Technology

15 Best Gaming Monitor

Best Gaming Monitors.

Selecting the best gaming monitor can be a difficult feat. This is especially because brands and companies keep on releasing new models with more advanced features. The oversaturation of options available in the market makes looking for the best monitor for gaming confusing. But why do you need a gaming monitor? What’s the difference between a regular monitor and a gaming one?

To put it simply, you need a monitor designed specifically for gaming because it can immensely enhance your overall experience. This is even if you’re already using the best gaming laptop or have a high-quality central processing unit (CPU) for gaming. The best of the best gaming monitors can help your performance when playing your favorite games.

Whatever your style of gaming is, you will need a top-notch monitor with high-quality display resolution and high refresh rates. Additionally, you will want a monitor with a high dynamic range (HDR) for sharper graphics and accurate colors.

Are you a PC gamer who wants to enjoy all the best Steam games with less input lag? Maybe you’re a console gamer that wants the best motion performance when playing first-person shooter (FPS) or the best racing games?

No matter your platform, we’ve got all the top picks for the best gaming monitor you can buy right now!

Gaming Monitor vs Regular Monitor

Technically speaking, we can use just about any monitor for multiple purposes. Albeit, in the world of professional gaming, using a monitor specifically designed for that purpose can lead you to victory. However, if you’re not part of the world of esports, you may wonder: why splurge those extra hundred dollars on one? Moreover, if you’re just dipping your toes into gaming, you’re probably wondering what a gaming monitor is.

The chief difference between gaming monitors from regular ones is the technology behind them. Gaming monitors offer the best output possible from your CPU and graphics card. Unlike standard ones, gaming monitors have higher refresh rates and quicker response times. This equals smoother movement and sharper imagery.

You might already have a premium video card and graphics processing unit (GPU). But if your screen can’t support their quality output, you’ll still end up with a choppy and blurry display.

Additionally, since you have faster response time, you can react in real time to intense and fast-paced scenes. If you’re a fan of Counter-Strike or Call of Duty, having this feature offers a major advantage against enemies. The ability to react to enemy attacks with little to no latency can easily turn the tides in your favor.

Want to play the best PS4 games with stunning graphics, like The Witcher 3 or Monster Hunter World? If so, a gaming monitor is the only way to go. This is because they can also provide superb color accuracy and crystal clear details of the game’s world.

What to Look for in a Gaming Monitor  

What to look for in a gaming monitor.
Photo by Fábio Silva on Unsplash.

Now you know what a gaming monitor is, it’s time to break down all the different aspects of a truly best gaming monitor.

Resolution

A monitor’s resolution measures the amount of pixels it has in terms of width and height. Pixels are the area of illumination which composes an image. The general rule of thumb is the higher the pixel count, the better the image display. 

Common screen resolutions include: Full High-Definition (FHD) with 1920×1080 pixels, Quad High-Definition (QHD) with 2560×1440 pixels, and Ultra High-Definition (UHD) with 3840×2160 pixels. The sharpest quality found in standard monitors is 3840×2160 pixels, which is commonly referred to as 4K UHD.

However, there are monitors with ultrawide screens that offer even higher resolutions. These include 2560×1080 pixels for ultrawide-FHD, 3440×1440 pixels for ultrawide-QHD, and 5120×1440 for Dual Quad High-Definition. It’s important to take note that the best ultrawide gaming monitor takes up more space than standard ones.

Panel Type

Choosing a panel type that matches your needs is crucial. The most common type of panel is Twisted Nematic (TN). This provides quick response times, but has poor viewing angles and color accuracy. However, it is known to be one of the cheaper panel types available.

The Vertical Alignment (VA) on the other hand, offers better accuracy in colors and better viewing angles. Unfortunately, they are notorious for their slow response rate. Thus, this leads to issues with trailing and ghosting.

