Curved monitors have just started to catch on, despite being widely available for a few years. As monitors have grown in size, it has become more and more difficult to maintain an accurate image across the entire screen when sitting up close. Curved monitors were one of the solutions monitor manufacturers came up with: a gentle curve brings the edges of the screen into your field of view, so the image remains accurate and uniform, even if you are sitting close to a large screen.

We've reviewed 12 curved monitors so far and below you'll find our picks for the best 5 that are available for purchase in 2018. See also our recommendations for the best curved gaming monitors. 

1. Best Curved Monitor: Samsung C27HG70

   

   Samsung C27HG70

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.0

   Test Benches:

   • 1.0: Fall 2017

   See changelog and how ratings work

   7.8

   Mixed Usage

   Score components:

   • 30% Office
   • 30% Multimedia
   • 25% Gaming
   • 10% Media Creation
   • 5% HDR Gaming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.4

   Office

   Score components:

   • 16% Resolution and Size
   • 15% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 12% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 7% Ergonomics
   • 7% Reflections
   • 7% Gray Uniformity
   • 6% Input Lag
   • 5% SDR Color Gamut
   • 5% SDR Color Volume
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 4% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 4% Gradient
   • 2% Motion Blur
   • 2% Refresh Rate
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Image Flicker
   • 1% Curve radius

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   8.5

   Gaming

   Score components:

   • 23% Input Lag
   • 14% Resolution and Size
   • 13% Motion Blur
   • 12% Refresh Rate
   • 9% Ergonomics
   • 8% Image Flicker
   • 6% Reflections
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 1% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% SDR Color Gamut
   • 1% SDR Color Volume

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.7

   Multimedia

   Score components:

   • 17% Resolution and Size
   • 10% Input Lag
   • 8% Reflections
   • 8% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 4% Motion Blur
   • 4% Refresh Rate
   • 4% SDR Color Gamut
   • 4% SDR Color Volume
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Image Flicker
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Pre Calibration

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.7

   Media Creation

   Score components:

   • 21% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Ergonomics
   • 7% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Input Lag
   • 6% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Motion Blur
   • 6% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Reflections
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Color Gamut
   • 3% SDR Color Volume
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Local Dimming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.3

   HDR Gaming

   Score components:

   • 14% Contrast
   • 12% Input Lag
   • 9% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 9% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Black Uniformity
   • 7% Local Dimming
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Motion Blur
   • 5% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Gradient
   • 5% HDR Color Gamut
   • 5% HDR Color Volume
   • 3% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 2% Gray Uniformity

   Score distribution:
   Size : 27 "
   Resolution : 2560x1440
   Refresh Rate : 144 Hz
   LCD Type

   What it is: Type of LCD technology used by the monitor.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different viewing angle properties.

   : VA
   Variable Refresh Rate

   What it is: Feature that allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.

   When it matters: Almost every usage, but is most noticeable in gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.

   : FreeSync

   The Samsung C27HG70 is the best curved monitor that we have reviewed so far. Gamers will love the extremely fast response time, PWM flicker-free backlight with optional BFI, and lightning fast refresh rate with FreeSync support. It has excellent low input lag, ensuring a responsive gaming and PC experience.

   It has a sharp 1440p resolution and supports HDR, which is a nice touch, and has a full array local dimming feature, although this doesn't add much as it isn't very good. Dark room performance is a bit better than average, as the monitor has a very good native contrast ratio, but poor black uniformity.

   Unfortunately, the VA type panel limits the CHG70's viewing angles, compared with the more common IPS panels used in most popular monitors. Overall, it is a very good monitor that should please most users, and it is also available in a 32" size.

   See our review

2. Best Curved Ultrawide Monitor: Dell AW3418DW

   

   Dell AW3418DW

   SEE PRICE

   Newegg.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.0

   Test Benches:

   • 1.0: Fall 2017

   See changelog and how ratings work

   7.7

   Mixed Usage

   Score components:

   • 30% Office
   • 30% Multimedia
   • 25% Gaming
   • 10% Media Creation
   • 5% HDR Gaming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.9

   Office

   Score components:

   • 16% Resolution and Size
   • 15% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 12% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 7% Ergonomics
   • 7% Reflections
   • 7% Gray Uniformity
   • 6% Input Lag
   • 5% SDR Color Gamut
   • 5% SDR Color Volume
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 4% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 4% Gradient
   • 2% Motion Blur
   • 2% Refresh Rate
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Image Flicker
   • 1% Curve radius

