MSI Optix MPG341CQR 34in 144Hz Curved Gaming Monitor Review

1. Introduction2. MSI Optix MPG341CQR3. On Screen Display Menu System4. MSI Optix MPG341CQR Analysis5. Closing Thoughts6. View All Pages

The MSI Optix MPG341CQR is a very tempting proposition. Image quality is very good, although not exceptional in every area with the brightness uniformity the most notable issue. But you get serious gaming features in a superwide format, which is a very attractive one for immersive gaming but also for providing screen space not far off having two screens side-by side.

Providing 144Hz refresh and FreeSync 2 in a curved monitor with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 is already a good start, but you also get plenty of settings customisation for different games genres. The Gaming OSD 2.0 app makes creating presets for specific software a doddle, although the joystick-operated OSD isn't particularly hard to use. The side USB and audio ports, plus extras for your mouse cord and action camera, show great attention to detail.

You've got all the cutting edge video connection options covered with USB-C alongside DisplayPort and HDMI. We're not entirely sure about the pulsating LED lighting on the front (it's a bit distracting, so we turned it off), but the overall look for the intended market is just about right.

So that just brings us back to the price. At nearly £870, this monitor does include a sizeable premium for the 144Hz refresh and gaming features. The Samsung CF791 may only offer 100Hz, but it's also £300 cheaper. Nevertheless, we have to admit taking a shine to the MSI Optix MPG341CQR. It's a very usable resolution, which is great for everyday activities, but the screen has serious gaming credibility too. So it has all your bases covered. We just wish it was a little cheaper…

The MSI Optix MPG341CQR is available from Amazon for £869.99.

Pros:

• Good colour accuracy, which becomes almost excellent when calibrated.
• 144Hz refresh-rate.
• Curved panel.
• FreeSync adaptive frame rate synchronisation.
• Gaming OSD app makes creating custom presets and switching between them easy.
• Useful extra gaming functions including crosshairs.
• Comprehensive physical adjustment.
• USB 3.2 Gen1 hub, with convenient side ports.

Cons:

• Disappointing brightness uniformity.
• Pricey.

KitGuru says: The MSI Optix MPG341CQR makes the 3,440 x 1,440 superwide resolution a seriously viable option for gamers, although you do pay for the pleasure.

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