CES 2025 Unveils Top Gaming Monitor Trends

At CES 2025, the landscape of gaming monitors was nothing short of spectacular, with a plethora of new models showcasing the latest advancements in display technology. As I navigated through the bustling show floors, it was clear that 2025 would be a landmark year for gaming enthusiasts, with innovative features and cutting-edge technology on full display.

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

The dominant theme at CES this year was the continued prominence of QD-OLED technology. Major players like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG were all showcasing their latest QD-OLED offerings, emphasizing their enhanced burn-in warranties and protective features. This technology, which surged in popularity during 2024, is set to evolve even further in 2025. We saw the debut of 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitors equipped with high-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections, pushing the boundaries of gaming performance. Notably, MSI unveiled the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, a 1440p QD-OLED monitor capable of reaching a staggering 500Hz refresh rate. Other brands also presented their unique takes on these high-performance panels, suggesting a future filled with fast, visually stunning gaming monitors.

Moreover, the advancements in protection features were noteworthy. Asus introduced the Neo Proximity Sensor in their upcoming ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG models. This sensor, part of their OLED Care suite, automatically switches to a black screen when the user is away from the PC, preventing burn-in and prolonging the life of the display. As QD-OLED technology matures, we can anticipate more affordable options, especially as older models see price reductions throughout the year.

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

While not as prevalent as QD-OLED, Mini-LED technology made its presence felt at the show. MSI highlighted their dual-mode AI mini-LED monitor, the MPG 274URDFW E16M, positioning it as a cost-effective alternative to QD-OLED. With 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of around 1,000 nits, this 4K, 160Hz monitor offers impressive contrast and can even switch to 320Hz at 1080p. Although I remain skeptical about its AI-driven "dual-mode AI" feature, the potential for Mini-LED to offer a bright, high-contrast display without the risk of burn-in is compelling. If priced competitively, it could serve as an attractive option for gamers wary of the higher costs and maintenance associated with OLED.

Refresh Rates and Resolutions Continue to Climb

The evolution of QD-OLED and the increasing power of graphics cards have led to remarkable advancements in refresh rates and resolutions. The arrival of 4K at 240Hz and 1440p at 500Hz showcases the industry's relentless pursuit of performance. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P impressed with its pursuit of VESA TrueBlack 500 certification, promising brighter highlights for enhanced HDR experiences. MSI also brought back TN panels with the MSI MPG 242R X60N, achieving a 600Hz refresh rate, catering to those who prioritize speed over color accuracy and viewing angles.

CES 2025 also marked the rise of 5K monitors. Acer's Predator XB323QX, a 5K, 144Hz gaming monitor with Nvidia's latest G-Sync Pulsar tech, and LG's debut of a pair of new “5K2K” gaming monitors in ultrawide 21:9 formats, such as the Ultragear 45GX950A with its fixed 800R curve and the bendable Ultragear 45GX990A with adjustable curvature up to 900R, highlighted this trend. Beyond gaming, Asus showcased the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, a 6K monitor aimed at creators, featuring a mini-LED display at a competitive price of $1,249.

Smart Monitors Bring TVs and Gaming Monitors Closer Together

The concept of smart monitors, blending the functionality of TVs and gaming monitors, continues to gain traction. Despite my mixed feelings about the Samsung G80SD, the convenience of having a display that also serves as a smart TV with built-in streaming services appeals to many, especially those in space-constrained environments. This year, HP introduced the OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor, a 32-inch 4K model with streaming capabilities and multi-platform streaming support. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA offers an ultrawide option with similar features and a deep 800R curve. Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor, equipped with on-device neural processing to enhance its 4K OLED panel and a 165Hz refresh rate, further blurs the lines between gaming and smart TV functionalities.

Wrapping Up

CES 2025 has set the stage for an exciting year in gaming monitors, with innovations that not only push the limits of technology but also offer more accessible and versatile options for gamers. Whether it's the high-performance QD-OLED, the promising Mini-LED, or the smart monitors bridging the gap between gaming and entertainment, the future looks bright for gaming enthusiasts. As we move forward, the industry's commitment to enhancing user experience and pushing technological boundaries promises a thrilling journey ahead.