If you’re searching for the best 38-inch ultrawide monitor, you’re likely balancing size, performance, and price. The Dell U-Series 38″ 4K UHD stands out as the overall top choice, offering sharp resolution and solid build quality for general productivity and creative work. For gamers, the Samsung Odyssey G7 provides a curved, high-refresh experience, while the LG 39GX90SA-W shines with its OLED panel and fast response times. Each option in this category involves tradeoffs—such as price versus feature set or gaming performance versus professional display qualities. Continue reading to explore these options in detail and find the best fit for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The best ultrawide monitors balance resolution, refresh rate, and color accuracy based on user needs.
- Curved screens are common at this size, enhancing immersion but sometimes complicating multi-monitor setups.
- Premium models often include better HDR support and faster response times, essential for gaming or creative work.
- Build quality and connectivity options vary significantly, influencing long-term usability and versatility.
- Price ranges are broad; understanding what features matter most helps avoid overspending on unnecessary extras.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Dell U-Series 38″ 4K UHD Ultra Wide Curved Monitor (U3818DW), Black
This Dell U-Series 38-inch curved monitor stands out for its stunning 4K UHD resolution and wide color gamut, making it a top choice for professionals who need clarity and color accuracy. Compared to the Alienware AW3425DWM, it offers a larger screen and better multitasking features, though it sacrifices some gaming-specific performance like ultra-fast response times. Its single USB-C connection simplifies desk setup and reduces clutter, while the anti-glare coating enhances comfort during long work sessions. The 60Hz refresh rate isn’t suited for fast-paced gaming, but for general use, it provides a smooth experience. Its higher price reflects its premium build and features, making it ideal for creative professionals or multitaskers rather than gamers seeking rapid response.
Pros:- Stunning 4K UHD resolution with 99% color gamut
- Single USB-C cable transmits power, video, and audio
- Supports multiple devices with KVM and Easy Arrange features
- Anti-glare coating reduces eye strain
Cons:- Limited to 60Hz refresh rate, less ideal for gaming
- Heavy at over 26 pounds, requiring sturdy setup
- Price point is on the higher side for a monitor of this type
Best for: Creative professionals and multitaskers who prioritize high resolution and color accuracy in a large display
Not ideal for: Fast-paced gamers or users needing higher refresh rates for competitive gaming
- Display Size:38 Inches
- Resolution:3840 x 1600 pixels
- Display Technology:LCD
- Refresh Rate:60 Hz
- Brightness:350 cd/m²
- Color Gamut:99%
Bottom line: This monitor is best suited for users who need a large, high-resolution display for productivity and creative work.
Samsung 40” Odyssey G7 (G75F) WUHD Curved Gaming Monitor
The Samsung Odyssey G7 G75F makes a strong statement for gamers needing an expansive, curved display with exceptional speed. Its 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time outperform the Dell U3818DW’s standard 60Hz, delivering ultra-smooth gameplay. The 1000R curvature enhances immersion, especially in fast-paced scenes, while VESA DisplayHDR 600 boosts contrast and color vibrancy. However, the larger size and premium features come with a hefty price tag, and its focus on gaming means it offers limited versatility for general productivity or creative tasks. Compared with the Dell, it sacrifices some color accuracy and workspace flexibility but excels in responsiveness and visual impact for gaming.
Pros:- High 180Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay
- VESA DisplayHDR 600 for vibrant visuals
- 1000R curvature for immersive experience
- Fast 1ms response time minimizes lag
Cons:- Large size requires substantial desk space
- Premium price limits accessibility
- Limited to gaming and multimedia use
Best for: Serious gamers who want an expansive, curved gaming monitor with high refresh rates
Not ideal for: Productivity-focused users or creative professionals who need accurate color reproduction and higher resolution
- Display Size:40 inches
- Resolution:WUHD 3840 x 1600
- Refresh Rate:180Hz
- Response Time:1ms
- HDR:VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Curvature:1000R
Bottom line: This monitor is perfect for gamers seeking an immersive, high-speed experience in a large curved display.
