Gaming monitors are plentiful these days, ranging from affordable 1080p models right up to flagship models that can cost over £2000. So, it’s a fair assumption that there’s a model for just about everyone. There are a few key points that (most) gamers target though, such as 1440p resolution, as it’s a good mixture of high resolution, while not being as demanding on your GPU requirements as 4K. Then you also have higher refresh rates, such as 144Hz for silky smooth gameplay. Finally, panel size, as gaming on a 31.5″ is going to be more immersive than a 19″ panel. As you might have guessed, the AOC CQ32G1 we have in the office today is 31.5″, 144Hz and 1440p. However, it doesn’t stop there. This surprisingly affordable monitor also features a curved panel, FreeSync, and a 1ms response rate.

The latest AOC monitor is clearly ticking all the right boxes for the majority of modern PC gamers. However, it manages to keep the cost very low. To do this, AOC fitted the CQ32G1 with a VA panel, a fairly basic stand, just two display inputs, no speakers, and honestly, that’s about it. It’s not exactly bare-bones, but it’s not exactly dripping in extra blind either. I’m perfectly fine with that though.