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   8.2

   Gaming

   Score components:

   • 23% Input Lag
   • 14% Resolution and Size
   • 13% Motion Blur
   • 12% Refresh Rate
   • 9% Ergonomics
   • 8% Image Flicker
   • 6% Reflections
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 1% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% SDR Color Gamut
   • 1% SDR Color Volume

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.4

   Multimedia

   Score components:

   • 17% Resolution and Size
   • 10% Input Lag
   • 8% Reflections
   • 8% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 4% Motion Blur
   • 4% Refresh Rate
   • 4% SDR Color Gamut
   • 4% SDR Color Volume
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Image Flicker
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Pre Calibration

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.5

   Media Creation

   Score components:

   • 21% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Ergonomics
   • 7% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Input Lag
   • 6% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Motion Blur
   • 6% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Reflections
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Color Gamut
   • 3% SDR Color Volume
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Local Dimming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   5.6

   HDR Gaming

   Score components:

   • 14% Contrast
   • 12% Input Lag
   • 9% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 9% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Black Uniformity
   • 7% Local Dimming
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Motion Blur
   • 5% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Gradient
   • 5% HDR Color Gamut
   • 5% HDR Color Volume
   • 3% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 2% Gray Uniformity

   Score distribution:
   Size : 34 "
   Resolution : 3440x1440
   Refresh Rate : 100 Hz
   LCD Type

   What it is: Type of LCD technology used by the monitor.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different viewing angle properties.

   : IPS
   Variable Refresh Rate

   What it is: Feature that allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.

   When it matters: Almost every usage, but is most noticeable in gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.

   : G-Sync

   If you prefer a larger screen, the Dell Alienware AW3418DW is the best curved ultrawide monitor that we have reviewed so far. This 34" curved monitor delivers a truly immersive experience, with wide viewing angles, a fast 100 Hz refresh rate, and Nvidia G-Sync support. 

   The 34", 3440x1440 screen is outstanding for multitasking, as it allows you to place two nearly full-sized windows open side-by-side. This monitor is great for gaming, with an extremely fast response time, slightly better than the CHG70, and a flicker-free backlight. It also has excellent low input lag, great for a responsive gaming experience where every millisecond matters.

   The Samsung CHG70 is better at displaying colors, with better gradient performance and HDR support. But overall, the AW3418DW is a very good ultrawide monitor with great gaming performance and a wide aspect ratio, great for office use.

   See our review

3. Larger Alternative: Dell U3818DW

   

   Dell U3818DW

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com

   Size : 38 "

   Resolution : 3840x1600

   Refresh Rate : 60 Hz

   LCD Type

   What it is: Type of LCD technology used by the monitor.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different viewing angle properties.

   : IPS

   Variable Refresh Rate

   What it is: Feature that allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.

   When it matters: Almost every usage, but is most noticeable in gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.

   : No

   If you like the Dell Alienware AW3418DW but would prefer something even larger, check out the Dell U3818DW. Whereas the AW3418DW is better for gaming due to G-Sync support and a faster refresh rate, the U3818DW is better suited for office use with the larger, higher resolution screen. The U3818DW also has a slightly more subtle curve, and it has a unique connection system that allows you to connect and control two computers at once, even with only one keyboard and mouse.

   See our review

4. Best Budget Curved Monitor: MSI Optix G27C

   

   MSI Optix G27C

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com
   Usage Ratings - Version 1.0

   Test Benches:

   • 1.0: Fall 2017

   See changelog and how ratings work

   6.6

   Mixed Usage

   Score components:

   • 30% Office
   • 30% Multimedia
   • 25% Gaming
   • 10% Media Creation
   • 5% HDR Gaming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   6.4

   Office

   Score components:

   • 16% Resolution and Size
   • 15% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 12% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 7% Ergonomics
   • 7% Reflections
   • 7% Gray Uniformity
   • 6% Input Lag
   • 5% SDR Color Gamut
   • 5% SDR Color Volume
   • 4% Black Uniformity
   • 4% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 4% Gradient
   • 2% Motion Blur
   • 2% Refresh Rate
   • 2% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Image Flicker
   • 1% Curve radius

