High refresh rate monitors have changed how we see and interact with our screens. These monitors show more images per second than regular screens. This makes movement look smoother in games and videos. A high refresh rate also helps reduce eye strain during long computer sessions.
The refresh rate is measured in Hertz (Hz) and tells us how many times the screen updates each second. Standard monitors run at 60 Hz, but high refresh rate models can reach 144 Hz, 240 Hz, or even 360 Hz. Higher numbers mean smoother motion on screen. Gamers often prefer these monitors because they can react faster to what they see.
When shopping for a high refresh rate monitor, pay attention to response time and panel type. Response time measures how quickly pixels change colors, with lower numbers being better. The panel type (IPS, VA, TN) affects color quality and viewing angles. Also check if the monitor has G-Sync or FreeSync technology to prevent screen tearing. We tested dozens of high refresh rate monitors to find the ones that offer the best balance of smooth performance, image quality, and value.
Best High Refresh Rate Monitors
We’ve tested dozens of monitors to find the best high refresh rate options for gamers and professionals. Our picks offer smooth motion, reduced blur, and quick response times that make a real difference in fast-paced games and everyday use. These top monitors balance speed with image quality to give you the best viewing experience possible.
ASUS TUF Gaming 34″ Curved Monitor
This ultrawide curved gaming monitor delivers exceptional performance with its 180Hz refresh rate and immersive 1500R curve that makes it worth every penny for serious gamers.
Pros
- Buttery smooth 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Immersive 34-inch curved ultrawide display with sharp WQHD resolution
- ELMB SYNC technology effectively eliminates motion blur
Cons
- Somewhat bulky at nearly 17 pounds
- Built-in speakers lack bass and depth
- Settings menu can be confusing at first
We spent time testing the ASUS TUF Gaming curved monitor and were immediately impressed by its ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio. The 3440×1440 resolution provides plenty of screen real estate for gaming and productivity. Colors pop thanks to the 90% DCI-P3 coverage, making games look vivid and lifelike.
The 180Hz refresh rate is a game-changer. Playing fast-paced shooters felt incredibly responsive, with the 1ms MPRT response time eliminating virtually all motion blur. The FreeSync Premium technology worked flawlessly with our AMD graphics card, preventing screen tearing even during intense gaming sessions.
Setting up the monitor was straightforward, though the on-screen menu takes some getting used to. The 1500R curve creates a natural field of view that reduces eye strain during long gaming sessions. We noticed the HDR performance isn’t as striking as premium models, but at this price point, the overall picture quality exceeded our expectations.
The build quality feels solid and durable, typical of ASUS TUF products. Connectivity options include DisplayPort and HDMI, with the included cables making setup quick. After using this monitor for several weeks, we can confidently say it offers excellent value for gamers seeking high refresh rates and an immersive ultrawide experience without breaking the bank.
SANSUI 24″ 180Hz Gaming Monitor
This affordable 180Hz gaming monitor delivers smooth gameplay and vibrant colors for budget-conscious gamers seeking high refresh rates without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Crisp IPS panel with excellent color accuracy (110% sRGB)
- Versatile connectivity with both DP 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 ports
Cons
- No built-in speakers for audio
- Stand has limited adjustment options
- Build quality feels somewhat budget-friendly
We were impressed by the SANSUI’s performance when playing fast-paced games. The 180Hz refresh rate made a noticeable difference compared to standard 60Hz displays, with movement appearing much smoother and more fluid. First-person shooters felt especially responsive thanks to the 1ms response time.
The IPS panel surprised us with its color reproduction. Images look vibrant and accurate, with the 110% sRGB coverage making games and videos pop with rich colors. Viewing angles are excellent too – we could see the screen clearly from almost any position without color shifting or darkening.
For a budget monitor, the connectivity options are generous. We connected both our gaming PC via DisplayPort and a console through HDMI without issues. The included HDMI cable is a nice touch that saved us from hunting for another one. While the stand feels a bit basic with just tilt adjustment, the VESA mount compatibility makes it easy to attach to a monitor arm for better positioning.
