By IGN (Technology) | Created at 2024-09-26 03:35:04 | Updated at 2024-09-30 05:31:43
4 days ago
Just like pretty much everything else these days, the prices of the best gaming monitors have risen significantly, especially if you’re looking at displays with OLED panels, massive screens, and high refresh rates at sharp resolutions. Luckily, there is still an excellent pool of affordable monitors out there that don’t sacrifice image quality and features as much as you’d think. Just look at the Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS, with its excellent motion handling and sharp resolution, and we’ve found six other great gaming monitors under $500, ensuring you stay on budget.
TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Monitors:
- Xiaomi G Pro 27i - Best Overall Budget Gaming Monitor
- Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS – Best Budget Gaming Monitor Under $300
- Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR – Best 1080p Gaming Monitor Under $250
- LG 27GN800-B – Best 1440p Gaming Monitor Under $250
- Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q – Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $300
- Dell S3422DWG – Best Ultrawide Gaming Monitor Under $400
- Alienware AW2523HF – Best 360Hz Gaming Monitor Under $300
- HP Omen 32q – Best 32-inch Gaming Monitor Under $400
The best budget gaming monitors may lack certain technology and features, but they still provide an excellent display to enjoy all the capabilities of your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to the extreme, as high-refresh and 4K monitors can go for relatively cheap. For under $300 each, the Alienware AW2523HF hits 360Hz in 1080p, while a crisp 4K picture is available on the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q. Want a massive ultrawide curved display that fully immerses you in the best PC games? That’s also attainable for less than you’d expect.
Now, not all budget gaming monitors are created equal, and if something appears too good to be true, it probably is. A $100 monitor might be a great deal upfront, but chances are good it’ll die quickly and/or strain your eyes as you game, doing more harm than good in the end. Our picks may cost a bit more than $100, but their solid builds, excellent displays, and gaming features make for a better experience. However, just like any other gaming accessory, nicer gaming monitors are available if you’re willing to spend.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith
1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
Best Overall Budget Gaming Monitor
Incredible picture quality with an incredible price
Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
Inputs
2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x 3.5mm Audio
High brightness and deep contrast
Outstanding picture quality and HDR
Robust 1,152 local dimming zones
Bloom on dark grey backgrounds
The Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the most surprising gaming monitor we've reviewed so far in 2024. At around $330 at the time of writing, it's a high water mark for what you should expect from affordable gaming monitors. While it's not the cheapest, even for a 27-inch 1440p display, it truly offers more than the competition and offers a fantastic picture and gaming experience.
Unlike most budget gaming monitors, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i uses mini-LED technology to backlight its display and has full array local dimming (FALD). This allows the display to intelligently dim dark areas of the screen for improved contrast.
There are other FALD mini-LED displays out there around is price, but none of them so far hold a candle to the G Pro 27i. That's because of its incredible 1,152 local dimming zones, an amount typically only found on monitors upward of $700. This reduces blooming (glowing around bright objects) substantially and makes for a better viewing experience. Its HDR experience is fantastic, head and shoulders above any other monitor on this list. In fact, it's picture is much closer to OLEDs, which typically cost double, triple, and sometimes quadruple its price but doesn't have the risk of burn-in or have issues with text clarity.
Xiaomi used a killer panel for this display. It's able to clock up to 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay and low motion blur. In its DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB color modes, it offers accurate colors for content creation. It's also compatible with variable refresh rate systems with AMD FreeSync and, though the manufacturer doesn't say it, Nvidia's G-Sync also worked fine in our testing.
It's no exaggeration to say that this monitor blew us away, but it's not perfect. To keep the price low, Xiaomi chose to get leave out any kind of USB hub or USB Type-C connectivity. It also only supports HDMI 2.0, but since its resolution is only 1440p, it still works well with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. There's also a dearth of gaming features.
But for a monitor of this caliber at this price, those trade-offs are completely worthwhile. Simply put: this is the gaming monitor to buy right now if you want picture quality similar to an OLED without the usual drawbacks and hefty price tag.
2. Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS
Best Budget Gaming Monitor Under $300
Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS
The Asus ROG Strix is a budget monitor with some seriously high-class panel tech.
Inputs
1 x USB-C, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x 3.5mm Audio
Excellent motion performance
Combining affordability and a top-notch panel for under $300, the Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS is a budget monitor that doesn’t sacrifice much. Sure, the design is rather basic and I/O is nothing to write home about, but its image quality and gaming chops punch far above its weight – and that’s what really matters.
The Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS features a crisp 1440p resolution that pairs perfectly with its 27-inch size. Its Fast IPS panel is edge-lit, so contrast is not the best, leading to loss of detail in certain scenes. Luckily, the color performance is excellent for the price, offering great accuracy and a gamut that covers up to 100% of sRGB and 91% of DCI-P3. Games will look vibrant and realistic. The 406 nits of SDR brightness and matte screen coating also make it suitable for well-lit spaces. Just don’t expect a great HDR performance from this display
The main reason you want this budget monitor is its motion performance. Asus packed the IPS panel with a proprietary backlight strobing technology, Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB), making for far less motion blur and impressive motion clarity. During testing, this feature enabled the nothing special 180Hz refresh rate to look more like 240Hz, and games with small text and consistent movement, like League of Legends, benefited most from it. AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync support also means screen tearing should be kept at bay for silky smooth frames in just about any game.
As we mentioned, the design is a bit lackluster, offering a thick plastic frame and no hints of RGB lighting. Still, its stand is adjustable and gets the job done. There are also three video inputs, including a USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode, giving you plenty of ways to connect your gaming PC and consoles.
Admittedly, the Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS faces stiff competition, but its handy features and solid performance put it at the front of the pack.
3. Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR
Best 1080p Gaming Monitor Under $250
Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR
For around $200, this 1080p monitor rocks a 165Hz refresh rate, G-Sync compatibility, and wide viewing angles.
Inputs
2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Handy shadow boost feature
The Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR has an IPS panel over a VA panel, so you’re in for some incredible motion performance. With a refresh rate up to 165Hz and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, games will be smooth and stutter-free. A shadow boost feature also helps to expose enemies lurking in the shadows. Clearly, it’s great for gamers who want a budget display for competitive titles.
This 1080p gaming monitor offers up a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees, so you can see the screen whether you’re sitting or standing. Plus, an anti-flicker feature and ultra-low blue light prevent eye fatigue, making you good to game for hours. It does have a less than stellar contrast ratio though.
The VG259QR ticks off the required quality-of-life boxes with a height-adjustable, pivoting stand. Plus, there are two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort for ample connectivity opportunities.
4. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
Best 1440p Gaming Monitor Under $250
LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
Get speeds up to 144Hz in 1440p on this monitor that doesn’t forget adaptive sync technology and excellent color accuracy.
Panel type
IPS FreeSync and G-Sync
Inputs
2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Stand isn’t height adjustable
The LG Ultragear 27GN800-B is a great upgrade for gamers on a budget. For under $300, you get a boost in resolution to 2,560 x 1,440, which brings a serious increase in sharpness compared to a 1080p monitor. Those crisp visuals will pop even more thanks to great color accuracy on a 27-inch screen, though the contrast ratio is a bit disappointing in dark scenes. And, even if you’re gaming in a sunny room, the display is plenty bright to still enjoy your content.
This 27-inch gaming monitor excels in other areas, too. It has a 144Hz refresh rate and is compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. The LG Ultragear 27GN800-B also manages to be virtually bezel-less on three sides, helping keep you further immersed in the action.
There’s just one major flaw worth noting, and that’s the lack of a height-adjustable stand. The monitor has a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount, however, so you can add a third-party stand or monitor arm if needed.
5. Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q
Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $300
Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q
Enjoy a sharp 4K resolution on the cheap with this display, though you only get a 60Hz refresh rate.
Inputs
1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Refresh rate is limited to 60Hz
4K resolution is not easy to find on a tight budget, but the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q makes it possible. It has a 4K IPS panel with support for AMD FreeSync. The 28-inch display provides a sharp, smooth look that will blow a 1080p budget gaming monitor out of the water. With good color performance and reasonable contrast for an IPS display, there’s really no comparison after you see the under $300 price tag.
The impressive resolution does mean you sacrifice refresh rate, as this monitor is limited to 60Hz, but anything higher will be difficult for most graphics cards to hit anyways. There is, however, a stunning HDR gaming mode as well as a shadow boost feature, helping you to get the most enjoyment out of your games.
