TL;DR: WFH, coding 10-12h/day (static content, macOS), so I think high-PPI, glossy and non-OLED for work is the right move (thinking 1-2x 32" 6K Kuycon). For gaming (PS5 + Switch 2 + PC), I can’t choose between 42" LG C5, 45" 5K2K ultrawide, or a 32" OLED, and I’m wondering if two separate desks/setups is the smartest solution.
I’ve been trying to find the “one setup” for work + gaming, and I’m stuck. I think two separate setups might be the way to go, but I’m happy to hear your thoughts. I’m a software engineer, and I have static content (IDE/browser/terminal) on screen 10-12h/day, so I’m cautious about OLED for productivity (burn-in + text sharpness). I’m using a 13" MacBook Pro (M2 Max). Currently I have a 160x80cm desk with lg IPS 27" 4k.
Gaming: PS5 + Switch 2 (mostly single-player story games) – I want to try moving consoles from the TV to the desk. On PC I play WoW TBC Classic arenas competitively (PVP, higher ratings) + sometimes FPS like Overwatch. I might play other story games once I buy a new rig – right now I’m on an older PC (GTX 1080). I’d also like the option to sit a bit farther away in a wing chair and play story games (~150–200 cm). I haven’t bought the desk yet, so I can go ~80 cm deep – potential location for a second desk marked in green in the picture.
I’m considering:
LG C5 42": I could try it and if it doesn’t work, give it to my parents (they need a new TV). Generally, I’m worried it’ll be too big on a desk and might affect competitive performance (too much eye movement). On the other hand, in WoW the UI can be moved, nameplates are big, using macros and keybinds for targeting, etc. Not sure if I will like ps5 at the desk long term, but I wanted to give it a shot.
45" 5K2K ultrawide (LG / “G9x” class): Ultrawide seems great and immersive, I’ve never tried it, but PS5/Switch would have black bars on the sides, and it needs more GPU power on PC, even if I buy 5080, it might be not enough or "faster to replace" in the future, I guess.
32" OLED (like XG32UCWMG): This seems like the “solid and safe” choice, but it’s less immersive and might feel too small from farther away.
Productivity plan: likely one/two 32" 6K Kuycon monitors (high PPI for text, retina). Apple Studio Display would be great if they release a 32" version now (there are some leaks); Pro Display XDR is too expensive. I considered ultrawides like Dell U5226KW / Samsung G9 57, but I think I want higher PPI for text and glossy, I really like my MacBook screen.
So, for my use case, what’s the least painful compromise: 42" OLED TV, 32" OLED monitor, or 45" 5K2K ultrawide? Or wait for the new LG 39" 5K2K.
Also, do you think two separate setups/desks (one “work-first” high-PPI setup and one “gaming-first” OLED/immersive setup) actually makes sense?
One more thing, I’ve heard that after using an ultrawide (especially curved), flat monitors can start looking “rounded/warped,” and that it can mess with your vision. Is that actually a real/common thing, or a pretty rare experience?