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ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM vs Alienware AW3423DW Curved QD-OLED – QD or not?

We draw a comparison between QD-OLED and WOLED technologies
Last Updated on February 28, 2024
Comparison between Asus and Nvidia's GTX 1070 and 1080. Image shows two monitors on a purple background below the PC guide logo
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The comparison of the ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM vs Dell Alienware AW3423DW Curved QD-OLED is mainly a comparison of technologies. The QD-OLED from Samsung has led the market for quite some time against the WOLED from LG. The Alienware curved from Dell was the first 1440p monitor with an OLED panel and since 2022 this monitor has been leading, then Asus came with LG technology and the competition has been close.

This article will compare the PG34WCDM with the AW3423DW, looking at both WOLED and QD-OLED monitor technologies to determine which one is the best 1440p OLED monitor. We will check brightness, performance, color gamut, refresh rate, price, and overall specs to determine the winner.

To find out more about Dell’s latest release, the Alienware AW3423DW, check out our MSI 271QRX vs Alienware AW3423DW comparison guide where we decide which of these impressive OLED gaming monitors deserves the top spot. Similarly, you could take a look at our ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM release date speculation piece, where we cover all the rumors relating to the release of the PG34WCDM.

ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM vs Dell Alienware AW3423DW Curved QD-OLED – Specs at a glance

SpecificationsROG Swift OLED PG34WCDMDell Alienware AW3423DW Curved QD-OLED
Screen Size & Aspect Ratio34″ ultrawide, 21:9, 800R curvature34″ ultrawide, 21:9, 1800R curvature
Panel TypeLG Display WOLEDQD-OLED by Samsung
Resolution3440 x 14403440 x 1440
Refresh Rate240Hz175Hz
Response Time / Blur Reduction0.03ms0.1ms G2G
Color Gamut99% DCI-P3 (135% sRGB)99.3% DCI-P3, 149% sRGB
Brightness & HDR1300 nits HDR peak brightness1000 nits peak HDR brightness, VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black
ConnectivityUSB-C with DP Alt mode, 90W PD, 1x DP 1.4 DSC, 2x HDMI 2.11x DP 1.4, 2x HDMI 2.0, 4x USB 3.2, audio out, headphone jack

Specs and performance comparison

Starting with panel technology, WOLED and QD-OLED represent two approaches to achieving outstanding color performance, contrast, and clarity in display technology. WOLED, utilized by the Asus ROG Swift, offers a broad color space and deep blacks, making it suitable for a wide coverage of applications, from gaming to professional desktop use. 

However, its application in the PG34WCDM involves considerations around text clarity and potential image retention risks, which are critical for users prioritizing office and general productivity tasks.

The Dell Alienware AW3423DW leverages QD-OLED technology, renowned for its vibrant color reproduction and exceptional contrast ratios. Considering the pixel density of both panels is the same (3440 x 1440 PPI), a notable discussion point for the AW3423DW is its RGB subpixel layout, which differs from the WRGB arrangement found in LG Display panels that include an additional white sub-pixel. 

Another key aspect of these monitors is their curvature. The Asus PG34WCDM features a steep 800R curvature, targeting an immersive gaming experience by enveloping the user’s field of view. This design is particularly appealing to gamers seeking depth and immersion in their gameplay. On the other hand, the Dell Alienware’s 1800R curvature is less pronounced, offering versatility that caters to gamers and professionals seeking a balance between immersion and practicality for multitasking and productivity.

In terms of connectivity options, both monitors offer extensive outlets. The PG34WCDM provides 2x HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB-C port with 90 W power delivery, and a DisplayPort 1.4 (DSC). Whereas, the AW3423DW offers quite the selection of available ports, including 2x HDMI 2.0 ports, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 4x USB-A ports, and 1x USB-B port. Both monitors come with adjustable stands that allow the user to tilt and swivel the panel to an angle that’s right for them and their space.

Regarding gaming, Dell’s AW3423DW ultrawide format and 3440×1440 resolution ensure sharp, immersive visuals, a hallmark of OLED’s near-instant response times. Unlike an LCD monitor that relies on overdrive technology to minimize ghosting, the AW3423DW’s OLED panel naturally achieves a blistering 0.1ms G2G response time without such adjustments, as per Dell’s specifications. 

Conversely, Asus’ approach with the PG34WCDM emphasizes the raw potential of OLED’s speed, boasting an ambitious 0.03ms G2G response time. While such figures might border on the theoretical, they highlight the technology’s capability to deliver sub-1ms performance. 

The gaming benefits of Dell’s QD-OLED panel shouldn’t be overlooked. With its super-deep blacks and infinite contrast ratio, the AW3423DW excels in rendering shadow detail and true blacks, especially in dimly lit environments. The semi-glossy screen coating not only enriches color vibrancy and black depth but also minimizes reflections, offering an optimal viewing experience in various lighting conditions.

Price comparison

Currently, the Dell monitor is priced at a competitive $999, making it an attractive option for those in the market for a high-end gaming monitor. In contrast, the Asus monitor stands at $1300, a premium that demands consideration.

Dell’s value proposition is strengthened by its robust panel and consistently high ratings among users and critics alike. While the Asus monitor brings its own set of advantages to the table, such as its impressive 240Hz refresh rate, the price differential poses a significant hurdle.

ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM vs Alienware AW3423DW – which is better?

While the Asus monitor boasts noteworthy features, such as its higher refresh rate, it’s Dell’s combination of price, performance, and panel quality that offers undeniable value. For gamers aiming to maximize their 1440p gaming experience, the Dell Alienware AW3423DW stands out as the logical and compelling choice, delivering top-tier gaming excellence without breaking the bank.

What are the disadvantages of an OLED monitor?

Purchasing an OLED monitor could be just the thing you need to take your gaming to the next level. With higher contrast ratios and better viewing angles, OLEDs provide a number of advantages over more common LCD models. However, there are a number of disadvantages to owning this kind of panel, that are important to be aware of before purchasing. For example, they may have a shorter lifetime and can demonstrate vulnerability to light, in addition to being significantly more expensive than LCDs, so may not be within every user’s budget.

Conclusion

In the clash between the ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM and the Dell Alienware AW3423DW Curved QD-OLED, Dell emerges as the clear victor. With its superior panel technology and commendable reliability backed by stellar ratings, the Alienware monitor not only surpasses Asus in performance but does so at a more attractive price point of $999 compared to Asus’s $1300. So in the battle between QD-OLED and WOLED technology, it seems QD-OLED wins this time.

Eve is a writer and copy editor at PC Guide, who focuses on a broad range of topics but main interest lies in the development of AI technology.