Top Budget Gaming Monitors for Every Gamer

In today's market, the prices of the best gaming monitors have significantly increased, particularly for those featuring OLED panels, large screens, and high refresh rates at sharp resolutions. However, there's still a wide range of affordable monitors available that don't compromise much on image quality and features. A prime example is the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which boasts an impressive mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400. This monitor is my top pick because it rivals more expensive models and showcases the exceptional quality that can be found on a budget, provided you know where to look.

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 might lack some advanced technology and features, but they still deliver an excellent display for enjoying your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits, as high refresh rate and 4K monitors are now available at more affordable prices. While trade-offs are common, such as the absence of height-adjustable stands in lower-end models or value-adds like KVM switches in higher-end ones, by focusing on performance and your essential requirements, you can find great value at various price points.

Not all budget gaming monitors are equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it often is. A $100 monitor might seem like a bargain, but it could fail quickly or cause eye strain, ultimately doing more harm than good. Our recommended options might cost more than $100, but they offer solid builds, excellent panels, and gaming features that enhance your experience. However, if you're willing to spend more, there are even nicer gaming monitors available.

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 an unbeatable 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 is the most impressive gaming monitor I've reviewed in 2024. Priced at around $330, it sets a new standard for what to expect from affordable gaming monitors. Although it's not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it outperforms its competitors by delivering a superior picture and gaming experience.

The Xiaomi G Pro 27i stands out by using mini-LED technology and full array local dimming (FALD), which allows the display to enhance contrast by intelligently dimming dark areas. While there are other FALD mini-LED displays in this price range, none match the G Pro 27i's 1,152 local dimming zones, typically found in monitors costing over $700. This significantly reduces blooming and enhances the viewing experience. Its HDR performance is exceptional, surpassing all other monitors on this list and closely resembling that of OLEDs, which are often much more expensive and susceptible to burn-in issues.

The panel used in this display supports a refresh rate of up to 180Hz, ensuring ultra-smooth gameplay and minimal motion blur. It also offers accurate colors in DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB modes, making it suitable for content creation. The monitor is compatible with AMD FreeSync and, although not officially stated, Nvidia's G-Sync worked well during my testing.

While this monitor is impressive, it does have some trade-offs to keep the price low. It lacks a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity, and only supports HDMI 2.0. However, this is sufficient for 1440p gaming with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. It also has fewer gaming features than some competitors. Despite these limitations, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the best choice for those seeking OLED-like picture quality at a fraction of the cost.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor

Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

2For around $150, this monitor delivers excellent gaming performance 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 exceptional value and can be easily powered by a wide range of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to maximize this display's potential, and its VA panel ensures deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range across various games. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and game-enhancing features, it's ideal for competitive shooters and esports, providing excellent performance for the price.

In this price range, I recommend VA panels over IPS because they offer comparable color quality while delivering a superior gaming experience with improved blacks. This model's 350 nits brightness is sufficient for vibrant colors and gaming in well-lit environments.

The monitor includes game-enhancing features like an on-screen reticle for games without one, Shadow Boost to improve visibility in dark areas, and Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode to reduce motion blur for a smoother gaming experience.

There are two main drawbacks to consider. The stand is not height adjustable, although it supports VESA mounting (100x100mm), allowing you to use a third-party stand or monitor arm if needed. Additionally, its 27" screen at 1080p resolution might not be as sharp as a smaller 24" display, but it offers a more immersive experience.

Overall, the Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A provides significant gaming improvements without breaking the bank.

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 supports adaptive sync technology and offers 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, it offers a 2560x1440 resolution, providing significantly sharper visuals than a 1080p monitor. Its great color accuracy and decent factory calibration enhance the gaming experience on its spacious 27" screen, striking a perfect balance between detail and system requirements.

This monitor also excels with a 144Hz refresh rate and compatibility with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. It includes Low Framerate Compensation, which helps maintain smooth gameplay even when your system can't reach the maximum refresh rate.

The primary drawback is the non-height-adjustable stand. However, it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount, allowing for easy replacement with a more adjustable stand if needed. Given its feature set and affordable price, the LG UltraGear 27GN800-B remains a top choice.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 4K### KTC H27P22S

1Experience a fast and stunning picture on a budget with this gaming monitor. 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 exemplifies the advancements 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 for a high refresh rate, 4K gaming experience. With its crisp 4K resolution and impressive 160Hz refresh rate, it supports AMD FreeSync Premium and is compatible with Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring smooth gameplay. Its dual HDMI 2.1 ports make it ideal for console gaming.

