The Best Ultrawide Monitors for 2024: Expert Recommendations

Ultrawide monitors provide an expansive digital workspace by combining the screen real estate of dual-monitor setups into a single, seamless display. According to testing conducted by PCWorld, the best ultrawide monitors for 2024 balance resolution, refresh rates, and connectivity options like USB-C Power Delivery, with the MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 currently holding the top spot for its versatile performance across gaming and productivity tasks.

Choosing the Right Ultrawide Monitor

Selecting an ultrawide monitor requires balancing panel technology against your primary use case. IPS panels offer high color accuracy and sharpness, making them ideal for professionals, while VA panels provide superior contrast at a lower price point. OLED technology currently leads in motion clarity and deep black levels, though it often comes at a higher cost. For most users, a 34-inch display with a 3440×1440 resolution provides the optimal balance between pixel density and hardware requirements, according to PCWorld’s hardware analysts.

Top Ultrawide Monitor Picks

• Best Overall: The MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 features a 5th-generation Samsung QD-OLED panel with a 360Hz refresh rate. It includes 98W USB-C Power Delivery, allowing for a single-cable connection for video, data, and laptop charging.
• Best for Gaming: The MSI MPG 341CQPX excels in immersive gaming with its 240Hz refresh rate and outstanding motion clarity. It supports both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, making it a strong choice for high-speed simulation and strategy titles.
• Best Budget Option: The Gigabyte GS34WQC offers a 120Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 135Hz) and a VA panel that delivers deep black levels. While it lacks the tool-free assembly of more expensive models, its price-to-performance ratio makes it a standout for budget-conscious gamers.
• Best 5K Display: The Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW provides a 40-inch, 5K resolution workspace. It is designed for creative professionals who require high pixel density and extensive connectivity, including Thunderbolt and Ethernet ports.
• Best Big-Screen Gaming: The LG Ultragear Evo GX9 utilizes a 39-inch tandem WOLED panel. With a 5120×2160 resolution and high HDR peak brightness, it is built for users prioritizing immersion in flight or racing simulators.

Technical Considerations and Trade-offs

When shopping for an ultrawide display, connectivity is a critical factor. Monitors equipped with USB-C Power Delivery significantly reduce desk clutter by consolidating power and data cables. However, as noted by PCWorld, many budget-friendly models omit this feature to keep costs low. Furthermore, buyers should avoid ultrawide monitors for console gaming; since consoles do not natively support the 21:9 aspect ratio, users will experience significant black bars on the sides of the display.

Testing Methodology

PCWorld’s recommendations are based on hands-on testing performed by staff and freelance reviewers. Using a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool, the team measures brightness, contrast, color gamut, and color accuracy. These objective metrics allow for consistent comparisons across different price points, removing subjective bias from the evaluation process. This rigorous approach ensures that recommendations meet high standards for both productivity and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the best resolution for an ultrawide monitor? For most 34-inch displays, 3440×1440 is the standard. It provides sharp visuals without being as demanding on graphics hardware as 4K.
• Is HDR necessary for gaming? HDR is not mandatory, but it improves image quality in high-end gaming. It is recommended for monitors priced at $500 or higher.
• Should I buy a 45-inch ultrawide? While larger screens exist, many 45-inch models use the same 3440×1440 resolution as 34-inch displays, resulting in lower pixel density and reduced image sharpness.