The TUF Gaming VG289Q includes an ergonomic stand that’s height-adjustable, swivels, and tilts, so you can find your ideal viewing angle. It’s rich in connectivity, as well, with two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort. Asus has an alternative model, the VG289Q1A, which ditches one HDMI port and the height-adjustable stand to reach an even lower price.
6. Dell S3422DWG
Best Ultrawide Gaming Monitor Under $400
Dell S3422DWG
Immerse yourself in the action with a cheap, ultrawide curved monitor delivering a 1440p/144Hz refresh rate.
Inputs
2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Immersive wide, curved display
An ultrawide curved monitor is a great choice if you want an immersive gaming experience, and the Dell S3422DWG stands out as the best budget ultrawide. It has a contrast-rich VA panel with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 that provides a vibrant, sharp image that looks great in any genre of game. The 21:9 aspect ratio and slight curvature of the screen wrap around your field of vision, so you can focus on the action occurring in your games rather than outside distractions.
The monitor features a solid 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync. This means your games should play butter smooth. The S3422DWG can suffer motion blur behind dark objects. Motion clarity is otherwise strong.
Despite its competitive price, the S3422DWG is an attractive monitor. It has a height-adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and can even be used as a USB hub.
7. Alienware AW2523HF
Best 360Hz Gaming Monitor Under $300
Alienware AW2523HF
Blazing fast frames up to 360Hz alongside FreeSync support, G-Sync compatibility, virtually no motion blur, and low input lag make this monitor ideal for esports.
Panel type
IPS Freesync and G-Sync compatible
Inputs
2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, 4 x USB 3.2
Fast 360Hz refresh rate in 1080p
Forget 240Hz gaming monitors with the blazing-fast refresh rate of the Alienware AW2523HF delivers. You’ll get insanely speedy frames up to 360Hz, while AMD FreeSync support and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility ensure your screen and graphics card play nicely for some next-level silky smooth action in 1080p when playing the best PC games. It’s a fantastic monitor for competitive E-sports players, as you experience virtually no motion blur and will also enjoy super low input lag.
The Alienware AW2523HF doesn’t stop there, delivering decent color accuracy and better-than-average contrast performance for an IPS monitor. The 1080p resolution is not the sharpest, but that’s an acceptable trade-off given the monitor’s high refresh rate and an easily attainable price under $400. The solid display also lives on a robust adjustable stand offering great ergonomics and a subdued look to fit perfectly in any environment.
8. HP Omen 32q
Best 32-inch Gaming Monitor Under $400
HP Omen 32q
Go big for less with this 32-inch,1440p monitor that hits a 165Hz refresh rate, supports FreeSync, and handles color like a champ.
Inputs
2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
Sometimes you want to go bigger to see all of the action of the game a bit closer, and the HP Omen 32q has you covered for a budget price. The 31.5-inch display features a 1440p resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync for supreme motion clarity.
This monitor uses an IPS panel that delivers great color performance, though its contrast is not the best. That means darker games may look flat or dull. HP claims there’s HDR support with the display’s max brightness being 400 nits, though it’s not VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified, and like other similarly priced monitors, don’t buy it for the HDR.
The HP Omen 32q has one DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 ports but lacks USB connectivity. It rests on a sturdy, compact square stand that’s adjustable to get the ideal viewing angle.
Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Monitors in the UK
You don't always need to spend above and beyond to ensure you're getting a decent gaming monitor. There are plenty of brilliant, and affordable, options available to those in the UK, with all the big brands set and ready to take your orders.
Dell 2721HGF
Best Budget Gaming Monitor
Dell S3422DWG
Asus ROG Swift PG329Q
Best Budget HDR Gaming Monitor
Dell S3222DGM
Best Budget 32-inch Gaming Monitor
ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q
ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q
ALIENWARE 25 GAMING MONITOR - AW2523HF
How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?
If you're looking for a budget gaming monitor, a good sweet spot to aim for is around $300-$400. You can find plenty of gaming monitors that are cheaper than that, but then you start running into issues with quality. You're going to have to make compromises either way, but in general, a gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 gaming monitor probably isn't going to do that.
In order to find a gaming monitor that hits that price tag, you'll need to know what to look for in a gaming monitor, and figure out which areas are most important to you, so you can make the right compromise for your needs.
Gamers on a tight budget don’t have to make as many sacrifices as they once did, but there’s still a need for some compromise. In general, you can go for a higher resolution, or you can go for a higher refresh rate, but you sadly won’t be able to snag both in a budget gaming monitor.