Another common panel type is the In-plane Switching (IPS). This panel provides the best overall color output and viewing angles compared to both the VA and TN. Ergo, this makes it the best choice for high-definition gameplay and even photo and video editing. However, they have slower response times compared to TN types of screens.

Refresh Rate

A monitor’s refresh rate refers to how long it will take for your entire screen to refresh images. Measured in hertz (Hz), the higher the frequency, the faster and smoother the refresh rate. Thus, this equals more fluid on-screen motion and makes it easier to track enemies when playing the best FPS games. Most gaming monitors offer at least 120 Hz, which means that it takes 120 seconds for the monitor to refresh every pixel.

Response Time

When choosing a good gaming monitor, it’s important to take note that its response time must coincide with its refresh rate. This is because a monitor’s response time refers to how quickly a single pixel changes color in milliseconds. Unlike other specifications to look for in a gaming monitor, the lower the response time equals faster transitions in graphics. Thus, this lessens visual artifacts such as motion blur and “ghosting.” No matter the type of game, you will need your monitor to display everything swiftly and precisely. That is unless you enjoy being on the losing side of things.

Price

The downside to purchasing a gaming monitor is, of course, its price. Gaming monitors will always have a higher price tag than standard ones. This is because they offer more advanced specs and features. For those already invested in the realm of gaming and esports, a premium gaming monitor is surely a worthwhile purchase. If you’re just looking for a monitor to enhance the quality of your daily gaming sessions, don’t worry. There are still viable but cheap gaming monitor options you can choose from.

Best All Around Gaming Monitors

Dell S2721HGF

Dell Gaming Monitor
Product image from Dell

Gamers can enjoy less motion blur with fast-moving visuals thanks to the Dell S2721HGF. Its impressive 1ms response time and refresh rate of 144Hz results in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. This 27-inch full-HD monitor comes with a VA panel that provides a high contrast ratio display. As such, this equals deep blacks, which makes it great for playing the best free online games in the dark.

This Dell gaming monitor has a 1500R radius curved screen that’s perfect for creating a more immersive and focused viewing experience. This is especially with the screen having thin bezels on its top and side edges, with a thicker one at the bottom. Additionally, this also makes it ideal for dual or multi-monitor setups.

It also has a dedicated picture setting for gaming. Here, users can switch between presets made for different types of games. Enjoy playing League of Legends and other multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games? Don’t worry, the Dell S2721HGF has a preset that caters to the intense and competitive battles that we know MOBA games have. Other predetermined picture settings you can choose from are for FPS, role-playing games (RPG), and even a preset for sports and racing games.

Dell also claims that its ComfortView solution reduces the harmful blue light emissions of the screen. Blue light is notorious for its contribution to eye damage. Admittedly, it’s a bit difficult to test the accuracy of this claim. Nevertheless, it’s certainly a plus that the company is considering the health of its consumers. After all, this lessens the chances of eye fatigue, which in turn allows gamers to enjoy longer gaming sessions more comfortably.

Moreover, for its price of less than $300, the S2721HGF is definitely a worthwhile monitor.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: QHD 
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz 

ViewSonic Elite XG270QG

ViewSonic gaming monitor.
Product Image from ViewSonic

Built specifically for gaming, the ViewSonic Elite XG270QG features an excellent 1ms response time. Thus, this eliminates the blur trail we often see in regular monitors. Its IPS panels provide wide viewing angles that are perfect for co-operative gaming sessions with friends. Thanks to its IPS panels, gamers can enjoy more vibrant colors when playing their favorite video games. Unfortunately, as with these types of panels, it cannot provide deep blacks and has a low contrast output.

As such, it isn’t the most ideal monitor to use in dark rooms. However, you needn’t worry about any reflection or glares when gaming in the daylight. The Elite XG270QG’s matte coating is great for reducing the reflection of light on screen. Additionally, it also comes with optional light shields that you can install for even more focused gaming.

