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Is a Curved Monitor Better for Gaming?

Anna-Marie Brittain
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Reading time: 8 minutes

The evolution of PC screens and high-definition resolutions has led to the popular emergence of curved monitors. These displays were initially met with skepticism when they entered the market around the early 2010s. Today, you’ll find that gamers tend to review specific screen characteristics like curvature, depth, and immersion.
There’s nothing wrong with using flat screens, but as the gaming world continues expanding, looking for advanced equipment is fast becoming the new standard. The features most praised about curved gaming monitors are the ergonomic design and fully immersive, elevated graphics. These screens are uniquely built to deliver high performance and improve user awareness.
The effectiveness of a curved display depends on the type of monitor you’re investing in. Remember, not every screen is made equal. A top-of-the-line computer monitor can be the catalyst for ultimate gamers looking to own the scoreboards. That’s especially the case for professional and avid gamers looking to raise the bar on their gaming skills. Not only will these displays add some technological refinement to your play space, but they will also help level up your gaming experience.

Which gaming monitor is right for you?

Finding a curved gaming screen doesn’t have to be frustrating. However, it can be challenging. Figuring out what gaming monitor is better isn’t simple unless you already know what you want. Serious gamers looking for the right screen take their time because every detail matters. Starting with highly recommended options will make the search process run smoother.
The main factors to consider when upgrading your screen are size, viewing angles, distortion control, depth, and gaming experience. Do you need something compact and small or ultrawide? Bigger may not always be better. Still, to truly get that immersive and engaging experience, the average screen size to aim for is around 32 to 34 inches.
What types of viewing angles do you want? Dual or multi-screen setups provide various angles that account for your peripherals. But, with a curved monitor, users will always get that more encompassing wider angle.

What makes curved monitors different?

Which is better for gaming, curved or flat monitors? Although every gamer may have a preference, curved monitors offer an incredible point-of-view. These curved displays can decrease eye strain by matching the curvature of the eye. This means users can remain comfortable, even through prolonged usage.
The ergonomic advantages of a curved display include providing users with a more comfortable viewing experience. Eye strain will be reduced, and neck and back pain will decrease, too. Using a curved display with an adjustable height feature is also a contributing factor. Curved computer displays often have more horizontal screen space, delivering bigger, ultrawide aspect ratios.
Gamers will notice they gain a better sense of position and distance with their gaming environment. The curved monitor is also designed to minimize image distortion and glare from surrounding light sources and optimize visibility. Light from the curved screen is directed toward the user while decreasing the impact of environmental lighting conditions.

Immersive gaming experience

In gaming, the field of view and ocular perception is crucial to having an engaging experience. Getting immersive viewing sessions is one of the primary benefits of a curved monitor. The semi-wrap-around display provides more natural and captivating visuals.
Depth and dimensionality are easier to create with a curved screen. Due to the curvature of the screen, the collective length, width, and height appear three-dimensional. Depth perception is also enhanced so users get a better sense of their position in front of the screen. Being able to get fully engrossed in the game becomes easier. That's great for complex, action-packed, or world-building gaming models.
The wider field of view makes it easier to multitask. For example, with more screen space, it’s easier to have multiple tabs open. Video editing and graphics projects become easier, and you can maximize application visuals. Graphic designers, coders, photographers, video editors, and professionals who spend long hours in front of a screen can appreciate the spacious display options.

Get high performance no matter what genre

Whether you’re in the mood for first-person shooter (FPS) games, role-playing games (RPG), or rocket-fueled racing games, the right curved monitor will be advanced enough to handle it. Just don’t forget about that perfect, gaming sweet spot. It’s sitting in an area that provides the best possible line-of-sight, angle, and viewing experience. Once you know where to position your gaming chair, you will be ready for anything.
There are some limits to a curved screen. Multiple viewers may not get that full immersion feel. If people are off-center, farther away, or at an awkward angle, the image isn’t going to be perfect. The right position in front of the computer screen is integral for gamers to perform at their best.

