Gaming monitor prices have skyrocketed, particularly for OLED, large-screen, high-refresh-rate models. However, excellent affordable options exist without compromising image quality or features. This guide highlights the best budget gaming monitors for various needs.
TL;DR – Best Budget Gaming Monitors:
- Top Pick: Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor (9/10): Exceptional mini-LED, quantum dot display for under $400. Competes with far pricier monitors.
- Best 1080p: Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A: Great gaming performance at around $150.
- Best 1440p: LG UltraGear 27GN800-B: 1440p resolution, adaptive sync, and color accuracy under $300.
- Best 4K: KTC H27P22S: Fast, fantastic 4K picture at a budget-friendly price.
- Best Ultrawide: Dell S3422DWG (8/10): Immersive ultrawide curved monitor with 1440p/144Hz.
Budget monitors may lack some features, but still deliver excellent performance. Even mid-range GPUs and CPUs can excel on these displays. Prioritize performance and essential features for optimal value.
Beware of overly cheap monitors; quality often suffers. Our selections offer better build quality, panels, and gaming features for a superior experience.
1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor:
- Pros: High brightness, deep contrast, accurate colors, outstanding picture quality and HDR, robust local dimming zones.
- Cons: Bloom on dark grays, no USB hub.
Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 2560x1440, IPS, 1000 cd/m², 180Hz, 1ms.
2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A:
- Pros: Great colors, impressive contrast, ELMB support, VESA mount.
- Cons: No height adjustment, lower pixel density.
Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 1920x1080, VA, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible, 350 cd/m², 165Hz, 1ms.
3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B:
- Pros: Solid HDR gaming, accurate colors, Low Framerate Compensation.
- Cons: Non-adjustable height stand.
Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 2560x1440, IPS, FreeSync, G-Sync, 1ms, 144Hz.
4. KTC H27P22S:
- Pros: Sharp 4K screen, HDMI 2.1, fast refresh rate.
- Cons: No USB connectivity, not factory calibrated.
Specifications: 27”, 16:9, 3840x2160, IPS, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible, 400 cd/m², 160Hz, 1ms.
5. Dell S3422DWG:
- Pros: Great contrast, immersive curved display.
- Cons: Minor ghosting.
Specifications: 34”, 21:9, 3440x1440, VA, FreeSync, 400 cd/m², 144Hz, 1ms.
Spending Guide & FAQs: The $200-$300 range offers excellent value. Consider resolution, refresh rate, panel type (IPS vs. VA), and screen size when choosing. G-Sync or FreeSync compatibility is recommended. HDR is often over-marketed on budget monitors. Sales events like Prime Day and Black Friday offer the best deals. Screen size should match resolution for optimal pixel density.
(Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith)