Out of the box, this 27-inch, 1440p monitor boasts a refresh rate of 144Hz. This is already impressive in itself, but users can calibrate this to a max of 165Hz. This offers gamers an even better responsive gaming.

Moreover, this ViewSonic gaming monitor also comes with additional features that can level up your gaming experience. At the back of the Elite XG270QG, users can find customizable ambient RGB lighting. If you’re a fan of FPS games, this monitor provides a graticule on screen when playing games like Apex Legends. With all these features in mind, the XG270QG surely is one of the top performing gaming monitors out there.

Admittedly, ViewSonic Elite XG270QG isn’t the cheapest gaming monitor available. Its hefty price of almost $600 can be intimidating for some. However, if you want a gaming monitor that delivers the best features, then the Elite XG270QG is your best bet.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: QHD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz 

Best Value Gaming Monitor

Pixio PX277 Prime

The Pixio PX277 Prime gaming monitor.
Product image from Pixio

For those looking for more budget friendly options, the Pixio PX277 Prime gaming monitor may just be the one for you. Its 1440p resolution paired with its impressive 165Hz refresh rate makes it a solid monitor for gaming. Plus, the lack of bezel slim frame makes it a great option if you like multi-monitor setups.

The PX277 Prime features an IPS panel which offers a great viewing experience in both horizontal and vertical angles. This is great if you want to share your screen with someone. Unfortunately, as with other IPS panels, it has a poor contrast ratio. Thus, this leads to blacks appearing gray in some instances, especially when in a dark room.

Nevertheless, it still delivers great gaming performance with rapid response time and low input lag. All of these result in clean and clear movement with little to no blur trail behind objects.

Pixio claims that the PX277 Prime supports HDR, however, this is where they fall short on. When on HDR mode, this relatively cheap gaming monitor can’t display bright and fully saturated colors. This might not come as much of a surprise, considering its low contrast ratio. However, when left in its Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) mode, you will still get a worthwhile experience.

Overall, for only $330, this gaming monitor from Pixio is a wonderful choice.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: QHD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz

Best Budget Gaming Monitor

Acer Nitro VG0 VG270 BMIPX

Acer Nitro gaming monitor.
Product image from Acer

Still looking for other gaming monitor deals? Is the Pixo PX277 Prime still a bit steep for your budget? If so, then this next entry may just be the best budget gaming monitor for you. The Acer Nitro VG0 VG270 BMIPX sits at the comfortable price of $179.99. For less than $200 you get a 27-inch full HD monitor with a refresh rate of 75Hz.

If you’ve noticed, the refresh rate is on the lower end. As such, this doesn’t make it the best monitor to support PS4 and Xbox games. However, you can still utilize it if you want to play the best Switch games. This is because the Switch itself cannot go higher than 60 frames per second on any game. Using any other monitor with higher fresh rates won’t really improve the display that you’ll get on the Switch. So, if you’re a Nintendo Switch gamer looking for a cheap gaming monitor, this Acer gaming monitor may be the one for you.

Moreover, its ZeroFrame design equals an ultrathin frame that makes it optimal for seamless dual-screen setups. This is especially great if you want to play the best multiplayer Switch games with a friend beside you.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution:Full HD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 75Hz

Best 4k Gaming Monitor

LG 27GN950-B

LG gaming monitor.
Product image from LG

This LG gaming monitor is definitely an impressive monitor if you’re into 4k gaming. Ever since its release, the LG UltraGear 27GN950-B has earned a reputation as the best gaming monitor 2020 launched. It’s clear why, especially with its refresh rate of 144Hz with a 1ms response time. Both translate to buttery smooth gaming with low input lag, notably during fast-paced action scenes.

