We’re finally reaching the point where OLED gaming monitors are, if not exactly affordable, then at least somewhat attainable. Consider Gigabyte’s 49-inch ultrawide OLED: With a retail price of $1100, it’s a steal next to the similar Samsung model, which is $1800 at sticker price. Today you can take a slice off of even that, with multiple stores selling the Gigabyte at just $999.99, matching the lowest price we’ve ever seen. Earlier this year, it would’ve cost you $1,300.
The Gigabyte Aorus CO49DQ is built for gaming from the ground up, with a 5120×1440 resolution that’s basically two QHD monitors smooshed together. It’s fast, though not the fastest, at 144Hz maximum refresh and .03ms of response time, with support for USB-C video in addition to DisplayPort 1.4 and double HDMI 2.1 for connecting multiple machines to the built-in KVM switch.
While 18 watts of power delivery won’t exactly feed a gaming laptop’s thirst, the monitor features a pair of extra USB ports for accessories, plus a headphone jack and two five-watt speakers that I will be personally offended if you use instead of a pair of budget dedicated speakers. (Seriously, I’m watching you.) The design incorporates a ton of gaming-focused software features like an integrated crosshair and timer, plus “[an] AI-based algorithm to minimize the risks of burn-in issues.” If you don’t trust the algorithm, there’s also a three-year warranty against burn-in.
Pretty much every big US electronics retailer has jumped on this deal, so it’s possible that it might be a new standard price (though we’re not seeing that confirmed anywhere). You can get the monitor for $999.99 at Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, and B&H Photo, whichever floats your boat and gets you the best credit card points.
Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer
Michael is a former graphic designer who's been building and tweaking desktop computers for longer than he cares to admit. His interests include folk music, football, science fiction, and salsa verde, in no particular order.