LG Smart Monitor LG - 34" WQHD 100Hz 5ms Smart Monitor with HDR10 Review
The LG Smart Monitor tries to be your desk's only screen. We tested its ultrawide display and built-in TV apps to see if it's a genius hybrid or a jack of all trades.
The 30-Second Version
The LG Smart Monitor is a great all-in-one for your desk. It's a sharp 34" ultrawide and a smart TV combined. It scores a 98th percentile for features, but only average for pure performance. Worth it if you love convenience.
Overview
The LG Smart Monitor is basically a TV that decided to moonlight as a computer screen. It's a 34-inch ultrawide curved panel with LG's webOS smart platform built right in, so you can stream Netflix or use cloud apps without ever plugging in a PC. That's the whole pitch: one screen for work, play, and binge-watching, all with a minimalist design that won't clutter your desk.
Performance
For a 'smart' monitor, the core specs are decent but not thrilling. The 3440x1440 resolution on a 34-inch VA panel looks sharp, and the 100Hz refresh rate is a nice step up from 60Hz for smoother scrolling and casual gaming. But our database shows its performance scores land right in the middle of the pack—the 50th percentile. The 5ms response time and basic HDR10 support are fine for movies and productivity, but competitive gamers will want something faster. The color coverage (99% sRGB) is good for general use, though pros doing color-critical work might need more.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The built-in webOS turns it into a standalone entertainment hub. 98th
- The 34-inch ultrawide curve is immersive for movies and multitasking. 98th
- Wireless casting with AirPlay 2 is super convenient for Apple users. 86th
- It looks sleek with a virtually frameless design on three sides. 82th
Cons
- No built-in speakers, which feels like a miss for a 'smart' device. 8th
- The 100Hz refresh rate is good, but not a high-end gaming spec.
- Ergonomics are basic with just tilt adjustment.
- It's heavy and not portable at all, but you weren't planning to carry it anyway.
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Display
| Size | 34" |
| Resolution | 3440 x 1440 |
| Panel Type | VA |
| Aspect Ratio | 21:9 |
| Curved | Yes |
Performance
| Refresh Rate | 100 Hz |
| Response Time | 5 |
Color & HDR
| Brightness | 300 nits |
| HDR | HDR10 |
| HDR Support | HDR10 |
Connectivity
| HDMI Ports | 2 |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
Ergonomics
| VESA Mount | Yes |
Features
| Webcam | No |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Weight | 6.1 kg / 13.4 lbs |
Value & Pricing
At around $350, this monitor offers a lot of screen and smart features for the money. You're essentially getting a mid-tier ultrawide monitor and a basic smart TV in one package. If you value that convergence and want to reduce cable clutter, it's a solid deal. If you just want the best pure monitor for the price, you might find better pixel-per-dollar elsewhere.
Price History
vs Competition
Compared to dedicated gaming monitors like the MSI MPG 32" or ASUS ROG Swift, this LG isn't even in the same league for speed or HDR. But that's not the point. Its real competition is other all-in-one displays. It beats a standard office monitor by adding streaming and wireless features. However, if your priority is pristine image quality or high refresh rates, those pure monitors will outperform it. Think of it as a great hybrid, not a specialist.
| Spec | LG Smart Monitor LG - 34" WQHD 100Hz 5ms Smart Monitor with HDR10 | Samsung Odyssey Samsung - 57" Odyssey Neo G9 Dual 4K UHD Quantum | ASUS ROG Swift ASUS ROG Swift 27" UHD 4K 240Hz with FreeSync | MSI MPG MSI MPG 322URX QD-OLED 31.5" 4K HDR 240 Hz Gaming | LG UltraGear LG UltraGear 45" WUHD DUAL MODE 4K 165Hz FHD 330Hz | Dell UltraSharp Dell UltraSharp 27" 4K HDR 120 Hz Monitor & |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 34 | 57 | 27 | 32 | 45 | 27 |
| Resolution | 3440 x 1440 | 7680 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 | 5120 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Panel Type | VA | VA | OLED | OLED | OLED | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 100 | 240 | 240 | 240 | 165 | 120 |
| Response Time Ms | 5 | 1 | - | - | - | 5 |
| Adaptive Sync | - | FreeSync Premium Pro | G-Sync Compatible | G-Sync Compatible | G-Sync Compatible | - |
| Hdr | HDR10 | HDR10+ | HDR400 | HDR400 | HDR10 | HDR |
Common Questions
Q: Does this monitor have speakers?
No, it does not have built-in speakers. You'll need to use external speakers or headphones via the headphone jack.
Q: What's the refresh rate?
It has a 100Hz refresh rate, which is smoother than a standard 60Hz monitor for everyday use and casual gaming.
Q: Can I mount it on the wall?
Yes, it has a standard VESA mount pattern on the back, so you can use it with most monitor arms or wall mounts.
Who Should Skip This
Hardcore gamers should skip this. The 100Hz and 5ms response time won't keep up with fast-paced competitive titles. Also, if you already have a dedicated TV or streaming stick hooked up to your desk, the smart features here are redundant. Get a faster, pure monitor instead.
Verdict
Buy this if you want a clean, single-screen setup for a home office or dorm room where you mix work, web browsing, and streaming. The smart features genuinely add convenience, and the ultrawide curve makes everything more engaging. It's the monitor for people who hate extra devices and cables.