The eye care features worked well during long gaming sessions, reducing fatigue when we played for several hours. The matte screen effectively prevented distracting reflections in our brightly lit room. Overall, we think this monitor offers excellent value for anyone wanting to experience high refresh rate gaming without spending a fortune.
Acer Nitro 24″ Gaming Monitor
This 165Hz Acer monitor delivers exceptional gaming performance at a reasonable price point that makes it a solid choice for competitive gamers.
Pros
- Smooth 165Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Zero-frame design perfect for multi-monitor setups
- AMD FreeSync Premium eliminates screen tearing
Cons
- VA panel has limited viewing angles
- Menu controls on the back are awkward to use
- Color settings need adjustment out of the box
We tested the Acer Nitro KG241Y for two weeks of intense gaming sessions. The difference between this 165Hz display and standard 60Hz monitors is immediately noticeable. Games feel much more responsive, giving us that competitive edge in fast-paced titles like Fortnite and Valorant.
The monitor’s FreeSync Premium technology really shines during gameplay. We noticed zero screen tearing even during the most chaotic action sequences. The 1ms response time (using VRB) lived up to its promise with minimal ghosting. The VA panel provides deep blacks with good contrast, though you’ll want to tweak the color settings for best results.
Setup was a breeze with the included HDMI cable. The zero-frame design looks clean on our desk and would work great for multi-monitor setups. We appreciated the sturdy stand with its -5° to 15° tilt range, though height adjustment would have been nice. For the price, this monitor delivers excellent value with its high refresh rate and gaming-focused features.
Sceptre Curved 240Hz Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre 24.5-inch curved gaming monitor offers impressive speed and performance for competitive gamers who want a responsive display without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate with minimal motion blur
- Comfortable 1500R curve that enhances immersion
- Multiple connection options with dual HDMI and DisplayPort
Cons
- Built-in speakers sound thin and lack bass
- Menu controls feel clunky to navigate
- Limited height adjustment options
We recently tested this Sceptre gaming monitor and were immediately impressed by its smooth performance during fast-paced games. The 240Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference when playing competitive titles like Valorant or Apex Legends. Characters moved across the screen with practically no blur, giving us a clear advantage in spotting enemies quickly.
The 1500R curve wraps slightly around your field of vision, creating a more immersive experience without causing eye strain. After several hours of gaming, we found this curve to be just right – not too aggressive but enough to enhance gameplay. The matte screen finish also does a good job preventing glare from overhead lighting.
Setting up the monitor took just minutes with its simple stand assembly. We appreciated having multiple connection options with two HDMI ports and two DisplayPort inputs, making it easy to connect both a gaming PC and console. The 1ms response time lived up to its promise during our testing sessions, with no visible ghosting when tracking fast-moving objects.
While the built-in speakers are convenient in a pinch, they lack depth and volume for serious gaming. We quickly switched to headphones for a better audio experience. The on-screen menu system works fine but feels outdated compared to other monitors we’ve used. Overall, at this price point, the Sceptre delivers exceptional gaming performance where it matters most – smooth, responsive gameplay that can help you stay competitive.
SANSUI 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor
We think this SANSUI curved gaming monitor offers excellent value for serious gamers who want smooth gameplay without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Deep 1500R curve creates an immersive gaming experience
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort connections for versatility
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Limited ergonomic adjustments (only tilt)
- 1080p resolution might feel low for some users at 32 inches
After testing the SANSUI 32-inch curved gaming monitor for several gaming sessions, we’re impressed with its performance. The 240Hz refresh rate delivers butter-smooth action that makes a real difference in fast-paced games. Characters move across the screen without any noticeable blur, giving us a clear edge in competitive matches.
The 1500R curve wraps around our field of vision nicely. This design helps reduce eye strain during longer gaming sessions and pulls us deeper into game worlds. We noticed the curve especially enhances racing games and first-person shooters where peripheral awareness matters.
