CES 2025: Top Gaming Monitor Trends

CES 2025 showcased a plethora of new gaming monitors, pushing display and graphics technology to new heights. QD-OLED's dominance continued, with major brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG unveiling impressive models. Many featured 4K 240Hz and even 1440p 500Hz options with DisplayPort 2.1, such as the MSI MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50. Advancements in burn-in protection were also evident, with Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor in the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG automatically activating a black screen when the user is away. While initial prices remain high, prices are expected to drop as the technology matures.

Mini-LED, though less prominent, remains a viable alternative. MSI's MPG 274URDFW E16M, with its 1,152 local dimming zones and 1,000 nits peak brightness, aims to offer a more affordable option to QD-OLED. While its AI-driven dual-mode is questionable, its impressive contrast and high refresh rate (160Hz at 4K, 320Hz at 1080p) make it a contender. Mini-LED's lack of burn-in risk and potential for high brightness and contrast, with sufficient dimming zones, make it a strong alternative to OLED.

The race for higher refresh rates and resolutions continues. 4K 240Hz is now a reality, with 500Hz at 1440p also emerging. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P, targeting VESA TrueBlack 500 certification, boasts vibrant visuals. MSI's MPG 242R X60N, utilizing a TN panel, pushes the boundaries with a remarkable 600Hz refresh rate, though at the cost of color accuracy and viewing angles. 5K monitors are also gaining traction, with Acer's Predator XB323QX (5K, 144Hz with G-Sync Pulsar) and LG's ultrawide 5K2K (5120 x 2160) Ultragear 45GX950A and 45GX990A (featuring a bendable display) leading the charge. Asus even showcased a 6K (6016 x 3384) ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV for creators.

Smart monitors are blurring the lines between TVs and gaming monitors. While the Samsung G80SD's reception was mixed, the trend continues with options like HP's OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor (32-inch 4K with streaming apps and multi-platform streaming), LG's ultrawide UltraGear 39GX90SA, and Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor (4K OLED with neural processing for upscaling and 165Hz refresh rate).

CES 2025 demonstrated a significant leap forward in gaming monitor technology, offering exciting options for gamers in 2025 and beyond. The year promises even more advancements and improved accessibility to high-end features.