Curved vs flat monitors for triple setups: What actually works in sim racing

Curved triples can be brilliant — or a geometry headache. Curved monitors aren’t automatically better for triples. The right choice depends on curvature, bezel alignment and how your sim handles projection. Here’s a practical way to decide.

Rule of thumb: buy the rig you can grow into. A cockpit that stays rigid saves money (and frustration) when you upgrade later.

Forget ‘perfect’ screenshots — this is about comfort and confidence on track. We’ll start with real-world measurements and finish with small in-sim tweaks.

Key takeaways

Flat monitors are simpler to align and easier to match across brands.
Curvature can reduce edge distortion — but only if setup is consistent.
Small alignment errors create big ‘wrong car’ feelings.
FOV and monitor distance are a package deal.
Rig-mounted vs freestanding is about vibration, not looks.
Your eyes lead your hands — vision setup changes everything.

The real difference

A good monitor setup reduces mental load. You stop guessing speed and distance, and you start driving by reference points. That’s why FOV, distance and alignment matter so much.

Fitment checklist

Can you get three identical monitors (same panel, same curve)?
Does your sim support triple projection / proper multi-screen rendering?
VESA pattern (75/100/200/400) and monitor weight.
How close you can place the screens without hitting the wheelbase.
GPU outputs (DisplayPort/HDMI) and refresh rate targets.
Adjustment needs: height, tilt, rotation, and side screen angle.
Screen size and aspect ratio (27/32 triples, ultrawide, or single).

Build plan

Prioritise three identical panels over ‘better’ single specs.
Dial in physical angles first, then adjust projection/FOV settings.
Set seat and wheel position first (don’t chase FOV on a moving target).
Place the centre screen so the horizon sits naturally at eye height.
Angle side screens so the bezels point at your eyes.
Set FOV using measured distance, then fine-tune for comfort.

Notes for upgrades

Don’t tune FOV around a temporary seating position. Lock ergonomics first, then place screens. That order prevents endless rework.

Relevant SimXPro options

HEAVY Triple screen setup VESA 100 - 200 — A freestanding triple monitor stand for heavier screens and less shake.
2x Triple - Quad connector bracket
GT - RS Triple monitor mount — An integrated triple mount made to bolt directly to the GT‑RS chassis.

Mistakes that cost pace

Mixing one curved and two flat panels and fighting alignment forever.
Using curved panels and then placing them too far away to matter.
Setting FOV by ‘feel’ without measuring distance.
Mounting triples to a flimsy stand and chasing shaking screens.
Running the centre screen too high and looking ‘up’ at apexes.
Ignoring bezel correction and wondering why corners feel weird.

Quick FAQ

Can you run curved triples without triple projection?

You can, but perspective might look off at the edges. Proper multi-screen rendering helps most when screens are angled and close.

Should monitors be attached to the rig?

Integrated mounts move with the cockpit and can be very solid. Freestanding stands can isolate vibration and make positioning easier in some rooms.

Do I need high refresh rate?

Higher refresh can reduce blur and help with small steering corrections, but stability, FOV and consistent FPS matter more than the number.

Is triple better than ultrawide?

Triples give more side vision and better depth for corner entry, but they take space and setup time. Ultrawide is simpler and cleaner.

Bottom line: Aim for calm confidence. Stable mounting, sensible settings and a comfortable position make everything else easier — and that’s usually where lap time comes from.

Want to go deeper? Browse our Sim Racing Guides for more buyer guides, compatibility checks and setup tips.