Curved vs. flat monitors for gaming

Flat display monitors are high-performance gaming displays, but curved monitors offer users improved focus and comfort. The curvature or field of view delivers a more encompassing gaming experience. The wrap-around display permits users a centered line-of-sight. This reduces the need for excessive head and eye movement. Let's not forget the differences in screen real estate. Curved screens provide a wider aspect ratio when compared to flat monitors.
When it comes to distortion elimination, the differences between the curved and flat-screen are all about the physics behind light projection. Curved displays deliver limited light distortion due to the shape of the screen, while flat monitors project the images in a straight line. Comparatively, high-definition resolutions are as good on flat screens as on curved displays. Still, something to remember is distortions, pixelations, and blurring can occur the larger the screen is. A curved monitor delivers fewer picture issues, no matter its size or shape. The same cannot be said of a flat screen.
Wall mounting for flat screens is often easier because the monitor can be flush against the wall. Curved monitors aren’t as easy to mount because of their shape and require a specific type of mount and positioning to be secured to the wall.
For flat-screen computer monitors, sometimes there’s an issue with the line of sight at a distance or from an angle. Multi-monitor setups can help decrease any blind spots. But, not every office or gaming room has the desktop space for more than one monitor. If you have limited room, a curved display would help.

Best curved monitor for gaming

To begin, check out these impressive OMEN curved gaming monitors. The list of advantages for either of these options ranges from reduced eye strain technology and excellent ergonomics to total distortion-free imagery.

OMEN 34c WQHD 165 Hz Curved Gaming Monitor

The OMEN 34c Curved Gaming Monitor allows gamers to focus and escape into the realm of FPS, RPG, and AI-inspired or deep-learning gaming models. Easily level up thanks to the ultrawide 1500R curved screen. Taking in the virtual landscapes is incredible when the motion blur is completely cut. Thanks to the 165 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms GtG response time, even the most complex graphics from PC or console games will have that clear, stunning look.
HDR adds that next level of refinement. With up to 400 nits of brightness, a vibrant picture is what you’ll get. Users can connect to the display port and use the two HDMI 2.0 ports. There's a 3.5 mm headphone jack for wired headsets. Great for those fully equipped gaming entertainment systems. Keep your gaming applications open and ready to go whenever you are. You can even keep it on standby for work. Curved monitors perform well for remote and hybrid workers.
The OMEN gaming hub allows connection and customization to your monitor, PC, and related devices. You can perfect your gaming space and fully utilize the OMEN Gaming Hub one-stop shop. The display is built for comfortable use thanks to anti-glare and HP eye ease. Its height is adjustable, and it features AMD Freesync™ Premium. That means gamers experience a fluid, tear-free screen session. Avoid neck and eye strain no matter how long and intense things get.

OMEN 32c QHD 165 Hz Curved Gaming Monitor

For sleek design functions, lasting performance, and immersive color, check out the OMEN 32c Curved Gaming Monitor. Are you tired of motion blur? Serious gamers understand how much better gaming can be when the resolution delivers captivating graphics. That’s where the refresh rate comes in. The OMEN 32c delivers a 165 Hz refresh rate and a 1 ms GtG response time. Expect zero pixelation and lag during every gaming block.
Graphics are always better when it’s vivid. With a 99% sRGB and 90% DCI-P3 color gamut, experience lifelike gameplay during every session. The anti-glare, eye-safe monitor features a brightness level of 400 nits, so gamers can enjoy daytime play without competing with any natural light interference.
The OMEN 32c QHD is equipped with two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort™ 1.4 for hooking up all your player devices. Then, just plug your noise-canceling headset into the 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Whether you’re a novice, hobbyist, or professional gamer, meet all your connectivity needs in one display monitor. Connect your gaming console or PC, or choose this high-level display for your home office upgrades.

Summary

Anyone looking to elevate their gaming experience screen should consider HP’s OMEN curved displays. The ultra-wide design will provide high performance no matter what game you’re playing. The right aspect ratio and screen real estate will have a significant impact on overall comfort. These are important details for people who have to spend much of their work time in front of a screen.
Since you’re already in the process of upgrading your gaming setup or office space, take a look at HP’s must-have accessories. Improving the whole workspace or game room may require accessories like wire-free keyboards, mice, speakers, over-ear headphones, or webcams.
As the new year approaches, be sure to check out HP’s popular gaming equipment and office essentials.

About the Author

Anna-Marie Brittain is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. Her experience includes writing for small businesses and non-profit organizations. The various niches she creates content for include emerging technologies, law, health, and nutrition.

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