Top 5 1080p Gaming Monitors of 2025

In the PC gaming world, discussions often revolve around 1440p and 4K monitors, yet according to Steam's Hardware Survey, the majority of gamers still prefer 1080p resolutions. This preference is largely due to the cost-effectiveness and performance benefits that 1080p monitors offer. With a market flooded with options, choosing the best 1080p gaming monitor can be daunting. But don't worry—I'm here to guide you through the top picks for 2025, ensuring you spend less time shopping and more time enjoying your games.

TL;DR – These Are the Best 1080p Gaming Monitors:

Our Top Pick### Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

2See it at Amazon### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy ### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

2See it at Amazon### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2See it at Amazon### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0See it at Amazon

Opting for a 1080p gaming monitor offers several advantages. They are generally more affordable than their 1440p and 4K counterparts and can boast high refresh rates up to 500Hz, providing smooth gameplay. They also support technologies like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring a tear-free experience. Moreover, 1080p monitors are easier to run, requiring less powerful and less expensive graphics cards, making them ideal for gamers with entry-level GPUs. However, they may appear less crisp, especially on screens larger than 27 inches. For those seeking higher resolutions, check out our list of the best gaming monitors of 2025.

1. Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

Best 1080p Gaming Monitor

Our Top Pick### Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

2A 27-inch Full HD display with an overclockable 240Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and adaptive sync for smooth action. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 27"
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
• Panel type: IPS
• FreeSync, G-Sync compatible
• Brightness: 400cd/m²
• Refresh rate: 240Hz, 280Hz (OC)
• Response time: 1 ms (GTG)
• Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2

PROS

• Great value for money
• FreeSync support and G-Sync compatibility

CONS

• No local dimming

The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM stands out as the best 1080p gaming monitor for most users. Priced under $300, it offers a fast and vibrant display capable of reaching a 280Hz refresh rate. With low input lag, variable refresh rate support, and high peak brightness, this monitor ensures your games look their best and deliver crisp motion clarity when you need it most. Although I didn't personally review this monitor, our reviewer praised its balanced feature set. It supports both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, eliminating screen tearing and providing near-instantaneous response times thanks to its rapid 280Hz refresh rate. The 27-inch size is perfect for its resolution, offering a spacious yet clear viewing experience. Its 400 nits of brightness make it suitable for brightly lit rooms and enhance color vibrancy. While it's DisplayHDR 400 certified, don't expect the dynamic range of true HDR monitors, which typically require 1,000 nits. Overall, the VG279QM's combination of price, features, and performance makes it the top choice for 2025.

2. Samsung Odyssey G30D

Best Budget 1080p Monitor

### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1This gaming monitor is small but mighty, offering a solid picture and great gaming performance at a low price. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 24"
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
• Panel type: IPS
• FreeSync, G-Sync Compatible
• Brightness: 250cd/m²
• Refresh rate: 180Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Inputs: 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort

PROS

• Color-rich screen
• 1ms response time
• High refresh rate

CONS

• Middling peak brightness

Shopping for a budget-friendly gaming monitor can be risky, but the Samsung Odyssey G30D offers a safe bet. This 24-inch monitor from a reputable brand is available for about $120 and delivers vibrant colors and a gaming-grade 1ms response time. With a 180Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth gameplay and excellent motion clarity. It also supports variable refresh rate technology, compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring tear-free gaming even at lower frame rates. Although it has only one HDMI and one DisplayPort, this is not a significant issue for single-computer setups. The monitor's peak brightness of 250 nits might limit its use in direct sunlight, but it performs well in typical room lighting. The reliability of a major brand and a one-year warranty add value to this affordable yet feature-rich monitor, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.

3. AOC Gaming C27G2Z

Best Curved 1080p Monitor

### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

21080p gamers will love this monitor's balance of an immersive curve, spacious screen, and fast refresh rate. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 27" 1500R
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
• Panel type: VA
• FreeSync
• Brightness: 300cd/m²
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 0.5ms
• Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort

PROS

• Low input latency
• Rapid response time
• Vibrant colors and good contrast

CONS

• May require calibration and OSD adjustments to bring it to taste

Priced around $150, the AOC Gaming C27G2Z is a value-packed curved gaming monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time. Its 1500R curve strikes the perfect balance, offering immersion without distorting text. The VA panel delivers rich colors and a 3000:1 contrast ratio, enhancing blacks and shadows for a superior gaming experience. With support for variable refresh rate technology for both AMD and Nvidia GPUs, it ensures smooth and competitive gameplay. While the out-of-the-box settings might need some tweaking for optimal picture quality, a bit of calibration can unlock its full potential. This monitor is an excellent choice for 1080p gamers seeking an immersive and responsive gaming experience at a great price.

4. Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

Best Ultrawide 1080p Monitor

### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2At less than $200, this curved gaming monitor offers a great picture, fast refresh rate, solid color coverage, and an immersive curve. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 29.5"
• Aspect ratio: 21:9
• Resolution: 2,560x1,080
• Panel type: VA, AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync compatible
• Brightness: 350cd/m²
• Refresh rate: 200Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Inputs: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort 1.2

PROS

• Good color coverage and deep contrast
• Immersive 1500R curve
• 2x HDMI and DisplayPort jacks

CONS

• Out of the box color accuracy

The Acer Nitro ED6 stands out as a top choice for an ultrawide 1080p monitor, available for under $200. Its 29.5-inch screen with a 21:9 aspect ratio provides a spacious viewing area that feels like having two 24-inch monitors side by side. The VA panel offers great colors and contrast, while the 200Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. The 1500R curve enhances immersion, making it suitable for both single-player and competitive gaming. With versatile connectivity options and support for AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, it delivers a tear-free experience. While its out-of-the-box color accuracy might need some fine-tuning, the Acer Nitro ED6 is an excellent choice for gamers seeking an ultrawide monitor at an affordable price.

5. BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Best 1080p Monitor for Esports

### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0This monitor is as fast as they come with its 600Hz refresh rate but also includes additional features to offer an engaging picture and a competitive edge. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 24.1"
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
• Panel type: TN
• Brightness: 320cd/m²
• Refresh rate: 600Hz
• Inputs: 3 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack

PROS

• Insanely fast
• DyAc 2 for improved motion clarity
• Color enhancing film
• Trusted esports brand commonly found in professional tournaments

CONS

• Very expensive
• TN colors and viewing angles aren't great

For competitive gamers, the BenQ Zowie XL2586X+ is the ultimate 1080p monitor, offering an unparalleled 600Hz refresh rate. This monitor is a staple in professional esports due to its exceptional responsiveness and reliability. While TN panels are not typically recommended for their color quality and viewing angles, BenQ's implementation of VividFilm enhances color reproduction significantly. Additionally, the DyAc2 technology improves motion clarity, giving players a competitive edge. Priced at $999, this monitor is a premium investment that isn't for everyone but is essential for those seeking the highest level of performance in competitive gaming.

How to Choose a 1080p Monitor

When shopping for a 1080p monitor, consider the following key factors to ensure you find the best fit for your needs:

Size: Choose a monitor size that suits your space. To avoid visible pixels, keep it at 27 inches or smaller.

Panel Type: The primary panel types are IPS and VA. IPS panels offer the best colors and viewing angles but have lower contrast. VA panels provide good colors and higher contrast but have less favorable viewing angles. TN panels, while fast, are generally outdated for most users except in competitive esports settings.

Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate, such as 144Hz or more, provides smoother gameplay and better motion clarity. Rates above 200Hz are ideal for competitive gaming.

Brightness: Aim for monitors with brightness levels of 300 nits or higher for a vivid picture, especially in well-lit environments.

Additional Features: Look for features like variable refresh rate support (FreeSync or G-Sync), on-screen reticles, timers, and software support to enhance your gaming experience.

1080p Gaming Monitor FAQ

Is a 1080p monitor worse than 1440p?

A 1080p monitor has a resolution of 1920x1080, totaling 2.07 million pixels, while a 1440p monitor offers 2560x1440, or 3.69 million pixels, providing a crisper image. However, the difference may not be as noticeable on smaller screens, and 1080p monitors are easier to run, making them more cost-effective and suitable for entry-level GPUs.

What is the best size for a 1080p monitor?

For optimal clarity and space, I recommend a 1080p monitor size of 27 inches or smaller. Larger sizes may make individual pixels visible and the image softer.

How much should I pay for a 1080p monitor?

The price of a 1080p monitor varies based on size, features, and performance. You can find excellent options under $200, making it a great starting point for new PC gamers.