Corsair Xeneon Flex: Everything To Know
The Corsair Xeneon Flex is a unique gaming monitor that stands out due to its innovative design and high-end specifications. Priced at $1,999, this monitor is aimed at serious gamers who want the best in terms of technology and performance. However, the Xeneon Flex is not just another ultrawide monitor; it has a few tricks up its sleeve that make it special.
Key Features of the Corsair Xeneon Flex
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display Type | OLED |
| Screen Size | 45 inches |
| Resolution | 3440 x 1440 pixels (Ultrawide QHD) |
| Curvature | Adjustable, up to 800mm radius |
| Refresh Rate | 240Hz |
| Dynamic Contrast Ratio | 5,530:1 |
| Static Contrast Ratio | 1,500,000:1 |
| Brightness | 329 nits |
| Response Time | Expected to be competitive with other high-end monitors |
| Variable Refresh Rate | AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync Compatible |
| Ports | Multiple, including USB ports on the front and back, HDMI, DisplayPort, 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Stand Adjustments | Tilt only, no height adjustment, no VESA mount compatibility |
| Dimensions (HWD) | 22.75 x 41.8 x 18.1 inches |
| Weight | 22.75 pounds |
| Audio | No built-in speakers |
| Special Features | Bendable display, thin bezels, high color accuracy, deep blacks |
| Price | $1,999 |
| Release Date | Expected Q1 2023 |
- Bendable OLED Display: The standout feature of the Corsair Xeneon Flex is its ability to transform from a flat surface into a curved monitor with a radius as small as 800mm. This flexibility allows users to adjust the monitor to their preferred viewing angle, enhancing the gaming and media consumption experience.
- OLED Technology: The monitor boasts a high-quality OLED panel that promises deep blacks and vibrant colors. The dynamic contrast ratio of 5,530:1 and a static contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1 contribute to impressive picture quality.
- High Refresh Rate: With a 240Hz refresh rate, the Xeneon Flex supports smooth gameplay, which is crucial for competitive gaming. This is complemented by VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), AMD FreeSync Premium, and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, ensuring seamless performance regardless of the graphics card used.
- Multiple Ports and Connectivity: The monitor includes several ports, all located on its stand, to maintain a sleek and slim profile. It features two USB ports on the front, an input-select button, an OSD control stick, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Size and Build: The Xeneon Flex is a large monitor, measuring approximately 22.75 by 41.8 by 18.1 inches (HWD) and weighing around 22.75 pounds. Despite its size, it maintains a lightweight build for easy setup and adjustment.
Pros and Cons of the Corsair Xeneon Flex
Pros
- Adjustable Curvature: The ability to switch between a flat and curved display with an 800mm radius offers versatility and a customized viewing experience.
- OLED Screen Quality: The monitor provides deep blacks and vibrant colors, enhancing the overall visual experience.
- High Refresh Rate: The 240Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, which is crucial for competitive gaming.
Cons
- Low Default Brightness: The monitor’s brightness is low by default, which may affect visibility in well-lit environments.
- No Built-in Speakers: The absence of built-in speakers means users need external audio solutions.
- Limited Adjustability: The stand allows for tilt adjustments but lacks height adjustment options and VESA mount compatibility.
Design and Build Quality
The Corsair Xeneon Flex features a slim and flexible design with thin bezels on all four sides, giving it a modern and sleek appearance. The ports are strategically placed on the stand to keep the monitor’s body thin. However, the vertical bar design of the stand restricts height adjustments, which might be a drawback for some users. The lack of VESA mount compatibility further limits mounting options.
Performance and Usability
In terms of performance, the Corsair Xeneon Flex impresses with its OLED panel, offering excellent color accuracy and deep blacks. The monitor achieved a brightness of 329 nits in tests, which is decent but not outstanding. The input lag, measured using an HDFury Diva HDMI matrix, is a crucial factor for competitive gamers. While the monitor performs well, it falls short compared to other gaming monitors with more refined input lag reduction.
Gaming and Media Experience
The Xeneon Flex is designed with gamers in mind. Its high refresh rate and compatibility with VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Nvidia G-Sync ensure a smooth gaming experience. The bendable feature enhances immersion, allowing gamers to adjust the curvature to their liking. However, the monitor’s potential for calibration issues and mechanical hinge sound needs improvement, which Corsair promises to address before the final release.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re a gamer who values cutting-edge technology and customization, the Corsair Xeneon Flex’s unique bendable OLED display and high refresh rate make it a compelling choice. However, its premium price of $1,999, coupled with some drawbacks like low default brightness, lack of built-in speakers, and limited adjustability, means it’s best suited for those who prioritize innovative features and are willing to invest in potential future improvements. If Corsair addresses these issues before the final release, the Xeneon Flex could redefine your gaming experience and stand out in a crowded market.
Verdict
The Corsair Xeneon Flex is an impressive piece of technology with its bendable OLED display and high-end specifications. Priced at $1,999, it offers a unique experience for gamers and media enthusiasts. However, some issues like low default brightness, lack of built-in speakers, and limited adjustability need to be considered. Corsair aims to address these concerns in the final retail version, and if successful, the Xeneon Flex could become a standout choice in the gaming monitor market.
In conclusion, the Corsair Xeneon Flex is a cutting-edge monitor that offers a blend of innovation and performance. While it has some shortcomings, its unique features and potential for future improvements make it a product worth watching. If Corsair can deliver on its promises, the Xeneon Flex could redefine the gaming monitor landscape.