The 27GN950-B also provides the most vivid and richest colors we’ve seen so far. This is thanks to its Nano IPS panel that really makes the colors of a game stand out. It displays bright colors exceptionally well, especially the standard red, green, blue (RGB) colors. Sadly, just like all IPS panels, it offers a mediocre contrast ratio. Although, we’ve got to admit that its contrast ratio is above other monitors with IPS panels. However, it still isn’t the best, and it still struggles with dark colors. Additionally, blacks also have a tendency to appear gray when viewed in dark rooms. Nevertheless, many gamers overlook this factor, as its performance with some of the best 4k games – like Destiny 2 – is impeccable.

In terms of design, this 4k gaming monitor features the sleek bezels that give the illusion of a frameless monitor. Its simple black color with red accents gives it a gamer-oriented look. Plus, it features a nice RGB ring on the back. Take note that if you wish to customize this, you will need to download separate software to change its settings.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Display Resolution: 4K UHD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz

Best Curved 4k Gaming Monitor

Acer Predator X34

Acer Predator X34
Product image from Acer

The Predator X34 is a stunning ultra-wide QHD curved gaming monitor. This Acer 4k monitor provides an extraordinary immersive gaming experience with its 4k resolution and 34 inch screen. Its IPS panel offers spot on color accuracy and impressive picture quality. As such, this Acer curved monitor produces exceptional details on-screen. Additionally, its 180Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time means you get no ghosting when playing fast-paced action or sports games.

Moreover, the Acer Predator X34 has some other additional gaming features. This includes a feature called Dark Boost. To reiterate, IPS panels perform poorly in dimly lit environments. However, Acer certainly thought of a way around this problem with this feature. Here, users can adjust in order to get finer details when gaming in dark environments. Other gaming features include customizable game profiles, ambient lighting, and even aim points for shooter games.

With all of these in mind, it’s safe to say that the Predator X34 features everything that you would want in the best 4k monitor for gaming. This is, of course, if you’re willing to shell out a thousand dollars. The biggest downside for most when it comes to this gaming monitor is its price. The Acer Predator X34 sits at a steep price point of $1,199.72 on Amazon.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 34 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9
  • Display Resolution: 4K QHD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 0.5 ms
  • Refresh rate: 180Hz

Best Premium 4K Gaming Monitor

Asus ROG Swift PG43UQ

 Asus ROG Swift PG43UQ gaming monitor.
Product image from Asus

If money is no concern, then the next entry on this list is the one for you. For gamers who are willing to shell out for the best 4k gaming monitor 2020 saw, look no further than the Asus ROG Swift PG43UQ. This 43-inch beauty provides vibrant and accurate colors with excellent contrast ratio thanks to its VA panel. This 144hz gaming monitor has a 1ms response time that equals to smooth performances during high-speed scenes.

There is a downside when it comes to monitors this size. It’s that when you play games that weren’t designed for specific aspect resolutions, they end up looking stretched out or blurry. However, Asus has figured out a solution to this problem. The company boasts that this gaming monitor supports Display Stream Compression (DSC). Thus, this allows little to no loss of quality in images during fast-paced scenes. So, you won’t worry about that 4:3 resolution game looking fuzzy when played on this 16:9 monitor.

Nevertheless, the Asus ROG Swift PG43UQ’s large screen makes it perfect for an addictive and immersive gaming experience. Its anti-glare screen makes it suitable for just about any area, whether it be your gaming room, common area, or workstation. It also comes with a convenient little remote. With its size and remote, you’ll think that this Asus gaming monitor is more of a miniature television instead. However, that’s why we think it’s the best premium option out there.

The ROG Swift PG43UQ will set you back a whooping $2,069.95 on Amazon.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 43 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: 4K UHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz

Best Curved Gaming Monitor

Samsung Odyssey G7 

Samsung Odyssey G7 Series Curved
Product Image from Samsung

This 27-inch Samsung gaming monitor has an aggressive curve with a radius of 1000R. This is perfect for placing you in the center of the action when playing all the best PC games.

The Samsung Odyssey G7 Series features a refresh rate of 240Hz and a 1ms response time. Both of which result in clear and fluid motion on screen. Its VA panel limits its viewing angles, although it still produces deep blacks thanks to its great contrast ratio. 

