Gaming monitors make playing video games more fun with their bright colors and smooth motion. Budget gaming options have gotten much better in recent years. You can now find a good monitor without spending too much money.
When shopping for a budget gaming monitor, pay attention to the refresh rate and response time. A higher refresh rate (at least 144Hz) means smoother gameplay. A low response time (1-5ms) reduces motion blur. Screen size and resolution are also important for a clear picture.
We tested dozens of affordable gaming monitors to find ones that offer great performance without breaking the bank. Here are our picks for the best budget gaming monitors that give you the most value for your money.
Best Budget Gaming Monitors
We’ve tested dozens of affordable gaming monitors to find the ones that offer smooth gameplay without emptying your wallet. Our list includes options with fast refresh rates, low response times, and good color accuracy. These budget-friendly picks prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a great gaming experience.
Sceptre 27″ Curved Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre C275W-FW100T offers incredible value with its curved design, 100Hz refresh rate, and built-in speakers making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Pros
- Smooth 100Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Eye-friendly with blue light reduction technology
- Versatile connectivity with dual HDMI ports and DisplayPort
Cons
- Built-in speakers lack audio quality
- 1080p resolution might disappoint on a 27-inch screen
- Limited height adjustment options
We recently tested the Sceptre 27-inch curved gaming monitor and were impressed by how much it offers at such a wallet-friendly price. The 1500R curve really pulls you into games, creating a more immersive feel than flat screens in this price range. During fast-paced games, the 100Hz refresh rate made movement look noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz monitors.
The colors on this display pop thanks to its 100% sRGB coverage. We found this especially helpful when playing colorful games like Fortnite, where spotting enemies quickly can make a big difference. The monitor’s gaming modes for FPS and RTS games are actually useful, not just marketing gimmicks. Switching between work and play was simple, and the blue light filter helped during long sessions.
Connection options are plentiful with two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort, so we could hook up multiple devices without constantly swapping cables. While the built-in speakers work in a pinch, they’re nothing special—you’ll want headphones or external speakers for serious gaming. The matte screen finish effectively reduces glare, which we appreciated when playing in a brightly lit room. For the price, this monitor delivers exceptional gaming performance without breaking the bank.
Sceptre 27″ Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre 27″ gaming monitor offers excellent value with its 100Hz refresh rate and vibrant display, making it one of the best budget options we’ve tested.
Pros
- Smooth 100Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Rich, accurate colors with 100% sRGB coverage
- Multiple connectivity options (HDMI, DisplayPort)
Cons
- Built-in speakers lack bass and depth
- On-screen menu controls feel clunky
- Stand has limited adjustment options
We recently got our hands on the Sceptre 27″ gaming monitor, and for the price, we were genuinely impressed. The 1080p display looks sharp on the 27-inch screen, and games run smoothly thanks to the 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support. Colors pop nicely with the 100% sRGB color gamut—something we rarely see at this price point.
Setting up the monitor was quick and straightforward. The frameless design gives it a modern look that fits well on any desk. We connected it to both a gaming PC and a console using the multiple HDMI ports, and switching between them was simple. The Blue Light Shift feature came in handy during our longer gaming sessions, reducing eye strain considerably.
While gaming, we noticed minimal motion blur thanks to the 1ms response time. Fast-paced titles like first-person shooters displayed clearly with no noticeable ghosting. The built-in speakers work in a pinch, but we’d recommend using headphones for better audio. For gamers on a budget who want a solid, reliable display without breaking the bank, this Sceptre monitor delivers exceptional value.
Sceptre 24.5″ Curved Gaming Monitor
This budget-friendly curved gaming monitor delivers excellent performance with its 240Hz refresh rate and immersive design, making it a smart buy for gamers watching their wallet.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Comfortable 1500R curved screen increases immersion
- Multiple connectivity options with dual HDMI and DisplayPort
Cons
- Built-in speakers have mediocre sound quality
- Limited adjustment options for ergonomics
- 1080p resolution isn’t ideal for content creation
We recently tested the Sceptre 24.5″ curved gaming monitor and were impressed by its performance at this price point. The 240Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in fast-paced games, providing smooth motion that gives you an edge in competitive play. Games like Valorant and Fortnite felt more responsive, and we could spot enemies faster during quick movements.
