As one of the first monitors to leverage Samsung’s next-generation 4K 240Hz QD-OLED panel, the Alienware 4K QD-OLED (AW3225QF) arrives with plenty of hype, and for good reason. This 32-inch, curved display builds on Alienware’s previous QD-OLED models, combining impressive technical specs with thoughtful design choices and stellar desktop appeal.
It not only meets the expectations set by its predecessor, the highly regarded 34-inch ultrawide QD-OLED but carves out its place in an ever-competitive gaming monitor landscape.
Currently priced at AUD$1,424.50 the Alienware 4K QD-OLED offers a strong value proposition for what’s arguably a flagship-class display. Let’s dive deeper into what makes it stand out—and where it leaves room for improvement.
Performance
At the heart of the AW3225QF is its 31.5-inch QD-OLED panel, offering the following specs:
- Resolution: True 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz, making competitive and visually demanding gaming a joy
- Response Time: An impressive 0.03ms—one of the fastest on the market
- Colour Accuracy: 99.9% DCI-P3 for stunning, vibrant visuals
The ultra-fast response time is a standout feature, dramatically reducing the motion blur and input lag, making for an excellent choice for both high-speed shooters and immersing yourself into a single-player experience. The colours are rich and nuanced, offering a cinematic feel improved by the curved screen, making every game I played look and feel its best.
Curved screens are often a matter of taste and not my usual preference. After a few weeks with this device though, I am struggling to return to a flat screen. Pairing this with something like an RTX 4090 you’re arguably landing close to the smoothest, most visually striking gaming experiences money can buy.
Design
Alienware’s typical design language is dialled in here, with sleek curves and a two-tone black and white finish. Of course, it comes with customisable RGB lighting, as you would expect. Whether your setup leans toward dark minimalism or all-out RGB spectacle, this will fit right in.
The bezel design strikes a good balance too—thin enough to stay unobtrusive without feeling fragile. The arm is also sturdy, and I love that the arm assembles the monitor out of the box. Clicking everything together and lifting the entire unit from the packaging makes the setup super simple, and importantly keeps those fingerprints at bay. I didn’t experiment with attaching the device to a monitor arm, but was more than happy with the device on its base.
Connectivity is another strength, featuring:
- Inputs: 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 2x HDMI 2.1
- USB Hub: Multiple USB 3.2 ports (including bottom-mounted options for easy access)
While the connectivity suite is great for most people, the absence of Thunderbolt or higher-speed USB options may disappoint those looking for a hybrid work-and-play setup.
Functionality
The Alienware 4K QD-OLED is more than just a spec sheet—it’s a delight to use daily. The 1700R curvature is subtle yet effective, offering a slight wrap-around feel without veering into the extreme curvature of ultrawide monitors like the Odyssey G9. This makes it versatile for both immersive gaming and general productivity.
While the panel’s inherent strengths shine through, there are areas for refinement. The inclusion of AlienVision crosshairs feels like a gimmick, catering to an audience that likely prefers in-game customizations. Meanwhile, the panel refresh process required to combat OLED burn-in is a necessary evil, but its frequency could benefit from optimisation. The list of pros outweighs the cons here though, and I don’t feel like there are many deal-breakers here.
Competitive Landscape: How Does It Stack Up?
The Alienware 4K QD-OLED faces stiff competition from models like the ASUS ROG Swift OLED, Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 or MSI MAG, and particularly as more manufacturers adopt the same panel things are likely to heat up.
There’s also growing interest in LG’s W-OLED panels, which add the intriguing option of switching to 1080p at 480Hz. However, Alienware’s three-year warranty and proven quality make it a safe bet for those investing in high-end gaming gear.
Verdict & Value
The Alienware 32-inch 4K QD-OLED is an excellent gaming monitor that showcases the best of what QD-OLED technology can currently offer. With its combination of stunning visuals, top-tier performance, and thoughtful design, it’s a worthy upgrade for serious gamers and a glimpse into the future of display technology.
That said, there’s room for Alienware to elevate its game further. For now, though, the Alienware 32-inch 4K QD-OLED delivers a premium experience that’s hard to beat, and at a reasonable price. If you’re in the market for a 32-inch 4K gaming monitor, this one should be at the top of your list.
FOUR AND A HALF STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Highlights: Exceptional 4K 240Hz QD-OLED panel; ultra-fast 0.03ms response time; premium design with easy setup
Lowlights: Lacks Thunderbolt connectivity; OLED burn-in refresh process could be optimized; AlienVision feels unnecessary
Manufacturer: Alienware (Dell)
Model: 32-Inch 4K QD-OLED (AW3225QF)
Price: AUD $1,424.50
Recommended For: Gamers seeking cutting-edge performance and stunning visuals in a 32-inch 4K display
Review based on unit supplied by Dell and is currently available via Dell’s official website and at select retailers.
