Asus ROG Swift PG348Q Ultrawide Monitor Review
# Asus PG348Q Monitor Review: A Deep Dive into Gaming Excellence
## Introduction
Welcome back to another video in the studio where we dive deep into the world of high-end monitors. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the **Asus PG348Q**, a monitor that has been on my wishlist for quite some time. Positioned as Asus’s flagship model in their ROG lineup, this curved ultrawide gaming monitor boasts impressive specs: an IPS panel, 3440 x 1440 resolution, and Nvidia G-Sync technology. The question on everyone's mind is whether it lives up to the hype and truly deserves its title as one of the best gaming monitors available.
While we’re here, it’s also worth noting that there’s another monitor in the market that closely matches the PG348Q in features and performance—the **ACA X34**. Throughout this review, I’ll be comparing these two to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your needs.
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## Design and Assembly
Asus has outdone itself with the industrial design of the PG348Q. From the unboxing experience to setting it up on your desk, every detail feels meticulously crafted. The assembly process is straightforward, even for someone who isn’t tech-savvy. You’ll need to attach the monitor to its stand using a quick-release mechanism and screw in a few thumb screws—a process that won’t take you more than a few minutes.
Once assembled, the monitor commands attention with its striking design. The curved ultrawide display is both imposing and visually appealing. While it’s not as minimalist as the **Philips Ultra Wide**, the Asus monitor manages to strike a balance between being bold and professional. One standout feature is the ROG logo that casts a subtle glow on your desk, giving it a halo-like effect.
The front bezels are slim, though not the thinnest in the market. The angles of the monitor, particularly the brushed metal finish at the bottom, add to its premium feel. The stand itself is made entirely of metal, making the monitor sturdy and heavy. This also means it extends a bit into your desk, so if you have a shallow desk, you might want to double-check the space before purchasing.
Moving to the back of the monitor, the industrial design continues with a sleek, textured finish. The cable management hooks on the stand guide wires neatly around the display, and there’s a cover for the ports at the back that keeps everything tidy. This makes it ideal if you plan to place the monitor against a wall.
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## Features
The PG348Q comes packed with features that cater to both gaming enthusiasts and professionals:
- **Ports:** The monitor includes a DisplayPort 1.2 (which is essential for unlocking its full potential, including the 100Hz refresh rate and G-Sync), an HDMI port (though it’s not HDMI 2.0), and four USB 3.0 ports hidden beneath a flap on the back. While the lack of HDMI 2.0 might be a minor inconvenience, it’s understandable given the monitor’s price point.
- **On-Screen Display ( OSD ):** Navigating through the OSD is a breeze thanks to the intuitive button layout on the back of the monitor. The menu is clear, responsive, and a joy to use—something I haven’t experienced with other monitors. You’ll find standard adjustments like color modes (including racing mode and sRGB), brightness, contrast, and even an overclocking option for the 100Hz refresh rate. Simply select 100Hz, reboot, and you’re good to go!
- **Physical Adjustments:** The monitor offers excellent physical flexibility with swivel, tilt, and height adjustments. This ensures it can be positioned perfectly for your comfort, whether you prefer gaming sessions or long hours of video editing.
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## Performance in Games
The true test of any gaming monitor lies in its performance during gameplay. The PG348Q did not disappoint in this department.
- **Ultrawide Curve:** The curved ultrawide display is a game-changer, offering an immersive experience that’s hard to match with a flat screen. Playing high-end titles like *Just Cause 3*, *Battlefield Hardline*, and *Grid Autosport* felt nothing short of magical. The curve enhances depth perception, making you feel more connected to the action on-screen.
- **G-Sync and Refresh Rate:** Pairing this monitor with an Nvidia card (like a GTX 1080) and enabling G-Sync was a revelation. The 100Hz refresh rate delivered buttery-smooth visuals with no tearing or lag, even in fast-paced first-person shooters. While it doesn’t match the raw responsiveness of monitors with higher refresh rates (like the **RG Swift**), the combination of stunning visuals and smooth performance makes it a top contender.
- **Color Accuracy and Response Time:** The IPS panel ensured rich, accurate colors across all games tested. Response time was also impressively low, though it didn’t quite match the snappiness of faster monitors like the **ACA Predator** or **XG32UQX**.
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## Comparison with ACA X34
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: how does the PG348Q stack up against its sibling, the **ACA X34**? Both monitors are practically identical in terms of features—ultrawide curved display, IPS panel, 100Hz refresh rate, G-Sync compatibility, and premium build quality.
The primary difference lies in design. While the PG348Q feels more “out there” with its bold industrial look, the X34 has a sleeker, more professional aesthetic that might appeal to those who prefer subtlety. For someone like me, who values both aesthetics and functionality, it comes down to personal preference. If I had to choose one, I’d go for whichever is on sale or matches my desk setup better.
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## Conclusion
Is the **Asus PG348Q** the best gaming monitor you can buy? For most users, yes—it’s a class-leading choice with excellent visuals, smooth performance, and a host of features that cater to both gamers and professionals. However, if you’re looking for 100% DCI-P3 color space or raw top-tier responsiveness (which some higher-end monitors like the **XG32UQX** offer), this might not be the one for you.
For everyone else, the PG348Q is a fantastic investment. It’s expensive, but it delivers on every front—be it gaming, video editing, or general use. If you’re debating between this and the **ACA X34**, let future reviews guide your decision, as I’ll be diving deeper into the X34 in an upcoming video.
In summary, if you can justify the cost and prioritize a curved ultrawide display with G-Sync and IPS technology, the Asus PG348Q is a monitor that will not disappoint.
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Thank you for joining me on this deep dive into the **Asus PG348Q**. If you have any questions or want more details, feel free to drop them in the comments below or reach out on social media. Stay tuned for more reviews and comparisons as we explore the ever-evolving world of monitors!