In today's market, the prices of the best gaming monitors have surged, particularly for those featuring OLED panels, large screens, and high refresh rates at sharp resolutions. Fortunately, there's still a robust selection of affordable monitors that maintain impressive image quality and features. A prime example is the Xiaomi G Pro 27i, which boasts an incredible mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400. This monitor stands out as my top choice because it rivals models costing hundreds more, showcasing the kind of quality achievable on a budget when you know where to look.

TL;DR – These Are the Best Budget Gaming Monitors:

Our Top Pick### Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor

1See it at AmazonBest 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

0See it at AmazonBest 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

0See it at AmazonSee it at TargetBest 4K### KTC H27P22S

0See it at AmazonBest ultrawide### DellS3422DWG

0See it at AmazonSee it at DellThe best budget gaming monitors may not include all the latest technologies and features, but they still deliver an excellent display experience to enjoy the full capabilities of your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed to their limits with high refresh and 4K monitors available at relatively affordable prices. While trade-offs exist, such as height-adjustable stands at the lower end and value-adds like KVM switches at the higher end, focusing on performance and your personal "must-haves" allows you to find great value at every price point.

However, not all budget gaming monitors are equal, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. A $100 monitor might seem like a bargain, but it could quickly fail or strain your eyes during gameplay, ultimately causing more harm than good. Our selected monitors, while slightly more expensive, offer solid construction, excellent panels, and gaming features for a superior experience. As with any gaming accessory, higher-quality options are available if you're willing to spend more.

Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith

Looking for deals? Check out the best gaming monitor deals right now.

1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor

Best Overall Budget Gaming Monitor

Our Top Pick### Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor

1Experience incredible picture quality at an unbeatable price. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9 Resolution2,560 x 1,440Panel typeIPSBrightness1,000 cd/m2 Refresh rate180Hz Response time1msInputs2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x 3.5mm AudioPROSHigh brightness and deep contrastGreat color accuracyOutstanding picture quality and HDRRobust 1,152 local dimming zonesCONSBloom on dark grey backgroundsNo USB hubThe Xiaomi G Pro 27i is the most impressive gaming monitor I've reviewed in 2024. Priced around $330 at the time of writing, it sets a high standard for what to expect from affordable gaming monitors. Although not the cheapest option for a 27" 1440p display, it surpasses its competition by offering a superior picture and gaming experience.

The Xiaomi G Pro 27i stands out by using mini-LED technology with full array local dimming (FALD), allowing the display to intelligently dim dark areas for enhanced contrast. While other FALD mini-LED displays exist at similar prices, none match the G Pro 27i's 1,152 local dimming zones, typically found on monitors costing over $700. This reduces blooming around bright objects, improving the viewing experience. Its HDR performance is exceptional, far surpassing other monitors on this list and closely rivaling OLEDs, which are usually much more expensive but susceptible to burn-in and text clarity issues.

Xiaomi has selected an excellent panel that supports up to 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal motion blur. In its DCI-P3, sRGB, and Adobe RGB color modes, it delivers accurate colors ideal for content creation. It also supports variable refresh rate systems like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia's G-Sync, enhancing the gaming experience.

While the monitor is remarkable, it does have some trade-offs to keep the price low, such as the absence of a USB hub or USB Type-C connectivity and only supporting HDMI 2.0. Despite these limitations, the value and performance make the Xiaomi G Pro 27i the top choice for those seeking OLED-like picture quality without the typical drawbacks and high cost.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor

Best 1080p### Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

2Enjoy great gaming performance with minimal drawbacks for around $150. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA, FreeSync Premium, G-Sync CompatibleBrightness350 cd/m2Refresh rate165Hz Response time1msInputs2x HDMI 1.4, 1x DisplayPort 1.2, 1 x Audio JackPROSGreat colors and impressive contrastELMB support for improved motion clarityVESA support for third-party standsCONSSlightly lower pixel densityNo height adjustmentThe Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers incredible value, capable of running smoothly on a wide range of hardware. You don't need the latest graphics card to push this display to its limits, and its VA panel provides deeper blacks and a wider dynamic range for an immersive gaming experience. With a 1ms gray-to-gray response time and game-enhancing features, it's perfect for competitive shooters and esports.

