MSI Launches MAG 346CQDF E20 Curved Ultrawide Gaming Monitor Featuring Unique Dual Mode Refresh Rate and High Speed Rapid VA Panel
MSI has published a product page for the MAG 346CQDF E20 on their website prior to launch in the US. This curved ultrawide gaming display uses a Rapid VA panel and is likely targeting the budget conscious market among many high end ultrawides available now. This is primarily distinguished by its unusual dual mode refresh rate setting that allows competitive players to choose resolution over the highest refresh rates.
The 34 inch curved monitor (1500R) uses a Rapid VA panel. Normally, this display will output at a native resolution of 3440 x 1440 at 200 Hz. For competitive gaming the secondary mode drops the resolution down to 1720 x 720 in favor of 400 Hz refresh rate for fluidity advantage in multi player fast paced gaming titles. This feature alone could make it a must buy for many competitive gamers. The 0.5 ms gray to gray response time will also serve to reduce ghosting and motion blur significantly. The monitor also has a specific console mode for smooth performance when paired with PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles. Color gamut is 95% DCI P3 and 85% Adobe RGB, providing good color coverage for most applications.
The display is classified as HDR ready but only reaches a maximum peak brightness of 300 nits. The high dynamic range performance of this display likely will not compare to OLEDs on the market for its contrast ratios. The display has HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, but players will have to use DisplayPort for their full 200Hz native refresh rate performance. The product page at manufacturer websites includes all specifications but has yet to specify prices or delivery timelines to the US. However, it is certain to fall in line with many of the budget ultrawide offerings based on its Rapid VA panel construction.
