Sceptre C305B-200UN1 Monitor Review

Ultra-Wide Curved Gaming Display with High Refresh Rate

Published July 14, 2019 at 10:00 AM
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The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 is a 30-inch curved gaming monitor that aims to provide an immersive gaming experience without breaking the bank. This ultra-wide display boasts a 21:9 aspect ratio and a 2560x1080 resolution, offering gamers an expanded field of view in supported titles. With a high 200Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology, it promises smooth, tear-free gameplay for fast-paced action. Building upon previous models, the C305B-200UN1 maintains Sceptre's focus on value while incorporating gamer-centric features. The monitor utilizes a VA panel, which typically offers better contrast ratios compared to IPS alternatives, albeit potentially at the cost of slower response times. For users seeking a budget-friendly entry into the world of ultra-wide gaming monitors, the Sceptre C305B-200UN1 presents an intriguing option in the competitive monitor market.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Verdict

Pros

  • High 200Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming
  • Ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio for immersive experience
  • AMD FreeSync support reduces screen tearing
  • Affordable price point for feature set

Cons

  • Limited 1080p vertical resolution
  • VA panel may have slower response times

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 30-inch Curved Gaming Monitor offers an impressive blend of features for gamers seeking an immersive ultrawide experience without breaking the bank. Its standout 200Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support deliver buttery-smooth gameplay, making it an attractive option for fast-paced competitive gaming.

The 21:9 aspect ratio and 1800R curvature provide an expansive field of view, enhancing immersion in both games and multimedia content. However, the 2560×1080 resolution, while sufficient for many users, may leave some desiring higher pixel density, especially when compared to higher-resolution ultrawide alternatives.

While the VA panel offers excellent contrast ratios for deep blacks, it may exhibit some limitations in response times compared to IPS counterparts. This trade-off results in rich, vibrant visuals but potentially some ghosting in fast-moving scenes. The monitor’s build quality and design are decent for its price range, featuring a sturdy stand with tilt functionality and VESA mount compatibility for added flexibility.

Considering its competitive pricing, the Sceptre C305B-200UN1 presents a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious gamers looking to step into the world of ultrawide, high-refresh-rate gaming. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a solid choice for those willing to compromise on some aspects to gain a feature-rich gaming display.

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Style Model Number
30" Curved 200Hz C305B-200UN1T.1
30" 210Hz E305B-FU200T

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Differences Between Variants

Pros

  • Two variants offer different panel technologies
  • Newer model features higher refresh rate
  • IPS panel option provides wider viewing angles

Cons

  • Curved variant may not suit all preferences
  • Slight price difference between models

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 comes in two main variants, offering different panel technologies and refresh rates to cater to diverse user preferences. The original curved VA panel model boasts a 200Hz refresh rate, while the newer E305B-FU200T variant features a flat IPS panel with a slightly higher 210Hz refresh rate. The IPS model provides wider viewing angles and potentially more accurate colors, whereas the VA panel offers better contrast ratios for deeper blacks. Both variants maintain the ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio and 2560×1080 resolution, ensuring an immersive gaming experience regardless of the chosen model.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Compared To Other Monitors

Pros

  • High 200Hz refresh rate outperforms many competitors
  • Ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio offers immersive gaming experience
  • Affordable price point compared to similar models

Cons

  • Lower resolution than some higher-end ultrawide monitors
  • VA panel may have slower response times than IPS alternatives

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 stands out in the competitive gaming monitor market with its impressive 200Hz refresh rate, surpassing many rivals in its price range. Its ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio and 1800R curvature provide an immersive gaming experience that competes well with more expensive models. However, the 2560×1080 resolution, while sufficient for many users, falls short of the higher pixel densities offered by some premium ultrawide monitors.

When compared to IPS panel monitors, the C305B-200UN1’s VA panel delivers excellent contrast ratios and deep blacks, enhancing visual quality in darker scenes. However, it may exhibit slightly slower response times, which could be a consideration for competitive gamers. Despite these trade-offs, the Sceptre monitor’s combination of high refresh rate, ultrawide format, and attractive pricing makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers seeking a feature-rich display.

LG UltraWide 34WN80C-B
60W 90W
The LG UltraWide 34WN80C-B offers a larger 34-inch screen and higher 3440x1440 resolution compared to the Sceptre C305B-200UN1. While it has a lower 60Hz refresh rate, it provides better color accuracy and USB-C connectivity, making it more suitable for professional use alongside gaming.
AOC CU34G2X
Black/Red
The AOC CU34G2X features a larger 34-inch screen and higher 3440x1440 resolution than the Sceptre C305B-200UN1. It matches the high refresh rate at 144Hz and offers better color accuracy with 119% sRGB coverage. However, it comes at a higher price point.
MSI Optix MAG301CR2
Black
The MSI Optix MAG301CR2 is similar in size to the Sceptre C305B-200UN1 but offers a slightly higher 2560x1080 resolution. It features a 200Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, making it comparable in gaming performance. The MSI model may have better build quality but at a higher price.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Design and Build Quality

Pros

  • Sleek curved ultrawide design enhances immersion
  • Sturdy metal construction with slim profile
  • Thin bezels maximize viewing area
  • VESA mount compatible for flexible setup options

Cons

  • Tilt-only stand limits ergonomic adjustments
  • Plastic components may feel less premium

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 boasts a striking design that immediately catches the eye. Its 30-inch curved ultrawide display with a 21:9 aspect ratio creates an immersive viewing experience, perfect for both gaming and productivity tasks. The 1800R curvature gently wraps around the user’s field of view, reducing eye strain during extended use sessions.

