Top Lists: Best Laptop Screen Extenders, Monitors & Accessories

Ultrawide monitors have transformed the way we work, game, and multitask. With aspect ratios like 21:9 and 32:9, these screens provide expansive horizontal space that traditional monitors simply can’t match. But with so many models, sizes, resolutions, and use cases—how do you find the best ultrawide monitor for your needs?

This guide explores the benefits and trade-offs of ultrawide monitors, compares them with dual-monitor setups, and provides tailored recommendations for work, gaming, and budget-conscious buyers.

Part 1: Why Choose an Ultrawide Monitor?

Benefits of Ultrawide Displays

• Multitasking Made Easy: Open two or even three apps side-by-side without alt-tabbing
• Seamless Workflow: Timeline-based applications (like video or music editing) shine on wide horizontal real estate
• Cinematic Experience: 21:9 matches many film aspect ratios for letterbox-free streaming
• Immersive Gaming: Especially in racing, flight simulators, and RPGs

Ideal For:

• Developers and designers
• Content creators
• Office professionals handling multiple documents
• Anyone tired of managing bezels between two monitors

Part 2: Best 5 Ultrawide Monitors for Work

Dell U3423WE – The Professional’s Choice

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, RJ45, HDMI, DP, USB-A hub
• Price: ~$1,000

Features:

• Factory-calibrated for professional color accuracy
• USB-C docking with power delivery
• Built-in RJ45 for network stability in offices

Pros:

• Excellent build quality
• Versatile I/O for office setups
• Great color precision out of the box

Cons:

• 60Hz refresh rate may not suit light gaming
• Premium pricing for office-focused features

LG 34WN80C-B – Ergonomics and Color on a Budget

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Curve: 1800R | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$600–700

Features:

• 99% sRGB color gamut
• OnScreen Control software for window management
• Height, tilt, and swivel adjustment

Pros:

• Affordable for an IPS ultrawide
• Accurate color for entry-level creatives
• Easy-to-use USB-C connectivity

Cons:

• Limited brightness (~300 nits)
• Slight ghosting with fast motion

BenQ EX3501R – HDR-Friendly for Visual Work

• Size: 35” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Curve: 1800R
• Refresh Rate: 100Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$650

Features:

• Supports HDR10 with decent contrast
• 100Hz refresh rate for smooth multitasking
• Eye-Care tech to reduce eye strain

Pros:

• Immersive curve
• Good contrast and smooth visuals
• USB-C and HDR in budget range

Cons:

• VA panel has narrower viewing angles
• Slight input lag for fast-paced tasks

Philips 346E2CUAE – Bright and Budget-Friendly

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Refresh: 100Hz
• Ports: USB-C docking, HDMI, DP, USB-A hub
• Price: ~$430–500

Features:

• 121% sRGB color support
• USB-C docking with charging
• Flicker-free and LowBlue Mode

Pros:

• Exceptional color vibrancy for the price
• Full docking solution
• Very competitive price

Cons:

• Build quality not as premium
• No HDR support

HP E34m G4 – Made for Hybrid Work

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP, USB-A
• Price: ~$700

Features:

• Integrated 5MP webcam and speakers
• Ergonomic stand for extended use
• Certified Zoom/Teams support

Pros:

• Perfect for video conferencing
• USB-C docking
• Built-in webcam and mic array

Cons:

• Limited color gamut (not for creators)
• Not ideal for gaming or HDR

Comparison Table

Model	Panel	Resolution	Refresh	USB-C	Webcam	Best For	Price
Dell U3423WE	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	✅	❌	Color-accurate workstations	~$1,000
LG 34WN80C-B	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	✅	❌	Ergonomic home office	~$600–700
BenQ EX3501R	VA	3440x1440	100Hz	✅	❌	HDR-capable media editing	~$650
Philips 346E2CUAE	VA	3440x1440	100Hz	✅	❌	Budget vibrant visuals	~$430–500
HP E34m G4	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	✅	✅	Video calls, hybrid setups	~$700

Part 3: Best 5 Ultrawide Monitors for Office

LG 34WQ650-W – Affordable Comfort for Daily Use

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 2560x1080
• Refresh Rate: 75Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$350

