Top 4K Monitors for Ultimate Gaming Graphics

The future of PC gaming is increasingly leaning towards 4K, and thanks to innovations like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you no longer need a powerhouse PC to enjoy it. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM stands out as my top choice, delivering stunningly detailed images, vibrant colors, and high frame rates while maintaining excellent responsiveness. Even if the price or PC requirements seem high, there's a wide range of fantastic gaming monitors available to suit various budgets and needs.

TL;DR – These Are the Best 4K Gaming Monitors:

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP

4See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy### Arzopa 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor

2See it at Amazon### Gigabyte M27U

0See it at Amazon### LG Ultragear GX9

1See it at Amazon### Alienware AW3225QF

3See it at DellA 4K gaming monitor offers an unparalleled experience for your favorite PC games, with four times the resolution of a 1080p gaming monitor for incredible sharpness. As more graphics cards become capable of handling this high resolution, 4K gaming is becoming more accessible. These monitors also enhance the gaming experience on the PS5. After testing and researching dozens of options, we've compiled a list of the top five 4K gaming monitors.

Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham and Matthew S. Smith.

1. Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP

Best 4K Gaming Monitor

Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP

4WOLED gaming monitor with 480Hz refresh rate and 4K@240HzSee it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen Size32"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160 / 1920x1080Panel typeOLED HDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400 True Black Brightness1,300 cd/m2Refresh rate240Hz / 480HzResponse time0.03ms Inputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB-C (DisplayPort mode), 3 x USB-A, 1 x USB-BPROSBeautiful OLED displayFast refresh rate with great motion clarityUp to 480Hz refresh ratePlentiful gaming featuresCONSMay be too large for some gaming spacesIf you're seeking the pinnacle of 4K gaming and are willing to invest, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is unmatched. Its 32-inch size is perfect for appreciating the intricate details of its 4K resolution. The WOLED panel delivers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, which is factory-calibrated, making it ideal for both gaming and creative tasks. Its energy-efficient white LED ensures longevity, surpassing competing QD-OLED monitors.

In my review, I highlighted the monitor's versatility. You can experience gaming in 4K at up to 240Hz, and there's a special 480Hz mode that drops the resolution to 1080p for unmatched clarity and responsiveness, accommodating more graphics cards. The Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) further enhances motion clarity, making a noticeable difference even for casual gamers like myself, a long-time Battlefield player. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive suite of gaming features, including the controversial Sniper Mode, which provides a reticle and a zoomed-in window. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is currently the best 4K monitor on the market.

2. Arzopa M3RC - 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor

Best Budget 4K Gaming Monitor

### Arzopa 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor

2This display marks Arzopa's successful entry into the gaming monitor market, offering exceptional value. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size32” Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160Panel typeAMD FreeSync, G-Sync compatible Brightness350 cd/m2Refresh rate144HzResponse time1ms Inputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB Type-C, 2x USB 2.0, 1x audio outPROS144Hz refresh rateIPS panel with good color calibrationBuilt in USB hubGreat valueCONSLow peak brightnessProduct support is questionableGone are the days when 4K high refresh rate monitors were prohibitively expensive. The Arzopa M3RC, priced around $300, brings this gaming experience within reach for many. Arzopa, known for its quality portable monitors, applies its balance of features and affordability to this full-size gaming monitor, designed to meet the demands of modern PC gaming.

With a native 4K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, games look sharp and run smoothly, supported by AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. The color-rich IPS panel offers impressive accuracy right out of the box, a rare trait among budget monitors. While there are trade-offs, such as a moderate brightness of 350 nits and potential concerns about long-term support from a smaller brand, the inclusion of USB Type-C and a two-port USB hub adds unexpected value. Overall, the Arzopa M3RC is a compelling choice at its price point, loved by early adopters.

3. Gigabyte M27U

Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $500

### GigabyteM27U

0Fast, bright, and affordable, this monitor sets the standard in its price range. With a peak brightness of around 700 nits, it provides one of the best HDR gaming experiences under $500. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160 Panel typeSuperSpeed IPSHDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400 True Black Brightness400 cd/m2 (~700 cd/m2 peak)Refresh rate160HzResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB Type-C, 3x USB 3.2 Downstream ports, 1x USB 3.2 Upstream port, 1x Earphone JackPROSHigh peak brightnessPlentiful connectivity optionsReliably smooth, reliably great looking gaming experienceCONSNo local dimmingThe Gigabyte M27U may push the "budget" boundary slightly, but it delivers superior picture quality and HDR performance for its price, thanks to its high peak brightness and edge-lit local dimming.

For a 4K gaming monitor, picture quality is paramount, and the Gigabyte M27U excels at this price point. In SDR mode, it reaches around 400 nits, but with HDR enabled, it jumps to nearly 700 nits, enhancing the vibrancy and dynamism of your games. The array of local dimming zones improves contrast beyond what typical IPS panels can achieve.

