Top Budget Gaming Monitors for Every Gamer

The cost of the best gaming monitors has surged, particularly for models boasting OLED panels, expansive screens, and high refresh rates paired with crisp resolutions. However, there remains a robust selection of affordable monitors that offer impressive image quality and features without breaking the bank. Take, for instance, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which features an astounding mini-LED, quantum dot screen for well under $400. This monitor is my top pick due to its ability to rival much pricier models, making it a prime example of high-quality options available on a tight budget, provided you know where to search.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Monitors:

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

1See it at AmazonBest 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

0See it at AmazonBest 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

0See it at AmazonSee it at TargetBest 4K### KTC H27P22S

0See it at AmazonBest ultrawide### DellS3422DWG

0See it at AmazonSee it at DellThe best budget gaming monitors may not include all the latest technologies and features, yet they deliver an outstanding display for enjoying your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be maximized, as high refresh and 4K monitors are now available at more affordable prices. While compromises are inevitable, such as height-adjustable stands on the lower end and additional features like KVM switches on the higher end, focusing on performance and your essential requirements can lead to exceptional value at any price point.

Not all budget gaming monitors are equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it often is. A monitor priced at $100 might seem like a bargain, but it could quickly fail or cause eye strain during gameplay, ultimately doing more harm than good. Our recommended options might cost slightly more than $100, but their sturdy construction, superior panels, and gaming features enhance the overall experience. Just like any other gaming accessory, more luxurious gaming monitors 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 a phenomenal 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 stands out as the most impressive gaming monitor I've reviewed in 2024. Priced around $330 at the time of writing, it sets a new standard for what you can expect from affordable gaming monitors. Though it's not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it surpasses its competitors with exceptional picture quality and an enhanced gaming experience.

Unlike typical budget gaming monitors, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i employs mini-LED technology and full array local dimming (FALD) to backlight its display, allowing for intelligent dimming of dark screen areas for superior contrast.

While there are other FALD mini-LED displays around its price point, none match the G Pro 27i's performance. Its remarkable 1,152 local dimming zones, usually found in monitors costing over $700, significantly reduce blooming and elevate the viewing experience. The HDR performance is outstanding, far surpassing other monitors on this list. In fact, its image quality rivals that of OLEDs, which are typically much pricier, without the risks of burn-in or issues with text clarity.

Xiaomi's choice of panel is top-notch, capable of reaching up to 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal motion blur. In its DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB color modes, it delivers accurate colors suitable for content creation. It's also compatible with variable refresh rate systems, including AMD FreeSync and, though not officially stated, Nvidia's G-Sync worked seamlessly in my tests.

This monitor truly impressed me, though it's not without flaws. To keep costs down, Xiaomi omitted a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity. It also only supports HDMI 2.0, but this is sufficient for 1440p gaming with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Additionally, it lacks some gaming-specific features.

However, these trade-offs are more than justified for a monitor of this quality at this price. Simply put, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the best choice right now if you're looking for OLED-like picture quality without the usual drawbacks and high cost.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor

Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

2Delivering excellent gaming performance for around $150 with 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 incredible value and can be easily powered by a variety of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to maximize this display, and its VA panel delivers deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range across all game types. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and features designed to enhance your gameplay, it provides excellent performance for the price.

In this price range, VA panels are my go-to choice. Although IPS panels are renowned for their color reproduction, VA panels offer comparable color quality while providing a superior gaming experience thanks to their enhanced black levels. This model also boasts a decent brightness of 350 nits, ensuring vibrant colors and good performance in well-lit environments.

It comes equipped with game-enhancing features that can give you a competitive edge. You can add an on-screen reticle for games without one, use Shadow Boost to spot enemies in dark areas more easily, and activate Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode to reduce motion blur for a smoother, clearer gaming experience.

There are two significant drawbacks to consider. First, like many monitors in this price range, the stand isn't height adjustable. It supports VESA mounting (100x100mm), so you can use an aftermarket stand or monitor arm if the positioning isn't ideal, but this requires additional investment. Second, its 27" screen size at 1080p resolution can lead to a slightly less sharp image compared to smaller screens at the same resolution. This is as large as you can go before noticing the screen door effect, so while it's good, it's not as crisp as a 24" display at this resolution.

Despite these minor cons, the Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers far more than it lacks, making it a recommended upgrade for those seeking to enhance their gaming experience without spending too much.

3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

Best 1440p Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

0Achieve speeds up to 144Hz in 1440p with this monitor, which also offers 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. For under $300, you get a boost to 2560x1440 resolution, which significantly increases sharpness compared to a 1080p monitor. The vibrant visuals are enhanced by excellent color accuracy and good factory calibration. Its 27" screen size provides an immersive experience while maintaining manageable system requirements.

This monitor excels in other areas as well. It features a 144Hz refresh rate and is compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. A feature I highly value is its Low Framerate Compensation, which can insert frames to sync with the refresh rate, making games run more smoothly even if your system can't consistently hit 144Hz.

