In today's market, the cost of best gaming monitors has surged, particularly for those featuring OLED panels, expansive screens, and high refresh rates at crisp resolutions. However, there remains a robust selection of affordable gaming monitors that don't compromise much on image quality and features. Take, for example, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which boasts an impressive mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400. This monitor is my top pick because it offers performance that rivals monitors costing significantly more, demonstrating that high-quality options are available even on a tight budget, provided you know where to look.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Monitors:
Our 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### DellS3422DWG
0See it at AmazonSee it at DellBudget gaming monitors might not include all the latest technology and features, but they still deliver a superior display for enjoying the full capabilities of your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits, as high refresh and 4K monitors have become more affordable. While there are trade-offs, such as the absence of height-adjustable stands at the lower end and value-added features like KVM switches at the higher end, by prioritizing performance and your personal "must-haves," you can find exceptional value at any price point.
Not all budget gaming monitors are equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. A monitor priced at $100 might seem like a bargain, but it's likely to have a short lifespan and may cause eye strain during gaming, ultimately doing more harm than good. Our selections may cost more than $100, but their sturdy construction, high-quality panels, and gaming features ensure a better overall experience. However, as with any other gaming accessory, premium 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
Best Overall Budget 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 contrastGreat color accuracyOutstanding picture quality and HDRRobust 1,152 local dimming zonesCONSBloom on dark grey backgroundsNo USB hubThe Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the most impressive gaming monitor I've reviewed in 2024. Priced at around $330, it sets a new standard for what you can expect from affordable gaming monitors. While not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it outperforms its competitors with a stunning picture and an exceptional gaming experience.
The Xiaomi G Pro 27i utilizes mini-LED technology and full array local dimming (FALD), allowing the display to intelligently dim dark areas for enhanced contrast. With 1,152 local dimming zones, typically found in monitors over $700, it significantly reduces blooming and provides a superior viewing experience. Its HDR performance is outstanding, surpassing other monitors on this list and closely mimicking the quality of OLEDs, which are often double, triple, or even quadruple its price, without the risk of burn-in or issues with text clarity.
Xiaomi's choice of panel is exceptional, capable of reaching up to 180Hz for smooth gameplay and minimal motion blur. It offers accurate colors in DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB modes, ideal for content creation, and is compatible with variable refresh rate systems like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia's G-Sync.
While the monitor excels in many areas, it does lack a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity to maintain its low price. It also only supports HDMI 2.0, which is sufficient for 1440p gaming on consoles like Xbox and PlayStation. Despite these minor trade-offs, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the go-to gaming monitor for those seeking OLED-like picture quality without the usual drawbacks and high cost.
Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor
Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
2Delivering great gaming performance for around $150, this monitor has 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 JackPROSGreat colors and impressive contrastELMB support for improved motion clarityVESA support for third-party standsCONSSlightly lower pixel densityNo height adjustmentThe Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers excellent value, compatible with a wide range of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to fully utilize this display, and its VA panel delivers deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range, enhancing your gaming experience across various genres. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and features designed to enhance your gameplay in competitive shooters and esports, it provides substantial performance for the price.
In this price range, VA panels are my preference. They offer color quality nearly as good as IPS panels but provide a better gaming experience due to improved blacks. With a brightness of 350 nits, this monitor is suitable for well-lit environments, ensuring vibrant colors.
It also includes game-enhancing features such as an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost for better visibility in dark areas, and Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode for a smoother gaming experience.
The main drawbacks are the lack of height adjustment and a slightly lower pixel density due to its 27" screen at 1080p resolution. While the larger screen enhances immersion, it may not be as sharp as smaller 1080p displays. However, the benefits far outweigh these minor issues, making it a recommended upgrade for those looking to enhance their gaming experience without breaking the bank.
LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
Best 1440p Budget Gaming Monitor
Best 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
0Achieve up to 144Hz at 1440p with this monitor that includes adaptive sync technology and excellent color accuracy. 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 DisplayPortPROSSolid HDR gamingGreat color accuracyCONSStand isn’t height adjustableThe LG UltraGear 27GN800-B is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade. Priced under $300, it offers a significant resolution boost to 2560x1440, resulting in sharper visuals and enhanced detail. Its color accuracy and factory calibration contribute to a vibrant gaming experience on its spacious 27" screen, which strikes a perfect balance between detail and system requirements.
This monitor also excels with a 144Hz refresh rate and compatibility with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. The inclusion of Low Framerate Compensation is a valuable feature, ensuring smooth gameplay even if your system struggles to reach the maximum refresh rate.
The primary drawback is the non-height-adjustable stand, which may not suit all desk setups. However, it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount, allowing for easy replacement with a more adjustable stand if needed. Overall, its feature set and affordable price make it a standout option.
KTC H27P22D
Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor
Best 4K### KTC H27P22S
1Experience a fast and stunning picture on a limited budget with this gaming monitor. 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 screenGreat for consoles thanks to HDMI 2.1 connectivityFast refresh rateExcellent value overallCONSNo USB connectivityNot factory calibratedThe KTC H27P22D showcases how far budget gaming monitors have come. At $400, and often on sale for less, it offers an impressive 4K gaming experience with a high refresh rate. It's hard to find fault with this monitor, given its well-rounded features and affordable price. If you have the hardware to support it, it's definitely worth considering.
