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Indulging in high-end games can be the most exciting and entertaining activity ever, but your experience can be really hindered by using a cheap monitor. It not only decreases the video quality of the game but also limits your creativity.
To solve these problems, you simply have to replace your normal monitor with a gaming monitor. These are extremely unique and can completely revolutionize your gaming experience, but more on that later.
This review will discuss the top gaming monitors in the market whilst also highlighting their pros and cons. Moreover, it will include a well-researched buying guide to help you better understand the specs of each model. So without further ado, let’s get started.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Gaming Monitor
- OUR TOP PICK: Asus VG245H
- RUNNER-UP: AOC C24G1
- BEST BUDGET GAMING MONITOR: Acer KG221Q
Comparison Chart of the Best Gaming Monitors
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What is a Gaming Monitor?
Gaming monitors differ from normal ones on a number of features.
Foremost, they are designed specifically for gamers, which means these monitors can offer you sharper images, faster refresh rates, and perfect sync improvements. They also come with better panels that enhance the color coordination and color contrast of the images.
Not only this, but these gaming monitors are also known for their HD or 4k resolution. When it comes to gaming, this is extremely important, as it ensures you get the most out of your experiences.
Moreover, with faster response times, these gaming monitors also add to the competitive energy of the game. A gamer won’t have to face any interruptions during the game. This means that with the ultimate gaming monitor, your chances of beating your opponent become tenfold.
What Size Monitor is Ideal For Gaming?
This question is frequently asked, and many people want to know which monitor is most ideal for gaming. But contrary to what people think, this question does not have a very simple answer.
When looking at screen size, you will notice that larger displays can lead to more immersive gaming, as there is simply more to see in front of you.
The aspect ratio also comes into play. You need to determine the height and width of the display that you need. Most widescreens should come with a ratio of 16:9. There are other ultra-high gaming monitors that offer an aspect ratio of 21:9.
Although these are more popular and engaging, they are also more expensive. So before you decide to invest in the largest-sized monitor, make sure that you keep two things in mind. Firstly, see if you have the space for it and secondly, the money to invest.
What to Look For in a Gaming Monitor
Gaming monitors are a big deal for most people, and most gamers who end up buying them do so out of passion and determination. Hence, it is absolutely vital that they get nothing but the absolute best product.
Here are all the features gamers should look out for in a gaming monitor.
Resolution
High resolution is the most important feature that a gaming monitor should have. The higher the resolution, the sharper the images will be. However, to get your hands on the best resolution monitor, you might have to spend a lot of money.
Another way you can enhance the resolution of your gaming monitor is to add a powerful graphics card.
Refresh Rate
When you are playing first-person shooter games like counter strike, it is important that you have a higher refresh rate to get a competitive edge.
The higher the refresh rate, the better the frames per second of your monitor. This will come in handy in all high-resolution games. It not only increases the smoothness of your video but also ensures you end up winning every game.
Response Time
Response time is another important feature, but contrary to what most people think, gaming monitors should have low response time, rather than high. This will ensure that you can get fluid and fast actions without a lot of input lag. The number can range from one millisecond to four milliseconds. When playing games, you want this number to be as low as possible.
Panel Type
This is an obvious feature to look out for.
Most gaming monitors having good panels to provide you with a better image quality and response time. TN panels are relatively cheaper, but they often don't provide good viewing angles.
On the other hand, IPS ones are amazing panels that not only allow for better angles but also come with enhanced color productions. The only downside to them is the higher price.
Review of the Best Gaming Monitors
We have already discussed some important aspects of gaming monitors. But the above information can prove useless if you still have to go scour the internet for hours to find the best gaming monitor.
Well, lucky for you, you won’t have to.
Here is a list of some amazing gaming monitors to choose from. We have compared them and detailed their pros and cons to give you a clearer picture.
Best Overall:
ASUS VG245H
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were awestruck when they first tried this ASUS gaming monitor. It offers you Free Sync AMD technology that allows for better connections. Not only that, but buyers were also particularly pleased with the super-smooth, rich-textured colors that the monitors had to offer.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Among many other features, this model mainly stands out for its Fast Input technology, and when it comes to gamers, this is non-negotiable. This technology not only minimizes any input lag but also allows you to take full advantage of superior reactions. This comes in handy in combo and first-player shooter games.
