OLED gaming monitors represent the cutting edge of display technology, offering unparalleled image quality that makes games come alive. With their stunning contrast ratios, true blacks, and ultra-fast response times, OLED monitors are ideal for immersive, high-performance gaming.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll review the 5 best OLED and premium gaming monitors available based on extensive research and reviews. I’ll cover buying considerations, do in-depth monitor breakdowns, discuss ideal gaming genres and titles, and provide tips for getting the most out of your advanced gaming display. Let’s dive in!
Key Features to Look for in a Gaming Monitor
There are a few key features and specifications to keep in mind when picking out a high-end monitor for gaming:
- Refresh rate – Aim for 144Hz or higher, which allows up to 144 frames per second for ultra-smooth motion clarity.
- Response time – Faster is better, with 1ms being excellent and under 0.5ms OLED-territory response times eliminating blur.
- Adaptive sync – Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync match the monitor’s refresh rate with your GPU for tear-free gaming.
- Resolution – Higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K increase sharpness and details.
- Size – 27-inch or larger provides an immersive experience, with ultra-wides enhancing field of view.
- Inputs – Modern HDMI 2.1 and/or DisplayPort 1.2+ connections enable high resolution and refresh rates.
- Adjustability – Fully adjustable stands with tilt, swivel, height, and rotation provide ergonomic comfort.
Here is a comparison of ideal gaming specs:
| Feature | Ideal Spec |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz or higher |
| Response Time | 1ms or lower |
| Adaptive Sync | G-Sync or FreeSync support |
| Resolution | 1440p, 4K or 3440×1440 ultra-wide |
| Size | 27″ or larger |
| Inputs | HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.2+ |
| Adjustability | Fully adjustable stand |
Now let’s look at this year’s best monitors for gaming utilizing OLED or advanced display technology.
The 5 Best OLED and Premium Gaming Monitors
1. Dell Alienware AW3423DW
Dell’s latest 34-inch Alienware monitor tops lists as the best OLED gaming monitor. It immersively fills your peripheral vision with a 1900R curved 34-inch panel rocking 3440 x 1440 QHD resolution. The OLED panel delivers true blacks and vibrant colors covering 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color gamut.
With a lightning-fast 175Hz refresh rate and 0.1ms response time, motion clarity is superb. It supports Nvidia G-Sync for adaptable sync technology to eliminate tearing or stuttering. The stylish design, RGB lighting, and Alienware software offer the premium features gamers expect. If you want the ultimate immersive OLED gaming experience, this monitor delivers.
Key Features:
- 175Hz refresh rate on 34” curved OLED panel
- VESA DisplayHDRTM 400 True Black certified
- 0.1ms response time with Nvidia G-Sync support
- AlienFX customizable rear RGB lighting
2. LG UltraGear OLED 27GP950-B
LG’s 27GP950-B offers a cutting-edge 4K OLED flat gaming monitor in a more traditional 27-inch size. The OLED panel provides exceptional picture quality with vibrant, accurate colors covering 99% of the DCI-P3 color space and true black levels.
It clocks a speedy 120Hz refresh rate, with AMD FreeSync Premium eliminating stuttering and tearing during gameplay. The fully adjustable stand provides ergonomic comfort for long gaming sessions. For a high-performance 4K OLED gaming monitor, the 27GP950-B delivers at a fair price under $1000.
Key Features:
- 4K 3840 x 2160 10-bit OLED panel
- 120Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync Premium
- Height, tilt, swivel and pivot adjustable stand
- VESA DisplayHDRTM 400 and 99% DCI-P3 color gamut
3. ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDM
Asus’ new ROG Swift PG27AQDM is a premium 4K OLED offering a cutting-edge 27-inch flat gaming monitor. It provides ultra-realistic image quality with a dizzying 99.3% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio.
A zippy 120Hz refresh rate ensures a snappy response for competitive gaming. It supports Nvidia G-Sync for adaptable sync technology. The ASUS-exclusive design includes LED mood lighting on the back panel. For a high-end 4K OLED geared for gaming, it’s an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- 27-inch 4K OLED 3820 x 2160 resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate with Nvidia G-Sync
- 99.3% DCI-P3 wide color gamut
- Aura Sync rear LED mood lighting
4. Corsair Xeneon Flex 45WQHD240
Corsair’s first gaming monitor, the Xeneon Flex 45-inch model, provides an impressively immersive curved OLED gaming monitor. The 21:9 ultrawide format and deep 1900R curvature fill your peripheral vision.
The 3440 x 1440 resolution provides sharp details. It clocks an extremely smooth 240Hz refresh rate for flawless high-fps competitive gaming. Integrated RGB lighting and an included display mount round out the premium package. The Flex 45WQHD240 offers massive size without sacrificing performance.