As mentioned above, VA panels aren’t the fastest type. Thus, one might wonder how pairing a high-speed response time with the slowest type of panel would work. Surprisingly, Samsung made it work. There are several gaming monitors that use VA panels and claim to still have quick response times. However, they all eventually cannot deliver. Fortunately, the Odyssey G7 Series isn’t one of them. It offers smooth and responsive motion with no ghosting or trail blurs.

It’s also loaded with extra gaming-focused features. This includes the customizable RGB lighting found at the back and bottom bezel. You also get an Eye Saver Mode for minimal eye strain during long hour gaming sessions. FPS gamers will also appreciate being able to add a reticle on screen.

Ever since its release, this Samsung monitor has been considered to be the best curved gaming monitor 2020 saw. It will cost you $599.99, however, and if you want the 32-inch version, you will need to add an extra hundred dollars.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: WQHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz

Affordable Curved Gaming Monitor

Pixio PXC273

Pixio PXC273 curved gaming monitor.
Product Image from Pixio

If you want a no frills curved gaming monitor, then the next entry on this list might be the one for you. Priced at less than $200, the PXC273 is a more affordable option compared to other popular brands. This Pixio monitor offers a 1080p resolution with a solid refresh rate of 144Hz. Its VA type panel offers a vibrant and accurate color display. With a 1800R curvature, this monitor is perfect for immersive gaming and viewing at any angle. Additionally, this also makes it accommodating when you have someone else next to you watching your screen.

In terms of design, its slim, bezel-less design equals more screen space without hogging up more physical space. Pixo also claims that their Flicker-free technology reduces screen flicker at any brightness level. In turn, this will reduce eye strain and will result in more comfortable and longer gaming sessions.

The biggest downside to this monitor is its 3ms response time. It’s clear that this isn’t the best response time for video games with high-speed scenes. However, if you’re not really into FPS games, this shouldn’t be a complete turnoff. This is especially if you prefer more chill and relaxing games like Animal Crossing New Horizons.

Overall, the Pixio PXC273 is a great cheap gaming monitor. This is especially if you’re not ready to commit hundred and hundreds of dollars on a premium gaming monitor. So, if you’re just starting out in the realm of PC or console gaming, why not try out this Pixio monitor?

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9 
  • Display Resolution: FHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 3ms
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz

Best Ultrawide Gaming Monitor

AOC Agon AG353UCG 

AOC gaming monitor.
Product Image from AOC

With a 35 inch screen and 200Hz refresh rate, the Agon AG353UCG is the best ultrawide gaming monitor 2020 released. This AOC monitor offers stunningly sharp imagery with its WQHD display resolution. Plus, thanks to its VA panel, its color reproduction is beyond spectacular. With its 21:9 aspect ratio, it’s perfect for watching movies in their true ultrawide format.

In terms of gaming, it’s important to take note that most video games are created with a 16:9 aspect ratio. That said, you will end up with black borders if the video game you’re playing cannot support ultrawide resolutions. Nevertheless, there are still options for the best games for ultrawide screens to play on PC and gaming consoles. These include the likes of the immensely popular Death Stranding and Horizon Zero Dawn. But since this is still a monitor for ultrawide gaming, it has many gaming-centric features. Namely, it has a Game Mode, frame counter, and even RGB lighting at the back.

Notably, many have complained about the noise that the internal fans make when keeping the back light from overheating. Nevertheless, if you’re using the best noise cancelling headphones while gaming, this shouldn’t be a problem.

