CES 2025 Unveils Top Gaming Monitor Trends

CES 2025 was brimming with exciting new gaming monitors, and I had the chance to explore what the top vendors were showcasing. The event was filled with innovative features and advanced display technologies, making 2025 a landmark year for gaming monitors.

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

The standout trend at CES for gaming monitors was the persistent dominance of QD-OLED technology. Major brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG were all in, showcasing their latest models. Representatives emphasized their burn-in warranties and advanced protection features, signaling a strong commitment to this technology throughout the year.

Given the surge in QD-OLED popularity in 2024, it's no surprise to see even better displays in 2025. Several companies unveiled 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitors with high-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections. MSI, for instance, introduced the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, a 1440p QD-OLED that boasts a remarkable 500Hz refresh rate. Other brands also presented their unique spins on these high-performance panels, suggesting a future filled with fast and visually stunning monitors.

I was particularly impressed with the advancements in protection features. Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor, integrated into the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG, is a notable innovation. This sensor, part of the OLED Care suite, detects when you're away from your PC and displays a black screen to prevent burn-in and pixel wear. This is a significant improvement over the need to manually turn off your monitor.

As QD-OLED technology matures through multiple generations, we can expect prices to drop. While launch prices remain high, savvy buyers can find excellent deals on slightly older models throughout the year.

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

Though Mini-LED didn't dominate the show, it was still present. MSI showcased its dual-mode AI mini-LED, the MPG 274URDFW E16M, as a more affordable alternative to QD-OLED. This approach is promising, especially given my experience with these monitors. The MPG 274URDFW E16M features 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of around 1,000 nits, delivering impressive contrast in the showroom. It's a 4K monitor with a 160Hz refresh rate for smooth, high-resolution gaming, and can even boost to 320Hz at 1080p. However, I remain skeptical about its AI-driven "dual-mode AI" feature that automatically adjusts resolution.

Despite the limited options at the show, Mini-LED is a technology to watch. It offers exceptional brightness and contrast without the risk of burn-in, and with enough dimming zones (1,152 or more for 27-inches), it minimizes blooming. If priced competitively, Mini-LED could be an attractive alternative for those wary of the high costs and care required by OLED monitors.

Refresh Rates and Resolutions Continue to Climb

As QD-OLED technology advances and graphics cards become more powerful, refresh rates are reaching new heights. 4K at 240Hz is now a reality, and 500Hz at 1440p is making waves. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P caught my eye with its sleek design and vibrant display, set to achieve VESA TrueBlack 500 certification for brighter HDR highlights. Other brands offer similar designs, like the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, providing various options for consumers.

MSI also revived TN panels with the MSI MPG 242R X60N, boasting an impressive 600Hz refresh rate. While TN panels come with trade-offs in color and viewing angles, their speed is undeniable. Whether the average gamer will notice the improvements in clarity and latency remains to be seen.

CES 2025 also marked the rise of 5K monitors. Acer showcased the Predator XB323QX, a 5K, 144Hz monitor with 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.

Asus also displayed a 6K (6,016 x 3,384) monitor, the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, aimed at creators. Priced at a reasonable $1,249, it uses a bright mini-LED display. Though not ideal for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate, it reflects the industry's push towards higher resolutions.

Smart Monitors Bring TVs and Gaming Monitors Closer Together

While I wasn't overly impressed with the Samsung G80SD, the concept of smart monitors has undeniable appeal. These monitors serve as both gaming displays and smart TVs, offering built-in streaming services, which is perfect for smaller living spaces or those wanting to relax.

New options are on the horizon for 2025. HP unveiled the OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor, a 32-inch 4K model with pre-loaded streaming apps and the ability to stream to up to four different platforms. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA offers an ultrawide display with a deep 800R curve and similar streaming features.

Samsung introduced the M9 Smart Monitor, equipped with on-device neural processing to enhance its 4K OLED panel. It can intelligently adjust picture settings and upscale content to 4K, making it a viable option for gaming with its 165Hz refresh rate.

Wrapping Up

CES 2025 provided a glimpse into the future of gaming monitors, showcasing advancements that push the boundaries of what's possible. With last year's offerings setting a high bar, 2025 promises to deliver even more exciting options for gamers.