The 1500R curve wraps slightly around your field of vision, adding depth to games without being too dramatic. This design helped reduce eye strain during our longer gaming sessions. We also appreciated the 1ms response time, which effectively eliminated ghosting when testing with fast-moving objects on screen.
AMD FreeSync Premium technology worked well with compatible graphics cards, synchronizing the refresh rate to prevent screen tearing. The monitor’s picture quality is solid for a 1080p display, with good color reproduction right out of the box. Connection options are plentiful with two DisplayPorts and two HDMI ports, making it easy to hook up multiple devices. While the built-in speakers are convenient in a pinch, we recommend using headphones or external speakers for better audio quality.
AOC 24G15N Gaming Monitor
This budget-friendly AOC gaming monitor delivers excellent performance and features that make it a smart choice for gamers who want speed without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Three-sided frameless design perfect for multi-monitor setups
- Rich color reproduction with 116% sRGB and HDR support
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- Stand lacks height adjustment options
- Some VA panel ghosting in very fast games
We recently tested the AOC 24G15N and were impressed by how much value it packs into its affordable price point. The monitor’s 24-inch VA panel produces deep blacks and vibrant colors that make games pop. Its 180Hz refresh rate feels incredibly smooth in fast-paced titles, giving us a real competitive edge in online matches.
The 3-sided frameless design looks sleek on any desk and creates an immersive viewing experience. When playing games like Fortnite or Call of Duty, the 1ms response time helped us track moving targets with precision. Console gamers will appreciate the 120Hz support and low input lag mode that works great with newer PlayStation and Xbox systems.
Setting up the monitor took just minutes with its quick-release stand. While we wish it had more adjustment options, the display can be VESA mounted if needed. Its connections are simple but effective with HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort inputs that handled all our gaming devices without issue. For the price, this AOC monitor delivers performance that rivals much more expensive options, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.
LG UltraGear 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor
This LG UltraGear curved monitor offers exceptional value for gamers seeking high performance without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Impressive 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Immersive 1000R curved screen enhances field of view
- Sharp QHD resolution with vibrant color reproduction
Cons
- Black contrast could be better in dark scenes
- Bulkier than some competing models
- Setup can be tricky for first-time curved monitor users
We recently spent time testing this 32-inch LG UltraGear, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite budget-friendly gaming displays. The 1000R curved design pulled us right into the action during fast-paced games. This isn’t just marketing talk—the curve actually helps reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions by matching our natural field of vision.
The 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time make a real difference in competitive games. When playing shooters, we noticed significantly smoother motion and less blur compared to standard 60Hz monitors. The QHD resolution (2560×1440) hits a sweet spot that doesn’t demand an ultra-powerful graphics card while still delivering crisp visuals.
Color quality surprised us at this price point. With HDR10 support and 99% sRGB coverage, games look rich and vibrant without seeming artificial. We did notice some limitations in very dark scenes, where details can get lost in shadows. The monitor’s gaming-specific features like Black Stabilizer help compensate, making enemies hiding in dark corners easier to spot. Overall, this LG model offers premium gaming features at a price that won’t empty your wallet.
Dell G2725D Gaming Monitor
This 27-inch QHD gaming monitor delivers exceptional value with its smooth performance and vibrant display that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear QHD resolution with 99% sRGB coverage
- Super smooth 180Hz refresh rate with minimal lag
- Eye-comfort features for longer gaming sessions
Cons
- Limited height adjustment options
- Plastic build feels a bit basic
- No USB ports for peripherals
We recently tested the Dell G2725D and were impressed by its performance right out of the box. Setting it up took just minutes, and the picture quality immediately caught our attention. The QHD resolution (2560×1440) provides much sharper images than standard 1080p displays we’ve used before.