Overall, the Agon AG353UCG is the best gaming monitor to unleash the full capacity of your CPU and graphics card. That is, as long as you don’t mind paying around $2000 for it and the loud noise that the internal fan makes. However, if you’re already using the best mechanical keyboard for gaming, which has rather loud noises too, then the Agon AG353UCG is a brilliant choice for ultrawide gaming.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 35 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9 
  • Display Resolution: WQHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 2ms
  • Refresh rate: 200Hz

Dell Alienware AW3418DW

Alienware AW3418DW gaming monitor. 
Product Image from Dell/Alienware

This 34-inch Alienware gaming monitor sports an IPS panel with a 3440×1440 resolution. Both of which mean sharp and clear graphics. It has a 1900R curvature that’s great for a completely immersive gaming experience. This also aids in lessening the potentially distracting reflection on the screen. Thus, this makes it perfect for gaming when in brightly lit environments.

Its 120Hz refresh rate and low input lag equal to responsive gameplay without any motion blur or trail behind fast-moving objects. Unfortunately, since it’s an IPS panel, the 4ms response time is considered slow by many. This is especially when comparing it to other ultrawide gaming monitors. Additionally, its poor contrast ratio results in poor black uniformity. As such, it isn’t the best option for dark room gaming.

However, it makes up for this with its gamer-centric features, such as its offering of six game modes. Gamers can choose from three presets for FPS, RPG, and real-time strategy (RTS) games. Meanwhile, they can customize up to three game modes that’ll suit their own gaming preferences. Additionally, its thin bezels make it perfect for dual or multi-monitor setups. 

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 34 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9 
  • Display Resolution: WQHD
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz

Best 1440p Gaming Monitor

AOC Agon AG273QX

 AOC Agon AG273QX
Product Image from AOC

1440p is the standard when it comes to the best gaming monitors out there. Many consider the Agon AG273QX to be the best bang for your buck in terms of 1440p resolution. This 27-inch screen has a refresh rate of 165Hz and a 1ms response time that delivers an excellent experience. Additionally, with both of these factors, you can say goodbye to motion blurs and trails behind fast-moving objects in games. Its VA panel has a contrast ratio that produces deep blacks with great gray uniformity. Thus, this translates to optimal gaming in dark rooms.

Moreover, it also has a control disc. This comes in handy when you want to access the monitor’s main menu without needing to configure the screen’s controls. With that in mind, other features include three game-centric presets with three additional customizable profiles. You can also adjust the color saturation and gamma curvature with the use of the control.

In terms of aesthetics, there’s an RGB backlight, which just adds to the whole gamer-friendly design of the Agon AG273QX. There’s also a side hanger that’s the perfect place to rest your best gaming headset when not in use.

Overall, this is a great monitor to use when gaming in a darkly lit environment. Fans of it even claim that it’s the best gaming monitor 2019 released. The AOC Agon AG273QX price is set at less than $500.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:4 
  • Display Resolution: WQHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz

Gigabyte Aorus CV27Q

Aorus CV27Q gaming monitor.
Product image from Aorus.

Another monitor considered by many as the best 1440p gaming monitor is the Aorus CV27Q. This monitor from Gigabyte delivers high-speed gaming performances with its 1ms response time. Additionally, its 165Hz refresh rate lets you enjoy all the best video games without any ghosting or motion blur. Its 1500R curvature screen provides an immersive gaming experience that’s more curved than the standard 1800R. Pairing a 1440p resolution display with a QHD VA panel makes for rich color quality and accuracy.

In terms of design, the Aorus CV27Q sports a simplistic frame with thin bezels on top and at the sides. The bottom one is slightly thicker with the Aorus logo on it. Additionally, there’s also two small microphones right below the logo. This allows for the monitor to have an Active Noise Canceling (ANC) feature. Thus, this makes it perfect in reducing background noise when speaking into your headset’s microphone. This comes in handy when playing co-op games or if you want to launch your career as a Twitch streamer. Although, you may want to learn how to stream on Twitch beforehand.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:4 
  • Display Resolution: QHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz

Best HDR Gaming Monitor

Gigabyte G27Q

Gigabyte G27Q
Product Image from Gigabyte.