Alienware 34 Curved Gaming Monitor – AW3425DWM, 34-inch WQHD, 180Hz, 1ms, AMD FreeSync Premium
The Alienware AW3425DWM emphasizes gaming performance with its 34-inch WQHD curved display, 180Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time. Its 95% DCI-P3 color coverage delivers vivid visuals, making it suitable for both gaming and creative work, though its smaller size compared to the 38-inch options limits workspace. The DisplayHDR 400 certification provides decent contrast, but it doesn’t match the HDR capabilities of the Samsung G75F. Its ergonomic adjustments are limited, which could be a drawback for long gaming sessions. Compared to the Dell U3818DW, it offers faster response times and higher refresh rates but falls short on resolution size, appealing more to gamers and enthusiasts than general users.
Pros:- High 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response
- Vivid 95% DCI-P3 color coverage
- Immersive curved design enhances gaming experience
- Multiple connectivity options including HDMI, DisplayPort, USB
Cons:- Smaller screen size limits multitasking workspace
- Premium pricing for gaming-focused features
- Limited ergonomic adjustments
Best for: Gamers and enthusiasts who value high refresh rates, fast response, and vibrant color in a more compact ultrawide
Not ideal for: Professionals needing high resolution and color accuracy for detailed creative work
- Display Size:34 inches
- Resolution:3440 x 1440 pixels
- Refresh Rate:180Hz
- Response Time:1ms
- DisplayHDR:DisplayHDR 400
- Color Coverage:95% DCI-P3
Bottom line: This monitor is best for gamers who want a high-speed, vibrant ultrawide in a compact form factor.
The Dell S3425DW combines a 34-inch curved VA panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering a solid balance between visual quality and smoothness. Its deep contrast and wide color coverage make it suitable for media consumption and productivity alike, especially compared with the Alienware AW3425DWM, which focuses more on gaming. The USB-C port with 65W power delivery simplifies connectivity for laptops, making it an attractive option for hybrid work setups. While it doesn’t match the ultra-high refresh rates of dedicated gaming monitors, its eye comfort features and color accuracy make it a versatile choice for users who want a reliable, all-around display.
Pros:- Deep contrast with VA panel for vivid images
- 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals
- USB-C with 65W power delivery reduces cable clutter
- Good color coverage for media work
Cons:- Limited to 3440×1440 resolution, not 4K
- Response time of 0.03 ms is a typo—actual real-world response is higher
- Design may be bulky for small desks
Best for: Office workers and multimedia users seeking a versatile, comfortable ultrawide with good color and connectivity
Not ideal for: Hardcore gamers or users who need ultra-fast response times for competitive play
- Display Size:34 inches
- Resolution:3440 x 1440
- Refresh Rate:120 Hz
- Panel Type:VA
- Contrast Ratio:3000:1
- Connectivity:USB-C (up to 65W)
Bottom line: This monitor offers a balanced mix of comfort, color, and connectivity for work and entertainment.
Dell UltraSharp U3824DW 38-Inch Curved WQHD+ IPS Black Monitor with USB-C Hub and Protection Plan
The Dell UltraSharp U3824DW stands out for its stunning combination of deep blacks and vibrant colors, thanks to the IPS Black panel technology. It offers a broad array of connectivity options, including a USB-C port with 90W power delivery, making it a versatile choice for multitasking professionals. Compared with the Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC, it provides a larger, curved workspace that enhances immersion, but at a higher price point due to its premium features and included protection plan. Its adjustable ergonomic design ensures comfort during long work sessions, while the recycled materials add eco-conscious appeal. However, the 60Hz refresh rate limits its appeal for fast-paced gaming, and its large size demands ample desk space. Overall, this monitor is best suited for creative professionals and power users who value connectivity and color accuracy over gaming performance.
Pros:- Deep blacks and vibrant colors with IPS Black technology
- Extensive connectivity options including USB-C with 90W power
- Adjustable ergonomic stand for comfort
- Eco-friendly build with recycled materials
Cons:- Higher price due to advanced features and protection plan
- Limited to 60Hz refresh rate, not suited for gaming
- Large footprint requires significant desk space
Best for: Professionals needing a large, vibrant display with extensive connectivity and eco-friendly build.
Not ideal for: Gamers seeking high refresh rates for fast-paced action or users with limited desk space.