Moreover, the model is also known for its breathtaking visuals that add depth to the field of view.
Who Will Use This Most
ASUS has always been known to offer better compatibility and connectivity, sometimes better than all other gaming monitors. Its dual HDMI ports allow you to connect easily to any gaming console. It even lets you connect with other HDMI devices without any hassle.
Moreover, this model is also handy for those who don’t like plugging and changing their connections frequently, thereby enjoying unlimited gaming.
Bottom Line
With an enhanced color performance and a sturdy design, there is no doubt that this model deserves the highest position on the list. It comes with a perfect response time, which reduces any lag.
Not only that, but it also allows users to get a competitive edge, which they can use against their opponents. But most importantly, ASUS is known for being user-friendly, as its blue light technology prevents any eye strain that gamers might feel afterward.
Runner-up:
AOC C24G1
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
AOC has been in the limelight for a long time because of its amazing curved HD resolution screen. But a product can only be rated this high if it is also loved by the majority of its buyers.
This AOC model has been praised for its immersive field of view and its durable design. Not only that, but buyers also love its higher response time, which gives them a winning edge in their games.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Flickering can prove to be quite annoying, especially when you are playing a high-end and competitive game. AOC has done all it can to eliminate this nuisance from their monitors so users can enjoy a more comfortable environment.
Not only that, but the company has also included a faster response time to further aid the customers and their needs.
Who Will Use This Most
Users who get annoyed by improper viewing angles will love using this model. Unlike most other monitors, it doesn’t force users to sit in the same position all day.
The advanced design of the monitor allows you to adjust the height according to your own preference. Not only that, it also allows you to reduce flickering and eye strain by changing angles every now and then.
Bottom Line
Achieving the runner-up position in a list that is filled with amazing monitors is not easy, and AOC has won this position gracefully. It comes with an HD resolution screen, which enhances the gaming experience of the users.
Moreover, it allows for a three-sided frameless design that not only reduces eye strain but also adds finesse to the design. All in all, this model should only be bought if you want to not only win but also enjoy all your games.
Best for the Money:
ACER KG221Q
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Any product that brings users efficiency without costing too much is bound to be liked, and this ACER model is no different.
It comes with a very fast response of 1 ms, which makes gamers stand out in the competition. Not only that, but it also ensures that no matter the speed of the game, you can always keep up with the transitions.
Why it Stands Out to Us
ACER is mostly known for its full HD resolution screen, but the feature that stands out most is its compatible design.
With its AMD Free Sync, the game’s frame rate can be determined easily by the graphics card. It doesn’t have to be fixed and can be altered with a simple technique. This is unique because most monitors don’t allow users to increase the fps.
Who Will Use This Most
The model is best for people who don’t have very large spaces but still like to get a good gaming monitor. Although the screen isn’t very big, it’s a comfortable size. The model is also relatively cheaper, which makes it affordable for a lot of people.
Moreover, if you are in need of a high-resolution monitor that allows for better colors, then you would love this ACER unit.
Bottom Line
AMD Free Sync technology is making the rounds in the market, as it is required for fast and authentic gaming. ACER provides you with this technology, along with fast response time and more diversity in colors.
Not only this, but it is also known for offering better fps with graphic card inclusion. With so many features, products usually cost a lot, but that’s not the case with this ACER model, as it’s relatively cheaper.
Best 4k Gaming Monitor:
LG 27UK650-W
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are delighted after using this LG gaming monitor. They love the on-screen controls that the model has to offer. This not only allows them to operate the monitor easily but also allows for a variety of functions, which include changing volume, brightness, split screens , and multiple other things.
Moreover, they are also fond of the dual controller mechanism that is included.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This gaming monitor is known for its 99% color gamut. It includes SRGB technology that is ideal for color reproduction. It ensures 99% coverage of the color spectrum, thus producing every possible color combination that exists on this planet.
Moreover, it also offers better customization, which further adds to its appeal.