This monitor is packed with gaming features, including an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost, and more, all easily accessible through Gigabyte's OSD Sidekick software. Its built-in KVM feature is perfect for those using multiple systems or switching between PC and console gaming. The only trade-off is choosing between local dimming zones and peak brightness, but both options deliver an excellent gaming experience.

4. LG UltraGear GX9 (45GX950A-B)

Best Ultrawide 4K Gaming Monitor

### LG Ultragear GX9

1This massive 45-inch display offers true 4K ultrawide resolution and a host of features. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size44.5"Resolution5120x2160Panel typeOLED, G-Sync Compatible, AMD FreeSync Premium ProBrightness1,300 cd/m2 Refresh rate165Hz/330HzResponse time0.03msInputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 2.1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB Type-CPROSDual resolution and refresh rate optionsHigh peak brightness with per-pixel local dimming (OLED)DisplayPort 2.1 supportCONSRequires a powerful GPUDeep curvature isn't for everyoneIf you crave the immersion of an ultrawide monitor with the highest resolution possible, the LG UltraGear GX9 is ideal. With a 45-inch display and an 800R curvature, it draws you into the action with its 5120x2160 resolution and a native refresh rate of 165Hz.

For competitive esports players, LG offers an FHD mode that boosts the refresh rate to 330Hz, combined with the OLED panel's low latency for unmatched responsiveness. OLED technology allows for per-pixel brightness control, delivering infinite contrast and vivid colors. With HDR enabled, the picture quality is further enhanced, benefiting both gaming and other entertainment.

However, the monitor requires a powerful GPU to run games at its high refresh rate, and its deep curvature may not suit everyone. Despite these considerations, the LG UltraGear GX9 remains an excellent choice for a premium 4K ultrawide monitor with a high refresh rate.

5. Dell Alienware AW3225QF

Best Curved 4K Monitor

### Alienware AW3225QF

3This 32-inch curved display boasts impressive specs and aesthetics. With 4K UHD, a 0.3ms response time, and 240Hz refresh rate, it exemplifies a premium gaming monitor. See it at DellProduct SpecificationsScreen size32"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160Panel typeQD-OLED, Adaptive-Sync, G-Sync CompatibleHDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400, HDR10, Dolby VisionBrightness250 cd/m2 (1,000 cd/m2 peak)Refresh rate240Hz Response time0.3msInputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 PROSReliably excellent gaming experienceFantastic HDR240Hz refresh rate for competitive gamingCONSExpensiveFor gamers who prefer a curved display, the Alienware AW3225QF is the top choice. Its 32-inch size and 240Hz refresh rate ensure a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The quantum dot panel delivers rich, accurate colors, and its gentle curve enhances immersion without distorting text.

With a 0.3ms response time, it's ideal for competitive gaming, showing no ghosting in my tests. Its wide VRR support ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay. The monitor's HDR performance is exceptional, with SDR brightness around 250 nits and HDR highlights reaching 1,000 nits. It also supports Dolby Vision for streaming and eARC for audio connectivity, making it a versatile choice for both PC and console gamers.

What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor

When shopping for a 4K gaming monitor, consider the features you desire and your budget. 4K monitors with high refresh rates are more accessible than ever, with options under $400 offering up to 144Hz and features like Nvidia G-Sync and HDR. While all decent 4K monitors provide a crisp image, higher-end models offer enhanced image quality, brightness, and additional features.

Size: For most users, 4K resolution is best appreciated on monitors between 27 and 32 inches. Smaller sizes may not fully showcase the benefits of 4K, while larger sizes can soften the image.

Panel: The panel type significantly affects the monitor's performance. IPS panels offer accurate colors and wide viewing angles but have lower contrast. VA panels provide better contrast but may show ghosting. OLED panels offer infinite contrast and fast response times but carry a risk of burn-in. Mini-LED backlights improve contrast and brightness without the burn-in risk.

Refresh rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 144Hz or higher preferred. Higher refresh rates reduce input latency and motion blur, crucial for competitive gaming.

Connectivity and supporting features: Ensure the monitor supports HDMI 2.1 for console gaming at 4K 144Hz. Additional features like Dolby Vision, Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, built-in KVMs, USB hubs, and gaming features can enhance your experience.

4K Gaming Monitor FAQ

Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?

4K gaming monitors can significantly enhance your gaming experience with stunning visuals, but they're not ideal for everyone. If your PC has an older or entry-level graphics card, running games at 4K may result in low frame rates. However, with mid-range GPUs from the current generation or high-end GPUs from the last generation, combined with upscaling technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can enjoy 4K gaming without needing the most powerful system.

Is 1440p better than 4K?

1440p might be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over visual sharpness. It's less demanding, allowing for higher frame rates and settings. However, with modern upscaling technologies, many games can be played at 4K without a top-tier PC, making it a viable option for those seeking the best visuals.

Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?

Not necessarily. Thanks to upscaling features like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can enjoy 4K gaming with a midrange GPU like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070. For native 4K at ultra settings, a top-tier GPU is still required, but these technologies make 4K gaming more accessible.