There are plenty of different sizes out there when it comes to modern gaming monitors, including ultrawide monitors. Are ultrawide monitors good for gaming? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Ultrawide monitors are generally advertised as gaming monitors, as they offer some key benefits to gamers.
- Ultrawide displays come in with a 21:9 aspect ratio, giving players more screen real estate to engage with.
- High-end ultrawide monitors will include plenty of additional features, including integrated speakers, picture-in-picture support, and useful ports.
What is an Ultrawide Monitor?
Before you can assess whether or not an ultrawide monitor would be a good fit for your gaming setup, it will be helpful to understand exactly what an ultrawide is. Simply put, an ultrawide monitor is a display with a 21:9 aspect ratio. The aspect ratio of a monitor is the ratio of its width to its height. As their name suggests, this 21:9 aspect ratio makes them wider than standard monitors. For a fully enjoyable and immersive experience with this, check how high the monitor should be for gaming.
Insider Tip
An ultrawide monitor is a display with a 21:9 aspect ratio.
Benefits of an Ultrawide Monitor
When it comes to gaming, you can expect several benefits from using an ultrawide monitor with a 21:9 aspect ratio.
Wider Field of View
There is a reason many ultrawide monitors are advertised as being excellent for casual and pro gamers. They offer a wider field of view, given their 21:9 aspect ratio. Ultrawide displays provide extra horizontal space, which can allow gamers to see more of the game space as they play. This can lead to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable and immersive experience. Of course, not every game is built for this aspect ratio, so be sure to read the game’s requirements before making a purchase.
Insider Tip
Ultrawide displays provide extra horizontal space, which can allow gamers to see more of the game space as they play.
More Ports
Ultrawide monitors, like the Viotek SUW49C, are much bigger than standard-sized monitors. Manufacturers have made use of this increased real estate to pump in more tech in the form of useful ports. Premium ultrawide monitors will often include HDMI ports, USB-C ports, audio ports, rapid charging ports, and more. In other words, you will be able to charge your phone right on the monitor instead of having to plug it into the computer or power outlet. Be sure to check on any additional ports in the advertising materials before you buy a new display.
Additional Features
There are many different types of gaming monitors. High-end ultrawide monitors will not just stop at extra ports. Some of the best models will boast all kinds of additional features to really improve the overall gameplay experience. Look for monitors with integrated stereo speakers on each side of the display and those with customizable lighting schemes. Some will also include increased support and functionality related to picture-in-picture tech. These are the most common features that people look for when choosing a gaming monitor.
Warning
Not every game is built for this aspect ratio, so be sure to read the game’s requirements before making a purchase.
F.A.Q.
What are the benefits of curved monitors?
Many ultrawide monitors are curved. The primary benefit of choosing a curved monitor is increased immersion, as the curvature will make players feel as though they are inside of the game.
Are ultrawide monitors worth it for work?
This depends on what kind of work you do. If you do horizontal-leaning computer work, such as music production or video editing, then an ultrawide monitor could be a good idea. If you are a programmer that uses vertically-leaning software suites, they may not be a good fit.
What are the disadvantages of an ultrawide monitor?
Ultrawide monitors may require newer graphics cards to reach their maximum potential. Additionally, they tend to be on the expensive side.
STAT: With approximately a third more horizontal space than a standard 16:9 screen (or 50 percent, if you go for one of the more extreme panels!), ultrawides have more space for activities. (source)