Who Will Use This Most
People who don’t mind spending more money for a pleasurable experience will love this model. It brings them faster response times and video quality that they have only dreamed of.
It also comes equipped with AMD sync technology, which allows users to sync their GPU and monitors and make greater use of their monitors.
Bottom Line
Achieving 4k resolution is every gamer’s dream, but sadly for most users, this is not possible. LG has exceeded all expectations by providing clarity and contrast like none other. Its video quality is the best so far, and its color combinations are exquisite.
Not only that, but it also offers a better viewing angle thanks to its relatively larger display screen.
Best Ultra-Wide Gaming Monitor:
Dell Alienware AW3418DW
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
When it comes to gaming, people spend long hours sitting in front of a screen, and it’s important that their eyes andr backs don’t get damaged in the process.
Recent buyers are very pleased with this Dell monitor, as it eliminates any screen tearing. Moreover, it allows for height adjustments and different positioning, which prevent any damage to the eyes or the back.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The model stands out to us because of its competitive edge design. The on-screen display offers greater flexibility. You can choose from not just one or two but six unique and different modes.
Not only this, but you can also customize three separate modes according to your own preference. This, coupled with easy controls of the monitor, allows gamers to have a greater say in how they want to play their games.
Who Will Use This Most
The model is specifically designed for people who like large gaming consoles. The ultra-wide screen is made up of 34-inch material and provides you with a large field of view.
Apart from that, its new swivel-hinge combo design also supports tilt, swivel, and height adjustments. This means you can use the same monitor at different angles and according to your own comfort anytime.
Bottom Line
Curved screens are very popular these days, especially for gaming, but that’s just one of the many exemplary features of this Dell gaming monitor.
It is exceptionally large, which means that it requires a larger space and can provide you with a fully immersive gaming experience. The design is also very stable and sturdy, which ensures that you can use your monitor for a longer time.
Best Gaming Monitor Under $200:
ACER Nitro VG240Y
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were a bit skeptical before investing in the model. This is because cheaper models often tend to lack quality, but lucky for them, this ACER model is not one of them.
It comes with modern technologies that offer better response time and refresh rates. Not only that, but its zero-frame design also stands out, and recent buyers are more than happy with the overall working.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Finding one feature that stands out to us was pretty hard, especially because ACER has just too much to offer. The model is mostly known for its high and rapid refresh rate. This speeds up the fps, hence delivering ultra-smooth motion scenes.
Not only that, but it also lowers the overall input lag, which provides gamers with a more immersive experience.
Who Will Use This Most
The model is primarily for people who don’t want to spend too much on their new monitors. But better affordability is not the only thing these people look out for.
This ACER model is also known for offering 1 ms of response time. This ensures that fast-moving actions, and dramatic and quick transitions never escape your notice.
Bottom Line
It’s hard to find a good gaming monitor these days, especially one that you can afford. ACER comes with an exceptional screen that offers a greater field of view and has a zero-frame design, which offers a more immersive experience for less than $200.
Not only that, but it is also known to offer easier connections thanks to its variety of ports. This also comes in handy when you want to attach different HDMI ports together.
Best Curved Gaming Monitor:
Sceptre (C275B-144RN)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who are willing to spend a few extra bucks for better quality don’t regret making this decision. Sceptre has given them a better competitive edge and better visibility.
Moreover, buyers are also pleased with the inclusion of a greater number of ports that make connections smoother. These display ports also promise higher resolution.
Why it Stands Out to Us
When it comes to gaming, audio quality is as important as video quality, sometimes even more. Sceptre understands this, which is why all their gaming monitors come equipped with a smooth and steady built-in speaker. This delivers office-level audios that one can thoroughly enjoy during gaming.
Who Will Use This Most
People who spend a lot of time on gaming will make the most use of this. This model offers better compatibility with a range of systems, which is another noteworthy feature to look out for. But it is most suitable for people who prefer their images to be sharp and clear.
Not only that, but the curved screen also tends to reduce glare and eye strain that one might suffer after long exposure.
Bottom Line
Curved gaming monitors are the new big deal these days, and everyone wants to get their hands on one, but a lot of people can’t decide which one to buy.