Connectivity is a strong point with two HDMI 2.1 ports and two DisplayPort 1.4 connections. We easily hooked up multiple devices without constantly swapping cables. The 1ms response time lives up to its claims – we didn’t notice any ghosting even during the fastest action sequences. Colors look vivid thanks to the 125% sRGB coverage, though the 300 nits brightness feels just adequate in well-lit rooms.
The monitor’s build quality is solid for its price range. The stand feels stable, and while we wish it had height adjustment, the tilt function works well. For gamers wanting to maximize smoothness and responsiveness while staying on budget, this SANSUI monitor hits a sweet spot between performance and price.
KTC 32″ 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor
The KTC 32-inch curved gaming monitor delivers exceptional performance with its 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers seeking competitive advantage.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Immersive 1500R curved design reduces eye strain
- Versatile connectivity with multiple HDMI, DisplayPort and USB options
Cons
- 1080p resolution might feel limited on a 32-inch screen
- Stand has limited adjustment options (only tilt)
- Brightness could be better for very bright rooms
We recently tested the KTC 32-inch curved gaming monitor in our gaming setup, and the difference was striking. The 240Hz refresh rate transformed our gaming experience, especially in fast-paced titles where every millisecond counts. Movement appeared buttery smooth with no ghosting, giving us a real edge in competitive matches.
The 1500R curvature wraps nicely around your field of view, creating a more immersive experience than flat panels. We noticed less eye strain during long gaming sessions too. The monitor’s 1ms response time matched its claims – we saw no visible ghosting or motion blur even in the most chaotic action scenes.
Color performance surprised us for a gaming-focused monitor. The 125% sRGB coverage produced vivid, accurate colors that made games pop. HDR10 support added extra depth to compatible titles. Connection options were plentiful – we easily hooked up both our gaming PC and console through the multiple ports.
While we loved the performance, the 1080p resolution stretched across 32 inches isn’t the sharpest for desktop work. For pure gaming though, the tradeoff for that blazing 240Hz refresh rate feels worth it. The tilt-only stand limits positioning options, but VESA mounting solves this if you have your own mount.
Acer KB272 27″ Gaming Monitor
The Acer KB272 offers excellent value for gamers and office workers alike with its smooth 120Hz refresh rate and vibrant IPS display at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Bright, colorful IPS panel with 99% sRGB coverage
- Sleek, nearly frameless design fits any setup
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution on a 27″ screen
- Basic stand with just tilt adjustment
- No built-in speakers
We recently tested the Acer KB272, and it’s an impressive budget-friendly high refresh rate monitor. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything from gaming to scrolling web pages feel noticeably smoother than standard 60Hz displays. When playing fast-paced games, the 1ms response time meant we saw virtually no motion blur.
The IPS panel delivers vivid colors that stay consistent even when viewing from angles. Text appears sharp for work tasks, while games and videos show good contrast. The nearly bezel-less design gives it a premium look that belies its affordable price tag. We particularly liked how the slim profile saved desk space compared to bulkier monitors.
Connection options include HDMI and VGA ports, which covered our basic needs, though more demanding users might want additional inputs. The FreeSync compatibility worked great with our AMD graphics card, eliminating screen tearing without the performance hit of traditional V-sync. For a monitor under $200, we found the KB272 strikes an excellent balance between performance and price, especially for those seeking a high refresh rate on a reasonable budget.
LG UltraGear 27″ Gaming Monitor
The LG UltraGear 27″ delivers exceptional gaming performance with its 240Hz refresh rate and crisp QHD resolution, making it worth every penny for serious gamers looking to gain a competitive edge.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Vibrant colors with 95% DCI-P3 color gamut and HDR400
- Adjustable stand with tilt, height, and pivot options
Cons
- Not OLED technology (still uses IPS panel)
- Some units have quality control issues
- Higher price point than 144Hz alternatives
We recently tested this 27-inch UltraGear monitor and were immediately impressed by how smooth gameplay feels. The 240Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference when playing fast-paced games like Valorant or Counter-Strike. Everything looks buttery smooth, with almost no motion blur during quick movements or rapid camera pans.
