Design and Ergonomics

While the Cooler Master GM34-CWQ2 looks mostly the same as its predecessor, there are two details to note. The more obvious one is the removal of the ARGB lighting system from the base. On the first generation of this monitor, Cooler Master had 47 fully addressable RGB LEDs integrated into the stand. They required a separate Micro-USB power cable, but there was no way of cable managing it, since the appropriate connector was built into the right side of the base. While the lighting effect looked decent, I'm not sad to see it go on the GM34-CWQ2, because it didn't add anything substantial to the overall functionality of the monitor. The base still has the shape of Cooler Master's logo, which is a fun little design detail.


The frame below the panel isn't entirely glossy anymore, but it sadly isn't completely matte either. Cooler Master went with a partial solution, where only the lower side of the frame is glossy. I'd still prefer a completely matte black frame, because it would be less prone to collecting dust and fingerprints and wouldn't reflect the surroundings. When using the monitor at night, I was able to see the reflection of my RGB keyboard under certain angles, as well as the movement of my fingers. I found both mildly distracting. If Cooler Master ever releases a third iteration of this monitor, perhaps we can finally put the glossy plastic to rest.


The panel has a 1500R curve that is almost completely unnoticeable in everyday use and makes the image look more natural from a normal sitting distance.


The base itself is quite stable and fairly compact, measuring 29 x 27 cm (11.4 x 10.6 in.). As such, it doesn't take up too much room on the table, especially when we take into consideration the 34-inch ultrawide panel towering above it.


Both the base and the stand are made of metal; they were covered in plastic on the first iteration of the monitor. The stand is round and offers no integrated cable management solution, but you do get a plastic clip to help with cable clutter.


The stand and panel are connected by a joint to swivel the panel to both sides. Removing the stand reveals four VESA 100 x 100 mounting holes. Those can be used to mount the monitor to a standard table or wall mount.


The screen can be swiveled in both directions by 15°. The swivel motion can be performed with one hand; you don't have to hold the base of the monitor in place as there's no risk of it accidentally moving.


Also adjustable is the height of the panel. In the topmost position, the distance from the table to the bottom edge of the screen is 160 mm (6.3 in.), and it drops to 80 mm (3.15 in.) after pushing the screen as low as it goes. That gives the monitor a total height adjustment range of 80 mm (3.15 in.). While this is slightly less than usual, it's still enough; you should have no trouble finding the optimum height for your desktop environment.


The monitor can also be tilted from -5° to +15°.