Features:

• Adjustable ergonomic stand
• Reader Mode and Flicker Safe tech for eye comfort
• Thin bezels and wall-mountable design

Pros:

• Budget-friendly ultrawide with decent specs
• Good for basic office use and web tasks
• Slight curve aids immersion

Cons:

• Lower resolution than standard ultrawides
• Not ideal for media editing

Dell P3424WE – Enterprise-Level Productivity

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C hub, RJ45, DisplayPort, HDMI
• Price: ~$800

Features:

• Dell ComfortView Plus (low blue light always-on)
• Built-in Ethernet and KVM switching
• USB-C delivers power, data, and video

Pros:

• Built for IT-managed environments
• Great for multiple input setups
• High build quality and color accuracy

Cons:

• Premium price
• 60Hz limits fast motion applications

ViewSonic VG3456 – Docking Made Simple

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP, Ethernet
• Price: ~$600

Features:

• Built-in USB-C docking with Ethernet
• VESA-mount ready with tilt, swivel, height
• 3-year limited warranty

Pros:

• Ideal for hot-desking setups
• Efficient port consolidation
• Business-grade support

Cons:

• Basic design aesthetics
• No high refresh rate option

Samsung S34A650 – Eye Comfort for Long Hours

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Curve: 1000R
• Refresh Rate: 100Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$500–550

Features:

• Eye Saver Mode and Flicker-Free tech
• Crisp QHD resolution
• USB-C hub with charging

Pros:

• Great value with curved comfort
• Sharp image and color depth
• High refresh for smoother transitions

Cons:

• VA panel may have minor ghosting
• Curve may not suit all workflows

ASUS ProArt PA348CGV – Creative Clarity in Office Environments

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz | Ports: USB-C, DP, HDMI, USB-A
• Price: ~$750–800

Features:

• 100% sRGB and Rec.709
• Factory pre-calibrated with Calman Verified
• USB-C with 90W charging

Pros:

• Professional-grade color for visual offices
• Smoother motion with 120Hz
• Includes desk mount arm in box

Cons:

• Overkill for basic productivity tasks
• Higher cost than typical office monitors

Comparison Table

Model	Panel	Resolution	Refresh	USB-C	Curve	Best For	Price
LG 34WQ650-W	IPS	2560x1080	75Hz	✅	Slight	Entry-level office users	~$350
Dell P3424WE	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	✅	❌	IT-heavy business setups	~$800
ViewSonic VG3456	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	✅	❌	Multi-device workstations	~$600
Samsung S34A650	VA	3440x1440	100Hz	✅	✅	Comfortable long-hour work	~$500–550
ASUS ProArt PA348CGV	IPS	3440x1440	120Hz	✅	❌	Creative office professionals	~$750–800

Part 4: Best 5 Ultrawide Monitors for Design

LG 40WP95C-W – The 5K2K Powerhouse for Creatives

• Size: 40” | Panel: Nano IPS | Resolution: 5120x2160 (5K2K)
• Refresh Rate: 72Hz | Ports: Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, DP, HDMI
• Price: ~$1,600–1,800

Features:

• 98% DCI-P3 color accuracy, HDR10 support
• 5K2K ultra-wide clarity with thunderbolt hub
• Ideal for macOS workflows and high-resolution design

Pros:

• Extremely high pixel density for detailed work
• Professional-grade color calibration
• Seamless USB-C/Thunderbolt integration

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• Large size requires ample desk space

ASUS ProArt PA34VC – Designer’s Dream Monitor

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 100Hz | Ports: USB-C, DP, HDMI
• Price: ~$850–950

Features:

• Calman Verified pre-calibration
• Delta E < 2, 100% sRGB & Rec.709
• Adaptive-Sync + ergonomic stand

Pros:

• Superb factory color accuracy
• Smooth 100Hz refresh ideal for editing timelines
• Great balance of price and performance

Cons:

