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 that offer impressive image quality and features without breaking the bank. Take, for instance, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which boasts an incredible mini-LED, quantum dot screen for well under $400. It's my top pick due to its ability to compete with monitors that are much more expensive, demonstrating the quality that's achievable even on a budget... if 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 may not include all the latest technology and features, but they still provide an excellent display for enjoying your gaming PC's capabilities. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits, as high refresh and 4K monitors are available at relatively affordable prices. While there are often trade-offs, such as the absence of height-adjustable stands on cheaper models and the lack of value-adds like KVM switches on more expensive ones, by focusing on performance and your personal "must-haves," you can find great value at any price point.

Not all budget gaming monitors are created equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. A $100 monitor might seem like a great deal initially, but it's likely to fail quickly or strain your eyes during gameplay, ultimately causing more harm than good. Our recommended options may cost a bit more than $100, but their solid construction, excellent panels, and gaming features ensure a superior experience. However, like any other gaming accessory, higher-end 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 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 around $330 at the time of writing, it sets a new standard for what you can expect from affordable gaming monitors. Although not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it offers more than its competitors and delivers a fantastic picture and gaming experience.

Unlike most budget gaming monitors, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i utilizes mini-LED technology with full array local dimming (FALD). This allows the display to intelligently dim dark areas of the screen, enhancing contrast.

While other FALD mini-LED displays exist at similar price points, none match the G Pro 27i's performance. Its 1,152 local dimming zones, typically found in monitors costing upwards of $700, significantly reduce blooming and enhance the viewing experience. Its HDR performance is exceptional, surpassing other monitors on this list. In fact, its picture quality approaches that of OLEDs, which are often much more expensive, without the risk of burn-in or issues with text clarity.

Xiaomi has chosen a top-notch panel for this display, capable of reaching up to 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay and minimal motion blur. In its DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB color modes, it provides accurate colors for content creation. It's also compatible with variable refresh rate systems, including AMD FreeSync and, despite the manufacturer's silence, Nvidia's G-Sync worked flawlessly in my testing.

This monitor truly impressed me, though it's not without its compromises. To maintain its low price, Xiaomi omitted a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity. It also only supports HDMI 2.0, but since its resolution is 1440p, it works well with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Additionally, it lacks some gaming features.

However, these trade-offs are well worth it for a monitor of this caliber at this price. Simply put, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the gaming monitor to buy if you want 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

2For around $150, this monitor offers 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 is an exceptional value that performs well across a wide range of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to maximize this display's potential, and its VA panel allows for deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range in various games. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and features designed to enhance your gameplay, it offers tremendous value.

In this price range, I often recommend VA panels. Although IPS panels are known for their color accuracy, VA panels like this one are nearly as good and provide a significantly better gaming experience due to their superior black levels. This model also has decent brightness at 350 nits, ensuring vibrant colors and visibility in well-lit environments.

It includes several game-enhancing features to give you an edge in competitive games. You can enable an on-screen reticle for games lacking one, activate Shadow Boost to spot enemies in the dark, and use Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode to reduce motion blur for smoother gameplay.

There are two significant drawbacks to consider before purchasing. First, like many gaming monitors in this price range, the stand is not height adjustable. It supports VESA mounting (100x100mm), allowing you to use an aftermarket stand or monitor arm if the positioning isn't ideal, but this may require additional investment. Second, while its 27" screen enhances immersion, it reduces overall sharpness due to its 1080p resolution. This monitor is as large as you can go before the screen door effect becomes noticeable, so although it looks good, it's not as sharp as a 24" display at this resolution.

Despite these limitations, the Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers far more than it lacks, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking to improve their gaming experience without overspending.

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 that also features 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. Priced under $300, it offers a resolution of 2560x1440, providing a significant boost in sharpness compared to 1080p monitors. The enhanced visuals are further improved by great color accuracy and decent factory calibration. Its 27" screen delivers an immersive gaming experience that balances crisp details with reasonable system requirements.

This monitor excels in other areas as well. It boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and is compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. One feature I highly value is Low Framerate Compensation, which allows the monitor to insert frames and sync with the refresh rate when your system can't reach 144Hz, resulting in smoother gameplay even in challenging scenarios.

The primary drawback of this display is its non-height-adjustable stand. Depending on your desk setup, it might not be positioned perfectly for your height. However, it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount, making it easy to replace the included stand with a more adjustable one if needed. Overall, its feature set and affordable price make the LG UltraGear 27GN800-B an excellent choice.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 4K### KTC H27P22S

1This gaming monitor offers 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 exemplifies the advancements in the budget gaming monitor market. Priced at $400, and often available for as low as $340 during sales, it proves that you don't need to spend a fortune for a high refresh rate, 4K gaming experience. I find it difficult to criticize this display significantly; it's a well-rounded package at an exceptionally reasonable price. If your hardware can handle it, the KTC H27P22D is definitely worth considering.

