The LG UltraGear Evo GX9 39GX950B enters the market as a high-end 39-inch ultrawide gaming monitor featuring LG's new Tandem OLED technology. While the hardware specifications position it as a top-tier display, critical feedback suggests potential buyers should exercise caution before committing to the $1,799 (£1,549) price tag.

Performance and Technical Specs

In a review for PC Gamer, Jeremy Laird noted that the 5K2K resolution (5,120 x 2,160) provides a pixel density of 143 DPI, which results in sharp text and high image detail suitable for both productivity and gaming. The panel is rated for 335 nits of full-screen brightness and peaks at 1,500 nits in HDR, meeting the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 standard.

Key performance observations include:

  • Refresh Rates: The monitor supports 165Hz at its native 5K2K resolution and offers a dual-mode feature that allows for 330Hz at 1080p within a 24.5-inch window.
  • Visual Quality: While the Tandem OLED tech is described as "punchier" than previous WOLED generations, the review noted that Samsung's QD-OLED panels may still offer more vibrant saturation.
  • Connectivity: The unit includes HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and USB-C with 90W power delivery.

Critical Drawbacks

The primary critique of the 39GX950B centers on its value proposition and long-term support. The most significant point of contention is the two-year warranty. Given the panel's premium price, reviewers expressed concern over the lack of a three-year coverage plan, particularly regarding potential burn-in issues.

Furthermore, the monitor utilizes a matte anti-glare coating, which the review noted slightly compromises contrast compared to glossy alternatives. The integrated "AI" upscaling feature was also described as "underbaked" and limited in scope, as it does not function at 3,440 x 1,440 resolution.

The Competition Factor

The current consensus is to wait before purchasing. The review highlights that Alienware has announced a competing monitor, the AW3926QW, which utilizes an LG Display panel featuring an RGB-stripe subpixel structure. Because this structure does not rely on a white subpixel to boost brightness, it is expected to provide superior color reproduction. With the potential for the Alienware model to launch at a significantly lower price point—potentially $600 less—the recommendation is to wait and compare the two before making a final decision.