Like many products today, the prices of the best gaming monitors have seen a significant increase, particularly for those featuring OLED panels, large screens, and high refresh rates at sharp resolutions. However, there's still a wide selection of affordable monitors that maintain impressive image quality and features. Take, for example, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which offers a stunning mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400. It's my top pick for its ability to rival monitors that cost much more, demonstrating that high-quality gaming experiences are achievable on a budget if you know where to look.
Our Top Pick### Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
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Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
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Best 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
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Best 4K### KTC H27P22S
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Best ultrawide### DellS3422DWG
0See it at AmazonSee it at DellThe best budget gaming monitors may not include all the latest technology and features, but they still offer an excellent display to fully enjoy the capabilities of your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits with high refresh rates and 4K resolutions at relatively affordable prices. While trade-offs exist, such as height-adjustable stands on the lower end and value-added features like KVM switches on the higher end, focusing on performance and your essential requirements can lead you to outstanding value at any price point.
Not all budget gaming monitors are equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it often is. A $100 monitor might seem like a bargain, but it could quickly fail or strain your eyes, ultimately causing more harm than good. Our selected monitors may cost a bit more, but their solid construction, superior panels, and gaming features provide a better experience. As with any gaming accessory, higher-end options are available if you're willing to invest more.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith
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1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor Our Top Pick### Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
1Experience incredible picture quality at an unbeatable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9 Resolution2,560 x 1,440Panel typeIPSBrightness1,000 cd/m2 Refresh rate180Hz Response time1msInputs2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x 3.5mm AudioPROSHigh brightness and deep contrastExcellent color accuracySuperb picture quality and HDR1,152 local dimming zones for superior performanceCONSSlight bloom on dark grey backgroundsLacks a USB hubThe Xiaomi G Pro 27i stands out as the most impressive gaming monitor I've tested in 2024. Priced at around $330, it sets a new standard for what you can expect from affordable gaming monitors. While it may not be the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it offers unparalleled value and a fantastic gaming experience.
The use of mini-LED technology with full array local dimming (FALD) allows the monitor to intelligently adjust the brightness of dark areas, enhancing contrast significantly. With 1,152 local dimming zones, a feature typically found in monitors costing over $700, the G Pro 27i minimizes blooming, ensuring a superior viewing experience. Its HDR performance is outstanding, rivaling more expensive OLED monitors without the risks of burn-in or issues with text clarity.
The panel supports a high refresh rate of up to 180Hz, ensuring ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal motion blur. It also offers accurate colors in DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB modes, making it suitable for content creation. Compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia's G-Sync, this monitor provides a seamless gaming experience.
While the monitor lacks a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity, and only supports HDMI 2.0, these trade-offs are justified given its price and performance. For gamers seeking OLED-like picture quality without the drawbacks and at a fraction of the cost, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the top choice.
Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
2Enjoy excellent gaming performance for around $150 with minimal drawbacks. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync CompatibleBrightness350 cd/m2Refresh rate165Hz Response time1msInputs2x HDMI 1.4, 1x DisplayPort 1.2, 1 x Audio JackPROSOutstanding color and contrastEnhanced motion clarity with ELMBVESA mount compatibility for third-party standsCONSReduced pixel density at this sizeNo height adjustmentThe Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers exceptional value, delivering smooth performance across a variety of hardware setups. Its VA panel ensures deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range, enhancing your gaming experience. With a 1ms response time and features like on-screen reticles, Shadow Boost, and Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB), it's ideal for competitive gaming.
VA panels are preferred in this price range for their excellent contrast and blacks, closely matching the color performance of IPS panels. At 350 nits of brightness, it's suitable for gaming in well-lit environments.
The main drawbacks are the non-height-adjustable stand and the slightly lower pixel density due to its 27" size at 1080p resolution. However, its VESA mount compatibility allows for aftermarket solutions if needed. Overall, it's a compelling choice for gamers looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Best 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
0Achieve speeds up to 144Hz in 1440p with excellent color accuracy and adaptive sync technology. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9 Resolution2,560 x 1,440Panel typeIPS FreeSync and G-SyncResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPortPROSSuperb HDR gamingAccurate color representationCONSNon-height-adjustable standThe LG UltraGear 27GN800-B is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade to a 1440p resolution. At under $300, it provides a significant improvement in sharpness and detail, complemented by great color accuracy and factory calibration. Its 27" screen size offers an immersive experience while maintaining reasonable system requirements.
With a 144Hz refresh rate and compatibility with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, this monitor ensures smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. It also features Low Framerate Compensation, which helps maintain smooth gameplay even when your system can't hit the maximum refresh rate.
The primary limitation is the non-height-adjustable stand, though it supports a standard VESA mount for easy replacement. Overall, the LG UltraGear 27GN800-B offers a robust feature set at an affordable price, making it a top pick for budget gamers.