• Color coverage not as broad as DCI-P3
• Thunderbolt not supported

Dell UltraSharp U4021QW – Massive Real Estate for Creative Pros

• Size: 40” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 5120x2160
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: Thunderbolt, USB-C, HDMI, RJ45
• Price: ~$1,700

Features:

• Wide color gamut and factory calibration
• KVM switch, Ethernet, and USB-C docking
• Designed for multitasking creatives and analysts

Pros:

• Expansive screen with crisp visuals
• Perfect for working across multiple apps
• Professional display accuracy

Cons:

• Expensive
• No high refresh support

BenQ PD3420Q – Balanced Performance and Visual Fidelity

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$900

Features:

• HDR10 and AQColor with 95% DCI-P3
• DualView mode for side-by-side color space preview
• USB-C with 65W charging

Pros:

• Versatile design monitor for photo/video work
• Excellent build quality and clarity

Cons:

• Lacks Thunderbolt
• Brightness could be higher

Eizo FlexScan EV3895 – Ergonomic Ultrawide for UI/UX Experts

• Size:5” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3840x1600
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Ports: USB-C, LAN, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$1,400

Features:

• Auto brightness, KVM, Daisy Chain support
• TUV-certified eye care tech
• USB-C with LAN passthrough for enterprise networks

Pros:

• Very comfortable for long use
• Ideal for multitasking and ergonomic desks
• Highly durable and customizable

Cons:

• Less known brand in some markets
• Lower refresh rate

Comparison Table

Model	Panel	Resolution	Refresh	Color Space	USB-C	Best For	Price
LG 40WP95C-W	Nano IPS	5120x2160	72Hz	98% DCI-P3	✅	High-res creative workflows	~$1,600–1,800
ASUS ProArt PA34VC	IPS	3440x1440	100Hz	100% sRGB/Rec.709	✅	Designers needing calibration	~$850–950
Dell U4021QW	IPS	5120x2160	60Hz	Factory Calibrated	✅	Multi-app creative professionals	~$1,700
BenQ PD3420Q	IPS	3440x1440	60Hz	95% DCI-P3	✅	Video/photo editors	~$900
Eizo EV3895	IPS	3840x1600	60Hz	sRGB	✅	UI/UX designers, ergonomic users	~$1,400

Part 5: Best 5 Ultrawide Gaming Monitors

Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 – Ultimate Immersion at 49"

• Size: 49” | Panel: VA Quantum Mini-LED | Resolution: 5120x1440
• Refresh Rate: 240Hz | Response Time: 1ms | HDR: HDR2000
• Price: ~$2,000–2,300

Features:

• Dual QHD super ultrawide with a 1000R curve
• NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro
• CoreSync ambient lighting system

Pros:

• Ultra-smooth 240Hz for esports and AAA games
• Immersive wraparound view for sims and multitasking
• Top-tier HDR and color brightness

Cons:

• Extremely large footprint
• High GPU demand for full resolution

Alienware AW3423DW – OLED Excellence in Gaming

• Size: 34” | Panel: QD-OLED | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 175Hz | HDR: DisplayHDR 400 True Black
• Price: ~$1,300–1,500

Features:

• Infinite contrast ratio, ultra-fast response time
• G-Sync Ultimate and 0.1ms gray-to-gray
• Modern AlienFX design with RGB lighting

Pros:

• Best contrast and black levels on any monitor
• Beautiful motion clarity and vivid colors

Cons:

• Risk of burn-in with static UI
• Premium pricing for 34” size

LG UltraGear 34GN850-B – Fast and Fluid

• Size: 34” | Panel: Nano IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Curve: 1900R
• Refresh Rate: 160Hz (OC) | Response Time: 1ms GtG
• Price: ~$950–1,050

Features:

• NVIDIA G-Sync compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium
• Wide color gamut with 98% DCI-P3

Pros:

• Strong all-around gaming performance
• Sharp visuals and reliable overdrive

Cons:

• Slight IPS glow in dark scenes
• Slight curve feels minimal

MSI MPG Artymis 343CQR – Curved Performance

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Curve: 1000R
• Refresh Rate: 165Hz | HDR: HDR400
• Price: ~$700–800

Features:

