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So many numbers for curved gaming monitors: 1000R, 1500R, 1800R, 1900R, 3800R.

We quickly explain what those mean for 16:9 and also 21:9 ultrawide displays so you can make a more informed choice. 

Explaining monitor curvature presents a slight challenge because the concept has a counter-intuitive aspect to it.

You’ll see figures like 1000R, 18000R and 3800R, and perhaps assume that 3800R somehow means a more curved monitor because it’s a bigger number. The opposite is actually true.

So when shopping for a curved monitor for gaming, entertainment, and productivity, what should you keep in mind? 

Standing for radius, the R in curved monitor specs means the total distance from the edges of the curved screen to its center. The radius plays a vital role because the human field of view has a natural curvature to it, which is why curved displays are easier on us with regards to eye strain. As people by default have two eyes, we see things in “stereo”, or with depth of field. We do not perceive the world like a flat surface, and so a curved monitor technically comes closer to replicating the human viewing experience. Think of it like a regular movie theater being a flat screen, while a curved monitor is more like IMAX. 

From 1000 through 1800 to 3800 and even 4000, that’s quantification of the R, or radius.

So, 1800R means radius of 1800mm of curvature, and 3800R refers to radius of 3800mm of curvature and so on.

This is very subjective and there’s no single answer. If you want an aggressive, more accentuated display curve, then get an 1800R or a 1500R, even a 1000R if you can find one. That kind of curvature is more likely to give you the much talked about “immersion factor”, especially in gaming.

As for 3800R and ultrawide, those are awesome for a combination of massively wide screen real estate and a slight curve that better accommodates natural human viewing.

In summation, if you want a curved, non-ultrawide display then 1800R is ideal. If you do want ultrawide, then 3800R is by far the most popular choice, and for good reason – it’s a comfortable and impressive middle ground between size and curvature.