LG Electronics has unveiled the UltraGear evo premium gaming monitor brand at CES 2026, introducing three flagship models revolutionizing high-resolution gaming: the 39GX950B (39-inch 5K2K OLED ultrawide with industry-first 5K AI Upscaling), the 27GM950B (27-inch 5K MiniLED with world-first blooming reduction and 2,304 local dimming zones), and the 52G930B (world's largest 52-inch 5K2K gaming monitor with 240Hz refresh rate). All three models feature LG's new proprietary on-device AI solution enabling real-time content enhancement without GPU overhead, allowing gamers to enjoy stunning 5K clarity from lower-resolution content while maintaining ultra-fast response times, exceptional brightness, and immersive curved displays.[1][2][3][4][5]

LG UltraGear EVO: The Future of Gaming Displays Arrives at CES 2026

LG Electronics announces a transformative new premium gaming monitor brand—UltraGear evo—fundamentally reshaping expectations for high-resolution gaming displays through cutting-edge AI technology, advanced panel engineering, and unprecedented form factor options.[1][3][4]

LG levels up gaming with the world's first 5K2K gaming monitor

LG levels up gaming with the world's first 5K2K gaming monitor

The UltraGear EVO Revelation: Breaking the High-Resolution Gaming Ceiling

For decades, gaming monitor evolution followed a predictable trajectory: higher resolution requirements demanding increasingly powerful graphics cards, creating an expensive hardware upgrade cycle.[1][3][4]

The UltraGear evo lineup disrupts this pattern through revolutionary on-device AI processing that achieves stunning 5K clarity without requiring GPU upgrades. This represents the first time that high-resolution gaming becomes accessible across a broader range of hardware configurations, fundamentally democratizing 5K gaming capabilities.

The Three-Model Strategy: Choices for Every Gaming Philosophy

LG's inaugural UltraGear evo lineup offers unprecedented choice, with three distinct flagship models addressing different gaming priorities:[1][2][3][4]

Model

Size

Panel Tech

Resolution

Refresh Rate

Key Innovation

39GX950B

39-inch

Tandem OLED

5K2K (5120×2160)

165Hz

AI Upscaling + OLED blacks

27GM950B

27-inch

5K MiniLED

5K (5120×1440)

165Hz

Blooming reduction + 2,304 zones

52G930B

52-inch

VA Panel

5K2K (5120×2160)

240Hz

Largest 5K2K gaming monitor

 

Each model represents a distinct philosophy: OLED perfection, MiniLED precision, and unmatched immersive scale.

The Game-Changer: 5K AI Upscaling and On-Device AI Technology

At the heart of the UltraGear evo revolution lies proprietary on-device AI processing—the first of its kind in gaming monitors—enabling unprecedented content enhancement capabilities.[1][3][4]

ARM's New Neural Upscaler Could Finally Make Gaming on ...

ARM's New Neural Upscaler Could Finally Make Gaming on ...

How 5K AI Upscaling Works: Real-Time Intelligence Processing

Unlike traditional AI upscaling that stresses the GPU, LG's on-device AI analyzes and enhances content directly within the monitor's processor.[3][4][5]

The 5K AI Upscaling Process:

1.       Content Reception: Monitor receives incoming video signal (may be 1440p, 1080p, or other lower resolution)

2.       Real-Time Analysis: On-device AI processor analyzes content characteristics:

o   Identifies objects, scenes, and motion patterns

o   Evaluates color gradients and lighting conditions

o   Determines optimal enhancement algorithms

o   Processes at monitor-level speeds (no GPU involvement)[4][5]

3.       Intelligent Enhancement: AI applies sophisticated upscaling algorithms:

o   Adds missing detail to lower-resolution content

o   Restores texture clarity and definition

o   Optimizes sharpness without introducing artifacts

o   Maintains natural appearance despite resolution increase[3][4]

4.      Display Rendering: Enhanced 5K-class content reaches the monitor panel

o   Delivers visual fidelity approaching native 5K quality

o   Eliminates the traditional blurriness of upscaled content

o   Achieves clarity without requir GPU overhead[5][4]

