OLED vs IPS gaming monitors
Based on manufacturer specifications. We have not tested these products ourselves, and we earn nothing from the links on this page.
The main difference
On an OLED screen, each pixel makes its own light and can switch off completely. That gives very deep blacks, which you notice most in dark games and films.
An IPS screen uses a backlight behind the panel. Blacks look more grey in a dark room, but IPS screens are usually cheaper.
Motion and response time
OLED pixels change state very quickly. LG lists the 27GX790B-B at 0.02 ms and Dell lists the Alienware AW2725DF at 0.03 ms, while ASUS lists the IPS-based VG27AQ3A at 1 ms.
OLED models also tend to offer the highest refresh rates. Remember that your PC needs to produce enough frames to benefit from them.
Burn-in and everyday use
OLED can be at risk of burn-in, where static images such as taskbars or game menus leave a faint mark over time. Manufacturers add protection features, but it's worth checking whether the warranty covers it.
If your monitor spends all day on spreadsheets and static windows, IPS is the lower-risk choice. Some people also find text slightly less crisp on certain OLED panels.
Which one to choose
Choose OLED if gaming and films come first and your budget allows it. Choose IPS if you want a good all-round screen for work and play at a lower cost.
