The curved vs. flat monitor debate is still relatively new. Curved screens hit the market in 2013, and ever since, they have transformed how to work and play. However, you may be skeptical about making the switch because, hey, flat screens have done the job so far, right?
But going from a flat monitor to a curved one isn’t about making a simple switch. It’s about making a transformational upgrade! We’ll explain why by covering the top five benefits of a curved monitor vs. a flat one and some example Iiyama displays for your consideration.
Curved vs. Flat Monitor: The Top 5 Benefits to Consider
Not only do curved displays look super-cool, but also they offer a ton of benefits over the traditional flat display. Here are the top five benefits to consider if you’re thinking about purchasing a curved display.
1. Curved displays provide more immersive gaming experiences
First of all, if you're a gamer, then you're going to love the curved display. The key to a complete gaming experience is absolute immersion, and with a curved display, you'll feel like you're right in the game!
The key behind the monitor's technology is called ocular perception. This is how we can see the world in three dimensions: length, width, and height. A curved display can show all three dimensions, unlike a flat monitor, which is only capable of delivering two dimensions.
Additionally, curved displays tap into your peripheral vision, unlike flat displays. So while flat monitors can still be great for gaming, a curved display is your go-to choice if you're looking for absolute immersion.
2. Curved monitors are great for multi-monitor users
Curved monitors are not only great for gamers, but they can also be beneficial for those who use multiple monitors for work. Utilizing curved displays rather than flat ones allows you to create a more authentic viewing angle when lined up next to each other.
Plus, no matter your profession, if it's video editing, programming, or finance, a curved display allows you to see every corner of the screen more quickly than with a flat one. You'll also have more space, meaning you can have more programs and windows open without having to switch tabs or screens.
3. Curved displays are kinder to your eyes
You may have picked up on it already, but curved displays provide a more natural viewing experience for your eyes than flat ones. However, when you first get a curved display, the experience is similar to getting a new pair of glasses or contacts.
Like new glasses or contacts, there will be an adjustment period when you get a curved display. At first, it may seem like your eyes are working harder, or the images may seem just a bit off.
But unlike a flat screen, where your eyes focus first on the center and then on the corners, a curved display creates a uniform focal point. As a result, your eyes are actually doing less work and less refocusing with a curved display!
This is why curved displays are kinder to your eyes. You can see everything at once without having to strain and refocus your eyes constantly like you would with a flat screen.
Additionally, when you place a curved display in the correct position, you'll have reduced glares and reflections. Of course, you may still experience this, as you would with a flat monitor if you cannot set it up in the ideal spot. But it’s a simple fix: don’t place the curved monitor not facing a window or mirror.
4. Curved monitors provide a more expansive view
Another benefit that you may have picked up on already is that you'll gain a broader view with a curved display than with a flat monitor. But, again, the magic comes from the curved edges. The curved corners direct light from various angles toward your eyes, so it allows your eyes to see more.
So it can seem like you have a much bigger display when in reality, it's just your eyes being able to see better!
5. Curved displays remove distortion
There isn’t anything more annoying than blurry images, especially when you’re in the middle of an exciting game or working overtime to finish an editing project. Sometimes blurriness isn’t due to a weak wireless connection or your hardware. It could be because of your monitor.
A flat monitor will display images in a straight line and out of your sight on the sides. However, with a curved display, images are projected directly in your line of sight. This can reduce the feeling of distorted images.
Are There Any Cons With Curved Displays?
Of course, there may be some drawbacks when it comes to a curved display, depending on your budget and desk space. Some of the biggest cons people have when it comes to a curved display include:
- Budget: The price of a curved display is usually higher than a flat one.
- Wall mounting: A curved display is tricky to mount and may not look as great as a flat display.
- Size: You may read that the recommended size for a curved display is 30 inches or more for the best view. We carry curved displays from 24 inches to 34 inches, so it's your preference and space availability.
- Glares and reflections: We did cover this already, but to be fair, we also wanted to mention the possibility of glares and reflections if you cannot place the display in the right spot. Just like flat monitors, curved ones are susceptible to annoying glares and reflections. Be sure to place not facing a window or mirror.
Are You Ready for an Iiyama Curved Display?
Now that you’ve read all the benefits of curved displays, now it’s time to choose which one is the best for you!
The Monitor Lounge carries various Iiyama curved displays, from 24 inches up to 34 inches. All our curved displays come with predefined and custom gaming modes and adjustable stands so you can create the perfect gaming or work experience. Some of our top selling displays include:
Iiyama G-Master GB2466HSU-B1 24” Curved LED Display
- Refresh rate: 165Hz
- Response time: 1ms
- Resolution: 1920x1080
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- Static contrast: 3000:1
Iiyama G-Master GB3266QSU-B1 32” Curved LED Display
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Response time: 1ms
- Resolution: 2560x1440
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- Static contrast: 3000:1
Iiyama G-Master GB3466WQSU-B1 34: Curved LED Display
- Refresh rate: 144Hz
- Response time: 1ms
- Resolution: 3440x1440
- Aspect ratio: 21:9
- Static contrast: 3000:1
To view our entire collection of Iiyama curved displays, please visit our website. And if you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our team. We’ll help you select the ideal display based on your needs.