The Revolutionary Advantage: No GPU Upgrade Required

Traditional 5K gaming presents a fundamental problem: GPU limitations.[1][3][4]

The Traditional 5K Problem:

·       5K resolution (5120×2160) requires rendering ~11 million pixels per frame

·       Achieving 5K at 165+ frames per second demands premium GPUs costing $1,500+

·       Most gamers using mid-range GPUs cannot achieve native 5K gameplay

·       Content optimization has stalled as developers optimize for 1440p (standard gaming resolution)

How AI Upscaling Changes Everything:

With 5K AI Upscaling, gamers using mid-range GPUs can:

·       Play games at 1440p or lower natively (high frame rates)

·       Monitor's AI upscales to stunning 5K display quality

·       Experience 5K visual fidelity without GPU-side processing burden

·       Maintain high frame rates from powerful native resolution rendering[3][4][1]

This represents the first viable path toward practical 5K gaming for non-enthusiast consumers.

AI Scene Optimization: Content-Aware Enhancement

Beyond resolution upscaling, the AI system optimizes image quality based on scene characteristics.[3][4]

Scene Recognition and Optimization:

·       Dark Scene Analysis: Detects low-light environments and enhances shadow detail

·       Bright Scene Handling: Adjusts highlights for optimal clarity and impact

·       Motion Detection: Optimizes clarity for fast-moving objects and action sequences

·       Color Optimization: Enhances color vibrancy while maintaining natural appearance

·       Genre-Specific Tuning: Applies different algorithms for RPGs vs. competitive shooters vs. simulation games

AI Sound Enhancement: Immersive Audio Processing

The AI system extends beyond visuals to optimize audio performance.[3][4]

Integrated Audio Processing:

·       Analyzes incoming audio signals

·       Enhances dialogue clarity for story-driven games

·       Optimizes action sound effects for impact and clarity

·       Adjusts spatial audio for immersive positioning

·       Works with monitor's integrated speakers and connected audio systems

LG UltraGear EVO 39GX950B: Premium 39-Inch 5K2K OLED Ultrawide Gaming Monitor

The flagship 39-inch model combines Tandem OLED technology, industry-leading panel performance, and the full suite of AI enhancement features in a beautifully curved ultrawide form factor.[1][3][4][5]

21:9 is the ultimate gaming experience and I'll never go ...

21:9 is the ultimate gaming experience and I'll never go ...

Display Technology: Tandem OLED Perfection

LG's fourth-generation Tandem OLED technology delivers revolutionary improvements in brightness, color accuracy, and panel longevity—critical advantages over traditional OLED displays.[3][4][5]

Tandem OLED Advantages Over Standard OLED:

Feature

Standard OLED

Tandem OLED

Advantage

Peak Brightness

200-300 nits

400+ nits

2x brighter for HDR

Color Accuracy

Very good

Exceptional

Superior color precision

Panel Longevity

20,000-30,000 hours

40,000+ hours

Extended lifespan

Burn-in Risk

Moderate

Significantly reduced

Safer for gaming

Black Performance

Perfect blacks

Perfect blacks

OLED advantage maintained

 

Why Tandem OLED Matters for Gaming:

Traditional OLED panels suffer from brightness limitations affecting HDR gaming experiences. Peak brightness of only 200-300 nits makes bright scenes appear washed out compared to backlit displays. Tandem OLED's dual-layer architecture delivers 400+ nit peak brightness, enabling:

·       Stunning HDR implementation with bright highlights

·       Vivid flames, explosions, and light effects

·       Excellent visibility in sunlit rooms

·       Superior overall image impact[4][3]

Display Specifications: 5K2K Resolution at 142 PPI

The 39GX950B achieves unprecedented high-resolution ultrawide specifications:[1][3][4][5]

Core Display Specs:

·       Resolution: 5120×2160 (5K2K)

·       Aspect Ratio: 21:9 ultrawide (versus standard 16:9)

·       Screen Size: 39 inches diagonal

·       Pixel Density: 142 PPI (comparable to 31.5-inch 4K displays)

·       Curvature: 1500R (more subtle than previous 800R models)

·       Vertical Height: Maintains 32-inch vertical screen height

·       Horizontal Width: Expands significantly for immersive gaming[5]

