Affordable Gaming Monitors Optimized for In-Game Dominance

The prices of high-end gaming monitors have skyrocketed, especially those boasting OLED panels, large screens, high refresh rates, and sharp resolutions. However, there's still a fantastic selection of affordable options that don't compromise on image quality and features as much as you might think. This guide highlights the best budget gaming monitors available in 2024.

TL;DR – Best Budget Gaming Monitors:

Top Pick: Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor

See it on Amazon Best 1080p: Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

See it on Amazon Best 1440p: LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

See it on Amazon/Target Best 4K: KTC H27P22S

See it on Amazon Best Ultrawide: Dell S3422DWG

See it on Amazon/Dell

Budget monitors might lack some advanced features, but they still deliver excellent visuals for gaming PCs, even with mid-range GPUs and CPUs. While compromises exist (e.g., adjustable stands, KVM switches), prioritizing performance and essential features yields excellent value. However, be wary of extremely cheap monitors; they may be short-lived and potentially harmful to your eyes.

Contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith

For current deals, see the best gaming monitor deals.

1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor – Best Overall

• Exceptional picture quality at a great price. Amazon Link
• Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 2560x1440, IPS, 1000 cd/m², 180Hz, 1ms
• Pros: High brightness, deep contrast, accurate colors, excellent HDR, 1152 local dimming zones.
• Cons: Bloom on dark grays, no USB hub.

The Xiaomi G Pro 27i is a standout, offering mini-LED backlighting with full-array local dimming (FALD) and 1152 dimming zones – a feature usually found in much more expensive monitors. This significantly reduces blooming, resulting in a superior HDR experience closer to OLEDs without the burn-in risk. It boasts a 180Hz refresh rate, accurate colors, and compatibility with FreeSync and G-Sync. The lack of a USB hub and HDMI 2.0 limitation are minor drawbacks considering its overall quality.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A – Best Budget 1080p

• Excellent gaming performance at around $150. Amazon Link
• Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 1920x1080, VA, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible, 350 cd/m², 165Hz, 1ms
• Pros: Great colors and contrast, ELMB support, VESA mount.
• Cons: Non-adjustable height, lower pixel density.

The Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A provides impressive value. Its VA panel delivers deep blacks and wide dynamic range, while its 1ms response time and features like ELMB and Shadow Boost enhance gameplay. The non-adjustable stand and lower pixel density due to 1080p resolution are its main drawbacks.

3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B – Best Budget 1440p

• 1440p resolution, adaptive sync, and accurate colors for under $300. Amazon/Target Link
• Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 2560x1440, IPS, FreeSync, G-Sync, 1ms, 144Hz
• Pros: Solid HDR gaming, accurate colors, Low Framerate Compensation.
• Cons: Non-adjustable height.

The LG UltraGear 27GN800-B offers a significant resolution upgrade to 1440p with accurate colors and a 144Hz refresh rate, along with FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility and Low Framerate Compensation. The lack of height adjustment is its primary drawback.

4. KTC H27P22S – Best Budget 4K

• Fast and fantastic 4K picture on a budget. Amazon Link
• Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 3840x2160, IPS, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible, 400 cd/m², 160Hz, 1ms
• Pros: Sharp 4K screen, HDMI 2.1 for consoles, fast refresh rate.
• Cons: No USB connectivity, not factory calibrated.

The KTC H27P22S delivers a compelling 4K gaming experience at a reasonable price, with a 160Hz refresh rate and HDMI 2.1 support. While not factory calibrated and lacking USB connectivity, its overall performance makes it a strong contender.

5. Dell S3422DWG – Best Ultrawide Budget

• Immersive ultrawide curved monitor with 1440p/144Hz. Amazon/Dell Link
• Specifications: 34”, 21:9, 3440x1440, VA, FreeSync, 400 cd/m², 144Hz, 1ms
• Pros: Great contrast, immersive curved display, height-adjustable stand, USB hub.
• Cons: Minor ghosting.

The Dell S3422DWG offers an immersive ultrawide experience at a budget-friendly price. Its VA panel provides rich contrast, and the 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. Minor ghosting is a minor drawback.

How Much to Spend & Key Considerations:

The $200-$300 range offers excellent value. Compromises are inevitable, but a well-chosen monitor should last several years. Consider these factors:

• Resolution: 1080p is budget-friendly but less sharp than 1440p or 4K. 1440p offers a better balance of detail and system requirements. 4K requires more powerful hardware.
• Refresh Rate: 144Hz is a good all-around choice, while 240Hz is better for competitive gaming.
• Panel Type: IPS offers better motion clarity and colors, while VA provides superior contrast. Mini-LED backlighting (like in the Xiaomi) offers the best of both worlds.
• Screen Size: 27" is a good balance for most users; consider your desk space.

FAQs:

• Best Panel Type: Depends on priorities. IPS for color and motion clarity, VA for contrast. Mini-LED is superior if within budget.
• When are Monitors Cheapest?: Prime Day, Black Friday, Back to School sales.
• Monitor Size: Consider desk space, resolution, and pixel density. 24" for 1080p, 27-32" for 1440p, 27"+ for 4K. Avoid large 1080p monitors due to the screen door effect.

Remember to check for G-Sync or FreeSync compatibility based on your graphics card. While many budget monitors advertise HDR, 400-nit brightness limits its effectiveness.