While its 400 nits of peak brightness doesn't qualify for true high dynamic range, it's bright enough for a vivid SDR gaming experience. The color coverage is excellent, though it lacks factory calibration, making it suitable for gaming but not for professional creative work without additional calibration. It also lacks a USB hub, but its overall performance and value are exceptional, especially considering the cost of similar features just a few years ago. The KTC H27P22D is a fantastic option for budget-conscious gamers wanting 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, offering 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 ghostingThe Dell S3422DWG is the best budget ultrawide monitor for an immersive gaming experience. Its contrast-rich VA panel with a 3440x1440 resolution delivers vibrant, sharp images across all game genres. The 21:9 aspect ratio and curved screen enhance your field of vision, keeping you focused on the game.

I recommend the "1440p" resolution for large ultrawides, as it offers a higher pixel density and better image quality than the ultrawide equivalent of 1080p, though it requires more graphics power.

This monitor features a 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync, ensuring smooth gameplay. It may exhibit minor motion blur behind dark objects, but overall motion clarity is strong.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the S3422DWG offers a height-adjustable stand, multiple ports, and can function as a USB hub, making it an attractive and versatile option.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?

For a budget gaming monitor, the sweet spot is around $200-$300. While cheaper options exist, they often compromise on quality. A good gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor is unlikely to meet this expectation.

To find the right monitor within this price range, consider what features are most important to you and be prepared to make some compromises.

ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeBudget gamers have more options today, but some compromises are still necessary. You can choose a higher resolution or a higher refresh rate, but not both in a budget monitor.

1080p remains the standard resolution for budget displays. While it doesn't match the clarity of 4K TVs, it's easier to achieve high frame rates with lower-end hardware. Upgrading to 1440p provides better value if you can stretch your budget, offering higher pixel density than a 48" 4K TV on a 27" screen, though at the cost of a 240Hz refresh rate.

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

Budget gaming monitors typically have refresh rates ranging from 60 to 240Hz, with most at 144Hz or 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is suitable for most games, while 240Hz is ideal for competitive gaming. 360Hz is becoming more accessible for budget monitors.

Note that the monitor's maximum refresh rate may not be supported by all inputs. DisplayPort is the best option for high refresh rates.

A monitor's display panel technology is crucial but often overlooked. Our recommendations include IPS or VA panels. IPS panels are favored for their motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, making them ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer better contrast and dark scene performance, enhancing the experience in games with high-end graphics.

Panel Types

TN (twisted nematic)IPS (in-plane switching)VA (vertical alignment)OLED (organic light-emitting diode)Screen size is less of a limitation than before. Our guide focuses on 27" monitors and a 34" ultrawide. Smaller 24" monitors are less expensive and preferred by competitive gamers for focus. Larger monitors (32" and up) are more immersive but may lose detail without higher resolutions. Ensure your desk can accommodate the monitor size, and a 27" monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe choice.

It's wise to choose a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on your graphics card. Many budget monitors support both, and our picks list their supported standards.

Finally, regarding HDR, while many affordable monitors claim HDR compatibility, most only reach 400 nits of brightness, which is insufficient for true HDR and only displays SDR content.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget gaming monitors typically feature VA or IPS panels. My top pick uses an IPS panel with a mini-LED backlight, offering superior performance over other types. Choose this if your budget allows. Otherwise, the decision between VA and IPS depends on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.

For response time and color accuracy, IPS panels are preferred, though 1ms panels are now available for both types. IPS monitors generally provide more vivid and accurate colors.

For contrast, VA panels have a significant advantage unless the monitor uses a mini-LED backlight like my top pick. VA panels offer richer blacks and better dynamic range.

There's no definitive "best" panel, but the choice depends on your priorities in a gaming monitor.

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

The best times to buy gaming monitors at reasonable prices are during 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 and the monitor's resolution and pixel density. A 24" monitor is ideal for 1080p gaming, while 27-32" suits 1440p for a more immersive experience. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended to leverage its higher pixel count. Avoid 1080p monitors larger than 27" to prevent the screen door effect.