Why 142 PPI Matters:

Pixel density of 142 PPI represents the sweet spot for text clarity and image sharpness. This density:

·       Makes individual pixels indiscernible at normal viewing distances

·       Eliminates perceived graininess in gradients and large areas

·       Provides excellent clarity for both gaming and productivity[5]

Dynamic Performance: Dual-Mode Flexibility for Every Gaming Genre

The Dual Mode feature allows seamless switching between visual fidelity and competitive responsiveness.[1][3][4]

Dual-Mode Operation:

Mode 1: Visual Excellence

·       Resolution: 5K2K (5120×2160)

·       Refresh Rate: 165Hz

·       Response Time: 0.03ms (GtG)

·       Use Case: Single-player games, cinematic experiences, exploration-focused titles

·       GPU Requirement: Mid-range to high-end for stable 165fps[4][1]

Mode 2: Competitive Performance

·       Resolution: WFHD (2560×1080)

·       Refresh Rate: 330Hz

·       Response Time: 0.03ms (GtG)

·       Use Case: Competitive shooters, fast-paced multiplayer, esports titles

·       GPU Requirement: High-end GPUs achieve 330fps at WFHD[1][4]

The 0.03ms Response Time: Industry-Leading Responsiveness

Response time of just 0.03 milliseconds represents the fastest available in any gaming monitor. This ultra-fast response enables:

·       Instantaneous pixel color transitions

·       Minimal motion blur in fast-action sequences

·       Imperceptible latency between input and display

·       Professional competitive gaming readiness[4][1]

HDR and Color Precision: VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500

The 39GX950B achieves VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification, the highest tier for OLED gaming monitors.[1][4][5]

VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 Requirements:

·       Peak brightness: 500+ nits (local peak)

·       Black luminance: <0.0005 nits

·       Contrast ratio: >1,000,000:1

·       Color gamut: 99.5% DCI-P3

·       Response time: Sub-millisecond

This certification ensures:

·       Perfect blacks visible in dark scenes

·       Bright highlights with extreme clarity

·       Exceptional color accuracy for professional and gaming uses

·       Superior visual impact across all content types[4][5]

Connectivity and Future-Proofing

The 39GX950B features cutting-edge connectivity supporting latest gaming platforms:[5]

Connectivity Suite:

·       DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20): Full-speed 10Gbps per lane (up from 5.4Gbps on previous models)

·       HDMI 2.1 (×2): Support for 4K 240Hz, 5K 165Hz gaming

·       USB Type-C: 90W power delivery + DisplayPort Alt Mode

·       USB Downstream Ports: Multiple for peripheral connection

Future-Proofing Impact:

DisplayPort 2.1 UHBR20 support ensures compatibility with next-generation GPUs and gaming platforms through 2027-2028, protecting investment in this premium display.

LG UltraGear EVO 27GM950B: World's First 5K MiniLED Gaming Monitor

The 27-inch model tackles MiniLED's most persistent challenge—blooming—through revolutionary engineering while delivering professional-grade 5K precision in a compact form factor.[1][2][3]

MiniLED vs OLED, or, the importance of per-pixel local ...

MiniLED vs OLED, or, the importance of per-pixel local ...

The MiniLED Blooming Problem: Finally Solved

MiniLED displays have struggled with visible "halos" around bright objects against dark backgrounds—the 27GM950B eliminates this through innovative design.[1][2][3]

Understanding Blooming:

Blooming occurs when local dimming zones activate around bright objects, creating visible halos in dark areas:

·       LED backlight zones activate to illuminate bright pixels

·       Dimming zones surrounding bright areas still illuminate slightly

·       Visible halo/bloom effect degrades image quality

·       Particularly noticeable in gaming with dark scenes containing bright objects[2][3]

The Solution: Zero Optical Distance Engineering

LG's proprietary Zero Optical Distance technology minimizes the physical gap between the MiniLED backlight and the liquid crystal panel:

·       Traditional Distance: 5-8mm gap allowing light scatter

·       ZOD Engineering: 2-3mm gap with optimized light path

·       Result: Dramatically reduced bloom and halo effects

·       Impact: Professional-grade optical clarity on MiniLED technology[3][2]

