HP OMEN 34c G2 Review: Performance Upgrade for Gamers
With a 180Hz refresh rate, improved color accuracy, and a reasonable price, the HP OMEN 34c G2 is an attractive option for gamers. However, the lack of flexibility in the stand and limited viewing angles are points to consider.
The HP OMEN 34c (G2) is a notable upgrade in the ultrawide gaming monitor segment, aimed at users who prioritize core performance over additional features. While not groundbreaking, this product delivers solid image quality and smooth gaming performance, making it a competitive choice in its price range.
Familiar design but still has drawbacks
HP continues to maintain the typical design style of the OMEN line on the 34c G2 model. The monitor has a modern look with a matte black plastic shell, a subtle OMEN logo and a diamond pattern on the back. The thin screen bezel on three sides also meets the expectations of a modern gaming product.
The monitor is easy to install and requires no tools. However, the included stand is a bit of a letdown. While it allows for height and tilt adjustments, it lacks the ability to swivel horizontally. You’ll have to rotate the entire monitor and stand assembly to change the viewing angle, which is a bit of a pain. However, the monitor does support VESA mounts for those who want to use a custom arm.
Worthwhile upgrade in display quality
The main improvements of the OMEN 34c (G2) are in the display panel. Still using a 34-inch curved VA panel with 1440p resolution, but the performance and image quality have been significantly improved compared to the previous generation.
The refresh rate has been upgraded to 180Hz, providing the ideal balance between the basic 120Hz and the premium 240Hz, ensuring a smooth and responsive gaming experience. HP has also significantly improved color accuracy, with 100% sRGB and 88% DCI-P3 coverage in "Native" mode. The contrast ratio has also been enhanced, allowing the VA panel to produce deeper blacks than many IPS displays.
However, one inherent limitation of VA panels is viewing angles. When viewed from off-angle, blurring and color distortion can occur. While the curvature of the screen somewhat mitigates this issue, users can still notice that the images on the two outer edges are less vivid than the center. However, this weakness does not affect daily tasks such as working, watching videos or playing games too much.
HP OMEN 34c (G2) Specifications Table
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Size | 34 inches |
| Panel type | VA (Vertical Alignment) |
| Resolution | WQHD (3440 x 1440) |
| Scanning frequency | 180Hz |
| Color coverage | 100% sRGB, 88% DCI-P3 |
| Curvature | Have |
Suitable for HP OMEN 34c (G2)
The HP OMEN 34c (G2) is an ideal choice if you're looking for a dedicated ultrawide gaming monitor that emphasizes smooth performance with a 180Hz refresh rate and doesn't require extra features like complex RGB lighting or multiple USB expansion ports.
On the other hand, if you require absolute image quality and brightness, or need a monitor with a built-in USB hub to connect multiple peripherals, you may want to consider other, more premium options. This product focuses on delivering a core gaming experience at a reasonable price, rather than being a complete solution for all needs.