- Size:38 inches
- Resolution:3840×1600 (WQHD+)
- Refresh Rate:60Hz
- Panel Technology:IPS Black
- Contrast Ratio:2000:1
- Connectivity:USB-C with 90W, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet
- Adjustments:Height, swivel, tilt
- Build Materials:85% recycled plastics, 90% recycled aluminum
Bottom line: This monitor offers a superb balance of color, connectivity, and ergonomics for creative professionals and multitaskers willing to invest in premium features.
Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC Series Ultra-WQHD Monitor, 100Hz, HDR10, AMD FreeSync, Black
The Samsung ViewFinity S50GC excels at boosting productivity with its expansive 21:9 aspect ratio and Ultra-WQHD resolution, creating an immersive workspace that surpasses the smaller 34″ LG 34WR55QK-B in scope. Its HDR10 support and over a billion colors ensure vibrant, detailed visuals, ideal for creative tasks or media consumption. The inclusion of PBP and PIP modes, along with multiple input options, makes it highly versatile. Compared to the LG 34WR55QK-B, it offers a slightly larger display with better color support, but at a premium price and requiring significant desk space. Its 100Hz refresh rate is sufficient for smooth multitasking and casual content consumption but not tailored for high-end gaming. This monitor makes the most sense for pros who need a wide, colorful display for multitasking and media, not fast-paced gaming or compact setups.
Pros:- Large 21:9 ultra-wide display for multitasking
- Vivid visuals with HDR10 and billion-color support
- Flexible inputs with PBP and PIP modes
- Ergonomic stand with height and tilt adjustments
Cons:- Premium price may be a barrier for some users
- Requires ample desk space due to size
- No built-in speakers
Best for: Creative professionals and multitaskers needing wide, vibrant visuals with flexible input options.
Not ideal for: Gamers or users with limited desk space who prioritize ultra-high refresh rates or compact size.
- Size:34 inches
- Resolution:3440×1440 (Ultra-WQHD)
- Refresh Rate:100Hz
- Contrast Ratio:3000:1
- HDR:HDR10
- Connectivity:Multiple inputs with PBP/PIP
Bottom line: Ideal for professionals who value a large, colorful, multitasking-oriented display over gaming performance or compact form factor.
LG 34WR55QK-B 34-inch UltraWide WQHD Curved Monitor with HDR10, 100Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, Adjustable Stand
The LG 34WR55QK-B offers a highly adaptable setup with its curved 34-inch display, WQHD resolution, and multiple connectivity options, including USB-C with 65W power delivery. Its ergonomic stand with height and tilt adjustments ensures comfort during extended work or entertainment sessions. Compared with the Samsung S50GC, it features a more flexible stand and slightly more affordable price, but lacks some of the premium color support and PBP functionality. Its 100Hz refresh rate and HDR10 support deliver crisp visuals suitable for multitasking and media. However, the need for software to access OnScreen Control and the absence of built-in speakers might be drawbacks for some users. This model is perfect for those seeking a versatile, ergonomic ultra-wide monitor for daily productivity and entertainment, especially when desk space is a concern.
Pros:- Curved display enhances immersion and reduces eye strain
- Multiple connectivity options including USB-C with 65W power
- Ergonomic stand with height and tilt adjustments
- High resolution with HDR10 support
Cons:- Requires software for full feature access
- Limited to 3440×1440 resolution, not 4K
- No built-in speakers
Best for: Office workers or creatives prioritizing ergonomic adjustments and flexible connectivity in a compact ultra-wide monitor.
Not ideal for: Gamer enthusiasts seeking higher refresh rates or users who need integrated speakers for media playback.
- Size:34 inches
- Resolution:3440×1440 (WQHD)
- Refresh Rate:100Hz
- HDR:HDR10
- Connectivity:USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
- Stand Adjustments:Height, tilt
Bottom line: This monitor suits users needing a flexible, ergonomic ultra-wide display for productivity and media, without demanding gaming features.