2,304 Local Dimming Zones: Unprecedented Precision

The 27GM950B features the industry's highest local dimming zone density, enabling pixel-level contrast control.[1][2][3]

Local Dimming Zone Density:

·       Total Zones: 2,304 individual dimming areas

·       Zone Count Advantage: More zones enable finer contrast control

·       Practical Benefit: Minimal blooming, maximum detail preservation

·       Competitive Comparison: Most MiniLED monitors feature 1,000-1,500 zones[2][3]

How Zone Density Improves Gaming:

With 2,304 zones, local dimming can:

·       Independently control brightness of individual objects

·       Preserve shadow detail while brightening highlights

·       Render complex scenes with exceptional contrast

·       Minimize blooming around distinct bright/dark transitions

5K Resolution on 27 Inches: Unprecedented Pixel Density

5K resolution on a 27-inch display achieves exceptional pixel density comparable to 4K on 31.5-inch monitors.[1][2][3]

Resolution Density Comparison:

Size

Resolution

Aspect

PPI

Sharpness

27-inch 5K

5120×1440

16:9

240+

Exceptional

31.5-inch 4K

3840×2160

16:9

140

Excellent

27-inch 4K

3840×2160

16:9

163

Very Good

27-inch 1440p

2560×1440

16:9

109

Good

 

The 27GM950B's 5K resolution provides the highest pixel density of any 27-inch gaming monitor, delivering exceptional clarity for both gaming and productivity tasks.

MiniLED Brightness and HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 1000

While lacking OLED's perfect blacks, the 27GM950B compensates through exceptional brightness and HDR performance.[1][2][3]

Peak Brightness Specifications:

·       Peak Brightness: 1,250 nits (local peak)

·       Full Screen Brightness: 300+ nits

·       HDR Certification: VESA DisplayHDR 1000

·       Practical Impact: Bright scenes deliver stunning visual impact[2][3]

Why Brightness Matters for Gaming:

Exceptional brightness enables:

·       Vivid flames, explosions, and light effects

·       Superior visibility of bright highlights against dark backgrounds

·       Excellent in-game visibility of distant enemies and details

·       Impressive visual impact for both competitive and narrative games

Dual-Mode Performance: 165Hz 5K or 330Hz QHD

The 27GM950B offers flexible performance options through Dual Mode operation.[1][2][3]

Mode Selection:

5K Visual Mode

·       Resolution: 5120×1440 (5K)

·       Refresh Rate: 165Hz

·       Response Time: 1ms (GtG)

·       Best For: Single-player games, visual immersion[2][3]

QHD Performance Mode

·       Resolution: 2560×1440 (QHD)

·       Refresh Rate: 330Hz

·       Response Time: 1ms (GtG)

·       Best For: Competitive shooters, esports[3][2]

LG UltraGear EVO 52G930B: The World's Largest 5K2K Gaming Monitor

The 52-inch flagship introduces an unprecedented large-format gaming category, offering gamers entirely new immersion possibilities through sheer screen real estate.[1][2][3]

LG levels up gaming with the world's first 5K2K gaming monitor

LG levels up gaming with the world's first 5K2K gaming monitor

Ultra-Large Format Gaming: A New Category

The 52G930B is officially the world's largest gaming monitor with 5K2K resolution, occupying an entirely new space between single gaming monitors and multi-monitor setups.[1][2][3]

52-Inch Large Format Specifications:

·       Screen Size: 52 inches diagonal (massive)

·       Aspect Ratio: 12:9 panoramic (versus standard 16:9)

·       Resolution: 5120×2160 (5K2K)

·       Vertical Height: 42-inch 16:9 monitor equivalent

·       Horizontal Width: 33% wider than standard UHD displays[2][3]

Workspace Implications:

The 52-inch display provides:

·       Workspace 33% wider than traditional 4K monitors

·       Three-monitor equivalent immersion in single display

·       Seamless panoramic gaming without bezels

·       Productivity advantage for content creators[3][2]

1000R Curvature: Peripheral Vision Immersion

The extreme 1000R curvature wraps the screen around the user's peripheral vision.[1][2][3]

Curvature Design Strategy:

