CES 2025 Unveils Top Gaming Monitor Trends

CES 2025 was a showcase for an array of cutting-edge gaming monitors, and I had the privilege of exploring the latest offerings from top vendors. The event was filled with innovations and advancements in display technology, making it a landmark year for gaming monitors.

QD-OLED Isn't Going Anywhere and Should Become More Accessible

The dominant trend at CES 2025 was the continued rise of QD-OLED technology. Leading brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG showcased their latest models, emphasizing their advanced burn-in warranties and protection features. The focus on QD-OLED is set to intensify throughout the year.

This trend is not unexpected, considering the significant growth we witnessed in 2024. The new displays are more impressive than ever, with multiple companies unveiling 4K 240Hz QD-OLEDs equipped with high-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections. MSI's MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50 stood out with its 1440p QD-OLED panel capable of reaching 500Hz. Other manufacturers also presented their versions of these high-performance panels, promising a future filled with fast and visually stunning monitors.

Protection features have also seen significant improvements. A notable advancement is Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor in the upcoming ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG. This sensor, part of the OLED Care suite, detects when the user is away and displays a black screen to prevent burn-in and pixel wear. Previously, users had to manually turn off their monitors, making this feature a welcome addition.

As QD-OLED technology matures, we can expect prices to become more affordable. While initial launch prices remain high, opting for models from previous generations can offer significant savings without compromising on quality.

Mini-LED Isn't Dead, But It Is Tech To Keep an Eye Out For

Although Mini-LED technology wasn't the main attraction at the show, it still made a presence. MSI plans to position its dual-mode AI mini-LED, the MPG 274URDFW E16M, as a cost-effective alternative to QD-OLED. This approach is promising, given the technology's potential.

The MPG 274URDFW E16M boasts 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of around 1,000 nits, delivering impressive contrast, especially in well-lit environments. It supports 4K at 160Hz for smooth, high-resolution gameplay, and can switch to 320Hz at 1080p. However, the AI-driven "dual-mode AI" feature, which automatically adjusts resolution based on content, left me skeptical.

While Mini-LED options were limited at the show, I anticipate seeing more of this technology. Its high brightness, excellent visual quality with the right settings, and absence of burn-in risk make it an attractive option, particularly if prices remain competitive compared to the more expensive QD-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 arrival of 4K at 240Hz and 500Hz at 1440p is a testament to this progress. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P impressed with its sleek design and vibrant display, set to achieve VESA TrueBlack 500 certification for enhanced HDR performance. Other brands, like the previously mentioned MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, offer similar high-performance options, providing variety for consumers.

MSI also reintroduced TN panels with the MSI MPG 242R X60N, which boasts an astonishing 600Hz refresh rate. While this caters to a niche market due to TN panel limitations in color and viewing angles, the speed is undeniably impressive.

CES 2025 also marked the emergence of 5K monitors. Acer's Predator XB323QX, with its 5K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, features Nvidia's G-Sync Pulsar technology. LG introduced two new "5K2K" gaming monitors, the Ultragear 45GX950A with a fixed 800R curve, and the Ultragear 45GX990A with a bendable display ranging from flat to a 900R curve.

Beyond gaming, Asus showcased the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, a 31.5-inch mini-LED display aimed at creators, priced at a competitive $1,249. While not ideal for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate, it exemplifies the industry's push towards higher resolutions.

Smart Monitors Bring TVs and Gaming Monitors Closer Together

Smart monitors continue to blur the lines between TVs and gaming monitors, offering built-in streaming services for added convenience. While I had mixed feelings about the Samsung G80SD, the appeal of smart monitors for gamers in compact living spaces is clear.

This year, several new smart monitor options were unveiled. HP's OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor is a 32-inch 4K display with pre-loaded streaming apps and the ability to stream to up to four platforms. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA offers an ultrawide 800R curved screen with similar streaming capabilities.

Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor features on-device neural processing to enhance its 4K OLED panel, adjusting picture settings and upscaling content to 4K. With a 165Hz refresh rate, it's also a viable option for gaming.

Wrapping Up

CES 2025 highlighted the future of gaming monitors, with each model pushing the boundaries of technology. The past year was a great, albeit expensive, period for gaming monitors, but 2025 promises even more exciting developments.