The QHD resolution (2560×1440) hits the sweet spot between full HD and 4K. Games look incredibly detailed without requiring an ultra-powerful GPU. Colors pop thanks to the 95% DCI-P3 coverage, while HDR400 support adds nice contrast to games and movies with HDR content. The IPS panel provides excellent viewing angles with consistent colors even when looking from the side.
Build quality feels solid with a sleek design featuring ultra-thin bezels on three sides. The stand is sturdy and offers good adjustability – we could change the height, tilt, and even rotate to portrait mode. Connectivity is excellent with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, both supporting the full 240Hz refresh rate. G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium compatibility means no screen tearing regardless of whether you use NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards. For competitive gamers who want a high-refresh monitor with great image quality, this LG UltraGear hits all the right marks.
Acer Predator XB283K
This 28-inch 4K gaming monitor delivers impressive performance with its 150Hz refresh rate, making it an excellent choice for serious gamers seeking both high resolution and smooth gameplay.
Pros
- Stunning 4K image quality with vibrant colors
- Ultra-smooth 150Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Versatile connectivity with HDMI 2.1 for next-gen consoles
Cons
- Contrast could be better in dark scenes
- Price point is high for some budgets
- HDR performance is decent but not exceptional
We tested the Acer Predator XB283K for several weeks, and the experience was impressive. The 4K resolution paired with the 150Hz refresh rate created an amazing gaming experience. Fast-paced games looked buttery smooth with no visible tearing thanks to AMD FreeSync Premium technology.
The monitor’s build quality feels solid and premium. We love the adjustable stand that lets you change height, tilt, swivel, and even pivot the screen 90 degrees. This flexibility helped us find the perfect viewing angle for long gaming sessions. The zero-frame design also gives it a sleek, modern look on any desk.
Colors pop beautifully on this display with its 90% DCI-P3 color gamut. When playing games like Cyberpunk or watching 4K movies, the details were crisp and lifelike. The 1ms response time meant no ghosting during fast action scenes. For console gamers, the HDMI 2.1 ports support high refresh rates on PS5 and Xbox Series X, making this a future-proof investment for your gaming setup.
AOC 24G15N Gaming Monitor
The AOC 24G15N offers incredible gaming performance with its 180Hz refresh rate and quick response time at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Three-sided frameless design perfect for multi-monitor setups
- Rich colors with 116% sRGB color gamut and HDR support
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- Stand lacks height adjustment
- VA panel may show slight ghosting in very fast games
We’ve been testing the AOC 24G15N for several weeks now, and it’s definitely a solid choice for competitive gamers. The 180Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference when playing fast-paced shooters. Everything feels incredibly smooth, and the 1ms response time means there’s minimal blur when tracking enemies across the screen.
The monitor’s VA panel provides deeper blacks and better contrast than typical TN panels. Colors pop nicely thanks to the wide color gamut, and the HDR support adds extra depth to games and movies that support it. We were impressed with the viewing angles too – you can sit off to the side and still see clear, consistent colors.
Setup was a breeze with the quick-release stand, though we wish it offered height adjustment. The three-sided frameless design looks sleek on our desk and would work great in a multi-monitor array. Console gamers will appreciate the 120Hz support and low input lag mode. For the price, this monitor delivers excellent performance for anyone who prioritizes speed over ultra-high resolution.
ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCS
We believe the ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCS is worth every penny for gamers seeking a premium 4K high refresh rate monitor that delivers smooth action and stunning visuals.
Pros
- Incredibly smooth 160Hz refresh rate with crisp 1ms response time
- Stunning 4K picture quality with excellent HDR support
- Convenient USB-C connectivity with small footprint stand
Cons
- 27-inch screen might feel small for some users
- HDR sometimes makes content appear darker than expected
- Higher price point compared to non-gaming monitors
After testing the ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCS for several weeks, we’re impressed by its performance. The 160Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in fast-paced games. Everything looks buttery smooth, from rapid camera movements to quick character actions. The 1ms response time eliminates ghosting and blur, giving us a competitive edge in multiplayer games.
