Asus ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG: A 34-Inch Gaming Monitor That's Also a Smart TV

Asus has expanded its gaming monitor lineup with the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG, a unique hybrid that combines high-end gaming performance with smart TV functionality. This 34-inch ultrawide monitor features a curved QD-OLED panel, 240Hz refresh rate, and built-in Google TV, positioning itself as both a premium gaming display and an all-in-one entertainment hub.

What's New: Gaming Meets Smart TV

The XG34WCDMTG represents a significant evolution in gaming monitor design by integrating Google TV directly into the display. Unlike traditional gaming monitors that require external streaming devices or a connected PC/console, this model comes with Android 14-based Google TV pre-installed, complete with Dolby Vision support and GeForce Now for cloud gaming. This means users can stream Netflix, Disney+, or play cloud games directly on the monitor without any additional hardware.

The monitor is built around Samsung Display's second-generation QD-OLED panel, offering the same core specifications as its sibling model, the XG34WCDG, but with the added smart features. The 34-inch curved display features a 3440 x 1440 resolution with an 1800R curvature, providing an immersive viewing experience for both gaming and media consumption.

How It Compares: Premium Features Come at a Price

Priced at $1,199 in the US and £949 in the UK, the XG34WCDMTG sits at the premium end of the gaming monitor market. This represents a $200 premium over the non-smart version (XG34WCDG), which currently sells for $999. The question for potential buyers is whether the integrated smart TV functionality justifies this price difference.

From a pure gaming perspective, the XG34WCDMTG offers competitive specifications:

• Refresh Rate: 240Hz with G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro VRR support
• Brightness: Up to 1,000 nits in HDR, 250 nits in SDR
• Color: 99% DCI-P3 coverage with DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification
• Connectivity: Two HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with 90W Power Delivery

The USB-C port with 90W Power Delivery is particularly noteworthy, allowing users to charge high-end laptops while using the monitor as a display and USB hub. This makes the XG34WCDMTG versatile for both gaming setups and professional workstations.

Who It's For: The All-in-One Entertainment Solution

The target audience for this monitor is clear: gamers who want a premium display that can also serve as their primary entertainment screen. The built-in Google TV eliminates the need for a separate streaming device, while the gaming-grade specifications ensure it can handle fast-paced titles with ease.

For users who already own a smart TV or prefer using external streaming devices, the standard XG34WCDG at $999 might offer better value. However, for those looking to consolidate their setup or who appreciate the convenience of having everything built into one display, the XG34WCDMTG's premium could be justified.

The Smart TV Integration: More Than Just a Gimmick

Asus has clearly put thought into the smart TV implementation. The inclusion of GeForce Now means cloud gaming is accessible without a powerful local PC, and the remote control included with the monitor makes it function like a traditional smart TV when not gaming. The Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures smooth streaming performance, while the proximity sensor can automatically wake the display when someone approaches.

The Google TV interface runs on Android 14, providing access to all major streaming services and apps. This integration is particularly valuable for users with limited space or those who prefer a cleaner setup without multiple devices cluttering their entertainment area.

Final Thoughts: A Bold Step Forward

The ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG represents an interesting direction for gaming monitors, blurring the lines between traditional gaming displays and smart TVs. While the $200 premium over the non-smart version is significant, the added functionality could be worthwhile for the right user.

At its core, this remains a high-quality gaming monitor with excellent specifications. The addition of Google TV and smart features doesn't compromise the gaming performance but rather expands the monitor's utility. For gamers who also want a capable entertainment display without additional devices, the XG34WCDMTG offers a compelling all-in-one solution.

Available now through the Asus store in the US and Amazon in the UK, the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG is positioned to appeal to users who value both gaming performance and smart functionality in a single, premium package.