by Gaming technology has come a long way in recent years, with models like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and even the continued success of the Steam Deck making the stand and screens it can use more versatile. Gaming at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second becomes the norm for home consoles, while the Steam Deck popularizes the depth of gaming on portable PCs.
This comes with a wide variety of types of gaming monitors that gamers can get, many of which are well suited for different use cases. From a solid portable monitor for more on-the-go setups to high-end 4K displays to get the most out of desktop PC builds, there are plenty of monitors out there to meet the needs of gamers.
Dell S2722DGM
For a more affordable high-performance 1440p display, the Dell S2722DGM gaming monitor is a solid choice. It’s a simpler design aside from the curved panel, and it’s got the refresh rate and response time to get the most out of demanding games.
The 2560x1400p resolution enables solid detail and vibrant overall image quality, with a very high 165Hz refresh rate for equally high frame rate performance. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a strong visual competitor for PC gaming in particular, without having to deal with the costs of 4K PC gaming.
Alienware 34 QD-OLED
It’s arguably one of the most enthusiast-focused gaming monitors out there, but it does what it sets out to do. The Alienware 34 QD-OLED monitor also fills a rarer but sought-after niche by being a true OLED panel monitor.
These types of panels offer some of the best color contrast available, and that goes well with its ultrawide 3440x1440p resolution. Since gamers opting for such a monitor will surely have a desktop setup to support it, the 175Hz refresh rate will provide a high ceiling when it comes to frame rate performance.
MNN portable monitor
While certainly not for those looking for the best performance, the use case for portable monitors is simple: an easy-to-setup, on-the-go gaming experience. And for such a situation, the MNN portable monitor should tick all the necessary boxes.
This display is about the size of a laptop screen, with full 1080p resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and impressive HDR support for deep color contrasts. With available ports, gamers can even bring a portable battery pack to keep it charged while on the go. In addition to the affordable price for the value inside, it will be a great companion for the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch.
Pixio PX277 Premier
For gamers who want a gaming setup that’s both affordable and graduating with 1080p resolution, the Pixio PX277 Prime monitor is arguably one of the best options available. It has an even more classic design than the aforementioned Dell display, without the bells and whistles like curved panels, not to mention HDR support or an OLED display.
But that doesn’t take away from its functionality, as it offers excellent 1440p resolution, 1 millisecond response time and 165Hz refresh rate for fast gaming performance with great visuals. At under $300 at the time of writing, this could be an ideal budget monitor for PC, PlayStation or Xbox setups.
Gigabyte M32U
While the cost of 4K PC gaming is quite steep considering the cost of these high-performance monitors and the graphics cards that need to support them, the Gigabyte M32U might be the answer when it comes to affordability. This makes the Gigabyte M32U one of the most budget-friendly 4K displays for high-end PC gaming, costing in the $600 range.
It’s hard to get a 4K gaming monitor with the frame rate potential to justify it without breaking the bank, but this screen is bolstered by an impressive 165Hz refresh rate at up to 165 FPS. The HDR capabilities are nothing special, but having quality 4K resolution that can run well beyond 60 FPS is more than enough to make it a worthy choice for RTX 3080 graphics card users.
MSI Oculux NXG253R
Different groups of gamers need different sets of specs from their gaming monitors, which makes the MSI Oculux NXG253R an ideal match for those who thrive in competition. To get the most out of the best esports video games, screen refresh rate and response time is what matters most, and the MSI Oculux’s blistering 360Hz and 1ms are more than at the task height.
As long as players have the corresponding PC, it will provide a smooth competitive gaming experience to ensure that players don’t lose crucial frames in first-person shooters or fighting games. The only downside might be paying around $300 for 1080p resolution, but it still has solid image quality and top performance specs.
ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q1A
Being able to grab a 4K gaming monitor bolstered by a refresh rate above 60Hz might be considered stealing, but there are definitely some serious budget displays out there worth looking into. For PC gamers with graphics cards like the RTX 3080 or better – or those on current-gen PlayStation and Xbox consoles – the ASUS TUF Gaming monitor should be an admirable choice for the price.
It’s especially good for those not so competitively inclined, as the 60Hz refresh rate for a 60 FPS cap should be good enough for single-player gaming to complement a crisp 4K image.
Dell G2722HS
There are good choices for budget 1440p and 4K displays, but there’s still a good market for budget 1080p monitors in the modern age of gaming. 1080p, after all, is still a nice high definition resolution, and that, combined with a superb refresh rate, is all some gamers will need.
The Dell G2722HS is one such option for these prerequisites, as it is priced low at around $150. Its 165Hz rate for a potential 165 FPS and 1ms response time is more than enough for smooth performance in any type of game, and that entry-level price makes it a respectable choice for PCs at low budget and a companion monitor for the Nintendo Switch.
OMEN 27i
The OMEN 27i gaming monitor will surely satisfy those who want top-notch performance with their game while increasing visual fidelity. At an ideal size of 27 inches, this monitor makes great use of its 1440p resolution, with a staggering 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time on startup.
Likewise, it’ll be a strong candidate for gamers who want to dive into esports – or just about any intense first-person shooter – having stable 165 FPS gaming potential, while still from the standard 1080p resolution. But with these specs, it will also suit almost any gaming scenario – single or multiplayer – in addition to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Dell S3220DGF
It’s no secret that Dell makes some of the most reliable gaming monitors that meet a variety of specifications. And in that case, the Dell S3230DGF is a great display for gamers looking to splurge on a monitor without paying 4K-level prices. It’s also for those with plenty of desk space to spare, as this monitor comes in at a hefty 32-inches.
This hulking size is excellent for its 1440p resolution and gently curved panel, capable of showing off games with stunning art direction and maximum immersion. It’s not lacking in performance, with a 1ms response time and 165Hz refresh rate ensuring a high-end PC will play games at smooth frame rates, including home consoles from the current generation.