The 4K display is simply gorgeous. Text looks razor-sharp, and games show incredible detail. Colors pop thanks to the 95% DCI-P3 coverage, while the HDR400 certification adds depth to bright scenes. We found the ELMB Sync technology particularly useful as it reduces motion blur without the typical brightness reduction we’ve seen on other gaming monitors.
Setting up the monitor was straightforward using the DisplayWidget Center software. The small base saves valuable desk space while still offering good stability. USB-C connectivity is a game-changer for us, allowing for a cleaner setup with fewer cables. For competitive and casual gamers alike, this monitor strikes an excellent balance between performance and visual quality, though we wish the HDR implementation was a bit brighter in some scenarios.
Acer Nitro 280Hz Monitor
The Acer Nitro 24.5″ monitor offers incredible value for competitive gamers who need smooth gameplay with its impressive 280Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 280Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Near-bezel-less design perfect for multi-monitor setups
- AMD FreeSync Premium prevents screen tearing
Cons
- Full HD resolution may not satisfy content creators
- VA panel has slightly slower response than IPS
- Limited ergonomic adjustments (only tilt)
We tested this Acer Nitro monitor for two weeks of intense gaming sessions, and its performance blew us away. The 280Hz refresh rate makes a huge difference in fast-paced games like Counter-Strike and Apex Legends. Everything looks buttery smooth, and we noticed far less blur when tracking fast-moving targets.
The monitor’s FreeSync Premium technology worked great with our AMD graphics card. We saw zero screen tearing or stuttering even during the most chaotic gameplay moments. The 1ms response time (with VRB enabled) kept ghosting to a minimum, though we found the VA panel doesn’t quite match the clarity of more expensive IPS options.
Setting up the monitor was simple with the included HDMI cable. The zero-frame design looks clean on our desk, and the thin bezels make it perfect for a multi-monitor setup. The HDR support adds a nice touch for games that support it, though don’t expect the same impact as higher-end HDR displays. For competitive gamers who care about performance over resolution, this monitor delivers exceptional value.
Acer Nitro XZ270
We recommend the Acer Nitro XZ270 for gamers wanting smooth, tear-free gameplay thanks to its impressive 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Super smooth 240Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Comfortable 1500R curved screen improves immersion
- Adaptive-Sync prevents screen tearing during fast gameplay
Cons
- 1080p resolution may feel limiting for productivity tasks
- VA panel has slower real-world response than advertised
- Built-in speakers lack power for gaming sessions
After testing the Acer Nitro XZ270, we were impressed by its buttery smooth performance. Games look amazingly fluid with the 240Hz refresh rate, making a huge difference in fast-paced titles. The 27-inch curved display creates a more immersive experience that wraps around your field of view.
The monitor’s physical design feels solid with a zero-frame design that looks modern on any desk. We found the height adjustment and tilt options very helpful for finding the perfect viewing angle. Setup was quick – just attach the base and connect your cables. The included HDMI cable is a nice touch, though we recommend using DisplayPort for the full 240Hz experience.
Color performance is good for a VA panel, with rich blacks that make games and movies pop. While not perfect for professional color work, casual users will find the vibrant colors satisfying. The Adaptive-Sync technology works as advertised, preventing screen tearing even in the most intense gaming moments. For competitive gamers who value speed over resolution, this monitor hits the sweet spot of performance and price.
Dell S2725HS 27″ Monitor
The Dell S2725HS is worth every penny with its smooth 100Hz refresh rate, impressive adjustability, and built-in speakers that make it a perfect all-around monitor for work and casual gaming.
Pros
- 100Hz refresh rate provides noticeably smoother scrolling and motion
- Exceptional adjustability with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot options
- Built-in 5W speakers deliver surprisingly good audio quality
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution which may not satisfy pixel-hungry users
- White/silver color scheme might not match all desk setups
- Physical control buttons can be tricky to navigate at first
We recently tested the Dell S2725HS monitor and were immediately impressed by its smooth performance. The 100Hz refresh rate makes a real difference when scrolling through documents or playing casual games. Everything just flows better compared to standard 60Hz displays.