• Gaming OSD app, RGB Mystic Light, Night Vision
• Console mode support (HDMI 2.0b)

Pros:

• Aggressive curve and contrast-heavy panel
• Affordable for its specs

Cons:

• Mediocre HDR brightness
• Heavier design, larger stand footprint

Gigabyte M34WQ – Gaming + Productivity Combo

• Size: 34” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 3440x1440
• Refresh Rate: 144Hz | KVM Switch: Built-in
• Price: ~$450–500

Features:

• 91% DCI-P3, low input lag, crosshair overlay
• USB-C, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort

Pros:

• Fantastic value and versatility
• Great color accuracy for creatives
• Ideal for game/work hybrid setups

Cons:

• No curvature may feel wide to some
• Basic stand and audio quality

Comparison Table

Model	Panel	Resolution	Refresh	HDR	Curve	Best For	Price
Samsung Neo G9	VA Mini-LED	5120x1440	240Hz	HDR2000	1000R	Sim gamers, elite visuals	~$2,000–2,300
Alienware AW3423DW	QD-OLED	3440x1440	175Hz	HDR400	1800R	OLED clarity & immersion	~$1,300–1,500
LG 34GN850-B	Nano IPS	3440x1440	160Hz	HDR400	1900R	All-round competitive play	~$950–1,050
MSI 343CQR	VA	3440x1440	165Hz	HDR400	1000R	Affordable immersion	~$700–800
Gigabyte M34WQ	IPS	3440x1440	144Hz	None	❌	Budget gaming + productivity	~$450–500

Part 6: Best Budget Ultrawide Monitors

Gigabyte G34WQC – Affordable Powerhouse for Gamers

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Refresh Rate: 144Hz
• Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, 3.5mm audio out
• Price: ~$400

Features:

• Curved 1500R display with FreeSync Premium
• High refresh rate and rich contrast
• Good color reproduction for the price

Pros:

• Solid value for casual and competitive gaming
• Sleek design with immersive curve

Cons:

• Lower brightness (~350 nits)
• VA panel may introduce minor ghosting

AOC CU34G2X – Budget Monitor with Premium Feel

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Refresh Rate: 144Hz
• Ports: 2x DisplayPort, 2x HDMI, USB hub
• Price: ~$400–450

Features:

• 1ms response time, height-adjustable stand
• Wide color gamut (~99% sRGB)
• Built-in flicker-free and low blue light mode

Pros:

• Great for gaming and creative beginners
• Adjustable and ergonomic

Cons:

• No USB-C or advanced docking
• Slightly dimmer HDR reproduction

MSI MAG342CQPV – Entry-Level Curved Utility

• Size: 34” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Refresh Rate: 100Hz
• Ports: HDMI, DP, audio out
• Price: ~$320–370

Features:

• 1500R curved screen for immersive feel
• MSI Eye Care tech for long sessions

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to set up
• Good for office + light gaming

Cons:

• No USB-C or integrated speakers
• Limited adjustability

Sceptre C355W-3440UN – Home Entertainment Pick

• Size: 35” | Panel: VA | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Refresh Rate: 100Hz
• Ports: HDMI, DP, built-in speakers
• Price: ~$300–350

Features:

• Slim bezel design with built-in audio
• VESA wall-mount compatibility

Pros:

• Great for movies, web browsing, and casual use
• Very low price point for size

Cons:

• Basic brightness and color reproduction
• Limited stand adjustability

LG 29WP60G-B – Compact and Functional

• Size: 29” | Panel: IPS | Resolution: 2560x1080 | Refresh Rate: 75Hz
• Ports: USB-C, HDMI, DP
• Price: ~$200–250

Features:

• 99% sRGB color accuracy
• USB-C with 15W charging for laptops
• Compact for smaller desks

Pros:

• Great entry point to ultrawide format
• Light, energy-efficient, Mac-compatible

Cons:

• Lower resolution and size
• Not suited for serious content creation

Comparison Table

Model	Panel	Resolution	Refresh	USB-C	Curve	Best For	Price
Gigabyte G34WQC	VA	3440x1440	144Hz	❌	1500R	Budget gamers	~$400
AOC CU34G2X	VA	3440x1440	144Hz	❌	1500R	All-round use w/ good colors	~$400–450
MSI MAG342CQPV	VA	3440x1440	100Hz	❌	1500R	Casual gamers and office users	~$320–370
Sceptre C355W	VA	3440x1440	100Hz	❌	Slight	Movies and casual browsing	~$300–350
LG 29WP60G-B	IPS	2560x1080	75Hz	✅	❌	Small desks and basic work	~$200–250

Part 7: Ultrawide vs Dual Monitors – Which Setup Is Better?

