Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM: A Bright and Pricey Marvel
Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM review bright doesn’t mean best | ENBLE
🖥️ Image: Hot Wheels Unleashed on the Asus ROG PG34WCDM 
If you’re looking for a gaming monitor that stands out from the crowd, the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM should definitely catch your attention. This 34-inch OLED monitor offers a head-to-head battle between Samsung’s and LG’s OLED technology, thanks to its LG Display WOLED panel. But is it worth the premium price tag?
Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM Specs
🔍 Image: Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM specs 
Let’s start with the specifications. The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM features a 34-inch LG Display MLA OLED (WOLED) panel with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440. It boasts an impressive peak brightness of 450 nits in SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) and supports DisplayHDR True Black 400. With a contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1 and a response time of 0.03ms (GtG), this monitor is designed to deliver stunning visuals and smooth gaming performance. It also features a blistering 240Hz refresh rate and an 800R curve for an immersive gaming experience.
Design: Sleek, Attractive, but the Curve May Be Controversial
🖼️ Image: The back of the Asus ROG PG34WCDM 
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In terms of design, the Asus ROG PG34WCDM doesn’t disappoint. Its sleek black frame and large tripoint stand give it a premium look. The stand also lifts the monitor slightly off the desk, creating an elegant floating effect. The stand itself takes up surprisingly little desk space, making it ideal for those with limited space. The monitor features customizable accent lighting and an ROG logo that adds a touch of style.
However, one aspect that may divide opinions is the aggressive 800R curve. While some may appreciate the immersive experience it offers, others may find it too extreme for a 34-inch monitor. It’s important to experience it in person before making a decision to see if it suits your preferences.
Features: USB-C Power Delivery and KVM Switch
🖼️ Image: Swift logo on the ROG PG34WCDM 
The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands out with its arsenal of features. It includes a USB-C input with 90W power delivery, allowing you to charge your devices while using the monitor. This is further enhanced by the built-in KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch, which lets you control two sources using the same keyboard and mouse. It’s a handy feature that simplifies multitasking.
The monitor also supports Black Frame Insertion (BFI), which Asus refers to as Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB). This feature improves motion clarity by reducing blur, particularly useful for fast-paced games. However, it’s worth noting that enabling BFI limits the refresh rate to 120Hz, disables HDR and variable refresh rate, and reduces brightness. It may not be suitable for everyone, especially considering the ultrawide form factor of the monitor.
Ports and Menu: A Standard Selection with Exceptional OSD
🖼️ Image: Menu on the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM 
The Asus ROG PG34WCDM offers a standard selection of ports, including two HDMI 2.1, one DisplayPort 1.4, and one USB-C with 90W power delivery. It also features a USB hub with two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and a USB 2.0 Type-A port, as well as an optical audio output and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
But what sets this monitor apart is its exceptional on-screen display (OSD). It provides a plethora of options that are typically restricted on other monitors. You can adjust brightness with HDR on, turn off DSC (Display Stream Compression), enable BFI, and utilize Asus’ Clear Pixel Edge feature, among others. The OSD is complemented by the Asus DisplayWidget Center, which allows you to control all settings from your desktop for added convenience.
Image Quality: The Brightest OLED, but Color Accuracy Lags
🖼️ Image: An HDR demo on the PG34WCDM 
When it comes to image quality, the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM is a standout performer. It boasts the brightest OLED display ever tested, with a peak brightness of 1,139 nits in HDR. This makes the monitor perfect for HDR gaming and media consumption. However, keep in mind that the uniform brightness setting significantly reduces the brightness output, and it cannot be adjusted in HDR mode.
In terms of color coverage, the PG34WCDM covers 100% of sRGB, 96% of DCI-P3, and 89% of AdobeRGB. While these coverages aren’t exceptional, they are still satisfactory for most users. Color accuracy out of the box is solid, although not as good as some QD-OLED options. The monitor features an LG Display panel with a matte finish, which slightly diminishes the immediate visual impact compared to glossy-coated monitors.