Key Features:
- 45-inch 21:9 curved OLED panel
- 3440 x 1440 resolution – 1440p ultrawide
- 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion clarity
- Ambient rear RGB lighting and display mount
5. LG UltraGear 48-inch OLED
Discover the immersive world of gaming with the LG 48GQ900-B 48-inch UltraGear™ UHD OLED Monitor. This cutting-edge monitor is designed to elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Featuring Anti-Glare Low Reflection technology, enjoy crystal-clear visuals with minimal distractions. With a remarkable 0.1ms response time and a rapid 120Hz refresh rate, every movement is displayed with stunning precision, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming.
The monitor’s G-SYNC® Compatibility ensures smooth gameplay, reducing screen tearing and stuttering. The 48” UHD 4K OLED display boasts a 1.5M:1 contrast ratio and DCI-P3 99% color accuracy with HDR 10 support, delivering vibrant and lifelike images. Whether you’re exploring vast landscapes or engaging in intense battles, the 178˚ viewing angle ensures you don’t miss a detail.
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 48” UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) OLED
- Anti-Glare & Low Reflection
- Contrast Ratio: 1.5M : 1
- Color Gamut: DCI-P3 99% (Typ.) with HDR 10
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Response Time (GTG): 0.1ms
Ideal Game Genres and Titles for Premium Gaming Monitors
These gaming genres and titles are perfect to take full advantage of the stunning visuals provided by high-end gaming monitors:
- Competitive FPS – Games like Apex Legends, Valorant, Overwatch 2, and Call of Duty shine with the fast refresh rates and pixel response times.
- Immersive single-player adventures – Cinematic titles like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Cyberpunk 2077, Marvel’s Spiderman, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Realistic racing/flight simulators – Forza Horizon 5, Gran Turismo 7, Microsoft Flight Simulator, and Elite Dangerous.
- Vibrant HDR-enabled games – Multiplatform games with HDR like Doom Eternal, Far Cry 6, God of War, and Battlefield 2042.
- MMORPGs – Massively multiplayer online RPGs like Final Fantasy XIV, Elder Scrolls Online, and World of Warcraft benefit from added details.
No matter your gaming preferences, these monitors allow you to fully experience the graphics as intended by developers and artists.
Tips for Gaming on OLED and Premium Monitors
Follow these tips for the best gaming experience:
- Enable Adaptive Sync for smooth, tear-free visuals
- Optimize brightness between 80 to 100 nits for ideal image quality
- Use genre-specific display modes that automatically adjust settings
- Position yourself 1 to 1.5 times the screen size away for proper viewing
- Take regular breaks during long sessions to rest your eyes
- Update graphics drivers and firmware for best performance
- Handle OLED panels carefully to avoid image retention
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do OLED monitors suffer from burn-in?
A: Modern OLED panels have greatly improved resistance to burn-in. Following best practices like avoiding static elements, varying content, and using pixel-shift features minimizes any potential risk. Most OLED gaming monitors now come with at least a 3-year burn-in warranty for peace of mind.
Q: Are OLED or LCD monitors better for gaming?
A: OLED panels offer the best overall image quality with true blacks and incredible contrast. High-end VA and IPS LCD monitors can still provide excellent performance for gaming though. OLED is best for those wanting the ultimate visual experience.
Q: What’s better for gaming – 4K or ultrawide resolution?
A: This often comes down to personal preference. 4K provides extremely high detail great for single-player story games. Ultrawide resolutions maximally fill your peripheral vision, ideal for immersive gameplay. High-refresh 4K monitors are still expensive, while fast ultrawide are more affordable.
Q: Is HDR worth it on gaming monitors?
A: Definitely – HDR increases color depth, contrast, and brightness range. It makes lighting, shadows, and particle effects pop in supported games. Look for VESA DisplayHDR 400 or better-certified monitors. OLED excels at HDR with per-pixel illumination control.
Q: Should I get a curved or flat gaming monitor?
A: Curved displays provide a more immersive, surround-view experience great for gaming. But flat monitors work well for all-purpose use. Ultra-wides in particular benefit from a curve. It depends on your priorities and setup. Both can provide excellent gaming performance.
Conclusion
Thanks to their stunning visuals and fast performance, OLED and premium gaming monitors take immersion to the next level. The Dell Alienware AW3423DW clearly tops the list as the overall best OLED gaming monitor available. But alternatives like the LG 27GP950-B and MSI MEG 341 provide excellent options at lower price points. Whichever advanced display you choose, your games will look better than ever before.