The stand deserves special mention. Unlike many monitors in this price range, the S2725HS offers full ergonomic adjustments. We could raise, lower, tilt, and even rotate the screen to portrait mode. This versatility helped us avoid neck strain during long work sessions.
Sound quality surprised us the most. The dual 5W speakers pack a punch that eliminates the need for external speakers for most users. We enjoyed clear audio whether watching videos or joining video calls. The ComfortView Plus technology also meant our eyes felt less strained after hours of use.
Colors look vivid and accurate thanks to the 99% sRGB coverage. Text appears crisp on the 1080p panel, though users coming from higher resolution displays might notice the pixel density difference. For most everyday tasks and casual gaming, however, this monitor hits the sweet spot between performance and price.
Connection options proved plentiful with multiple HDMI ports making it easy to switch between devices. The clean design with its subtle texturing on the back gives the monitor a premium feel that enhances any workspace.
Dell 34″ Curved Gaming Monitor
This ultrawide curved gaming monitor offers excellent immersion with its high refresh rate and sharp resolution, making it a worthy investment for serious gamers.
Pros
- Immersive 1800R curved screen with minimal bezels
- Smooth 144Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync
- Height and tilt adjustments for comfortable gaming sessions
Cons
- Fairly large desk footprint despite tapered stand
- VA panel may not match IPS color accuracy
- Premium price point compared to standard monitors
We spent several days testing the Dell S3422DWG, and the curved ultrawide design quickly changed how we view gaming. The 34-inch WQHD display (3440×1440) wraps around your field of view, pulling you into games in a way flat screens simply can’t match. Text appears crisp, and the extra screen real estate makes multitasking a breeze.
The 144Hz refresh rate paired with AMD FreeSync technology creates noticeably smoother gameplay. Quick movements in fast-paced games show minimal blur, and we experienced no screen tearing during intense gaming sessions. The monitor’s response feels quick and responsive compared to standard 60Hz displays we’ve used previously.
Build quality impressed us with thoughtful design elements like the ambient downlight for nighttime sessions and the cooling vents that kept the monitor performing well during extended use. The adjustable stand allowed us to find our ideal viewing angle easily. While the VA panel doesn’t quite match the vibrant colors of an IPS display, the contrast ratio produces deep blacks that make dark game scenes pop with detail.
LG UltraGear 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor
The LG UltraGear curved gaming monitor delivers exceptional performance with its 180Hz refresh rate and immersive 1000R curve, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers looking to upgrade their setup.
Pros
- Smooth 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
- Immersive 1000R curved screen pulls you into the action
- Excellent color reproduction with HDR10 support
Cons
- Black contrast could be better in dark scenes
- Slight flickering issues reported by some users
- Relatively thick bezels compared to other modern gaming monitors
We recently tested the LG 32GS60QC-B UltraGear curved gaming monitor and were blown away by how it changed our gaming experience. The 180Hz refresh rate is a game-changer, especially in fast-paced shooters where every millisecond counts. Moving from a standard 60Hz display to this made everything feel buttery smooth.
The 1000R curve took a bit of getting used to, but after a few gaming sessions, we found it hard to go back to flat panels. This steep curve extends your peripheral vision and creates a more natural field of view. Playing racing games felt more engaging, and we noticed fewer distractions from our surroundings.
Color quality impressed us with its vibrant output and 99% sRGB coverage. Games look fantastic on this QHD (2560×1440) screen, striking a perfect balance between visual quality and performance. We appreciated the various gaming modes (FPS, RTS) that optimize settings based on what we’re playing. The Black Stabilizer feature helped us spot enemies lurking in dark corners, though we noticed the overall black levels could use some improvement when watching darker movie scenes.
At 32 inches, this monitor fills your field of vision without overwhelming your desk space. Connection options are plentiful with two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort. For the price, we think this UltraGear monitor offers excellent value compared to pricier options with similar specs.