·       Curvature Radius: 1000R (versus 1500R on 39-inch model)

·       Wraparound Effect: Curve encloses viewing area at all angles

·       Peripheral Coverage: Screen fills peripheral vision naturally

·       Distance Optimization: Designed for typical seated gaming distance[2][3]

Gaming Immersion Benefits:

The extreme curvature delivers:

·       Seamless immersion without visual distractions

·       Natural peripheral vision coverage

·       Reduced distortion at screen edges

·       Cinematic presentation surpassing single flat displays

Blazing-Fast 240Hz: Balancing Speed and Scale

Despite its massive size, the 52G930B maintains a fast 240Hz refresh rate.[1][2][3]

Performance Specifications:

·       Refresh Rate: 240Hz

·       Response Time: Not specified (typical 1-4ms for large format)

·       Panel Technology: VA (Vertical Alignment)

·       Brightness: VESA DisplayHDR 600

·       Use Cases: Combination gaming and productivity[2][3]

Technical Challenge: Delivering 240Hz on 5K2K resolution requires:

·       Powerful GPU (high-end required for 240fps at 5K2K)

·       Advanced display electronics

·       Excellent cooling and power management

·       Sophisticated video processing[3][2]

VA Panel Technology: Contrast and Color

The 52-inch model uses VA (Vertical Alignment) panel technology for superior contrast compared to IPS panels.[1][2][3]

VA Technology Advantages:

·       Native Contrast Ratio: 3000:1+ (superior to IPS's 1000:1)

·       Black Depth: Excellent black levels (though not OLED-perfect)

·       Color Vibrancy: Rich, saturated colors

·       Viewing Angles: Good for center viewing (typical for VA)

·       Response Time: Fast transitions enabling high refresh rates[2][3]

Comparative Analysis: Choosing the Right UltraGear EVO Model

Each of the three flagship models serves distinct gaming and usage preferences.[1][2][3]

34"/38"/40" Qhd Curved Gaming Monitor 21: 9 Ultrawide Display 3-Sides  Borderless 4K Screen Desktop Monitor

34"/38"/40" Qhd Curved Gaming Monitor 21: 9 Ultrawide Display 3-Sides Borderless 4K Screen Desktop Monitor

39GX950B vs. 27GM950B: OLED vs. MiniLED

Aspect

39GX950B (OLED)

27GM950B (MiniLED)

Winner

Black Levels

Perfect blacks

Excellent blacks

39GX950B

Peak Brightness

400+ nits

1,250 nits

27GM950B

Screen Size

39-inch ultrawide

27-inch standard

39GX950B

Local Dimming Zones

N/A (pixel-level)

2,304 zones

39GX950B

Blooming Issues

None (OLED advantage)

Minimized (ZOD)

39GX950B

Response Time

0.03ms (faster)

1ms

39GX950B

Price Range

Premium

Slightly less

27GM950B

Professional Use

Excellent (color-critical)

Good

39GX950B

Competitive Gaming

Good (330Hz mode)

Good (330Hz mode)

Tie

Immersion

Superior (ultrawide)

Standard (16:9)

39GX950B

 

Selection Guidance:

·       Choose 39GX950B if: You prioritize OLED quality, prefer ultrawide immersion, want ultimate competitive responsiveness, have budget for premium display

·       Choose 27GM950B if: You prefer compact 27-inch size, want exceptional brightness for bright rooms, seek professional-grade 5K precision, prefer MiniLED technology

·       Choose 52G930B if: You want maximum immersion and workspace, prefer large format entertainment, seek three-monitor equivalent experience

Gaming Performance Implications: The 5K Gaming Future

The UltraGear evo lineup fundamentally changes what 5K gaming means and who can participate.[1][3][4]

GPU Requirements for Different Gaming Scenarios

Understanding realistic hardware needs for UltraGear evo models:[6][7]

39GX950B at 5K2K 165Hz Native Gaming:

GPU

Expected Performance

RTX 4060

30-40fps (low settings)

RTX 4070

50-70fps (medium settings)

RTX 4080

100-140fps (high settings)

RTX 5090

140-165fps (ultra settings)

 

For most gamers, achieving native 5K 165fps requires high-end GPUs ($1,200+).

