The Biggest Gaming Monitor Trends of CES 2025

CES 2025 showcased a plethora of innovative gaming monitors, pushing the boundaries of display technology. Key trends included the continued dominance of QD-OLED, advancements in mini-LED, escalating refresh rates and resolutions, and the rise of smart monitors.

QD-OLED's Enduring Appeal and Increased Accessibility:

QD-OLED technology remained a prominent feature, with major brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG showcasing their latest offerings. Many emphasized enhanced burn-in warranties and protective features. The year saw the debut of several 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitors utilizing DisplayPort 2.1, and MSI even unveiled a 1440p 500Hz model, the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50. Asus's Neo Proximity Sensor, integrated into the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM and ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDPG, automatically displays a black screen when the user is absent, mitigating burn-in risks. Furthermore, prices are expected to decrease as the technology matures.

Mini-LED: A Viable Contender:

While less prevalent than QD-OLED, mini-LED technology remained a significant presence. MSI's MPG 274URDFW E16M, positioned as a more budget-friendly alternative to QD-OLED, boasts 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, offering impressive contrast. Its 4K 160Hz (and 1080p 320Hz) capabilities make it attractive, although its AI-driven dual-mode feature remains questionable. Mini-LED's advantages – high brightness, excellent contrast, and no burn-in risk – make it a compelling option for cost-conscious consumers.

Higher Refresh Rates and Resolutions:

The convergence of advanced display technology and powerful graphics cards continues to drive higher refresh rates and resolutions. 4K 240Hz monitors are now a reality, with 1440p 500Hz models also emerging. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P, aiming for VESA TrueBlack 500 certification, promises brighter highlights for enhanced HDR. MSI even revived TN panels with the MPG 242R X60N, boasting a remarkable 600Hz refresh rate, albeit with compromises in color accuracy and viewing angles. 5K monitors are also gaining traction, with Acer's Predator XB323QX (5K, 144Hz) and LG's UltraGear 45GX950A and 45GX990A (5120 x 2160, ultrawide) leading the charge. Asus even showcased a 6K monitor, the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, targeted at content creators.

The Convergence of Smart TVs and Gaming Monitors:

Smart monitors, offering integrated streaming services, are gaining popularity. HP's OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor, a 32-inch 4K model, allows streaming to multiple platforms. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA provides an ultrawide alternative. Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor, featuring 4K OLED and neural processing for picture enhancement, also caters to gamers with its 165Hz refresh rate.

Conclusion:

CES 2025 demonstrated a significant leap forward in gaming monitor technology. While last year saw impressive advancements, 2025 promises even greater innovation, offering gamers a wider selection of high-performance displays at potentially more accessible price points.