Colors pop nicely on this monitor thanks to its 99% sRGB coverage. Playing games with vibrant landscapes like Forza Horizon felt more immersive, with lush greens and deep blues that really stand out. The matte screen also does a good job reducing glare, which helped during our daytime gaming sessions.
The 180Hz refresh rate makes a huge difference in fast-paced games. When testing first-person shooters, movements were buttery smooth with almost no motion blur. The 1ms response time meant we didn’t notice any ghosting during quick camera turns. AMD FreeSync worked well with our graphics card, eliminating screen tearing completely.
For longer gaming sessions, the ComfortView feature noticeably reduced eye strain. We played for about five hours straight and didn’t experience the usual fatigue. The tilt adjustment helped us find a comfortable viewing angle, though we did wish it had height adjustment for better ergonomics.
Most budget monitors skimp on connectivity, but this Dell includes all the essentials. We connected both our PC via DisplayPort and gaming console through HDMI with no issues. Switching between inputs was quick and simple through the on-screen menu.
While not perfect, the Dell G2725D hits the sweet spot between performance and price that many gamers are looking for.
Acer KB272 27″ Gaming Monitor
We think this Acer monitor is a smart buy for gamers on a budget thanks to its smooth performance and great picture quality at an affordable price.
Pros
- Beautiful color accuracy with 99% sRGB coverage
- Smooth gaming with 120Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time
- Slim, frameless design that looks premium
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- Basic stand with only tilt adjustment
When we set up the Acer KB272, the first thing we noticed was how sleek it looked on our desk. The thin bezels give it a modern feel that makes the 27-inch screen seem even larger. Once powered up, the IPS panel impressed us with its vibrant colors that stay true even when viewing from the side.
Gaming on this monitor feels surprisingly responsive for something in this price range. The 120Hz refresh rate combined with FreeSync support eliminated screen tearing during our gaming sessions. Fast-paced games look smooth thanks to the 1ms response time, with very little motion blur even in chaotic action scenes.
For everyday use, the screen is plenty bright and the Full HD resolution works well at this size. The eye protection features helped reduce strain during our longer work sessions. Connectivity is basic but functional with HDMI and VGA ports covering most needs. While it won’t compete with premium gaming monitors, we found the Acer KB272 offers excellent value for anyone looking to upgrade without spending a fortune.
Viewedge 24″ Gaming Monitor
The Viewedge 24-inch gaming monitor offers impressive performance at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who don’t want to sacrifice quality.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 1ms response time with smooth 165Hz refresh rate
- Excellent color reproduction with HDR 10 support
- Eye-friendly features reduce strain during long gaming sessions
Cons
- Built-in speakers are basic at best
- Stand has limited adjustment options
- No USB ports for connectivity
We recently tested this Viewedge monitor and were truly impressed by what it offers at this price point. The 165Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in fast-paced games like Fortnite and Apex Legends. Everything feels buttery smooth, with no visible screen tearing thanks to the adaptive sync technology.
Colors pop on the IPS panel, which covers 105% of the sRGB spectrum. Dark scenes in games like Resident Evil showed good contrast, though not quite as deep as more expensive monitors. The 1080p resolution is perfect for a 24-inch screen, providing sharp images without requiring an expensive graphics card to run games at high frame rates.
The monitor feels sturdy despite its budget-friendly price. Setting it up took just minutes with the included DisplayPort cable, and the on-screen menu is easy to navigate. We appreciate the eye-care features during our extended testing sessions – the blue light filter and flicker-free technology really do help reduce eye fatigue after hours of gameplay.
Connectivity is good but not exceptional. The dual HDMI ports and single DisplayPort connection covered our needs, but USB ports would have been nice. For gamers on a tight budget who want high refresh rates and good image quality, this Viewedge monitor delivers exceptional value without major compromises.