Gaming Performance: A Monster for PC Gaming
🖼️ Image: Alan Wake 2 running on the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM 
When it comes to gaming, the Asus ROG PG34WCDM is a monster. With its 240Hz refresh rate and G-Sync Compatibility, it offers buttery-smooth gameplay. It also carries certifications for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and VESA AdaptiveSync, ensuring tear-free and stutter-free gaming experiences.
While the PG34WCDM excels in PC gaming, it may not be as ideal for console gaming due to its 21:9 aspect ratio. Although gaming on a PC with a wide aspect ratio provides an immersive experience, using a console as a secondary input may result in black bars due to the aspect ratio mismatch. That being said, games designed specifically for ultrawide displays can take full advantage of the monitor’s wider field of view.
Warranty and Burn-in: Preventing and Protecting
One concern with OLED monitors is the risk of burn-in. Asus addresses this by providing a two-year warranty that covers burn-in. However, it’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid burn-in. The PG34WCDM offers several built-in features to mitigate this risk, including a screen saver, pixel shifting, and automatic dimming for static logos. By using these tools and the uniform brightness feature, burn-in issues can be minimized.
Should You Buy the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM?
🖼️ Image: Ratchet and Clank Rift Apart on the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM 
The Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM is undoubtedly an impressive monitor with its unique combination of an ultrawide aspect ratio, WOLED technology, and a high refresh rate. However, its premium price tag of $1,300 may be hard to swallow, considering competitive options available at lower price points.
For example, the Alienware 34 QD-OLED and Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 offer similar features at around $800 during sale events. While the PG34WCDM boasts higher brightness and a faster refresh rate, the price difference of $500 may make it difficult to justify for many buyers.
In conclusion, the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM is an excellent monitor that pushes the boundaries of gaming visuals and performance. However, its high price makes it a cautious buy. Unless you can find it on sale, it might be worth waiting for more monitors in this category before making a final decision.
Q&A: Addressing Additional Concerns and Insights
Q: Are there any alternatives to the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM with similar features and a lower price?
A: Yes, there are alternatives such as the Alienware 34 QD-OLED and Samsung Odyssey OLED G8. These monitors offer comparable specifications and are often available at lower price points, especially during sale events. However, it’s worth noting that the PG34WCDM offers the highest OLED brightness and a unique combination of features.
Q: Can the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM be used for professional tasks such as photo editing and video production?
A: While the PG34WCDM provides good color coverage and accuracy, it’s important to consider the aspect ratio and curvature when using it for professional tasks. The ultrawide aspect ratio may not be ideal for some editing workflows, and the aggressive 800R curve might introduce distortion. It’s recommended to test the monitor’s suitability for specific professional tasks before making a decision.
Q: Will the aggressive curve of the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM affect the gaming experience?
A: The curve of the PG34WCDM is a matter of personal preference. While some gamers appreciate the immersive experience it offers, others may find it too extreme for a 34-inch monitor. It’s advisable to experience the curve in person before making a purchase to determine if it aligns with your gaming preferences.
Conclusion: Innovation Comes at a Price
🖥️ Image: Weekly teardown of the tech behind PC gaming
In the ever-evolving world of gaming monitors, the Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM stands as a technological marvel. It brings together cutting-edge features like OLED technology, a high refresh rate, and USB-C power delivery. However, innovation often comes at a price, and the PG34WCDM’s $1,300 price tag puts it in the premium category.
While it’s undoubtedly an impressive monitor with excellent image quality and gaming performance, budget-conscious consumers may find it hard to justify the extra expense compared to other options in the market. It’s a monitor to consider, but perhaps one to wait for a sale or explore alternatives with a more favorable price-performance ratio.
References: – Digital Trends – “Asus ROG Swift PG34WCDM Review”
