CES 2025 Unveils Top Gaming Monitor Trends

At CES 2025, the showcase of new gaming monitors was nothing short of spectacular. I had the privilege of touring the event, exploring the latest innovations from top vendors. The advancements in display and graphics technology have made this year particularly thrilling for gaming monitor enthusiasts.

QD-OLED Isn’t Going Anywhere and Should Become More Accessible

The dominant trend at CES for gaming monitors was the continued prominence of QD-OLED technology. Major brands like MSI, Gigabyte, and LG showcased their latest offerings, emphasizing their burn-in warranties and protection features. This year promises significant advancements in display technology.

The surge in QD-OLED popularity from 2024 continues, with new models boasting impressive specs. Several companies unveiled 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitors with high-bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1 connections. MSI introduced the MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, a 1440p QD-OLED monitor that reaches an astonishing 500Hz refresh rate. Other brands presented their unique takes on these high-performance panels, signaling a future filled with fast and visually stunning monitors.

As QD-OLED technology matures, we can expect prices to become more accessible. While launch prices remain high, opting for slightly older models could offer substantial savings throughout the year.

Mini-LED Isn’t Dead, But It Is Tech To Keep an Eye Out For

Although Mini-LED technology didn't dominate the show, it was still present. MSI plans to market its dual-mode AI mini-LED, the MPG 274URDFW E16M, as a more budget-friendly alternative to QD-OLED. This approach is promising, especially given my experience with similar technologies.

The MPG 274URDFW E16M features 1,152 local dimming zones and a peak brightness of around 1,000 nits, delivering impressive contrast in bright environments. It supports 4K resolution at 160Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay, and can switch to 320Hz at 1080p. However, I remain skeptical about its AI-driven "dual-mode AI" feature, which automatically adjusts resolution based on content.

Despite limited options at the show, Mini-LED technology is poised for growth. It offers high brightness, excellent contrast with the right settings, and no risk of burn-in. With sufficient dimming zones, blooming is minimized. If priced competitively, Mini-LED could be an attractive option for those wary of the high costs and maintenance of OLED displays.

Pricing for this model is yet to be announced, but it's expected to be more affordable than its QD-OLED counterparts.

Refresh Rates and Resolutions Continue to Climb

As QD-OLED technology advances and graphics cards become more powerful, refresh rates are reaching new heights. The arrival of 4K at 240Hz and 1440p at 500Hz is a testament to this progress. Gigabyte's Aorus FO27Q5P is a standout, aiming for VESA TrueBlack 500 certification, which promises brighter highlights for enhanced HDR. Other brands, including the previously mentioned MPG 272QR QD-OLED X50, offer similar high-performance options.

MSI also revived TN panels with the MSI MPG 242R X60N, boasting a 600Hz refresh rate. While TN panels compromise on color and viewing angles, their speed is undeniable. Whether the average gamer will notice the improvements in clarity and latency remains to be seen.

Beyond gaming, Asus unveiled the ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV, a 6K (6,016 x 3,384) monitor aimed at creators. Priced at $1,249, it uses a bright mini-LED display, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive models. While not ideal for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate, it highlights the industry's push towards higher resolutions.

Smart Monitors Bring TVs and Gaming Monitors Closer Together

Although I had mixed feelings about the Samsung G80SD in my review, the appeal of smart monitors for gamers is undeniable. These devices, which double as smart TVs with built-in streaming services, are perfect for small spaces or those looking to relax after gaming.

This year, several new smart monitor options are on the horizon. While not all are specifically targeted at gamers, the trend is clearly growing. HP introduced the OMEN 32x Smart Gaming Monitor, a 32-inch 4K display pre-loaded with streaming apps and capable of streaming to up to four platforms. LG's UltraGear 39GX90SA offers an ultrawide option with similar features and an 800R curve.

Samsung's M9 Smart Monitor features on-device neural processing to enhance its 4K OLED panel. It can intelligently adjust picture settings and upscale content to 4K, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and entertainment with its 165Hz refresh rate.

Wrapping Up

CES 2025 provided a glimpse into the future of gaming monitors, showcasing innovations that push the boundaries of technology. Last year was a great, albeit expensive, year for gaming monitors, but 2025 promises even more exciting developments.