Acer Nitro Gaming Monitor
We believe the Acer Nitro KG241Y is an excellent budget gaming monitor that delivers impressive performance without emptying your wallet.
Pros
- Smooth 165Hz refresh rate with minimal motion blur
- Zero-frame design looks sleek on any desk
- Multiple connectivity options with both DisplayPort and HDMI
Cons
- VA panel viewing angles aren’t as wide as IPS
- Built-in speakers are missing
- Menu controls on the back can be awkward to use
After testing the Acer Nitro for several weeks, we were surprised by how much value this monitor offers at its price point. The 23.8-inch screen provides a great sweet spot for competitive gaming without taking up too much desk space. Colors look rich and vibrant, especially after adjusting the default settings away from the power-saving eco mode.
The 165Hz refresh rate makes a huge difference in fast-paced games. Playing first-person shooters, we noticed significantly smoother motion and better responsiveness compared to standard 60Hz displays. The AMD FreeSync Premium technology eliminated screen tearing completely, creating a seamless experience even during intense gaming sessions.
Setting up was a breeze right out of the box. The stand assembled without tools, and the tilt adjustment lets us find the perfect viewing angle. The zero-frame design is particularly nice for multi-monitor setups, allowing for a nearly seamless transition between screens. For gamers on a budget who want performance over fancy extras, this Acer Nitro delivers where it counts.
KOORUI 24″ Gaming Monitor
The KOORUI 24″ gaming monitor delivers impressive performance at a budget-friendly price with its 165Hz refresh rate and vibrant IPS panel.
Pros
- Smooth 165Hz refresh rate with minimal motion blur
- Excellent color accuracy with 99% sRGB coverage
- Ultra-slim design with good tilt adjustment
Cons
- Stand feels slightly wobbly at times
- On-screen menu buttons can be confusing
- Default color settings need adjusting
We tested the KOORUI 24E3 gaming monitor for several weeks in our office setup. Right away, the slim bezels caught our eye. The 24-inch screen sits nicely on a desk without taking up too much space. Setting it up took less than five minutes – just attach the stand to the monitor and plug it in.
Colors pop on this IPS panel. Games like Fortnite and Apex Legends looked vivid and sharp. We noticed the 165Hz refresh rate made a real difference in fast-paced games. There was almost no ghosting or blur when moving quickly. The monitor’s Adaptive Sync worked well with both NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards, preventing screen tearing without adding lag.
The monitor has good viewing angles too. We could see the screen clearly from the side without color shifting. Our team found the 5-way joystick control more useful than traditional buttons, though it took some getting used to. The built-in gaming features like the crosshair overlay and FPS counter were nice touches. For a budget monitor, the KOORUI offers solid value with its combination of high refresh rate, good color accuracy, and gamer-friendly features.
Acer Nitro XZ270 Curved Gaming Monitor
This budget-friendly curved gaming monitor offers impressive refresh rates and response times that make it a solid choice for gamers who want performance without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Smooth 280Hz refresh rate eliminates stuttering
- Fast 1ms response time reduces motion blur
- Immersive 1500R curved screen with slim bezels
Cons
- Only 1080p resolution (not 1440p or 4K)
- Limited HDR performance
- Stand requires careful assembly
We tested the Acer Nitro XZ270 for several gaming sessions and were impressed by its performance. The curved 27-inch screen pulls you into the action, wrapping around your field of view. Games look fluid thanks to the incredibly fast 280Hz refresh rate, which makes a real difference in fast-paced shooters where every millisecond counts.
The monitor’s AMD FreeSync Premium technology worked well with our graphics card, preventing screen tearing completely. We noticed the 1ms response time kept images crisp even during quick movements. The near-borderless design also makes it perfect for multi-monitor setups if you want to expand your gaming space later.