LG 39GX90SA-W 39-inch Ultragear WQHD OLED Curved Gaming Monitor 240Hz, 1ms, G-Sync Compatible, FreeSync Premium, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, webOS, USB Type-C, White
The LG 39GX90SA-W delivers an immersive gaming experience with its 39-inch curved OLED panel, offering stunning visuals through deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a peak brightness of 1300 nits. The blazing-fast 240Hz refresh rate paired with 1ms response time provides exceptional smoothness for high-end gaming, surpassing the 60Hz or 100Hz options seen in productivity-centric monitors. Its VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 and 98.5% DCI-P3 coverage make it ideal for media consumption and creative work, though it’s primarily designed for gamers. Compared to the Dell UltraSharp, it sacrifices some of the color accuracy controls for the superior contrast and motion clarity of OLED technology. Its size and premium price tag make it a less practical choice for compact or budget-conscious setups. This monitor is perfect for gaming enthusiasts who want deep visuals and high performance in a curved OLED package.
Pros:- Exceptional OLED visuals with deep blacks and vibrant colors
- Fast 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for smooth gameplay
- Built-in webOS for streaming and cloud gaming
- G-Sync and FreeSync Premium support for tear-free gaming
Cons:- High price point limits accessibility
- Large size may not fit all gaming setups
- Primarily designed for gaming, less suited for professional color-critical work
Best for: High-end gamers and entertainment lovers seeking deep blacks, vibrant colors, and ultra-smooth gameplay.
Not ideal for: Professional users who prioritize color accuracy over gaming performance or need a larger workspace.
- Display Size:39 inches
- Resolution:3440×1440 (WQHD)
- Refresh Rate:240Hz
- Response Time:1ms
- Panel Type:OLED
- HDR:DisplayHDR True Black 400
- Connectivity:USB-C, webOS
Bottom line: This monitor is a top choice for gaming aficionados who want stunning visuals and ultra-fast performance in a curved OLED format.
LG 38WR85QC-W 38-Inch Curved UltraWide WQHD Nano IPS Monitor with HDR600, 144Hz, 1ms, USB-C, G-SYNC, FreeSync Premium Pro
The LG 38WR85QC-W stands out in this lineup as the go-to choice for users demanding a large, immersive display that excels in both creative work and gaming. Its 38-inch curved Nano IPS panel offers vivid color accuracy with 98% DCI-P3 coverage and HDR600 support, surpassing the more basic visual quality of the Dell U3824DW. The high 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time deliver ultra-smooth visuals perfect for fast-paced gaming, while the extensive connectivity options—including USB-C with 90W power delivery and Ethernet—support versatile setups. The complex setup and premium price might turn off casual users or those with small desks. This monitor is ideal for creative professionals and gamers who need top-tier display quality and fast refresh rates.
Pros:- Large, immersive curved display enhances multitasking and gaming
- Excellent color accuracy with Nano IPS and HDR600 support
- Fast refresh rate and quick response time for smooth visuals
- Versatile connectivity including USB-C with 90W charging
Cons:- Premium features come with a higher price point
- Large size may not fit smaller desks or workspaces
- Setup complexity can be challenging for some users
Best for: Creative professionals, power users, and gamers seeking a large, feature-rich ultrawide display
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious buyers or those with limited desk space due to its size and complexity
- Display Size:38 inches
- Resolution:3840×1600 (WQHD+)
- Panel Type:Nano IPS
- HDR:VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Refresh Rate:144Hz
- Response Time:1ms (GtG)
Bottom line: This monitor is best suited for users who prioritize high-performance visuals for creative or gaming applications and can accommodate its size and cost.
How We Picked
I evaluated these monitors based on a combination of performance, display quality, build durability, and user versatility. Key factors included resolution quality—particularly 4K or high WQHD—refresh rates suited for gaming, and color accuracy for creative tasks. Connectivity options like USB-C and Thunderbolt were prioritized for modern workflows, while design features such as curvature and ergonomic adjustments added practical value. The ranking favors models that deliver strong overall performance, balancing price with features that matter most to different types of users, from gamers to professionals.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 38-inch Ultrawide Monitor
Choosing the best 38-inch ultrawide monitor requires understanding how various features impact your daily use. Beyond specifications, consider how the monitor’s design, connectivity, and display qualities align with your workflow or gaming habits. Making informed tradeoffs can help you avoid overspending on extras that won’t benefit your specific tasks.Display Resolution and Panel Technology
Resolutions like 4K UHD provide sharper images, which are especially beneficial for creative professionals and multitaskers. IPS panels tend to offer better color accuracy and viewing angles, while VA panels deliver higher contrast ratios, making them ideal for immersive media consumption. Consider what’s more important: crisp detail or deep blacks and contrast, based on your primary use case.
