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.