Colors look good for a VA panel, covering 99% of the sRGB spectrum. While it’s not a 4K display, the 1080p resolution still appears sharp at normal viewing distances. The adjustable stand lets us find comfortable positions for long gaming sessions. For the price, this monitor delivers serious gaming performance that would have cost much more just a few years ago.
Acer Nitro 24.5″ Gaming Monitor
The Acer Nitro gaming monitor delivers exceptional value with its high refresh rate and smooth performance, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Pros
- Ultra-smooth 280Hz refresh rate
- Near-borderless ZeroFrame design
- Fast 1ms response time
Cons
- Only 1080p resolution
- Stand has limited adjustability
- HDR performance is basic
We recently tested the Acer Nitro KG251Q gaming monitor, and it’s an impressive budget option. The 24.5-inch screen feels just right for competitive gaming, where seeing the whole display without moving your head is key. Its 280Hz refresh rate made a huge difference in fast-paced games like Counter-Strike, with noticeably smoother motion than standard 60Hz or even 144Hz monitors.
The ZeroFrame design is another standout feature. With almost no visible bezel, the screen feels bigger than its actual size. We set up two of these side by side for some racing games, and the thin borders created an almost seamless extended display. The VA panel offers decent color and good contrast, though it won’t match the color accuracy of more expensive IPS options.
AMD FreeSync Premium technology works great at preventing screen tearing. Even when frame rates dropped during intense gaming moments, we didn’t notice the stuttering or tearing that often ruins immersion. The 1ms response time (using Visual Response Boost) kept fast motion clear without ghosting. For about $110-130, this monitor punches well above its weight class. Budget gamers should definitely consider this Acer if they want high performance without emptying their wallet.
CRUA 24-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor
This budget-friendly curved gaming monitor offers impressive performance with its high refresh rate and eye-care features, making it a solid choice for gamers on a tight budget.
Pros
- Fast 144Hz/180Hz refresh rate with 2ms response time
- Curved design (2800R) creates an immersive gaming experience
- Compatible with AMD FreeSync to prevent screen tearing
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- HDMI connection limited to 120Hz (DisplayPort needed for 180Hz)
- Average brightness at 250 cd/m²
We recently got our hands on this CRUA gaming monitor, and we’re impressed with what it offers at this price point. The 23.8-inch curved screen creates a more immersive feel when gaming, wrapping slightly around your field of vision. The matte screen finish does a good job preventing glare, which we appreciated during longer gaming sessions.
Setting up the monitor was straightforward. The frameless design gives it a sleek, modern look on any desk. When testing with fast-paced games, the 144Hz refresh rate (and 180Hz through DisplayPort) delivered smooth gameplay with minimal motion blur. The AMD FreeSync technology worked well, eliminating screen tearing that often plagues budget monitors.
The color reproduction is surprisingly good for a budget option. With 99% sRGB coverage, games look vibrant and natural. We did notice the brightness isn’t spectacular at 250 cd/m², so it works best in rooms without intense direct light. The eye care features, including low blue light filtering, helped reduce eye strain during our extended testing sessions. For those looking to save desk space, the VESA mount compatibility is a nice addition. Overall, we think this monitor punches above its weight class for budget gaming setups.
SANSUI 24″ Gaming Monitor
The SANSUI 24-inch gaming monitor offers impressive value with its 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who want smooth gameplay without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Excellent 180Hz refresh rate for butter-smooth gaming
- Fast 1ms response time eliminates motion blur
- Vibrant IPS panel with 110% sRGB color coverage
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Stand offers limited adjustability
- Build quality feels budget-friendly
We’ve been testing this SANSUI monitor for the past few weeks, and we’re genuinely surprised by what it delivers at this price point. The 180Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in fast-paced games. Everything from scrolling web pages to competitive gaming feels silky smooth compared to standard 60Hz displays.
