At CES 2025, the gaming monitor landscape was brimming with innovation, showcasing the latest from top vendors. This year promises to be a landmark period for gamers, with significant advancements in display and graphics technology leading to some truly exciting developments.
QD-OLED Isn’t Going Anywhere and Should Become More Accessible
The standout trend at CES 2025 was the continued dominance of QD-OLED technology. Major players like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG were all showcasing their latest models, emphasizing their commitment to this technology. Representatives were eager to discuss the advanced burn-in warranties and protective features, underscoring the industry's push towards more robust display tech.
Following the surge in 2024, 2025's QD-OLED monitors are setting new standards. Several brands introduced 4K 240Hz QD-OLED displays with high-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections. Notably, MSI unveiled the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, a 1440p model with an astonishing 500Hz refresh rate. The diversity in panel technology across brands suggests a future filled with fast, visually stunning monitors.
Protection features are also evolving, with Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor in the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG being a highlight. This sensor, part of the OLED Care suite, automatically switches to a black screen when you're away, preventing burn-in and pixel wear. As QD-OLED tech matures, we can expect prices to drop, making last generation's models more affordable throughout the year.
Mini-LED Isn’t Dead, But It *Is* Tech To Keep an Eye Out For
While not as prominent, Mini-LED technology still made an appearance at CES 2025. MSI aims to position its dual-mode AI mini-LED, the MPG 274URDFW E16M, as a cost-effective alternative to QD-OLED. With 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, it offers impressive contrast, particularly in well-lit environments. This 4K monitor runs at 160Hz, with the ability to switch to 320Hz at 1080p, though its AI-driven resolution switching feature remains a point of skepticism.
Despite fewer options on display, Mini-LED's high brightness, excellent contrast with enough dimming zones, and zero risk of burn-in make it a compelling choice. If priced competitively, it could serve as an attractive option for those wary of the higher cost and maintenance of OLED displays.
Refresh Rates and Resolutions Continue to Climb
As QD-OLED technology advances and graphics cards become more powerful, refresh rates are reaching new heights. The introduction of 4K at 240Hz and 1440p at 500Hz is testament to this trend. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P is particularly noteworthy, boasting a VESA TrueBlack 500 certification for enhanced HDR performance. While various brands offer similar high-performance models, such as the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, consumers will have multiple choices.
MSI also reintroduced TN panels with the MSI MPG 242R X60N, which achieves a remarkable 600Hz refresh rate. Though TN panels compromise on color and viewing angles, their speed is undeniable. However, their appeal may be limited to a niche audience focused on latency.
CES 2025 also marked the rise of 5K monitors. Acer's Predator XB323QX, a 5K, 144Hz monitor with Nvidia's G-Sync Pulsar tech, and LG's new "5K2K" ultrawide monitors, such as the Ultragear 45GX950A with an 800R curve and the bendable Ultragear 45GX990A, showcase this trend. Outside gaming, Asus introduced the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, a 6K mini-LED display aimed at creators, offering a cost-effective alternative to pricier models.
Smart Monitors Bring TVs and Gaming Monitors Closer Together
The concept of smart monitors, blending the functionality of TVs and gaming monitors, continues to gain traction. Despite my lukewarm reception to the Samsung G80SD, the convenience of having a smart TV and gaming monitor in one device is undeniable, especially in space-limited environments.
This year, several new options emerged. HP's OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor offers a 32-inch 4K display with built-in streaming apps and the ability to stream to multiple platforms. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA provides an ultrawide 800R curved screen with similar streaming capabilities. Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor enhances its 4K OLED panel with on-device neural processing, adjusting picture settings and upscaling content to 4K, making it suitable for gaming with a 165Hz refresh rate.
Wrapping Up
CES 2025 showcased a future where gaming monitors continue to push the envelope. From the persistence of QD-OLED to the emergence of Mini-LED and the rise of higher resolutions and refresh rates, 2025 is set to be an exceptional year for gaming monitor technology. Whether you're a competitive gamer or a content creator, the advancements on display at CES promise exciting times ahead.
