Ultrawide monitors are universally awesome, without exception, and you should get one right now. [Editor’s note: this is not true, Michael is an ultrawide fanboy and you should read our guide for a more balanced take.] But they’re also pretty pricey. Today Newegg has a pair of 34-inch Acer models, both with gaming-grade panels, starting at just $239.99.
The Acer Gaming XV340CK monitor is a bit on the basic side, but it has it where it counts: a quality panel. Unlike some budget ultrawides, this one’s using a 3440×1440 resolution with an IPS display, instead of the cheaper TN or VA panels. That means that it’s big and sharp enough to show off the best graphics, while also being color-accurate enough for some photo editing work. And with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, it can handle fast-paced multiplayer games just as well.
The monitor also packs a standard VESA mount for use with monitor arms, two HDMI and two DisplayPort inputs for use with multiple machines, and a pair of USB-A 3.0 ports for accessories. It also has a couple of 3-watt speakers, but, um, don’t use those, get some real speakers or just use headphones instead. Normally $300, today Newegg has this monitor on sale for a fantastic $239.99.
If you think that Real Monitors Have Curves, you might want to step up to Acer’s Nitro XZ342CU screen. This more premium model has all the same features as the monitor above, with a swanky 1500R curve to the panel. It’s also slightly faster at 180Hz, a little brighter with some HDR capabilities, and a bit more stylish with those thin bezels and a bit of red trim.
The upgraded monitor does use a VA panel to get that faster, brighter picture, so it’s not great for color accuracy, and it does lose out on the USB ports. But if you’re into fast-paced 3D games and you like the swanky curve, it might just be worth the trade-off. Normally $350, today Newegg is selling it for just $269.99.
Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer, PCWorld
Michael is a 10-year veteran of technology journalism, covering everything from Apple to ZTE. On PCWorld he's the resident keyboard nut, always using a new one for a review and building a new mechanical board or expanding his desktop "battlestation" in his off hours. Michael's previous bylines include Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and he's covered events like CES and Mobile World Congress live. Michael lives in Pennsylvania where he's always looking forward to his next kayaking trip.