Within the world of PC gaming, 1440p and 4K monitors often dominate the headlines. Yet, according to Steam's Hardware Survey, the majority of gamers still prefer 1080p resolution. There are solid reasons for this—cost efficiency and performance accessibility top the list. If you're in the market for a new monitor, you’ll quickly discover that the selection is vast, with no clear standout option.

That’s where I come in. With years of experience covering gaming displays, I know what separates a decent monitor from a truly exceptional one. My top recommendation? The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM. If you're looking to cut down on shopping time and get straight into enjoying your games, here’s my curated list of the best 1080p gaming monitors for 2025.

TL;DR – Top 1080p Gaming Monitors of 2025:

• Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM – Our Top Pick
• Samsung Odyssey G30D
• AOC Gaming C27F2Z
• Acer Nitro ED6
• BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Opting for a 1080p gaming monitor offers several distinct advantages. They’re more affordable than 1440p and 4K alternatives, can support refresh rates up to 500Hz (and rising), and typically include adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync. These monitors are also easier to drive performance-wise, meaning even entry-level GPUs can handle them without breaking a sweat. That said, they may appear less sharp on larger screens—particularly above 27 inches. For higher-resolution options, check out our guide to the best gaming monitors of 2025.

1. Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

Best 1080p Gaming Monitor

27-inch Full HD display • 240Hz refresh rate (280Hz overclocked) • IPS panel • FreeSync & G-Sync compatible • 400 nits brightness • 1ms response time

• Pros: Excellent value • Rich color reproduction • Brightness up to 400 nits • Overclockable refresh rate • Adaptive sync support
• Cons: No local dimming

The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM delivers an unbeatable combination of speed, clarity, and affordability. At under $300, it offers a vibrant 280Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and support for both FreeSync and G-Sync. Its 27-inch size strikes a perfect balance between immersion and pixel density, while its 400 nits peak brightness ensures crisp visuals even in well-lit environments. DisplayHDR 400 certification adds some dynamic range, though expectations should be tempered for true HDR performance.

Whether you're using an AMD or Nvidia GPU, this monitor delivers smooth gameplay free of screen tearing. It’s a well-rounded pick that excels across the board, making it the best overall 1080p monitor for most gamers in 2025.

2. Samsung Odyssey G30D

Best Budget 1080p Monitor

24-inch Full HD display • 180Hz refresh rate • IPS panel • FreeSync & G-Sync compatible • 250 nits brightness • 1ms response time

• Pros: Affordable • Good color accuracy • 180Hz refresh rate • Reliable brand name
• Cons: Limited connectivity • Moderate brightness

For budget-conscious gamers, the Samsung Odyssey G30D is a solid choice. Priced around $120, it brings a responsive 180Hz refresh rate and VRR support to the table. While its brightness tops out at 250 nits—making it better suited for indoor use—it still delivers vibrant colors and snappy response times. With only one HDMI and one DisplayPort, it’s not ideal for multi-device setups, but for single-use applications, it’s a dependable, feature-packed budget option backed by Samsung’s warranty.

3. AOC Gaming C27G2Z

Best Curved 1080p Monitor

27-inch curved VA panel • 240Hz refresh rate • FreeSync support • 300 nits brightness • 0.5ms response time

• Pros: Immersive curve • Fast refresh rate • Strong contrast • Competitive pricing
• Cons: May require calibration • Slight color tuning needed

Priced around $150, the AOC Gaming C27G2Z combines a sleek 1500R curve with a 240Hz refresh rate and a fast 0.5ms response time. Its VA panel provides deep blacks and strong contrast, while the curvature enhances immersion. Out-of-the-box settings may need adjustment for optimal color accuracy, but with minor tweaks, it delivers a rich visual experience. Ideal for competitive play and casual enjoyment alike.

4. Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

Best Ultrawide 1080p Monitor

29.5-inch ultrawide VA panel • 200Hz refresh rate • FreeSync Premium • 350 nits brightness • 1ms response time

• Pros: Immersive 21:9 aspect ratio • High refresh rate • Great contrast • Dual inputs
• Cons: Out-of-the-box color calibration could improve

At under $200, the Acer Nitro ED6 delivers a widefield view with a 21:9 aspect ratio and a 200Hz refresh rate. Its 30-inch VA panel offers deep contrast and vibrant color reproduction, making it suitable for both immersive single-player experiences and fast-paced multiplayer action. The 1500R curve enhances engagement without distorting text, and dual HDMI and DisplayPort connections ensure flexibility. A great choice for those seeking an ultrawide setup without paying premium prices.

5. BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Best 1080p Monitor