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MSI MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36 Review
MSI has released the MPG 341CQR QD-OLED X36, a $899 gaming monitor that succeeds the MSI MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED tested by IGN in late 2024. It retains the 34-inch, 3440×1440 ultra-wide curved format but adds design refinements, extra features and an updated panel, positioning it as a competitive alternative to rivals such as the Acer Predator X34 OLED, Samsung Odyssey G8 and the newer Alienware AW3426DW.
Design changes include a slimmer chin, a new sensor beneath the display, and a flatter, more compact hexagonal stand that frees up desk space while remaining stable. The stand offers a 20-degree tilt range, 60-degree swivel, 110mm of height adjustment and limited pivot, with VESA 100x100mm mounting as an alternative. Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 2.1a port, USB-A ports and a versatile USB-C port supporting full resolution, a 360Hz refresh rate and up to 98 watts of power delivery, though a persistent shortcut button still forces installation of MSI's Intelligence Center software.
In short
- MSI's $899 QD-OLED monitor succeeds its 2024 341CQPX model.
- Keeps 34-inch, 3440×1440 curved screen with refined design and stand.
- USB-C port delivers 360Hz, full resolution and 98W power.
Explained simply
Gaming monitors are specialist displays designed for video games, offering features such as rapid screen refreshes and quick response times. Ultra-wide curved monitors represent a premium variant that extends the width of the display, wrapping around a player's vision to provide greater immersion.
QD-OLED is an advanced display panel technology that produces excellent contrast between bright and dark areas, vibrant colours and minimal motion blur. Monitors using this technology command higher prices than those with standard panels because the technology is expensive to manufacture.
The high-end gaming monitor market has become increasingly competitive, with major manufacturers releasing new models to attract enthusiast gamers and professional esports players. These displays represent a significant portion of gaming hardware investment, making monitor innovation an important element of the gaming peripherals industry.