However, with AI Upscaling from 1440p:

·       RTX 4070: 1440p 165fps native → AI upscales to 5K display quality

·       RTX 4080: 1440p 330fps native → AI upscales to 5K with room for ultra settings

·       Performance Result: Mid-range GPUs achieve visually impressive 5K quality

This represents the revolutionary advantage of AI Upscaling.

CES 2026 Showcase and Availability

The UltraGear evo lineup debuts publicly at CES 2026 with immersive demonstration zones.[1][4]

CES 2026 Experience Zones

LG's booth will feature two distinct experience areas:[4]

1.       "Dream Setup" Zone:

o   Inspired by Reddit's gaming communities

o   Showcases ideal gaming environments

o   Demonstrates gaming setups using UltraGear evo models

o   Allows hands-on experience with gaming scenarios[4]

2.       SimCraft Racing Simulation Zone:

o   Features 39GX950B in action

o   Powered by professional racing simulation

o   Demonstrates immersive 21:9 ultrawide advantages

o   Shows real-time AI upscaling performance[4]

Market Availability Timeline

Global availability following CES 2026:[1][2][3]

·       CES 2026 Presentation: December 2026

·       Pre-Order Launch: Likely January 2026 (CES announcement)

·       General Availability: Expected Q1-Q2 2026

·       Pricing: Premium positioning expected (exact pricing TBA)

Additional Model: UltraGear GX7 (27GX790B)

Alongside the evo lineup, LG introduces the more affordable GX7 model:[3][4]

UltraGear GX7 Specifications:

·       Size: 27 inches

·       Resolution: QHD (2560×1440)

·       Panel: Primary RGB Tandem OLED

·       Refresh Rate: 540Hz native / 720Hz Dual Mode

·       Response Time: Extremely fast (unspecified)

·       Target Market: Extreme competitive gamers

·       Availability: Sales begin on CES 2026 opening day[4][3]

The GX7 represents LG's answer to ultra-competitive gamers prioritizing extreme refresh rates over resolution.

The Broader Impact: Gaming Display Industry Evolution

The UltraGear evo announcement signals broader industry transformation in gaming monitor capabilities and consumer expectations.[1][3][4]

Competitive Response Expected

Major monitor manufacturers will likely accelerate development responses:[1]

·       ASUS ROG: Expected to announce premium ROG models with similar AI capabilities

·       MSI/Alienware: Dell's gaming division likely developing competitive AI-enhanced monitors

·       Acer Predator: Premium Predator lineup expansion anticipated

·       BenQ: Professional and gaming display upgrades expected

AI-in-Display Trend Acceleration

LG's pioneering on-device AI sets precedent for industry adoption:[1][3][4]

·       Other manufacturers will pursue: In-display AI processing for content enhancement

·       Emerging standards: Industry protocols for on-device AI gaming optimization

·       Consumer expectations: AI enhancement becoming baseline expectation for premium displays

·       Software ecosystem: Game optimization for monitor-side AI processing

Conclusion: The UltraGear EVO Redefines Gaming Display Excellence

The LG UltraGear evo represents the most significant evolution in gaming monitors since high refresh rates became standard, combining revolutionary AI technology, innovative panel engineering, and unprecedented form factors to create the gaming display future.[1][3][4]

By introducing proprietary 5K AI Upscaling technology enabling stunning visual quality without GPU overhead, LG democratizes 5K gaming for users beyond high-end enthusiasts. The three distinct flagship models—OLED perfection, MiniLED precision, and unprecedented large-format scale—provide genuine choices for different gaming philosophies and preferences.

The 39GX950B's Tandem OLED with industry-leading responsiveness, the 27GM950B's revolutionary blooming-free MiniLED with 2,304 dimming zones, and the 52G930B's industry-defining large-format immersion collectively signal that gaming display technology has entered a new era where compromise is genuinely optional.

For the gaming community and display enthusiasts, the UltraGear evo lineup represents more than incremental improvement—it embodies a fundamental paradigm shift where high-resolution gaming, exceptional immersion, and visual excellence become genuinely achievable across a broad range of gaming configurations and preferences.