Best 4K### KTC H27P22S
1Experience a fast and stunning picture on a limited budget. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27” Aspect Ratio16:9Resolution3,840 x 2,160Panel typeIPS FreeSync Premium, G-Sync CompatibleBrightness400 cd/m2Refresh rate160HzResponse time1msInputs2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm AudioPROSSharp 4K resolutionIdeal for consoles with HDMI 2.1High refresh rateExcellent overall valueCONSNo USB connectivityNot factory calibratedThe KTC H27P22D demonstrates the advancements in the budget gaming monitor market. Priced at $400, and often available for as low as $340, it offers a high refresh rate 4K gaming experience without the high cost. With a 160Hz refresh rate and support for AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, it delivers a smooth gaming experience even at lower frame rates. Its dual HDMI 2.1 ports make it an excellent choice for console gaming.
While its 400 nits brightness isn't sufficient for true HDR, it provides a vibrant SDR gaming experience. The color coverage is impressive, though it lacks factory calibration, which might be a consideration for creative work. The absence of a USB hub is a minor drawback, but overall, the KTC H27P22D is an outstanding value for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade to Ultra HD.
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5. Dell S3422DWGBest ultrawide### DellS3422DWG
0Immerse yourself in the action with this affordable, ultrawide curved monitor delivering a 1440p/144Hz refresh rate. See it at AmazonSee it at DellProduct SpecificationsScreen Size34”Aspect Ratio21:9Resolution3,440 x 1,440 Panel typeVA FreeSync Brightness400 cd/m2 Refresh rate144HzResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPortPROSExcellent contrastImmersive wide, curved displayCONSMinor ghostingThe Dell S3422DWG is the ideal choice for gamers seeking an immersive experience on a budget. Its VA panel offers rich contrast and vibrant colors at a 3440x1440 resolution. The 21:9 aspect ratio and curved screen enhance the gaming experience by enveloping your field of view, keeping your focus on the game.
With a 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support, this monitor ensures smooth gameplay. While it may exhibit minor ghosting, overall motion clarity remains strong. The monitor's height-adjustable stand, multiple input options, and USB hub functionality add to its appeal, making it a standout budget ultrawide monitor.
For a budget gaming monitor, the ideal spending range is $200-$300. While cheaper options exist, they often compromise on quality. A gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor is unlikely to meet this durability standard. To find the right monitor within this price range, consider what features are most important to you and be prepared to make some compromises.
ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeBudget gamers can now find options with fewer sacrifices than before, but compromises are still necessary. You can opt for a higher resolution or a higher refresh rate, but typically not both in a budget monitor.
1080p remains the standard resolution for budget displays. While it may not match the clarity of 4K TVs, it allows for high frame rates on less powerful hardware. Upgrading to 1440p offers better value if your budget allows, providing a higher pixel density than a 48" 4K TV on a 27" screen, though a 240Hz refresh rate becomes less affordable.
4K is achievable on a budget, but expect to pay around $400 or make sacrifices in brightness or screen size. Higher system requirements are also necessary to run 4K at high frame rates.
The refresh rate for budget gaming monitors ranges from 60 to 240Hz, with most falling between 144Hz and 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is versatile for most games, while 240Hz is preferred for competitive gaming. Note that not all inputs may support the highest refresh rate; DisplayPort is often required for the maximum refresh rate.
Panel technology is crucial but often overlooked. Our recommended monitors use either IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrancy, and responsiveness, making them ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer superior contrast and darker blacks, enhancing immersive gaming experiences.
Panel Types
TN (twisted nematic)IPS (in-plane switching)VA (vertical alignment)OLED (organic light-emitting diode)Screen size is less of a constraint now. Our guide focuses on 27" and 34" options. Smaller 24" monitors are cheaper and preferred by competitive gamers for their focus. Larger 32" monitors provide immersion but may lose detail without higher resolutions. Ensure the monitor fits your desk space; a 27" monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe choice.
Choose a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, based on your graphics card. Many budget monitors support both, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.
Regarding HDR, many affordable monitors claim HDR compatibility, but with a maximum brightness of 400 nits, they fall short of true HDR performance.
Budget gaming monitors typically feature VA or IPS panels. My top pick, an IPS monitor with a mini-LED backlight, outperforms others due to its advanced technology. If budget and needs allow, opt for that. Otherwise, choose between VA and IPS based on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.
IPS panels are preferred for response time and color accuracy, with 1ms options now available for both types. VA panels excel in contrast, offering richer blacks and better dynamic range without edge-lighting.
The "best" panel depends on your priorities in a gaming monitor.
The best times to buy gaming monitors at reduced prices are during events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Deals also appear during Back to School sales, and older models are often discounted to make way for new releases.
Choosing a gaming monitor size depends on personal preference, but consider your space and the monitor's resolution. A 24" monitor suits 1080p gaming, while 27-32" is ideal for 1440p, offering detail and immersion. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended to fully utilize its resolution. Avoid 1080p monitors larger than 27" to prevent the screen door effect.
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