AOC CU34G2X
$449
The AOC CU34G2X is a 34-inch ultrawide curved monitor with a 3440x1440 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It provides vibrant colors and smooth gameplay, making it a great choice for gamers and multimedia enthusiasts.

Our take
An excellent budget-friendly option for gamers seeking an ultrawide display.
Alright, let's talk about the AOC CU34G2X. This is a 34-inch ultrawide monitor and if you're looking for more screen space, this might catch your eye. The curve on this thing is pretty neat; it pulls you in and makes you feel like you're in the action, especially if you’re gaming. But here's the kicker: the resolution is 3440x1440, which is solid for most folks. You get sharp images and the extra width really helps with multitasking or just having a more immersive view. Just make sure your desk can handle it because, man, it takes up some serious real estate.
Performance-wise, it's got a 144Hz refresh rate, which is sweet, especially if you're into fast-paced games. Everything looks smooth and fluid, and it's a noticeable step up from the standard 60Hz monitors. But, a quick heads-up: you'll need a decent graphics card to really make use of that refresh rate, otherwise, it's like having a sports car but never hitting the highway. Also, there's FreeSync support, which is a nice touch for keeping those pesky screen tears at bay.
Now, let’s talk about color. The colors look vibrant and the contrast is decent. It's not going to compete with your high-end professional monitors for color accuracy, but for gaming and everyday use, it does the job well. The blacks are deep enough, and you won't notice any glaring issues unless you're super picky. Just be prepared to tinker with the settings a bit to get it just right for your taste.
One thing that's a bit of a letdown is the stand. It's not the most flexible thing out there. You get tilt and height adjustments, but if you're looking for swivel, you're out of luck. If you're like me and need to adjust your monitor a lot, you might want to consider a VESA mount. Also, there are no built-in speakers, which isn’t a deal-breaker for most but something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to minimize desk clutter.
Overall, the AOC CU34G2X is a solid choice if you’re after an ultrawide without breaking the bank. It’s got great performance for gaming and everyday use, and the price is pretty competitive. Just remember, you might need to make a few compromises here and there, especially if you’re chasing those top-tier features. But if you’re cool with that, it’s definitely worth a look.