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   7.4

   Gaming

   Score components:

   • 23% Input Lag
   • 14% Resolution and Size
   • 13% Motion Blur
   • 12% Refresh Rate
   • 9% Ergonomics
   • 8% Image Flicker
   • 6% Reflections
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Gray Uniformity
   • 2% Black Uniformity
   • 2% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 1% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% SDR Color Gamut
   • 1% SDR Color Volume

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   6.4

   Multimedia

   Score components:

   • 17% Resolution and Size
   • 10% Input Lag
   • 8% Reflections
   • 8% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 4% Motion Blur
   • 4% Refresh Rate
   • 4% SDR Color Gamut
   • 4% SDR Color Volume
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% Image Flicker
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Local Dimming
   • 1% Pre Calibration

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   6.3

   Media Creation

   Score components:

   • 21% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Ergonomics
   • 7% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 7% Input Lag
   • 6% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 6% Motion Blur
   • 6% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Reflections
   • 5% Gray Uniformity
   • 5% Black Uniformity
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Gradient
   • 3% SDR Color Gamut
   • 3% SDR Color Volume
   • 2% Contrast
   • 2% SDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 2% HDR Color Gamut
   • 2% HDR Color Volume
   • 1% Pre Calibration
   • 1% Local Dimming

   Score distribution:

   See our best recommendations

   5.1

   HDR Gaming

   Score components:

   • 14% Contrast
   • 12% Input Lag
   • 9% HDR Peak Brightness
   • 9% Resolution and Size
   • 8% Black Uniformity
   • 7% Local Dimming
   • 5% Ergonomics
   • 5% Motion Blur
   • 5% Refresh Rate
   • 5% Gradient
   • 5% HDR Color Gamut
   • 5% HDR Color Volume
   • 3% Horizontal Viewing Angle
   • 3% Image Flicker
   • 3% Vertical Viewing Angle
   • 2% Gray Uniformity

   Score distribution:
   Size : 27 "
   Resolution : 1920x1080
   Refresh Rate : 144 Hz
   LCD Type

   What it is: Type of LCD technology used by the monitor.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different viewing angle properties.

   : VA
   Variable Refresh Rate

   What it is: Feature that allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.

   When it matters: Almost every usage, but is most noticeable in gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.

   : FreeSync

   If you want a curved monitor and don't need the best picture quality or additional features, the MSI Optix G27C is the best budget curved monitor that we have reviewed so far. It has a standard 1080p resolution and 27" screen, great if you have an older PC and can't run the latest games at higher resolutions. It supports FreeSync and has a very fast 144 Hz refresh rate. 

   Images look great on the MSI, as it has an excellent color gamut and one of the best color volumes we've measured on any monitor. It also has excellent color volume and good gradient handling. Motion on the G27C isn't quite as good as on more expensive models like the Dell AW3418DW, but the backlight is flicker-free and it has excellent low input lag.

   Unfortunately, it has a VA panel, which although it delivers one of the best contrast ratios we have measured on a monitor, it has poor viewing angles and bad black uniformity, so it isn't a great choice for a dark room.

   See our review

5. Larger Alternative: LG 34UC79G-B

   

   LG 34UC79G-B

   SEE PRICE

   Amazon.com

   Size : 34 "

   Resolution : 2560x1080

   Refresh Rate : 144 Hz

   LCD Type

   What it is: Type of LCD technology used by the monitor.

   When it matters: Different technologies have different viewing angle properties.

   : IPS

   Variable Refresh Rate

   What it is: Feature that allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate with the input device's output and reduces stuttering and screen tearing.

   When it matters: Almost every usage, but is most noticeable in gaming where constant fluctuation in framerate cause distracting artifacts.

   : FreeSync

   If you want a larger curved monitor on a budget, check out the LG 34UC79G-B. It has a gentle curve but has good viewing angles so this shouldn't cause any issues. The LG has a higher native resolution than the Optix, so the image has a bit more detail and it is easier to multitask. Gamers will love the FreeSync support, great if you have an AMD graphics card, and it has a wider VRR range thanks to the higher 144 Hz refresh rate. It has an excellent backlight, that is normally flicker-free, but has the option to add flicker if you want to improve motion blur. Overall, it is a decent monitor that should please most people.

   See our review