OLED Technology in Gaming Monitors
While OLED technology has been a significant advancement in display technology, its adoption in the PC gaming market has been gradual. Despite not going mainstream in 2023 due to the starting price point of around $700, the year saw an expansion in OLED gaming monitor options. Gamers were introduced to a variety of new models, including 34-inch ultrawide monitors from several manufacturers following in Alienware’s footsteps, and a collection of 27-inch 1440p OLED panels. Samsung raised the bar even higher with their impressive 49-inch uberwide monitor.
There was also good news for fans of high-refresh 34-inch ultrawide monitors, as prices saw a significant drop, with some models selling for less than $300 during Black Friday sales. Similarly, the cost of 27-inch 1440p panels fell, making high-resolution and high-refresh gaming monitors more accessible, with prices dipping under $200.
For those seeking the ultimate in performance, the introduction of the first 500Hz panels marked a new milestone. What was once considered excessive at beyond 144Hz is now overshadowed by 240Hz becoming the new baseline for serious gaming enthusiasts.
However, it wasn’t all positive developments. Mini-LED technology, which serves as an advanced form of backlighting, has not lived up to expectations. Its high cost and limited dimming zone counts mean that it falls short of OLED’s lighting precision, leaving some room for improvement in future iterations.
Best Gaming Monitor 2023: The Nominees
| Monitor | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Alienware 34 AW3423DWF | Glossy coating over Samsung QD-OLED technology |
| LG UltraGear 27GR93U | 4K 144Hz IPS panel, 27 inches |
| ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B | VA panel, 165Hz, high contrast and color |
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B | $401.99 |
| LG UltraGear 27GR93U | $877.42 |
| Alienware 34 AW3423DWF | $999.99 |
Anticipation for the Best Gaming Monitor Award
The excitement is building as the gaming community eagerly awaits the announcement of the winner for the PC Gamer Hardware Award for the best gaming monitor of 2023. This prestigious title will be revealed on New Year’s Eve, marking a significant moment for the nominees. Each of the three contenders, the Alienware 34 AW3423DWF, LG UltraGear 27GR93U, and ASRock Phantom PG34WQ15R2B, has demonstrated exceptional qualities that make them worthy of the crown. The anticipation is high, and any one of these monitors could take home the accolade, showcasing the best in gaming display technology.