The IPS panel produces rich, accurate colors that pop without looking oversaturated. We particularly appreciated the 110% sRGB coverage when editing photos and watching movies. Text appears crisp and readable, even after long work sessions. The matte screen finish effectively reduces glare, which is great for bright rooms.
Gaming performance impressed us the most during our tests. The 1ms response time combined with Adaptive Sync technology eliminated screen tearing and motion blur in first-person shooters. Connectivity is straightforward with both DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 ports. The included HDMI cable was a nice bonus that saved us from hunting for one. While the stand doesn’t offer height adjustment, the tilt function (-5° to 15°) helped us find a comfortable viewing angle.
Acer SB240Y Gaming Monitor
The Acer SB240Y offers impressive gaming performance and visual quality at a budget-friendly price that won’t empty your wallet.
Pros
- Nearly borderless design maximizes screen space
- Smooth gameplay with 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync
- Accurate colors with wide viewing angles
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Lacks height adjustment
- Limited connection options
We recently tested the Acer SB240Y and were amazed by its ultra-slim design. The near-borderless frame gives this 23.8-inch monitor a much more premium look than its price suggests. Setting it up was quick and straightforward – we just attached the base, plugged in the included HDMI cable, and were ready to game in minutes.
Gaming on this monitor feels surprisingly responsive. The 120Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time made a real difference when playing fast-paced games. We noticed much less motion blur during quick movements compared to standard 60Hz monitors. The FreeSync technology eliminated screen tearing, which was especially helpful in graphically demanding titles.
The IPS panel delivers great color accuracy and wide viewing angles. We could see the screen clearly from almost any position without color shifting. The 1080p resolution looks crisp on the 23.8-inch screen, with text appearing sharp and game details standing out nicely. While it lacks some premium features like HDR, the monitor’s tilt adjustment let us find a comfortable viewing angle for long gaming sessions. For gamers on a budget, this monitor offers exceptional value.
AOC 22B2HM2 Gaming Monitor
The AOC 22B2HM2 offers impressive gaming performance at a budget-friendly price point that won’t empty your wallet.
Pros
- Smooth 100Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync
- Vibrant colors with HDR Ready support
- Energy-efficient design uses only 13W in eco mode
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- Stand only allows for tilt adjustment
- VA panel, while good, isn’t quite as fast as IPS for competitive gaming
We recently tested the AOC 22B2HM2 and were surprised by how much value it packs into its 22-inch frame. For gamers on a tight budget, this monitor delivers the essentials without cutting too many corners. The 100Hz refresh rate makes a real difference compared to standard 60Hz displays, giving us noticeably smoother gameplay in fast-paced titles.
Colors pop thanks to the 100.1% sRGB coverage, making games look rich and lively. We particularly liked how the VA panel provided deep blacks during darker game scenes. The HDR Ready feature adds some extra punch to compatible content, though it’s not full HDR like pricier monitors offer. Response time is decent at 4ms, which works fine for most gaming situations, though competitive esports players might want something faster.
Setup couldn’t be easier with the included cables. The monitor feels sturdy despite its light weight, and the nearly frameless design looks much more premium than the price suggests. We found the built-in flicker-free technology and low blue light mode helpful during longer gaming sessions, reducing eye strain significantly. If desk space is tight, the VESA mount compatibility lets you attach it to a monitor arm for a cleaner setup. For budget-conscious gamers, the AOC 22B2HM2 provides excellent value without major compromises.
Buying Guide
Finding the best budget gaming monitor doesn’t have to be hard. We’ve put together some key points to help you make a smart choice without breaking the bank.
Resolution
Resolution affects how sharp your games look. Most budget gaming monitors offer these options:
| Resolution | Best For |
|---|---|
| 1080p (Full HD) | Entry-level gaming, faster framerates |
| 1440p (QHD) | Better detail, mid-range systems |
| 4K (UHD) | Stunning visuals, needs powerful hardware |
For most budget gamers, 1080p offers the best balance of price and performance.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate tells you how many times per second your screen updates. Higher is better for gaming!
