One small argument that has made a comeback is the argument over cathode ray tubes and screens, with proponents claiming it is the only way to play first-person shooter (FPS) games such as Call of Duty. As interesting as this debate is, there is another standoff between those who prefer flat screens and those who opt for curved screens for their gaming. We look into this to help you make your personal choice based on factors that others have considered.
Immersion
This point is apparently beyond disagreement. Curved screens provide an immersive experience that you don’t get from a flat-screen.
Image by Ekaterina Ershova
A curved screen pulls you into the game and increases the realism and engagement. This is true even when the curve is less pronounced. You see more and all the pixels reach your eyes. This is exactly how you see the world in everyday life. A curved screen is also easier on your eyes. With a flat-screen, the edges tend to lose focus or become distorted.
With a very wide curved screen, you can easily operate multiple programs simultaneously. Thus, it does what dual/two monitors did.
Size And Shape
When considering a curved monitor for gaming, you should take note of differences such as size and shape. The first aspect to reflect on is whether your current set-up will allow for the extra space a curved screen takes up. You may have to rearrange your gaming area radically to adjust to a wider table or desk. You will also need additional support for the monitor’s stability and structure.
Of course, a larger flat screen can utilize end-to-end standing capacity. However, the curved ones tend to be longer and wider.
Regards shape, this is also a personal preference. Moving from one to the other can be startling and require a period of adjustment.
Specifications and Features
What makes these aspects confusing is that it is possible to find a flat-screen and a curved screen with similar specs and features going for roughly the same price. The reason behind this is competition, with manufacturers racing each other to corner market share.
The specs you need to take note of when making your selection are resolution, display aspect ratio, size, and refresh rate. Once you know what you are looking for, you can call on the salesperson to take you through the available options.
Distortion
Flat monitors have a distinct disadvantage over curved screens when it comes to distortion. These problems are more often found with the former. This hardware issue involves blurry pictures, made worse by enlarging an image or video. Problems are exacerbated by the size of the screen, the bigger it is, the blurrier it can be.
There is a scientific explanation for this: the laws of light projection. A curved monitor directs pixels at the viewer, while a flat-screen emits light in a straight line, with some of it bypassing the observer.
While the arguments seem to favor curved screens, ultimately this is a decision only you can make.