If you’re in the market for an affordable 1440p 144Hz gaming monitor, then the G27Q proves that it’s just that. This 27-inch screen offers rich and vibrant colors without sacrificing a smooth gaming experience. However, what truly makes it the best is its immersive HDR capabilities. Gamers can rest assured that they’ll always get sharp and vibrant graphics with the Gigabyte G27Q.

Moreover, its IPS panel offers wide viewing angles. Thus, this makes it a great option if you have someone next to you also watching your screen. However, as with most IPS panels, it has a poor contrast ratio. This makes black colors look gray when in darkly lit rooms. Nevertheless, it’s still the best budget gaming monitor out there with its 1‎ms response time and 1‎44Hz refresh rate.

The G27Q also comes with features that make up for its low contrast ratio. These include two USB ports, HDMI 2.0 ports, and a DisplayPort display port. This means you can easily connect your gaming console to this monitor and charge your mobile devices simultaneously. The Gigabyte G27Q also comes with integrated speakers.

Overall, this feature-heavy gaming monitor is a great option if you want quality without breaking the bank. The G27Q will set you back $299.99 on Amazon.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 27 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:4 
  • Display Resolution: QHD
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz

Alienware AW5520QF

Alienware AW5520QF
Product Image from Dell

The Alienware AW5520QF is a massive 55-inch organic light-emitting diode (OLED) gaming monitor that can rival any television screen. If you’re into games like Final Fantasy 7 Remake with cinematic cut-scenes, then the AW5520QF is the one for you. Its 4k resolution and HDR capabilities make it a great option for vivid colors with superb details. Some may claim that the graphics are a little too overly saturated, but then again, you can’t please everyone. Nevertheless, you can still customize the one screen display if you find the colors too striking. There are also adjustable game modes and additional personalized color modes.

In terms of gaming performance, the Alienware AW5520QF has a response time of 0.5ms and a 120Hz refresh rate. These equal low input latency, which in turn translate to graphics changing rapidly and cleanly. With that in mind, it’s safe to say that gamers will experience responsive and sharp gameplay.

The biggest downside to this OLED gaming monitor is the most obvious one: its size. With over 30 inches in height, the Alienware AW5520QF towers above you when playing your favorite video game. Additionally, it isn’t the kindest to PC gamers since being too close to the screen will strain your eyes. However, this wouldn’t be the biggest turn off if you’re a console gamer. As such, you can easily consider it as the best gaming monitor for PS4.

The size of it also makes it the less diverse screen out there. You will find difficulty trying to navigate such an immense screen for mundane tasks. However, if your main purpose is for gaming or watching your Genshin Impact characters explore Teyvat in HDR, then this is a great choice. It even comes with a handy remote control for changing the volume and brightness levels. 

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Screen size: 55 inches
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:4 
  • Display Resolution: 4k 
  • Panel Type: OLED
  • Response Time: 0.5ms
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz 

Choosing the Best Gaming Monitor for You

In recent years, we’ve seen more and more people ditch standard monitors when it comes to gaming. It’s easy to get bombarded with different models and features with the amount of options available. If you’re just now figuring out what to look for in the best gaming monitor, this can be a daunting experience.

Are you a fan of fast-paced shooting and racing games? Maybe you prefer more cinematic exploration games? Regardless of your gaming preference, we hope our extensive guide has helped you better understand what option is the best for you. If you’re a serious gamer, you will want the best out of your equipment. This means less input lag, higher refresh rates, and quicker response time. Additionally, you will want a monitor to provide deep color depth and sharp details to every scene.

In the end, it’s up to you to determine which to prioritize. You can either choose a gaming monitor for smooth gameplay or one that caters to better graphics. Or, you can get the best of both worlds for extra cost.

Moreover, since it’s still early in the year, we’re still looking forward to the best gaming monitor 2021 will release. What brand do you think will launch the best gaming monitor to triumph against the rest?