A 60Hz monitor is fine for casual gaming, but 144Hz makes movement much smoother. Some budget options now offer 165Hz or even 240Hz for competitive gaming.
Panel Type
Different panel types offer different benefits:
- TN panels: Fastest response times, lowest prices, but weaker colors and viewing angles
- VA panels: Better contrast and colors, good middle ground
- IPS panels: Best colors and viewing angles, but slightly slower response times
Response Time
Lower response times (measured in ms) mean less motion blur. For gaming, look for 5ms or less, with 1ms being ideal.
Connectivity
Make sure the monitor has the right ports for your setup. Most gaming monitors include:
- HDMI
- DisplayPort
- Audio outputs
Screen Size
For budget gaming, 24-27 inches hits the sweet spot between price and immersion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many budget gamers have similar questions when shopping for affordable monitors. We’ve gathered the most common questions to help you make an informed decision when choosing your next gaming display.
What features should I look for in a budget gaming monitor?
Look for monitors with at least a 75Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time as your baseline. Adaptive sync technology like FreeSync or G-Sync Compatible is crucial to prevent screen tearing.
The panel type matters too. IPS panels offer better colors while VA panels provide better contrast. TN panels are typically the cheapest but have worse viewing angles and color reproduction.
Connection ports are also important. Make sure your monitor has HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4 for the best compatibility with modern graphics cards and consoles.
How does monitor resolution affect gaming performance on a budget?
Resolution directly impacts how sharp your games look and how much GPU power you’ll need. For most budget gamers, 1080p (1920×1080) offers the best balance of visual quality and performance.
Higher resolutions like 1440p require more powerful hardware to maintain smooth framerates. If you have a modest graphics card, sticking with 1080p will give you better performance in games.
Some competitive gamers actually prefer 1080p even with powerful systems because it allows for extremely high framerates in competitive titles.
What is the optimal screen size for a budget gaming monitor for console gaming?
For console gaming, a 24-27 inch monitor is typically ideal when sitting at a desk. This size provides good immersion without requiring constant eye movement to see the entire screen.
If you’re planning to play from a couch or further away, you might want to consider a larger 32-inch model. Remember that as screen size increases, pixel density decreases at the same resolution.
Most consoles target 1080p or 4K resolution, so match your monitor accordingly. Current-gen consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X benefit from 4K displays, but these are typically more expensive.
Can I find a high refresh rate monitor on a budget that is suitable for competitive gaming?
Yes, there are several 144Hz monitors available under $200 that work well for competitive gaming. Models from AOC, Acer, and MSI often offer great value in this category.
These budget high-refresh displays usually come with TN or VA panels to keep costs down. While colors may not be perfect, the smooth motion is more important for competitive titles like CS or Valorant.
Remember that you’ll need a graphics card capable of pushing those high framerates to fully benefit from a high refresh rate monitor.
Are there budget gaming monitors that also offer good color accuracy for content creation?
Several budget IPS gaming monitors offer decent color accuracy for light content creation work. Look for monitors advertising 95% or higher sRGB coverage.
Some budget models from BenQ, LG, and ViewSonic have good factory calibration and color profiles. These monitors can serve as dual-purpose displays for both gaming and basic photo or video editing.
Keep in mind that true professional color work requires monitors with higher color gamut coverage and hardware calibration, which typically cost more.
How does response time impact gameplay on budget gaming monitors?
Response time measures how quickly pixels change color, affecting motion clarity during fast-paced gaming. Lower numbers mean less motion blur in fast-moving scenes.
Budget monitors typically have response times between 1-5ms. For casual gaming, 5ms is acceptable, but competitive gamers should aim for 1-2ms to minimize ghosting effects.
Be cautious of manufacturer claims about response times. Many list the best-case “gray-to-gray” time, while real-world performance may be slower, especially on VA panels which often show more ghosting than TN or IPS.