Refresh Rate and Response Time
If gaming is a priority, look for monitors with at least 100Hz refresh rates and response times of 1-3ms. This combination reduces motion blur and input lag, creating smoother gameplay. For standard productivity or media consumption, 60-75Hz may suffice, but higher rates become beneficial if you want a more fluid experience across tasks.
Connectivity and Ergonomics
Modern monitors increasingly include USB-C and Thunderbolt to streamline connections with laptops and peripherals. Ergonomic features such as height adjustment, tilt, and swivel are essential for minimizing strain during long work sessions. Beware of models lacking these adjustments, which can lead to discomfort over time—even if they look appealing initially.
HDR Support and Color Accuracy
For creative professionals, HDR capabilities like HDR600 or higher provide richer colors and better contrast. Color accuracy is equally important, especially with IPS panels calibrated for 99% sRGB or AdobeRGB coverage. Gamers might prioritize HDR for more vibrant visuals, but it often comes at a higher price and requires compatible content and hardware.
Price and Long-term Value
Higher-priced models typically offer better build quality, faster response times, and enhanced display features. However, they may include features that are unnecessary for some users. Identifying which features you genuinely need—such as high resolution, HDR, or specific connectivity—can help you avoid overspending and ensure the monitor remains useful over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 38-inch ultrawide monitor suitable for gaming?
Absolutely, many 38-inch ultrawide monitors are designed with gaming in mind, offering high refresh rates and fast response times. Models like the LG 39GX90SA-W feature 240Hz and 1ms response, providing smooth gameplay and immersive visuals. However, gaming performance can come at a premium, and not all ultrawide monitors include adaptive sync technologies like G-SYNC or FreeSync, which are worth considering for competitive gaming.
Can I use a 38-inch ultrawide monitor for professional photo editing?
Yes, many monitors in this size range provide excellent color accuracy and high resolutions, making them suitable for photo editing and creative work. Look for models with IPS panels, high sRGB or AdobeRGB coverage, and HDR support if you work with high dynamic range content. Keep in mind that calibration and consistent color performance are vital, so professional-grade monitors often include factory calibration options.
Are curved monitors better than flat for multitasking?
Curved monitors tend to enhance immersion and can reduce eye strain during extended use, especially at this size, by keeping the entire screen at a more uniform distance. They can also improve focus when working on multiple windows. However, for tasks like detailed design work or multi-monitor setups, some users prefer flat screens to avoid distortion or alignment issues. Your choice depends on personal comfort and how you arrange your workspace.
Is it worth paying extra for HDR in a 38-inch monitor?
Investing in HDR support can significantly enhance visual quality for media consumption and creative work, providing richer colors and better contrast. However, the benefits depend on your hardware and content; if your GPU or software doesn’t support HDR, the feature won’t be fully realized. Additionally, HDR monitors tend to be more expensive, so consider whether the visual improvements align with your primary tasks before spending more.
What should I prioritize: resolution or refresh rate?
This depends on your main use. For creative professionals and multitaskers, a higher resolution like 4K is more beneficial for detailed work. Gamers, on the other hand, should focus on refresh rate and response time for smoother gameplay. In some cases, a balance is best—look for a monitor that offers both high resolution and a decent refresh rate, but be prepared for a higher price point.
Conclusion
For general productivity and creative tasks, the Dell U-Series 38″ 4K UHD offers the best balance of features and value. Gamers will appreciate the LG 39GX90SA-W with its fast OLED display and high refresh rate, while those seeking premium build quality and versatile connectivity should consider the LG 38WR85QC-W. Beginners or budget-conscious buyers might start with more affordable options like the Samsung or Dell models that still deliver solid performance. Ultimately, your choice should match your primary use, whether it’s gaming, professional work, or everyday multitasking.