Build quality is commendable for its price point, featuring a metal construction that lends a sense of durability to the monitor. The slim profile and thin bezels contribute to a modern aesthetic, maximizing screen real estate and minimizing distractions. However, some users may notice plastic components that slightly detract from an otherwise premium feel.

While the monitor’s stand offers tilt adjustment, it lacks height, swivel, or pivot options, which may limit ergonomic flexibility for some users. On the plus side, the C305B-200UN1 is VESA mount compatible, allowing for alternative mounting solutions to suit various setups. The inclusion of built-in speakers adds to the monitor’s versatility, though audiophiles may prefer external audio solutions for superior sound quality.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Display Performance

Pros

  • High 200Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming
  • Ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio enhances immersion
  • VA panel offers excellent contrast ratio
  • 2560x1080 resolution balances performance and clarity

Cons

  • Limited 1080p vertical resolution
  • Potential for slower response times with VA panel

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 boasts impressive display performance tailored for gaming enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio, providing an expansive 30-inch curved screen that wraps around the user’s field of view. This design choice significantly enhances immersion in games and multimedia content, offering a more engaging visual experience compared to standard 16:9 monitors.

At the heart of this monitor’s performance is its remarkable 200Hz refresh rate, which delivers exceptionally smooth motion and responsiveness. This high refresh rate is particularly beneficial for fast-paced gaming, as it minimizes motion blur and screen tearing, allowing for more fluid gameplay and potentially improving reaction times in competitive scenarios. The VA panel technology employed in this monitor contributes to its visual prowess, offering deep blacks and an excellent contrast ratio, which enhances the overall picture quality, especially in darker scenes.

The C305B-200UN1 features a resolution of 2560×1080, striking a balance between visual clarity and performance demands. While this resolution provides sharp images and ample screen real estate for most users, some may find the vertical pixel count limiting compared to higher-resolution alternatives. However, this trade-off allows the monitor to maintain its high refresh rate without requiring extremely powerful hardware, making it an attractive option for gamers seeking performance over pure pixel density.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Gaming Features

Pros

  • High 200Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
  • AMD FreeSync support reduces screen tearing
  • 1ms response time minimizes motion blur
  • FPS and RTS game modes optimize display settings

Cons

  • Limited 1080p vertical resolution
  • VA panel may have slower response in dark scenes

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 boasts impressive gaming features that cater to enthusiasts seeking a competitive edge. At the forefront is its remarkable 200Hz refresh rate, which delivers exceptionally smooth motion and responsiveness. This high refresh rate significantly reduces motion blur and screen tearing, allowing for more fluid gameplay and potentially improving reaction times in fast-paced games.

Complementing the high refresh rate is AMD FreeSync technology, which synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s frame rate. This feature effectively eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, ensuring a seamless gaming experience across a wide range of frame rates. The monitor also boasts a 1ms response time, which helps minimize ghosting and motion blur, particularly beneficial in fast-action games.

The C305B-200UN1 includes specialized FPS (First Person Shooter) and RTS (Real-Time Strategy) game modes, which optimize display settings for these popular gaming genres. These preset modes adjust contrast, brightness, and color settings to enhance visibility in different gaming scenarios. While the 2560×1080 resolution provides a good balance between performance and clarity, some gamers might find the vertical pixel count limiting compared to higher-resolution alternatives.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Connectivity and Audio

Pros

  • Multiple HDMI and DisplayPort options
  • High refresh rates supported on all ports
  • Built-in speakers for convenience
  • 3.5mm audio out for external audio devices

Cons

  • No USB ports for peripheral connectivity
  • Built-in speakers may lack audio quality for some users

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 offers a robust set of connectivity options to cater to various gaming setups and multimedia needs. It features two HDMI 1.4 ports, one HDMI 2.0 port, and a DisplayPort 1.2, providing users with multiple ways to connect their devices. The DisplayPort supports the monitor’s maximum refresh rate of 200Hz, while the HDMI 2.0 port can handle up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay across different connection types.

Audio connectivity is addressed through built-in speakers and a 3.5mm audio out jack. The integrated speakers, rated at 3W each, offer a convenient audio solution for basic needs, such as casual web browsing or office use. However, for a more immersive gaming or multimedia experience, users may prefer to utilize the audio out port to connect external speakers or headphones, as the built-in speakers may lack the depth and quality desired by audiophiles or serious gamers.

One notable omission in the connectivity department is the lack of USB ports. While not uncommon for monitors in this price range, the absence of USB connectivity means users cannot easily connect peripherals directly to the monitor or use it as a USB hub. Despite this limitation, the overall connectivity options provided by the Sceptre C305B-200UN1 are sufficient for most gaming and general use scenarios, offering flexibility in how users can set up their display and audio configurations.

Sceptre C305B-200UN1: Conclusion

The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 30-inch Curved Gaming Monitor offers an impressive blend of features at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers seeking an immersive ultrawide experience. Its standout 200Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support deliver smooth, tear-free gameplay, particularly beneficial for fast-paced competitive gaming. The 21:9 aspect ratio and 1800R curvature provide an expansive field of view, enhancing immersion in both games and multimedia content.

While the monitor excels in many areas, it does have some limitations. The 2560×1080 resolution, while sufficient for many users, may leave some desiring higher pixel density. Additionally, the VA panel, though offering excellent contrast ratios, may exhibit slightly slower response times compared to IPS alternatives. Despite these trade-offs, the Sceptre C305B-200UN1 presents a compelling value proposition for those looking to step into the world of ultrawide, high-refresh-rate gaming without breaking the bank.

                                 

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