I replaced my monitor with a 34-inch ultrawide OLED for two weeks – here’s my verdict now

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The Alienware 34 240Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor retails for $800.
• It is a large, 34-inch curved gaming monitor with impressive visual output and an immersive design.
• Be aware that this display does not come with internal speakers.

more buying choices

jun / 2025

For the longest time, I considered curved monitors to be nothing more than a gimmick like 3D TVs (remember those?). But over the years and through personal experience, I’ve learned that these panels deliver a level of utility that traditional, flat-screen displays can’t offer.

Also: I recommend this Chromebook over many Windows laptops that cost twice as much

I recently added the Alienware 34-inch Curved Gaming Monitor to my at-home work setup a couple of weeks ago. In that time, I’ve started to seriously consider making it a permanent fixture of my office space because it has greatly improved my workflow and wowed me with its visual output.

Before I talk about my experience, let me first go over the specs because Alienware’s model boasts some impressive numbers. It is a 34-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor running at Wide Quad HD resolution (3,440 x 1,440 pixels) and a refresh rate of 240Hz. 

In plain English, this means the output is phenomenal. The screen’s curvature of 1800R (radius) delivers a deeply immersive experience. I’ve tried to emulate the same level of immersion with my two monitors, but they don’t hold a candle to a proper curved display.

My favorite aspect of the Alienware 34 monitor is the level of utility it brings to many use cases. For testing, I played a lot of “Monster Hunter Wilds,” and the display (with the help of a third-party mod) totally transformed my gaming experience. 

Also: Why I recommend this Lenovo Windows PC to creative professionals – even if it’s built for gamers

I was able to see wide swathes of the digital world and in-game wildlife tear at each other’s throats at a distance. It made the game feel alive in a way that my 27-inch monitor could never replicate. It even helped me see my opponent’s attempts at flanking me in “Marvel Rivals.” This lead to me getting the jump on them before they got the jump on me. So in a way, this curved display can give you an edge in gaming.

Working on the monitor

Video games weren’t the only testing ground. I made the screen my new main monitor for work, where it significantly improved my productivity. 

Alienware’s monitor takes great advantage of Windows 11’s Snap feature. The tool, if you don’t remember, lets you connect multiple windows together, snapping them in place, hence the name. I wanted to enjoy this feature on my 27-inch monitor, but on there, the layout is too restrictive — claustrophobic even — for me to enjoy.

That restrictiveness isn’t a problem on this 34-inch screen. The panel’s large size offers ample space for several windows. Nothing feels claustrophobic or difficult to see; it’s like having a pair of 17-inch monitors side-by-side. Combined with my other 27-inch screen, I essentially had a triple monitor setup with just two displays.

Let’s talk setup process

There were a few important features and aspects that I have neglected to mention up to this point. Setting it up was incredibly easy. It comes mostly pre-assembled. All you really have to do is slide the standing base onto the arm and then slide that into the back of the display in one smooth motion.

Also: This 16-inch Dell laptop is a worthy rival to the MacBook Pro – and it’s better in a few ways

The screen can be raised, lowered, tilted, and slanted on its hinge, but it cannot be turned 90 degrees on its side. Don’t worry about not being able to access the ports underneath because the screen can actually tilt back pretty far — up to 21 degrees.

On the bottom is a button that lets you adjust the output for the Alienware monitor. You choose from one of nine preset color modes (or make your own), change the input source, or, my personal favorite, activate Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode. Through PiP, you can connect another computer and have it appear on-screen alongside the main signal. 

There are also different layouts available. You could have the second computer feed take up 75% of the display area or shove it off into the corner. If I could highlight one downside, it’s the fact that the Alienware Curved Gaming Monitor does not come with internal speakers. You’ll have to rely on either a pair of wireless headphones or a set of speakers. I recommend the Sony WH-1000XM5.

ZDNET’s buying advice

I have to admit that this was one of the toughest reviews to complete — because I had to give the monitor back. I fell in love with this curved Alienware monitor, and I seriously didn’t want to let it go.

The Alienware 34 240Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor currently retails for $800. I was honestly expecting the price tag to be significantly higher, as its visual performance feels like it belongs on an over $1,000 display. I’ve seen similar panels go for a lot higher. What’s more, this screen isn’t on sale. If you wait a couple of weeks, I suspect that you’ll be able to purchase the monitor at a discount during Amazon Prime Day.

I highly recommend this Alienware display if you want a dual monitor setup without a second physical screen or if you want to be fully immersed in the games you play. For an alternative, I suggest the Samsung Odyssey G9. It’s a massive 49 inches diagonally, has a similar visual output, and is currently retailing for $850. 

Keep your entertainment at your fingertips with the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K! Enjoy streaming in 4K Ultra HD with access to top services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more. With an easy-to-use interface and voice remote, it’s the ultimate streaming device, now at only $21.99 — that’s 56% off!

With a 4.7/5-star rating from 43,582 reviews and 10K+ bought in the past month, it’s a top choice for home entertainment! Buy Now for $21.99 on Amazon!

Help Power Techcratic’s Future – Scan To Support

If Techcratic’s content and insights have helped you, consider giving back by supporting the platform with crypto. Every contribution makes a difference, whether it’s for high-quality content, server maintenance, or future updates. Techcratic is constantly evolving, and your support helps drive that progress.

As a solo operator who wears all the hats, creating content, managing the tech, and running the site, your support allows me to stay focused on delivering valuable resources. Your support keeps everything running smoothly and enables me to continue creating the content you love. I’m deeply grateful for your support, it truly means the world to me! Thank you!