Ultrawide: Not Just Another Display

Calum tells us why we should be using ultrawide displays.

- Calum Parry

As the times have changed, display technology has become just as progressive as the machines that power the pixels. As of now, with the downward costs of monitors and the rise of 4K displays, anyone looking for their next monitor will be spoilt for choice. Whether it be 2K, 4K or just good old fashion 1080p, there is one thing they all have in common: they’re a 16:9 aspect ratio. It has become pretty much the standard among PC users and especially among gamers. Now though, there is something else, something that has been raising in popularity. The 21:9 aspect ratio or more commonly known as: the ultrawide display.

So here I am to talk to you about this wonderful new cinematic viewing pleasure. First, let’s talk more about the 21:9 aspect ratio and why it’s a favoured alternative to its 16:9 cousin. As of right now, these come in two different flavours: 2560x1080p and 3440x1440p. More commonly the 1080p model is available on a 29” screen and the 1440p display at 34”. These screens 16:9 counterparts are equal to a 24” and 27” monitors. The monitor I’ll be talking about here will be a 34” 3440x1440p display from Dell, more specifically the U3415W.

This is not necessarily a review of that said monitor, but an exploration of ultrawide PC gaming on said monitor. The gaming and benefits brought by this monitor should be the same as if it were on any other ultra-wide display, whether it be a 25”, 29” or 34” display, their differences are only in size and resolution. I will be covering the most obvious PC gaming, but I will also explore the offer benefits of a ultrawide display: productivity, video/audio editing, movies and overall general experience and use. Let’s delve in.