Choosing between an ultrawide monitor and a dual monitor setup depends on your workspace, daily tasks, and personal preferences. Here’s a deeper breakdown of the differences to help you decide:

1. Workspace Aesthetics & Ergonomics

• Ultrawide: One single screen means less cable clutter, a cleaner desk, and easier cable management.
• Dual Monitors: Offers more flexibility in positioning (one horizontal, one vertical) but introduces more cables and stands.

2. Seamless Multitasking

• Ultrawide: Perfect for continuous workflows like video editing timelines or stock trading. No bezels interrupt your visual span.
• Dual Monitors: You can dedicate one screen to reference material and the other to active work—but the bezel gap may be distracting.

3. Compatibility & Performance

• Ultrawide: Some older apps or games don’t support 21:9 or 32:9 aspect ratios, and they may appear stretched or bordered.
• Dual Monitors: Virtually universal support, though window snapping can feel disjointed across screens.

4. Gaming Experience

• Ultrawide: Highly immersive, especially for sim racing, RPGs, and flight sims. Wider field of view gives a competitive edge.
• Dual Monitors: Few games support true dual monitor gameplay; often used for game + chat or stream setups.

5. Productivity & Use Case

• Ultrawide: Ideal for:
  • Video editors
  • Developers (code + preview side-by-side)
  • Multitaskers in a single app
• Dual Monitors: Best for:
  • Multi-app workflows
  • Using different software/tools on each screen
  • Teams needing virtual conferencing + work window

6. Cost & Efficiency

• Ultrawide: Slightly higher upfront cost, but you only need one monitor stand and one high-quality cable.
• Dual Monitors: Budget-friendly at entry-level, but may require additional accessories (splitters, arms, docking hubs).

Comparison Table: Ultrawide vs Dual Monitors

Criteria	Ultrawide Monitor	Dual Monitor Setup
Visual Experience	Seamless, immersive	Split, occasionally fragmented
Desk Setup	Minimal clutter	Requires more cables & space
Multitasking	Better for split-screen workflows	Ideal for independent apps
Gaming Support	Highly immersive (supported games)	Functional, not immersive
Learning Curve	Quick to adapt	Familiar but physically split
Eye Movement	Natural left-to-right flow	Requires frequent head turning
Software Compatibility	Mixed (21:9 not always supported)	Universal compatibility

In short, ultrawide monitors are the go-to choice for immersive workspaces and creative flows, while dual monitors still hold value in modular, task-based work environments.

Part 8: Downsides of Ultrawide Monitors – Consider Before You Buy

Potential Disadvantages

• Vertical Space: Less height than dual 16:9 monitors, which may limit visibility in tall documents
• Viewing Distance: 34–49” monitors need a deeper desk for comfort
• Compatibility: Older apps and games may not support ultrawide resolutions
• Learning Curve: Flat ultrawides can feel awkward without curve (as some Redditors point out)

Despite these, most users adapt quickly and appreciate the added flexibility and immersion.

Conclusion: Is an Ultrawide Monitor Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely—if you need more screen space and want to boost productivity without clutter, an ultrawide monitor is one of the smartest tech upgrades available.

Best For:

• Office & Remote Workers: Consolidate space, improve multitasking
• Developers & Designers: More code or canvas space at once
• Gamers & Creators: Enhanced field of view and immersive play

Whether you go with a 34" curved display or a super ultrawide 49” beast, ultrawide monitors offer a new way to interact with your digital world—seamlessly, efficiently, and enjoyably.