MSI's new MAG 346CQDF E20 brings 400Hz dual-mode gaming to budget ultrawides

MSI is gearing up to launch a new dual-mode ultrawide monitor in the US, the MAG 346CQDF E20. Ahead of its release, the company has detailed the full specifications, and the monitor appears to be positioned as a more affordable option on account of its panel and overall feature set. Specifically, it uses a Rapid VA panel like many ultrawides already on the market, but its dual-mode functionality could help it stand out.

The MAG 346CQDF E20 has a 3440 x 1440 resolution across 34 inches and a native 200Hz refresh rate. However, dropping the resolution to 1720 x 720 doubles the refresh rate to 400Hz, which could give gamers an added edge in competitive shooters and racing games. In addition, the monitor is listed with a 0.5 ms (GtG) response time and a console mode for the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Elsewhere, the monitor features a 1500R curvature alongside 95% DCI-P3 and 85% Adobe RGB color gamut coverage. It is also listed as HDR Ready, although with only 300 nits brightness, HDR performance likely will not match what OLED gaming monitors can deliver. That said, the monitor has both HDMI and DisplayPort, but only the DisplayPort supports the maximum 200Hz refresh rate.

The MSI MAG 346CQDF E20 is currently listed on MSI's website, although there is still no official word on pricing and availability. However, Newegg has the monitor listed for $289.99, which puts it well within budget ultrawide territory.