Sceptre gaming monitors definitely make for a perfect choice. They not only allow for on-spot and quick movements but also give gamers a competitive edge. Moreover, they come with built-in speakers, which makes them truly unique.
Best Gaming Monitor Under $300:
Sceptre (C305B-200UN)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
With its latest AMD sync technology and curved screen, there was no doubt that buyers were going to love this model. They have particularly praised the custom display settings and faster response timing, which affect their gaming experience directly. Not only that, but buyers also rated it a top-notch model for fast action games.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The monitor’s blue light shift is undoubtedly its most noteworthy feature and one that stands out most to us. This is because gaming for hours can become strenuous at times and can result in increased eye strain. Hence, it is important that users prioritize their health too.
This latest mechanism protects your eyes from additional fatigue, irritation, and strain, thereby ensuring safety.
Who Will Use This Most
People who indulge in fast action games, such as first-player shooter games will love using this monitor. It comes with a faster response time, which adds to the precision and accuracy of your responses.
Moreover, its quicker refresh rates also reduce any blurring or ghosting that you might experience otherwise. This ensures you get the clearest picture possible.
Bottom Line
When it comes to gaming, gamers hate following norms and fixed rules. They want to experience new things and customize gaming profiles according to their preference. This model allows this and much more, like blue shift lighting that reduces eye strain and a relatively higher refresh rate.
The only downside to the model is its relatively higher price, but the numerous features definitely make it worth the money.
Best 1440P Gaming Monitor:
Dell S-Series (S2719DGF)
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers had no idea that they were in for a treat when they bought this spectacular gaming monitor. It not only comes with higher brightness but also offers greater customization on its gaming profiles.
Moreover, its AMD Free Sync technology reduces input lag, hence further adding to its appeal.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Dell gaming monitor offers an amazing unified look, and its sleek design adds beauty to your gaming equipment. It also offers more comfort, which makes it stand out in the crowd. You can easily tilt, pivot, or even swivel the monitor according to your own convenience.
Moreover, the monitor also allows for height adjustments so you can find your ideal position.
Who Will Use This Most
People who cannot compromise on high resolution will make the most use of these models. Unlike most models that offer 1080p resolution or even less, this model exceeds expectations by providing 1440p resolution.
It also offers effortless connectivity with its wide range of multiple ports. This also allows you to add other gaming consoles to your monitors. This makes the model apt for multiple users at the same time.
Bottom Line
The most ideal resolution for gamers is 1440p, and this model is known for providing that. But that’s not the only reason it is loved all across the gaming community.
This Dell monitor is known for providing an immersive experience to its users by minimizing input lag and providing an overall better response time. It is also very durable, which adds to its appeal.
Best 240 Hz Gaming Monitor:
Alienware AW2518Hf
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers couldn’t be happier with the amazing performance of Alienware gaming monitors. These offer a dynamic on-screen display, which makes gaming more interesting.
Not only that, but they also offer a better refresh rate and response time, which make them stand out in the crowd.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We spent a lot of time deciding which feature stands out to us most. The AMD Free Sync technology not only synchronizes your GPU with your monitor, but it also displays fps at all times.
Not only that, but this technology is also capable of minimizing distortions such as artifacts and tearing to a larger degree.
Who Will Use This Most
The model is engineered to elevate the status of your game to the highest degree possible. It is made of premium materials, which gives it a thin yet stylish look.
The screen isn’t very wide, which means that it can be adjusted in smaller spaces. It also allows different positions by giving you the option to tilt, pivot, and swivel it.
Bottom Line
Alienware gaming monitors are beautiful from inside out. They come with exquisite features like high compatibility and better customization options. They also have a refresh rate of 240 Hz that provides you with smoother connections for a longer time.
Moreover, you can find your ideal viewing angles, all thanks to the adjustable design of the monitor.
What Type of Monitor is Best For Gaming?
There are many different variations of gaming monitors that exist in the market. Each company claims that their monitors are the best ones. So in such a situation, it can be hard for a gamer to find the most suitable design for their use.
Here is a comparison of different types of monitors for gaming.
