Consider your needs and compare the specifications of both options.
Consider your needs and compare the specifications of both options.
You're considering two options for your gaming setup. It looks like you're weighing between the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 980 Ti 6GB and an Acer XB280HK 4K monitor.
Even with the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a high-quality gaming 4K monitor or those 34" 1440p 21:9 curve IPS GSync displays, I still suggest opting for a 1440p 144Hz IPS monitor with GSync, especially given your GTX980Ti. For example, models like the ASUS PG279Q or Acer XB2711HU are excellent choices. These displays offer the best combination of refresh rate, speed, resolution, image quality, and cost right now. (I understand the price remains quite high for many of us)
One 980 Ti at 4K typically delivers about 40 frames per second in most AAA titles. If you're content with that, or willing to adjust some advanced graphics options to boost performance, then opting for 4K would be a good choice. Keep in mind that as games become more intensive, you may need an additional 980 Ti for optimal results.
However, the monitor with G-Sync still works well even at 40 fps.
When a 4k GPU becomes practical, 4k monitors will become significantly more affordable. Take a chance now for a short-term boost or hold off until better equipment arrives—your patience and budget will guide the decision.
I personally would keep going with 1080p or 1440p right now, though there will be bleeding-edgers who believe that is a foolish choice. For me, the absence of a mainstream GPU supporting 60fps+ or Ultra settings for 4k means I’m not really keen on 4k just yet. A decent monitor is a waste of money. I’d rather wait for HDR 4k plus a GTX995ti (or whatever comes next) to help it reach the performance my 970 delivers at 1080p. I favor effects and frame rate over resolution—if you like higher resolution, go for it; as long as you’re satisfied with your choice, it doesn’t matter which direction you take.
Even with the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a high-quality gaming 4K monitor or those 34" 1440p 21:9 curve IPS GSync displays, I still suggest opting for a 1440p 144Hz IPS monitor with GSync, especially given your GTX980Ti. For example, models like the ASUS PG279Q or Acer XB2711HU are excellent choices. These displays offer the best combination of refresh rate, speed, resolution, image quality, and cost right now. (I understand the price remains quite high for many of us)
I love my PG278Q, best monitor ive ever purchased. I will never go back to 1080P. Right now 4k isnt justified for its price and it makes NO sense whatsoever to buy a 4k monitor just to end up lowering your quality settings to achieve better FPS. That kind of defeats the purpose of wanting a 4k monitor. 1440P is where its at right now, im going to wait for new GPUs to drop and see where they stand in the 4k realm before I ever decide to upgrade.