BEST BUDGET ULTRAWIDE: AOC CU34G2X

This monitor has a 34-inch ultrawide VA panel that, by most measures, performs surprisingly close to more expensive alternatives. It provides a good contrast ratio and delivers vivid color performance. It also has the same 3440×1440 resolution as the other monitors on this list, so it looks just as sharp. In truth, less demanding shoppers may find it difficult to notice any difference between this monitor and more expensive options like the Asus Proart PA348CV.

The AOC CU34G2X is marketed as a gaming monitor and has an enhanced refresh rate of up to 144Hz. It doesn’t officially support AMD Freesync or Nvidia G-sync, however, so gamers may have mixed results when trying to use these adaptive sync standards.

Though it punches above its price in image quality, the AOC CU34G2X’S design looks cheap. It leans a bit too hard on an aggressive red-and-black gaming theme.

That will annoy shoppers who prefer a calmer, less obtrusive look.

Connectivity is great, though, with two HDMI and two Displayport inputs plus a four-port USB-A hub. The monitor also has a height-adjustable stand, a must-have perk that isn’t guaranteed on budget ultrawide monitors.