Buying the Perfect Gaming Monitor: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to buying a gaming monitor, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. After all, you’ll be spending countless hours staring at the screen, so it’s crucial to make the right choice. It’s not just about the size and picture resolution, but also the design, ports, and features that will enhance your gaming experience on various devices such as gaming PCs, PS5, Xbox Series X, and handheld PCs like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. You can either dive into the technical specifications yourself or let us do the work. Our guide will help you find the best-performing monitors at the best prices, catering to different budgets, resolutions, and capabilities.
Best 1080p Gaming Monitor
Even though many gamers now use consoles and high-resolution hardware, 1080p remains a popular choice for several reasons. It’s less demanding on systems, making it a better option for certain consoles or components. Additionally, 1080p still looks sharp on smaller displays. If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable option, the 27-inch Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM is a top contender. Priced at around $280, this monitor offers slim bezels, a sleek design, fast refresh rates, great picture quality, and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. Its Fast IPS technology allows for a super-fast 280 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay for PC users. While consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X top out at 120 Hz, some PCs can achieve 280 Hz via DisplayPort. The monitor also features multiple ports, including DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, and a headphone jack. It’s versatile and can be mounted on a VESA monitor arm or wall mount.
Best 1440p Gaming Monitor
1440p monitors offer a significant improvement in visual quality over 1080p, and prices have become more affordable. For most users, it’s a better choice than a 1080p model. The higher resolution ensures easier readability, cleaner images, and enhanced gaming experiences. While the difference between 1440p and 4K might not be immediately noticeable, rendering games at 1440p typically produces smoother visuals. Both the PS5 and Xbox Series X support 1440p resolution at a fast 120 Hz refresh rate in compatible games. PC users will need capable hardware, preferably AMD or Nvidia’s midrange graphics cards. LG offers excellent 1440p gaming monitors at various price points. The 27-inch 27GL83A-B is an affordable option priced at $299.99. It boasts QHD resolution, IPS LCD panel for great viewing angles, a 144 Hz refresh rate via DisplayPort, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and AMD FreeSync adaptive sync support. Its slim bezels and multiple ports, including DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and a headphone jack, make it a stylish and functional choice. Another alternative is the $249.99 Acer Nitro XV272U, which offers similar specs and design. For a larger option, the Gigabyte M32Q is a 32-inch QHD monitor priced at $399.99, featuring a KVM switch for seamless control of multiple computers connected to the monitor.
Consider OLED for Unrivaled Picture Quality
OLED technology provides unparalleled picture quality, making it an excellent choice for those willing to invest in visual fidelity. LG’s 27-inch UltraGear OLED gaming monitor is a top recommendation for its top-notch picture quality. Priced at $896.99, it offers impeccable black presentation and incredible contrast. OLED technology ensures complete darkness in black scenes, creating an immersive experience. While it may be a premium option, the visual benefits are worth the investment.
When it comes to buying a gaming monitor, consider your budget, desired resolution, and specific requirements for a truly immersive gaming experience. Whether you opt for a 1080p or 1440p monitor, or splurge on OLED technology, there are options available to suit your needs.