Ultrawide monitors

What an ultrawide replaces

A single 34-inch 21:9 screen covers roughly the width of two 24-inch monitors, without the bezel seam in the middle. 32:9 (44–49 inches) is already two QHD monitors in one chassis.

• Aspect ratio. 21:9 suits work and films, 32:9 suits spreadsheets and trading; films on 32:9 leave black bars at the sides.
• Curve. 1800R is gentle, 1000R follows your field of view more closely. The wider the screen, the more curve you want.
• KVM. Many models include a built-in KVM: one keyboard and mouse for two computers. Check for it — that is the main reason an ultrawide replaces two monitors.
• Stand. Weight reaches 10–15 kg, so check load ratings when picking a mount; monitor mounts are a separate category.

Check before buying

Some older laptops and docks cannot output 3440 × 1440 above 60 Hz. If you connect over USB-C, check the supported resolution of your docking station. Standard-ratio alternatives: 32 inches and 27 inches.

Gaming

21:9 widens your field of view, though in esports that is arguably a drawback, as edge information leaves your vision. Fast panels: gaming monitors.

Frequently asked questions

Do all games support 21:9? Most new titles do; older ones stretch the image or letterbox it.

Is an ultrawide good for two people watching? Yes, but the curve means the picture distorts slightly when viewed from the side.

How much desk does it take? A 34-inch is about 81 cm wide, a 49-inch 120 cm — measure the desk before ordering.