1080p remains the standard go-to resolution in budget displays. It certainly lacks the clarity of modern 4K TVs, but on the plus side, the low display resolution means you won’t need high-end hardware to play new games. 1440p resolution is a nice upgrade, and a better overall value if you can stretch your budget. A 1440p monitor with a 27-inch screen actually has a higher pixel density than a 48-inch 4K television. However, this means a 240Hz refresh rate will no longer be affordable.
4K is available on a budget but only at a 60Hz refresh rate. Some gamers might contend a 4K 60Hz display doesn’t truly qualify as a gaming monitor. In any case, this is the compromise you must make if you want to play at 4K for as little cash as possible.
The refresh rate of budget gaming monitors is generally 60 to 240Hz, with most landing at 144Hz or 165Hz. A refresh rate of 144Hz is a great all-around choice that can handle most games with ease, but 240Hz is a noticeable upgrade for players who only care about competitive titles. 360Hz is also now in reach for cheaper gaming monitors.
It’s important to note a monitor’s maximum refresh rate may not be supported by every input. For example, many monitors that reach up to 165Hz will only support 144Hz over HDMI. DisplayPort is the best bet if you want to use a high refresh rate.
A monitor’s display panel technology is an important and often overlooked factor. All the monitors we recommend use either an IPS or VA panel. IPS panels are prized for motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, all of which makes them great for competitive gaming. VA panels have a much better contrast ratio and far superior dark scene performance, so they’re better for games with immersive, high-end graphics.
Screen size is less of a limitation than it used to be. Our budget gaming monitor guide includes options for 24-inch, 27-inch, and 32-inch monitors, and a 34-inch ultrawide. Smaller monitors tend to be less expensive and are also preferred by competitive gamers, who want the entire display to be firmly within their focus. Larger monitors are more immersive and a better choice for immersive gaming. With that said, it is possible to buy a monitor that’s too large for your desk, so make sure to measure if you’re unsure. If in doubt, a 27-inch monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe bet.
It’s wise to buy a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on whether you have an Nvidia or AMD video card. Many budget gaming monitors support both. Our picks all list the standards they support.
Finally, a note about HDR. We only recommend one HDR monitor on this list, and while it’s a great value, it’s also by far the most expensive recommended here. While HDR is available on other affordable monitors, it unfortunately remains unimpressive on most as they only get up to a maximum 400-nits of screen brightness. We suggest looking for a monitor that’s at least VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified if HDR matters to you.
Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs
Is a cheaper TN gaming monitor worth it?
It used to be that TN (twisted nematic) panels were the go-to panel type for high refresh displays, but the technology has largely fallen out of favor due to its lackluster color reproduction and viewing angles. However, that just means any gaming monitor using a TN panel is likely going to be much more affordable than an IPS counterpart. If you're just after the best monitor at a low price, grabbing a TN display is absolutely worth it, just keep in mind you're not going to get the richest display experience.
When are gaming monitors most affordable?
The best time to buy a gaming monitor for a reasonable price (or a budget gaming monitor for even cheaper than usual) is during shopping events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Gaming monitor deals can also pop up during Back to School sales, and major retailers usually lower the price on older models to make way for new releases.
Should I get a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor for gaming?
It’s really a matter of personal preference when choosing between a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor. A 24-inch monitor is more compact, so depending on where you’re seated, everything will be within your field of view without relying on your peripherals. You can also get by with a 1080p resolution, leading to higher frame rates for a lower cost. On the flip side, 27-inch monitors provide a more immersive gaming experience and make it easier to see details. However, upping the resolution to 1440p is a good idea unless you are okay with pixel peeping. Therefore, 27-inch displays end up being pricier, especially if you’re still looking to enjoy speedy refresh rates.
Jackie Thomas is the Hardware and Buying Guides Editor at IGN and the PC components queen. She's been writing about gaming PCs for almost a decade and has been building them even longer. You can follow her @Jackiecobra.
Christopher Coke has been a regular contributor to IGN since 2019 and has been covering games and technology since 2013. He has covered tech ranging from gaming controllers to graphics cards, gaming chairs and gaming monitors, headphones, IEMs, and more for sites such as MMORPG.com, Tom’s Hardware, Popular Science, USA Today’s Reviewed, and Popular Mechanics. Find Chris on Twitter @gamebynight.