Beyond its crisp 4K resolution, the H27P22D features an impressive 160Hz refresh rate. It fully supports AMD FreeSync Premium and is compatible with Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring smooth gameplay even if you can't reach the maximum refresh rate. It's an excellent choice for console gaming as well, thanks to its dual HDMI 2.1 ports. Just remember to bring a headset or speakers, as none are included, but given the quality of most monitor speakers, this isn't a significant drawback.

As with many budget gaming monitors, there's some marketing overpromise, but its real-world performance remains impressive for the price. While its 400 nits of peak brightness isn't sufficient for true high dynamic range, it's bright enough for vivid SDR gaming. Its color coverage is also great, though it's not factory calibrated, unlike more expensive 4K monitors. This is acceptable for gaming where color accuracy is less critical, but for creative work, you may need a colorimeter or a downloadable ICC profile. It also lacks a USB hub, with the sole USB Type-A port reserved for software upgrades, so you can't connect peripherals directly.

Given its features, the KTC H27P22D's shortcomings are easily overlooked. These same features would have cost much more just a few years ago. It's a fantastic option 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 ghostingAn ultrawide curved monitor is ideal for an immersive gaming experience, and the Dell S3422DWG is the top budget ultrawide option. It features a contrast-rich VA panel with a 3440x1440 resolution, delivering a vibrant, sharp image suitable for any game genre. The 21:9 aspect ratio and slight curvature of the screen enhance your field of vision, allowing you to focus on in-game action without distractions.

For large ultrawides like this, I always recommend the "1440p" resolution over the ultrawide equivalent of 1080p. While it requires more graphics power, the higher pixel density results in a much better image.

The monitor offers a solid 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync, ensuring smooth gameplay. While it may experience some motion blur behind dark objects, overall motion clarity is strong.

Despite its competitive price, the S3422DWG is an attractive monitor. It includes a height-adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and can function as a USB hub.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?

When shopping for a budget gaming monitor, aim for the $200-$300 range. Monitors cheaper than this often compromise on quality. While you'll need to make some trade-offs, a gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor is unlikely to achieve that.

To find a monitor within this price range, you must understand what to look for and prioritize your needs to make the right compromises.

ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeGamers on a tight budget have more options than ever, but compromises are still necessary. Generally, 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 lacks the clarity of 4K TVs, it allows for high frame rates on less powerful hardware. 1440p is a worthwhile upgrade and offers better value if you can stretch your budget. A 27" 1440p monitor has a higher pixel density than a 48" 4K TV, but you'll need to forgo a 240Hz refresh rate.

4K is available on a budget, but expect to pay around $400 or accept compromises in brightness or screen size. Also, consider the higher system requirements for running 4K at high frame rates. This is the trade-off for playing at 4K with minimal cost.

The refresh rate for budget gaming monitors typically ranges from 60 to 240Hz, with most falling at 144Hz or 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is a versatile choice suitable for most games, while 240Hz is a noticeable upgrade for competitive gamers. 360Hz is increasingly accessible in budget monitors.

Remember that a monitor's maximum refresh rate may not be supported by all inputs. For example, a monitor with a 165Hz capability might only support 144Hz over HDMI. DisplayPort is the best option for high refresh rates.

A monitor's display panel technology is often overlooked but crucial. Our recommendations use either IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrancy, and responsiveness, making them ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer superior contrast and dark scene performance, better suited for immersive, high-end 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 less expensive and preferred by competitive gamers for focused gameplay. Larger monitors (32" and up) are more immersive but require higher resolutions to maintain detail. Be cautious about buying a monitor too large for your desk; measure if unsure. 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 gaming monitors support both. My preferred picks all list the standards they support.

Finally, a note about HDR. While many affordable monitors market HDR, it remains unimpressive on most, with a maximum brightness of 400 nits, which is considered "HDR compatible" but lacks the dynamic range to display more than SDR.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget gaming monitors typically feature either VA or IPS panels. My top pick uses an IPS panel with a mini-LED backlight, surpassing other panel types in performance. If your budget and needs allow, go for that. Otherwise, the choice between VA and IPS depends on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.

For response time and color accuracy, IPS panels are preferable, though the former is less of a concern nowadays with 1ms options available for both types. IPS monitors generally offer the most vivid and accurate colors.

For contrast, VA panels have a significant advantage unless using a mini-LED backlight like my top pick. VA panels provide richer blacks and better dynamic range due to their full-array backlighting.

There's no definitive "best" panel, but there are better choices based on your priorities in a gaming monitor.

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

The best times to buy a gaming monitor at a reasonable price or a budget monitor at an even lower price are during events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Gaming monitor deals can also appear during Back to School sales, and retailers often discount older models to clear inventory for new releases.

What size gaming monitor should I get for gaming?

Choosing a gaming monitor size is largely a matter of personal preference, but there are some guidelines to consider. First, assess your available space to ensure the monitor fits. Next, consider the monitor's resolution and its impact on pixel density. A 24" monitor is ideal for 1080p gaming, offering a compact size. For 1440p, a 27-32" monitor provides ample detail and a larger screen experience. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended to leverage its higher pixel count. Be cautious with 1080p monitors larger than 27", as the screen door effect may become noticeable at this size.