The prices of high-end gaming monitors have skyrocketed, especially those boasting OLED panels, large screens, high refresh rates, and sharp resolutions. However, there are still many excellent and affordable options that don't compromise significantly on image quality or features. This guide highlights some of the best budget gaming monitors available in 2024.
Top Pick: Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
1See it at Amazon
Best 1080p: Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
0See it at Amazon
Best 1440p: LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
0See it at AmazonSee it at Target
Best 4K: KTC H27P22S
0See it at Amazon
Best Ultrawide: Dell S3422DWG
0See it at AmazonSee it at Dell
Budget gaming monitors might lack some premium features, but they still deliver exceptional display performance for your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can excel with high refresh rate and 4K monitors at affordable prices. While compromises like adjustable stands or KVM switches might be absent, focusing on performance and essential features reveals incredible value at every price point.
Beware of overly cheap monitors; a $100 monitor might seem like a bargain, but it's likely to be short-lived and potentially harmful to your eyes. The monitors recommended here are slightly more expensive but offer superior build quality, excellent panels, and essential gaming features for a far better long-term experience.
Contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith
For deals, check out current gaming monitor offers.
Top Pick: Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
1See it at Amazon
Specifications:
Pros: High brightness, deep contrast, accurate colors, excellent picture quality and HDR, robust local dimming zones.
Cons: Bloom on dark grey backgrounds, no USB hub.
The Xiaomi G Pro 27i is a standout performer. Its mini-LED backlight with full-array local dimming (FALD) and 1152 local dimming zones deliver exceptional contrast and HDR performance, rivaling much more expensive OLED monitors without the burn-in risk. Its 180Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, and its color accuracy is excellent. While lacking a USB hub and only supporting HDMI 2.0, its overall quality makes these trade-offs worthwhile.
Best 1080p: Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
2See it at Amazon
Specifications:
Pros: Great colors and contrast, ELMB support, VESA mount.
Cons: No height adjustment, lower pixel density than higher resolution options at this size.
The Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers impressive performance for its price. Its VA panel provides deep blacks and wide dynamic range, while its 165Hz refresh rate and game-enhancing features (on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost, ELMB) provide a competitive edge. The lack of height adjustment is a minor drawback, but VESA mounting allows for aftermarket stand upgrades.
Best 1440p: LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
0See it at AmazonSee it at Target
Specifications:
Pros: Solid HDR gaming, great color accuracy, Low Framerate Compensation.
Cons: Non-adjustable stand.
The LG UltraGear 27GN800-B provides a significant resolution upgrade to 1440p, resulting in sharper visuals. Its 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and Low Framerate Compensation ensure smooth gameplay. The lack of a height-adjustable stand is offset by VESA mount compatibility.
Best 4K: KTC H27P22S
1See it at Amazon
Specifications:
Pros: Sharp 4K screen, HDMI 2.1 for consoles, fast refresh rate.
Cons: No USB connectivity, not factory calibrated.
The KTC H27P22S demonstrates the advancements in budget 4K gaming monitors. Its 160Hz refresh rate and support for AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync deliver a smooth gaming experience. While lacking factory calibration and a USB hub, its performance and price make it a compelling option.
Best ultrawide: Dell S3422DWG
0See it at AmazonSee it at Dell
Specifications:
Pros: Great contrast, immersive curved display, height-adjustable stand, USB hub.
Cons: Minor ghosting.
The Dell S3422DWG offers an immersive ultrawide experience at a budget-friendly price. Its 3440x1440 resolution and curved VA panel provide vibrant visuals, while its 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support ensure smooth gameplay. Its height-adjustable stand and USB hub functionality add further value.
How Much to Spend & Key Considerations:
The $200-$300 range is a good target for budget gaming monitors. Understanding resolution, refresh rate, panel type, and screen size helps in making informed compromises. 1080p remains standard for budget displays, while 1440p offers better value if budget allows. 4K is achievable but often requires higher spending or compromises in other areas. Refresh rates typically range from 60Hz to 240Hz, with 144Hz being a good balance. IPS panels excel in motion clarity and color accuracy, while VA panels offer superior contrast. Screen size should be chosen considering available desk space and resolution. G-Sync or FreeSync compatibility is recommended. While many budget monitors advertise HDR, the brightness levels are often insufficient for a truly impactful HDR experience.
FAQs:
This revised response maintains the original image formatting and provides a more comprehensive and engaging rewrite of the provided text.
LATEST ARTICLES 19
2025-12
In today’s mobile gaming landscape, your next adventure, match, or brain-teaser is just a few taps away.But this convenience often comes at a price, especially when those small in-app purchases accumulate faster than you realize.Whether you play puzz
Author: ScarlettReading:1
19
2025-12
The Tekken 8 community has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the controversial changes introduced in the Season 2 update.According to the patch notes, character damage potential and offensive pressure have been universally increased, leading some
Author: ScarlettReading:1
19
2025-12
Hero shooters have faced considerable challenges in recent years. While some titles promised groundbreaking team-based experiences, far more ended up abandoned - left with unfinished metas and players migrating to games like Genshin Impact simply fro
Author: ScarlettReading:1
18
2025-12
Zen Pinball is welcoming Lara Croft in grand style. On June 19th, Zen Studios will launch Tomb Raider Pinball, a new DLC table joining its extensive pinball collection. The table will be available across multiple platforms: Zen Pinball World on Andro
Author: ScarlettReading:1