The primary downside is the lack of a height-adjustable stand. Depending on your desk setup, you might find the monitor's position suboptimal for your height. However, it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount, allowing you to easily swap out the stand for a more adjustable option if needed. Despite this, its feature set and affordable price make it a top choice.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 4K### KTC H27P22S

1Offering a fast and fantastic picture on a limited budget. 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 demonstrates the remarkable progress in the budget gaming monitor market. Priced at $400 and often on sale for as low as $340, it proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a high refresh rate and 4K gaming experience. It's difficult to find much fault with this monitor, making it a compelling option for those with the hardware to support it.

Alongside its crisp 4K resolution, the H27P22D boasts an impressive 160Hz refresh rate, fully supporting AMD FreeSync Premium and compatible with Nvidia G-Sync for smooth gameplay even if you can't reach the maximum refresh rate. It's also an excellent choice for console gaming, thanks to its dual HDMI 2.1 ports. Just remember to bring your own audio solution, as there are no built-in speakers.

While some marketing claims might be overstated, the real-world performance is still remarkable for the price. Its peak brightness of 400 nits may not be sufficient for true HDR, but it's more than enough for a vivid SDR gaming experience. The color coverage is excellent, though it's not factory calibrated, which may require some adjustment for creative work. Additionally, it lacks a USB hub, so direct peripheral connectivity isn't an option.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the KTC H27P22D is an exceptional value for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade to Ultra HD.

Dell S3422DWG

5 Images5. Dell S3422DWG

Best Ultrawide Budget Gaming Monitor

Best ultrawide### DellS3422DWG

0Immerse yourself in the action with this affordable, ultrawide curved monitor delivering 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 ghostingFor an immersive gaming experience, an ultrawide curved monitor like the Dell S3422DWG is a fantastic choice, especially when it's budget-friendly. Its VA panel and 3440x1440 resolution deliver a vibrant, sharp image perfect for any game genre. The 21:9 aspect ratio and slight curvature envelop your field of vision, allowing you to stay focused on the game.

When it comes to ultrawides, I prefer the "1440p" resolution over the ultrawide equivalent of 1080p. While it does demand more from your graphics hardware, the higher pixel density results in a superior image.

The monitor offers a solid 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync, ensuring smooth gameplay. Although there may be minor motion blur behind dark objects, overall motion clarity is strong.

Despite its competitive price, the S3422DWG is well-designed, featuring a height-adjustable stand, multiple HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, and even USB hub functionality.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?

For a budget gaming monitor, aim for a sweet spot between $200 and $300. While you can find cheaper options, quality often suffers at lower price points. A gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor may not meet this expectation.

To find a monitor within this price range, you'll need to understand what to look for and prioritize features based on your needs.

ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeGamers on a tight budget have more options than before, but compromises are still necessary. You can opt for a higher resolution or a higher refresh rate, but not both in a budget monitor.

1080p remains the standard for budget displays. It lacks the clarity of modern 4K TVs, but the lower resolution allows for high frame rates on less powerful hardware. 1440p is a significant upgrade and offers better value if your budget allows. A 27" 1440p monitor has a higher pixel density than a 48" 4K television, though it means a 240Hz refresh rate becomes unaffordable.

4K is available on a budget, but expect to pay around $400 or make sacrifices in brightness or screen size. Keep in mind the higher system requirements needed for 4K gaming at high frame rates.

Budget gaming monitors typically offer refresh rates from 60 to 240Hz, with most falling between 144Hz and 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is ideal for most games, but 240Hz is a noticeable improvement for competitive gamers. 360Hz is also becoming more accessible in budget options.

Note that not all inputs support the monitor's maximum refresh rate. For instance, some 165Hz monitors might only support 144Hz over HDMI. DisplayPort is your best bet for using high refresh rates.

The display panel technology is crucial and often overlooked. Our recommended monitors use either IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, making them ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer superior contrast and dark scene performance, enhancing the experience in games with immersive 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" options and a 34" ultrawide. Smaller 24" monitors are more affordable and preferred by competitive gamers for their focused view. Larger monitors (32" and up) are more immersive but can lose detail without higher resolutions. Ensure your desk can accommodate your chosen size; a 27" monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe choice.

Opt for a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on your graphics card. Many budget monitors support both, and our picks list the standards they support.

Finally, a note on HDR: While many budget monitors market HDR, most only reach a maximum of 400 nits of brightness, which is considered "HDR compatible" but lacks the dynamic range for true HDR.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget gaming monitors usually feature either VA or IPS panels. My top pick uses an IPS panel with a mini-LED backlight, surpassing other types due to its implementation. Choose this if your budget and needs align. Otherwise, the choice between VA and IPS depends on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.

IPS panels are preferred for response time and color accuracy, with 1ms panels now available for both types. IPS monitors offer the most vivid and accurate colors.

VA panels excel in contrast unless equipped with a mini-LED backlight like my top pick. Their superior black levels and dynamic range make them ideal for immersive gaming.

There's no "best" panel type, but the right choice depends on what you prioritize in a gaming monitor.

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

The best times to buy gaming monitors at reduced prices are during shopping 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 matter of personal preference, but consider your available space first. Also, think about the resolution and pixel density. A 24" monitor is ideal for 1080p gaming. For 1440p, 27-32" offers a good balance of detail and screen size. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended to leverage the higher pixel count. Avoid 1080p monitors larger than 27" to prevent the screen door effect.