Top Budget Gaming Monitors for Every Gamer

In today's market, the prices of the best gaming monitors have seen a significant rise, particularly for those with OLED panels, expansive screens, and high refresh rates at crisp resolutions. Fortunately, there's still a wide selection of affordable monitors that don't compromise much on image quality and features. Take the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, for example, which boasts an impressive mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400. It's my top pick because it rivals monitors that are far more expensive, proving that you can find exceptional quality 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 might lack some advanced technologies and features, but they still deliver an outstanding display for enjoying your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits, as high refresh and 4K monitors can be found at relatively affordable prices. While trade-offs exist, such as non-height-adjustable stands at the lower end and missing value-adds like KVM switches at the higher end, 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 likely is. A $100 monitor might seem like a steal upfront, but it could fail quickly or strain your eyes, ultimately causing more harm than good. Our selections may cost slightly more than $100, but their solid construction, superior panels, and gaming features ensure a better experience. However, as with any gaming accessory, higher-end options 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 stands out as the most impressive gaming monitor I've reviewed in 2024. Priced around $330, it sets a new benchmark for what you can expect from affordable gaming monitors. While it's not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it offers more than its competitors, providing a stunning picture and an exceptional gaming experience.

Unlike most budget gaming monitors, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i utilizes mini-LED technology with full array local dimming (FALD), which enhances contrast by intelligently dimming darker screen areas. Its 1,152 local dimming zones, typically found in monitors costing over $700, significantly reduce blooming and enhance the viewing experience. The HDR performance is top-notch, rivaling OLEDs that cost much more, but without the risk of burn-in or issues with text clarity.

Xiaomi has selected a premium panel that can reach up to 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay and reduced motion blur. It also supports accurate colors in DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB modes, making it suitable for content creation. It's compatible with AMD FreeSync and, although not officially stated, Nvidia's G-Sync worked flawlessly in my tests.

While this monitor is outstanding, it's not perfect. To maintain affordability, it lacks a USB hub and USB Type-C connectivity, and it only supports HDMI 2.0. However, since it's a 1440p display, it works well with Xbox and PlayStation consoles. It also lacks some gaming features, but the trade-offs are well worth it for this price. Simply put, if you want OLED-like picture quality without the usual drawbacks and high cost, the Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the monitor to get.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor

Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

2Get great gaming performance for around $150 with few compromises. 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, capable of running smoothly on a variety of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to maximize its performance, and its VA panel delivers deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range across different game types. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and features designed to enhance gameplay, it's a fantastic option for competitive shooters and esports enthusiasts.

In this price range, VA panels often provide a better gaming experience due to improved blacks, though IPS panels are renowned for their color accuracy. The Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A is bright enough at 350 nits to ensure vibrant colors and comfortable gaming in well-lit environments.

It also includes game-enhancing features like an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost for better visibility in dark areas, and Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode for smoother, clearer gameplay. However, there are two notable drawbacks: the stand isn't height adjustable, and the 27" screen at 1080p resolution may not be as sharp as smaller displays at the same resolution. Despite these cons, the monitor's advantages far outweigh its limitations, making it a recommended upgrade for budget-conscious gamers seeking enhanced gameplay.

3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

Best 1440p Budget Gaming Monitor

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

0Enjoy up to 144Hz at 1440p with 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 gamers looking to upgrade on a budget. For under $300, you get a significant boost to 2560x1440 resolution, offering much sharper visuals than a 1080p monitor. With great color accuracy and decent factory calibration, its 27" screen provides an immersive gaming experience that balances detail and performance.

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

The main drawback is the non-height-adjustable stand, which might not fit everyone's desk setup. However, it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount, allowing you to easily swap the stand for a more adjustable option. Despite this minor flaw, the LG UltraGear 27GN800-B offers a compelling feature set at an affordable price, making it a top choice for budget-conscious gamers.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 4K### KTC H27P22S

1Experience a fast and fantastic 4K 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 showcases how far budget gaming monitors have come. Priced at $400 and often available for as low as $340, it proves you don't need to spend a fortune for a high refresh rate, 4K gaming experience. It's hard to find fault with this monitor given its well-rounded features and exceptional value. If your hardware can handle it, the KTC H27P22D is definitely worth considering.

