The best glossy gaming monitor could be a huge leap forward in terms of technology, but we're still waiting for more options to appear. There have been some exciting movements in the market that have sparked our interest, and we're on high alert for any announcements, so we can keep you updated.
You're here to hear about what's available now though. Well, first and foremost, glossy gaming monitors boast new, non-matte displays as an alternative to the more traditional matte, anti-reflective coatings seen on some of the best gaming monitors around, for example.
Anti-reflective coatings are sometimes argued to limit the perceived depth, colour, and contrast of the image. Glossy coatings, as you've seen with many of the best smartphones, tablets, or TVs, can create crisp, vivid colour, but at the trade-off of higher reflections.
The long and short of it is that they may not be for everyone. However, if your heart's set on a glossy display, then you're in the right place. Our list of top picks, based on price, reviews, and features they off, is the perfect place to kick off your search. We'll be updating things too, once more and more glossy screens emerge. But, for now, here are what we think are some of the best glossy gaming monitors around.
Best glossy gaming monitors
1. Dough 4K 144hz Glossy Spectrum
It was announced a while back that Dough (earlier known as Eve), the brand behind the highly regarded Eve Spectrum true HDMI 2.1 monitor, will be releasing a glossy version for gamers. This comes after a huge amount of demand for the unique finish, and, luckily, it's now available.
Since this is a 'version' of the original 27-inch 4K 144hz Spectrum, the specs are similar. That means that you're getting 750 nit brightness (peak), HDMI 2.1, USB-C, and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility.
It also includes Display HDR 600 with HDR 10, which should provide more than enough contrast and colour range for most people.
- Read More: Best HDMI 2.1 monitors
2. Dough QHD 280Hz Glossy Spectrum
Similarly, as with the 4K, 144hz version, the EVE 280hz Spectrum also offers a glossy option.
This monitor is QHD, 1ms response time, with an Oxide IPS panel for wide viewing angles and vivid colour. It also features every port under the sun, as with the 4K version, which can help keep your setup looking clean.
- Read More: Best 240Hz monitors
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Right now, there are more questions than there are answers around glossy gaming monitors, so let's do our best to clear a few things up.
Is glossy or matte better for gaming?
This depends on what you enjoy more from your gaming experience.
If you're into visuals and graphics, glossy gaming monitors would be better in some ways, as they can give the perception of deeper blacks and more vivid colour.
If you're more into competitive play, then you may find some reflections in darker spots distracting, especially if you're playing in a well-lit room.
Ultimately, while we think glossy coatings will be great for some, they won't be for everyone. We do have very high hopes though, as we think more visually impressive or graphically intense games will look incredible on them.
Are glossy gaming monitors worth it?
If you're looking for a pretty epic upgrade, they should be worth it for sure, but it's more down to personal taste over optimization, and also what budget you are prepared to commit.
Weighing up which refresh rate to go for, response times, and screen size would be the things to consider as a higher priority.
Glossy gaming monitors should offer a good mid-ground for those who enjoy the smooth finish to tablets and smartphones and are left wanting when it comes to their main gaming monitor.
Remember, it should increase the perceived colour depth and contrast, not the monitor's specs in that regard.
We'll be back soon with all the latest news around glossy gaming monitors, so we'll see you then.
Why are there no glossy gaming monitors?
A glossy gaming monitor is a relatively new concept, while matte monitors have been here for quite a long time.
Usually, gaming monitors have a matte finish to keep off the glare, but it is believed that it limits the picture quality.
On the other hand, glossy monitors will have trouble keeping the glare off, but they can deliver stunning visuals under the right lighting conditions.
If we put functionality over aesthetics, we can see why there have been no glossy gaming monitors until now.