Buying Guide
Choosing a high refresh rate monitor can be tricky. We’ll help you sort through the important features to find your perfect match.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate tells you how many times per second your screen updates. Higher is better for smooth motion.
| Refresh Rate | Best For |
|---|---|
| 144Hz | Entry-level gaming |
| 240Hz | Competitive gaming |
| 360Hz+ | Professional esports |
Most gamers will find 144Hz good enough. If you play fast-paced games, consider 240Hz or higher.
Response Time
This measures how quickly pixels change color. Lower numbers mean less motion blur.
Look for 1ms response time for gaming. Up to 5ms works fine for everyday use and casual gaming.
Panel Type
Panel technology affects color, viewing angles, and response time.
| Panel Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| IPS | Better colors, viewing angles |
| TN | Fastest response times |
| VA | Best contrast ratios |
Resolution
Higher resolution means sharper images, but requires a stronger graphics card.
1080p works well for high refresh rates without needing expensive hardware. 1440p offers a good balance of sharpness and performance.
Adaptive Sync
Look for monitors with G-Sync (NVIDIA) or FreeSync (AMD) to prevent screen tearing.
Size and Aspect Ratio
Most gaming monitors range from 24 to 32 inches. Ultrawide monitors (21:9) provide more screen space but cost more.
Connectivity
Make sure the monitor has the right ports for your setup (HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4).
Frequently Asked Questions
Many gamers have questions about high refresh rate monitors. These questions cover performance benefits, visual differences, and buying considerations for both casual and competitive use.
What are the benefits of using a monitor with a high refresh rate for gaming?
High refresh rate monitors make games look smoother and more responsive. When you play fast-paced games, you’ll notice less motion blur and sharper images during quick movements.
These monitors also reduce input lag, which means your actions appear on screen faster. This can give you a competitive edge in games where split-second reactions matter.
Many pro gamers choose high refresh monitors because they provide a more fluid gaming experience overall, reducing eye strain during long sessions.
How does a 240Hz monitor compare to a 144Hz one in terms of performance and user experience?
A 240Hz monitor refreshes the screen 240 times per second compared to 144 times on a 144Hz monitor. This creates an even smoother visual experience, especially in fast-moving games.
The jump from 144Hz to 240Hz is noticeable but less dramatic than going from 60Hz to 144Hz. Most users report subtle improvements in motion clarity and responsiveness.
For competitive gamers in FPS or racing games, the extra refresh rate of 240Hz can provide a small but meaningful advantage.
Can the human eye notice the difference between a 120Hz and a 240Hz display?
Yes, most people can see the difference between 120Hz and 240Hz displays, though the improvement is more subtle than lower refresh rate jumps. The human eye doesn’t see in “frames per second,” but can detect the smoother motion.
The difference is most noticeable in fast-moving content or when making quick mouse movements across the screen.
Some users, especially competitive gamers, are more sensitive to these differences and benefit more from higher refresh rates.
What is the highest refresh rate currently available in consumer monitors?
As of early 2025, 500Hz monitors represent the highest refresh rates available to consumers. These ultra-high refresh displays are mainly targeted at esports professionals and enthusiasts.
360Hz monitors are more common in the premium segment, offering an excellent balance of high refresh rates without the extreme cost of 500Hz models.
We expect to see even higher refresh rates in the coming years as display technology continues to advance.
Are there any 4K monitors that also offer high refresh rates suitable for competitive gaming?
Yes, 4K monitors with 144Hz and 240Hz refresh rates are now available. These combine sharp 4K resolution with smooth gameplay for both visual quality and competitive performance.
These monitors typically require powerful GPUs to reach their full potential. An RTX 4080 or better is recommended to drive 4K gaming at high frame rates.
The price of 4K high refresh monitors has dropped significantly in the past two years, making them more accessible to serious gamers.
What factors should be considered when choosing a monitor with a high refresh rate for professional use?
Panel type is crucial for professional use. IPS panels offer better color accuracy while TN panels typically provide faster response times.
Consider the monitor’s connectivity options, including DisplayPort 1.4 or 2.0, which support higher refresh rates at higher resolutions than HDMI.
Response time (measured in ms) is just as important as refresh rate. Look for 1ms GTG (gray-to-gray) response times to minimize ghosting during fast motion.
