We're big fans of the latest OLED gaming monitors (opens in new tab), but there is one obvious problem. They all lack a bit of pixel count. However, a new roadmap from LG and Samsung, the two major OLED panel producers, reportedly solves this problem with the arrival of 27- and 32-inch high-resolution 4K options.
Of course, you can currently buy OLED gaming monitors and full 4K TVs (open in new tab). However, they are all 42" or larger models, which is definitely oversized for desktop use. Pixel density is not as high at this panel size.
Salvation comes in the form of TFT Central's latest OLED roadmap update (opens in new tab). Fortunately, the ideal OLED panel is on the horizon.
For starters, both LG and Samsung are actually working on several new monitor-sized 4K OLED panels. Both are working on 27" and 32" models, which will offer full 240 Hz refresh.
True to their existing form, LG's will use WOLED technology and Samsung's will be QD-OLED. Another interesting differentiator is that LG's 32" will offer a new DFR (Dynamic Frequency and Resolution) feature.
The key attraction here is the ability to effectively convert a 4K panel into a 1080p panel using integer or pixel doubling, effectively providing two different native resolutions.
In 4K mode, the panel goes to 240 Hz, while in 1080p mode it goes to 480 Hz. We have seen such dual-mode screens before, most recently on the new Razer Blade 16.
However, not all implementations yet fully deliver on the promise of dual native mode. For example, the Razer panel was just a bit soft in 1080p mode; hopefully LG will solve this problem with their new 32" OLED panel. Because if so, it could be the ideal single panel for almost any type of game.
Well, if only LG could improve the brightness of all WOLED panels for PC monitors. So far, LG's WOLED panels have been very disappointing, lagging far behind Samsung's QD-OLED technology, which is used by the Alienware 34 AW3423DW (opens in new tab) mentioned in the introduction.
Elsewhere in the roadmap report, there are one or two other attractive options: the LG 45-inch 5K2K panel with a native resolution of 5,120 x 2,160 pixels looks quite appealing; the Corsair Xeneon Flex (in new tab Open), which is a much higher resolution than the disappointing 45-inch LG OLED panel we reviewed.
Both companies are also working on 27" 1440p panels with refresh rates of 360Hz or higher. In other words, the combination of ultra-high refresh and OLED-style ultra-low response is about to become a reality. Fantastic.
The bad news is as to when we will see actual gaming monitors with these panels. Nothing until at least the second half of next year, and some models may not appear until 2025. On paper, however, it looks like it will be worth the wait.
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