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Top 5 Reasons to Buy a Curved PC Monitor
Dan Marzullo
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July 25, 2018
Although not as widespread in use as their flat brethren, curved computer monitors have taken electronics events, such as the Consumer Electronics Show, by storm over the past few years.
While they certainly look super-slick and have their own benefits, they do tend to cost more than flat displays, which may make you wonder: are curved monitors worth it? Depending on how you use your computer, the answer may be yes.
Sure, a curved TV may not be exactly ideal for the family living room, but a curved display brings some substantial perks to how you use your computer. For one, they can turn an ordinary gaming experience into something genuinely immersive, but the benefits don’t stop there.
Here are five reasons why you should consider adding some curve to your existing PC setup.
1. Curved screens mean more immersive gaming
As mentioned, curved monitors are particularly great for gaming. Your next Call of Duty or Fortnite match will undoubtedly feel more realistic than before and provide a more intense battlefield experience than your average gaming PC monitor.
A curved display has this effect because its shape subtly creates more depth within the screen, providing a more immersive session whether you’re travelling through time, heading into space, or leaping into a terrifying war zone.
Curve radius counts
Curved screen immersion also relies on factors like curve radius and viewing distance. The further away you get from the screen, the more obvious the curve becomes. But as long as you’re within a few feet, it can make a dramatic impact.
Options for every budget
Also, just like with anything related to PC gaming, the exact experience you have depends on the hardware you choose and, of course, your budget. That goes for whether you’re looking at a 4K curved gaming monitor like the HP OMEN X 35-inch curved display or a less expensive option like the HP 27b curved computer monitor.
2. Ideal for multi-monitor users
Curved monitors aren’t just for play, because working professionals across industries can benefit from the unique construction as well. This technology creates a more comprehensive and more natural viewing angle than you’ll have with flat monitors lined up side by side.
In some cases, a single curved monitor can even replace a couple of flat ones.
Now, not all professionals need such a full field of view. However, if you’re working in a field where you need to look at large areas at one time - video editing, finance, programming, etc. - a curved screen means you won’t be switching from tab to tab or looking at different displays.
A good option for working professionals is the HP Z38c. The monitor comes with sharp graphics and won’t make your workstation look like it belongs to a professional gamer.
The HP Z38c features a 37.5-inch screen, a 3840 x 1600 resolution at 60 Hz, and is actually less curved than say, the HP OMEN X 35-inch Curved Display. It’s also one of our higher-end models, bringing bright colors and 178-degree viewing angles to the table.
3. A more comfortable up-close viewing experience
A curved monitor is often associated with more active computing scenarios, because they can make gaming or work more intimate and immersive.
As a result, this type of monitor is best for those who enjoy a more close-up experience, which means it may not be right for everyone. However, if you're a regular gamer, a desk-bound worker, or someone who likes to take in a movie on their own, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a curved display.
If possible, experiment with a variety of curved PC monitors in a store before you make up your mind. Be sure to look at the screens from different viewing distances to make sure that the screen you purchase will satisfy your entertainment, gaming and work needs.
Part of the experience, especially if you’re a gamer or multitasker, is finding your ideal curve ratio and size.
4. Curved screens feel more natural than flat ones
A curved display offers a more natural viewing experience. In addition to providing breathtaking graphics to gamers and streamers alike, the curve helps to reduce eye strain.
When you first switch to a curved screen, it may feel like your eyes are doing more work than they were with your flat monitor. Not to worry, though, because these effects are temporary.
Adjusting to a new screen is a lot like getting a new pair of glasses. That first day, your vision may feel a little off, but once you adjust, you'll feel better than ever.
When viewing a flat screen display, your eyes will shift from the center of your screen to the outer corners. And with that, the distance of your eyes and the screen changes, which requires your eyes to refocus rather quickly.
A curved screen keeps the focal distance more uniform, which means that your eyes are actually doing less work with fewer refocuses.
5. Reduced reflections
Part of the reason that curved computer screens aren't ideal is because they're prone to catching more reflections than a flat screen.
So, are we contradicting ourselves? Well, the idea is that both curved and flat monitors have this problem, but they react differently.
We’ve long been coping with reflections on our flat monitors, which may look too bright or be difficult to read. With a curved display, reflected light can distort the on-screen image, too.
Position is key
However, a well-positioned curved monitor has an edge on the flats. If you're in a room with an ill-placed window or mirror, a curved monitor can help you avoid those distracting reflections with its ability to distort glare.
If you do get the placement wrong, though, the sleek curves of your screen are bound to amplify the annoying bright spot. Strategically placed monitors can help workers get the best of the natural light in their office while avoiding the pain points that go along with it.
Ready for an HP curved monitor?
While we still believe that flat monitors are fantastic and certainly have their uses, curved monitors provide an immersive experience that can’t be beat.
Check them out in person
If possible, you should physically take a look at a variety of curved monitors before you make up your mind. Part of the experience, especially if you’re a gamer or multitasker, is finding your ideal curve ratio and size.
Also, while curved monitors may cost more than a flat screen of the same size and quality, they are available at all price points. We offer weekly PC monitor deals on select models, and models range from around $200 to over $1,000, so have a look around and see what meets your needs.
About the Author: Dan Marzullo is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Dan produces strategic marketing content for startups, digital agencies, and established brands. His work can be found in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, YFS Magazine, and many other media outlets.