Its 4K resolution is complemented by a 160Hz refresh rate, with support for AMD FreeSync Premium and compatibility with Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring a smooth gaming experience. Its HDMI 2.1 ports make it ideal for console gaming, although you'll need to bring your own audio solution as it doesn't include speakers.
While its marketing may overpromise, its performance is genuinely impressive for the price. With 400 nits of peak brightness, it delivers a vivid SDR gaming experience, though not true HDR. Its color coverage is excellent, though it lacks factory calibration, making it suitable for gaming but less so for creative work without additional calibration. The absence of a USB hub is a minor inconvenience, but given the overall package, its drawbacks are easily overlooked. The KTC H27P22D is a fantastic option for budget-conscious gamers looking to step up to Ultra HD.
Dell S3422DWG
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5. Dell S3422DWG
Best Ultrawide Budget Gaming Monitor
Best ultrawide### DellS3422DWG
0Immerse yourself in the action with this affordable, ultrawide curved monitor featuring 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 DisplayPortPROSGreat contrastImmersive wide, curved displayCONSMinor ghostingThe Dell S3422DWG is the best budget ultrawide monitor for an immersive gaming experience. Its contrast-rich VA panel and 3440x1440 resolution deliver a vibrant, sharp image suitable for any game genre. The 21:9 aspect ratio and curved screen enhance immersion, keeping your focus on the game.
For ultrawide monitors, I recommend a "1440p" resolution over the ultrawide equivalent of 1080p, as it offers a higher pixel density and a better image, despite requiring more graphics power.
The monitor boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync for smooth gameplay. While it may experience minor motion blur with dark objects, overall motion clarity remains strong.
Despite its budget-friendly price, the S3422DWG has an attractive design with a height-adjustable stand, multiple ports, and USB hub functionality.
How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?
For a budget gaming monitor, aiming for the $200-$300 range is ideal. While cheaper options exist, quality often suffers. A gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor is unlikely to meet that expectation.
To find a monitor within this price range, you need to understand what to look for and prioritize features according to your needs. Consider the following key aspects:
ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeBudget gamers can now make fewer compromises than before, but some are still necessary. You can opt for higher resolution or higher refresh rate, but typically not both in a budget monitor.
1080p remains the standard for budget displays. While it doesn't match the clarity of 4K, it allows for high frame rates with less demanding hardware. Upgrading to 1440p offers a better value if you can stretch your budget slightly. A 27" 1440p monitor has a higher pixel density than a 48" 4K television, though a 240Hz refresh rate becomes less affordable.
4K is achievable on a budget, but expect to pay around $400 or make compromises in brightness or screen size. Also, keep in mind the higher system requirements for 4K gaming at high frame rates.
Budget gaming monitors typically offer refresh rates from 60 to 240Hz, with most at 144Hz or 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is versatile for most games, while 240Hz is preferable for competitive gaming. 360Hz is increasingly accessible for budget monitors.
Note that not all inputs support the maximum refresh rate. For instance, many 165Hz monitors only support 144Hz over HDMI, making DisplayPort the better choice for high refresh rates.
A monitor's display panel technology is crucial. Our recommendations use either IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer better contrast and dark scene performance, enhancing immersive, high-end graphics.
Panel Types
TN (twisted nematic)IPS (in-plane switching)VA (vertical alignment)OLED (organic light-emitting diode)Screen size is less restrictive than before. Our guide focuses on 27" monitors, with a 34" ultrawide option. Smaller 24" monitors are less expensive and favored by competitive gamers for their focused display. Larger monitors (32" and up) provide more immersion but may lose detail without higher resolution. Ensure your desk can accommodate the monitor size, and a 27" 16:9 monitor is generally a safe choice.
Consider Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support based on your graphics card. Many budget monitors support both standards.
Finally, a note on HDR: While marketed on many affordable monitors, true HDR performance is limited at 400 nits of brightness, which is considered "HDR compatible" but lacks the dynamic range of true HDR.
Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs
What is the best type of panel?
Budget gaming monitors typically feature VA or IPS panels. My top pick, an IPS monitor with a mini-LED backlight, outperforms both due to its technology. If your budget allows, choose this. Otherwise, the decision between VA and IPS depends on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.
For response time and color accuracy, IPS panels are superior, though 1ms panels are now available for both types. IPS monitors offer the most vivid and accurate colors.
For contrast, VA panels excel unless equipped with mini-LED backlighting. They produce richer dark colors and blacks, offering a better dynamic range.
There's no "best" panel, but the right choice depends on your gaming priorities.
When are gaming monitors most affordable?
The best times to find budget-friendly gaming monitors are during sales events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Deals also appear during Back to School sales, and retailers often discount older models to make room for new releases.
What size gaming monitor should I get for gaming?
Choosing a gaming monitor size is a personal preference, but consider these guidelines: First, assess your available space to ensure the monitor fits. Then, consider the monitor's resolution and pixel density. A 24" monitor is ideal for 1080p gaming. For 1440p, a 27-32" monitor offers ample 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.
