Is the FO48U the ultimate gaming monitor? The answer is: that depends. One must consider the properties of OLED versus LCD to decide if that technology is right for them.
We judge image quality based on four elements – contrast, color saturation, color accuracy and resolution, in that order. An OLED panel will win against LCD every time by that standard. But some add max brightness to that list. Then, LCD has a distinct advantage. Additionally, LCD has no issues with image retention. That makes it well-suited for gaming and computing, two activities that leave a lot of static content on the screen. But the FO48U addresses those challenges with scanning and preservation features that operate completely in the background.
Speed is another factor in any gaming monitor purchase. If you’re a console gamer, the FO48U runs at the top speed of the Xbox Series X and S and PlayStation 5, 120 Hz. And it supports Adaptive-Sync with HDR. PC gamers can enjoy much higher framerates; however, the latest LCDs are running at 360 Hz, and the difference in smoothness and response between 360 Hz and 120 Hz is perceivable. For speed lovers, only an LCD will do.
The only negative we observed was when using the FO48U like a TV. It doesn’t support Dolby Vision, nor does it match framerates with 50p and 24p material. A monitor this large should function as a TV and that’s where some might opt for an LG OLED TV instead, which has those features.
If you’ve decided that an OLED is for you, and gaming is your primary focus, Gigabyte’s Aorus FO48U is a top choice. Input lag is low enough for all but the most skilled gamers, and for the absolute pinnacle of image quality, the Gigabyte Aorus FO48U is unparalleled among gaming monitors. With incredible contrast, richly saturated color and professional-level accuracy, nothing else looks as good.