the rest of them.

The obvious upsides include perfect per-pixel lighting for infinite contrast and the spectacle of both very bright and very dark objects rendered with incredible precision on the screen at the same time. It's a trick that no LCD panel, even with local dimming, can pull off. Once you're used to the stunning HDR sizzle displays like this are capable of, it's hard to go back to even a really good IPS monitor.

To all that, you can add the advantages of full 4K resolution. That brings a fairly high pixel density of over 140DPI and means that the non-standard triangular RGB subpixel arrangement of QD-OLED technology is no longer a problem when it comes to clear text rendering. This thing is crispy.

It's also incredibly detailed in games. Combine the aforementioned HDR thrills with 4K image detail and precision, plus the 240Hz refresh and ridiculously fast pixel response performance of all QD-OLED panels, and, well, it's an incredible experience. But not a perfect experience.

This isn't the very latest OLED panel tech, so full-screen brightness is limited to 250 nits. That's not terrible, but it does mean that brighter outdoor gaming scenes can look a little dull. This monitor only looks at its absolute best when it's showing a mix of brighter and darker image elements. Light up the whole screen, and the panel dimming algorithms kick in and reduce overall brightness.

Of course, that's true of all monitors based on Samsung's QD-OLED technology, as is the slight problem with how the panel performs in bright ambient conditions. Long story short, if you use this monitor in a really bright room, the panel itself can reflect a lot of light, which impacts perceived black levels and contrast.

It won't be a problem for most users. But it is worth bearing in mind, depending on where you're planning to use a monitor like this.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Should you buy the Acer Predator X32 X?

Buy the Acer Predator X32 X if...

Don't buy it if...

Acer Predator X32 X: Also consider

If my Acer Predator X32 X review has you considering other options, here are a few other monitors to consider...

How I tested the Acer Predator X32 X

I played all my favourite games on the Acer Predator X32 X. That includes everything from ray-traced graphics fests like Cyberpunk 2077 to online shooters including Counter-Strike 2.

I wanted to get a feel for everything from HDR performance, to pixel speed and responsiveness. Of course, this monitor is also great for getting serious stuff done, so I used it as my daily driver for a week, including work, web browsing and ye olde YouTube.

The QD-OLED panel tech used by Acer is familiar. I've reviewed at least five other 32-inch 4K monitors with the same panel, plus several with LG's competing WOLED tech. The Acer Predator X32 X didn't throw up any surprises. But that's mostly a good thing because it means the competitive pricing is especially appealing when you factor in the excellent connectivity.

• Originally reviewed in September 2025