The global market for LCD gaming monitor panels with refresh rates exceeding 144Hz is projected to experience slower growth in 2025, according to a report by TrendForce. This slowdown contrasts with the robust growth witnessed in previous years.
Factors Contributing to Slower Growth
TrendForce anticipates less than 5% growth in 2025, with approximately 34 million units shipped. This prediction follows 2024’s impressive performance, which saw 32.42 million units shipped, representing a 12% year-over-year increase.
Several factors contributed to the LCD gaming monitor market’s growth in prior years, but these are unlikely to repeat in 2025. Chinese panel manufacturers significantly focused on production and market expansion. Demand was fueled by anticipation surrounding video game releases and eSports events, particularly in China. The release of Black Myth: Wukong in mid-2024 and the Hangzhou Asian Games in mid-2023, a major eSports event, played a significant role.
These events drove increased spending on gaming monitors, benefiting manufacturers like HKC, CSOT, and BOE, who experienced substantial shipment increases of 50%, 40%, and 20% respectively in 2024. However, no comparable market drivers are currently anticipated for 2025.
Increased competition in the 165Hz refresh rate segment is another contributing factor. The mainstream adoption of 165Hz panels and subsequent price competition are discouraging manufacturers from continued production, further dampening growth projections.
The Rise of OLED Gaming Monitors
In contrast to the LCD market, the OLED gaming monitor sector continues to flourish. Global shipments surged by an impressive 132% year-over-year in 2024, with a projected 40% growth in 2025. This growth is driven by the increasing popularity of 27-inch and 31.5-inch OLED gaming monitors with various resolutions and refresh rates. Samsung Display’s dominant market position and strategic pricing have further fueled shipment volumes.
Future Outlook for OLED
While the OLED gaming monitor market is still in its early stages, TrendForce suggests that new players may enter the market in 2025. These new entrants are expected to focus on high-end models, making significant price reductions unlikely in the near future.
Conclusion
The gaming monitor market is experiencing a shift. While LCD panel shipments are predicted to slow, the OLED sector is poised for continued growth. The future of gaming displays appears to be increasingly OLED-centric, with a focus on high-end performance and features.