Curved vs. Flat Monitor For Gaming
Curved monitors are definitely fancier, and they allow for a more immersive experience where users can get 3D effects more easily. Not only that, but they are also very comfortable, as they don’t put much pressure on the eyes and relieve any strain.
A downside to them, however, is their relatively higher price.
On the other hand, flat monitors are cheaper and more common. But that’s not the only advantage that they possess. Unlike curved screens, flat ones are easier to get used to and can appeal to a larger number of people.
TV vs. Monitor For Gaming
The most obvious advantage of having a TV is that it offers dual usage. For many people, this is important because they can use the same screen for multiple purposes. TV screens also tend to be bigger in size, which makes gaming more fun.
Moreover, TV screens tend to be comparatively cheaper than monitors.
On the other hand, monitors are often preferred because they offer lower lag. Not only that, but they also offer higher refresh rates and much faster response time. But they are obviously more expensive than TV screens.
LED vs. LCD Monitor For Gaming
Now, this one is quite interesting because no matter how many people answer this question, people still end up being confused between the two types.
LED screens definitely offer more brightness and better contrast. They also consume relatively less energy, making them eco-friendly. Their response time is also less, resulting in low lag.
On the other hand, LCDs are relatively cheaper and have a low response time. But they do tend to be larger than LEDs, which makes them more appealing to some.
All in all, the choice of which one is better depends on your preference.
Conclusion
Investing in a new product can be daunting and very scary, especially if that product costs a handful. But regardless of the cost, we can assure you that this investment is going to be worth your money.
Gaming monitors, especially the ones included in this review, come with exceptional response timing and have great aesthetics. These are also very durable and reliable, which adds to their longevity.
So, once you have bought a new model, rest assured that you won’t have to replace it for a long time.
People Also Ask
FAQs are a great way of clearing any and every confusion that people have in regards to products, and with gaming, these confusions are endless.
Here are the most frequent questions that were asked of us on the internet. We have tried our best to give a comprehensive answer to each.
What is a Good Response Time For a Gaming Monitor?
Most monitors come with a response time of 5 ms. But these usually don’t fall under a gaming monitor. A good gaming monitor will have a response time anywhere between 1 ms and 4 ms.
However, it is important to note that it is very difficult to include a very low response time on every monitor, so you should be okay with a response time near 3 ms.
How Many Hz in a Monitor For Gaming?
A display of 120 Hz will refresh twice as quickly as a display of 60 Hz. This means that it can display up to 120 frames per second, which is fairly good.
Moreover, a display of 240 Hz is even better as it offers 240 frames per second. This will also help eliminate any tearing in your game.
How to Calibrate a Monitor For Gaming?
This is pretty simple, as it requires only a few steps.
You need to turn off your monitor at least 30 minutes before calibration so it can warm up nicely. You then have to set the resolution of the monitor to its default screen. Your monitor will have built-in tools for calibration that you can use for the purpose.
Just make sure there is ambient light in the room when you do this.
How to Clean a Gaming Monitor?
Cleaning a gaming monitor is pretty easy, especially if you have a good model. You can use a dry and lint-free cloth to clean the monitor. You can even use a solution of water and mild soap and wipe the surface carefully. Just make sure not to press too harshly on the screen.
What Resolution Do Pro-Gamers Use?
The absolute best resolution for PC gamers usually depends on the GPU you own. It also depends on the budget you have. Right now, most gamers are opting for a resolution of 1440p. However, the ideal spot is 4k. This is harder to achieve because of budget constraints.
Are Gaming Monitors Worth It?
Gaming monitors are a great investment, and you will get this same answer from anyone you ask, gamer or otherwise. These gaming monitors not only come with better response times, but they also provide better resolution and color coordination.
If that’s not enough, gaming monitors also help reduce lag, which comes in handy in competitive games.
Can Monitors Affect Fps?
Frames per second are dependent on the type of CPU and GPU you use. The more powerful the GPU, the better your fps will be. In other words, fps is not at all affected by the type of monitor you use. So you don’t have to worry about that.
Other Monitor Reviews
To help you quickly find what you need, we have organized all of our monitor buyer guides into one place. Feel free to browse around. Thanks for reading!
Monitor Buyer Guides
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