Its 4K resolution pairs with an impressive 160Hz refresh rate, fully supporting AMD FreeSync Premium and compatible with Nvidia G-Sync for smooth gameplay. The dual HDMI 2.1 ports make it an excellent choice for console gaming. While it lacks built-in speakers, this isn't a significant drawback given the typical quality of monitor speakers.

Despite some marketing overstatements, the real-world performance of this monitor remains impressive for the price. While its 400 nits peak brightness isn't ideal for true HDR, it's bright enough for vivid SDR gaming. Its color coverage is great, though it's not factory calibrated, which might be an issue for creative work but not for gaming. It also lacks a USB hub, but its overall value and performance more than make up for these minor shortcomings. The KTC H27P22D is 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 a budget-friendly, ultrawide curved monitor offering 1440p at a 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, the Dell S3422DWG is the top choice among budget ultrawide monitors. Its VA panel, with a 3440x1440 resolution, delivers vibrant, sharp images perfect for any gaming genre. The 21:9 aspect ratio and slight curvature enhance immersion, allowing you to focus on the game without external distractions.

I prefer the "1440p" resolution for ultrawides over the equivalent of 1080p, as it offers better pixel density despite requiring slightly more graphics power. The monitor's 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support ensure smooth gameplay, although it may exhibit minor ghosting behind dark objects.

Despite its budget price, the Dell S3422DWG is well-designed with a height-adjustable stand, multiple ports, and the ability to serve as a USB hub, making it a versatile and attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.

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 gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor might not meet that expectation. To find a monitor within this price range, you need to know what to look for and prioritize your needs to make the best compromise.

ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeGamers on a tight budget have more options today, but some 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. It may not match the clarity of 4K TVs, but it allows for high frame rates without needing high-end hardware. Upgrading to 1440p is a better value if your budget allows, offering higher pixel density on a 27" screen compared to a 48" 4K TV, though this means 240Hz refresh rates become unaffordable.

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 4K at high frame rates.

The refresh rate for budget gaming monitors ranges from 60 to 240Hz, with most at 144Hz or 165Hz. A 144Hz refresh rate is a versatile choice for most games, while 240Hz is ideal for competitive gaming. Even 360Hz is becoming more accessible for budget monitors.

Note that a monitor's maximum refresh rate might not be supported on all inputs. DisplayPort is the best choice for high refresh rates.

A monitor's display panel technology is often overlooked but crucial. Our recommended monitors use either IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, making them great for competitive gaming. VA panels offer better contrast and dark scene performance, ideal 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 of a limitation today. Our guide focuses on 27" options, alongside a 34" ultrawide. Smaller 24" monitors are cheaper and preferred by competitive gamers for focused gameplay. Larger monitors (32" and up) are more immersive but may lose detail without higher resolutions. Always measure your desk to ensure the right fit; a 27" monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe choice.

It’s wise to buy a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on your video card. Many budget monitors support both, and our picks list their compatibility.

Finally, a note about HDR. While many budget monitors claim HDR support, they often only reach 400 nits of brightness, which is insufficient for true HDR and better suited for SDR content.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget gaming monitors typically come with either a VA or IPS panel. My top pick uses an IPS monitor with a mini-LED backlight, outperforming other panel types due to its technology. If your budget allows, go for that option. Otherwise, the choice between VA and IPS depends on response time, color accuracy, and contrast.

For response time and color accuracy, IPS panels are superior, though 1ms panels are now available for both types. IPS monitors generally offer the most vibrant and accurate colors.

For contrast, VA panels have a significant advantage unless using a mini-LED backlight. They offer richer dark colors and blacks, leading to better dynamic range.

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

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

The best times to buy gaming monitors at reduced prices are during events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Back to School sales and major retailers clearing out older models for new releases also offer good deals.

What size gaming monitor should I get for gaming?

Choosing a gaming monitor size depends on personal preference, but there are guidelines to consider. First, assess your available space. A 24" monitor is ideal for compact setups and 1080p gaming. For 1440p, a 27-32" monitor offers detail and immersion. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended to utilize the higher pixel count. Avoid 1080p monitors larger than 27" as they may show a screen door effect due to visible pixels.