In this price range, VA panels are my go-to choice. They offer colors nearly as good as IPS panels while providing a better gaming experience with improved blacks. At 350 nits, it's bright enough for colors to pop and gaming in well-lit rooms.

The monitor includes features like an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost for better visibility in dark areas, and Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) mode to reduce motion blur for smoother gameplay.

However, there are two notable drawbacks. The stand isn't height adjustable, though it supports VESA mounting, allowing you to use an aftermarket stand or monitor arm. Additionally, the 27" screen at 1080p resolution might not be as sharp as smaller displays at the same resolution, but it offers a more immersive experience.

Overall, the Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers significant improvements to your gaming experience without breaking the bank.

3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

Best 1440p Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 1440p### LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

0Experience up to 144Hz in 1440p with adaptive sync technology and excellent color accuracy. See it at AmazonSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27”Aspect Ratio16:9 Resolution2,560 x 1,440Panel typeIPS FreeSync and G-SyncResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPortPROSSolid HDR gamingGreat color accuracyCONSStand isn’t height adjustableThe LG UltraGear 27GN800-B is an excellent choice for gamers looking to upgrade on a budget. Priced under $300, it offers a 2560x1440 resolution, significantly enhancing sharpness over 1080p monitors. Its color accuracy and factory calibration make visuals pop, and the 27" screen provides an immersive gaming experience without demanding excessive system resources.

This monitor also boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and supports both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth, tear-free HDR gaming. A valuable feature is Low Framerate Compensation, which helps maintain smooth gameplay even if your system can't reach the maximum refresh rate.

The main downside is the non-height adjustable stand, though it supports a standard 100x100mm VESA mount for custom solutions. Despite this, its feature set and affordable price make it an excellent option for budget-conscious gamers.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Best 4K### KTC H27P22S

1Enjoy a fast and fantastic 4K picture on a budget. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27” Aspect Ratio16:9Resolution3,840 x 2,160Panel typeIPS FreeSync Premium, G-Sync CompatibleBrightness400 cd/m2Refresh rate160HzResponse time1msInputs2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm AudioPROSSharp 4K screenGreat for consoles thanks to HDMI 2.1 connectivityFast refresh rateExcellent value overallCONSNo USB connectivityNot factory calibratedThe KTC H27P22D showcases how far budget gaming monitors have come. Priced at $400, and often on sale for less, it offers a high refresh rate 4K gaming experience without breaking the bank. It's a well-rounded package at an exceptionally reasonable price, making it a top contender if you have the hardware to support it.

With a crisp 4K resolution and a 160Hz refresh rate, the H27P22D supports AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync for a smooth gaming experience. Its dual HDMI 2.1 ports make it ideal for console gaming, though you'll need to bring your own audio solution.

While marketing might overpromise, the monitor's real-world performance is impressive for the price. Its 400 nits of peak brightness is suitable for vibrant SDR gaming, though not bright enough for true HDR. It offers good color coverage, but lacks factory calibration, which is fine for gaming but may require calibration for creative work. It also doesn't include a USB hub, limiting peripheral connectivity.

Despite these minor shortcomings, the KTC H27P22D is a fantastic option for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade to Ultra HD.

Dell S3422DWG

5 Images5. Dell S3422DWG

Best Ultrawide Budget Gaming Monitor

Best ultrawide### DellS3422DWG

0Immerse yourself in the action with a budget-friendly, ultrawide curved monitor delivering a 1440p/144Hz refresh rate. See it at AmazonSee it at DellProduct SpecificationsScreen Size34”Aspect Ratio21:9Resolution3,440 x 1,440 Panel typeVA FreeSync Brightness400 cd/m2 Refresh rate144HzResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPortPROSGreat contrastImmersive wide, curved displayCONSMinor ghostingThe Dell S3422DWG is an excellent choice for an immersive gaming experience on a budget. Its VA panel with a 3440x1440 resolution delivers vibrant, sharp images across all genres. The 21:9 aspect ratio and slight curvature wrap around your field of vision, enhancing focus on in-game action.

For large ultrawides, I prefer the "1440p" resolution over the ultrawide equivalent of 1080p for better pixel density and image quality, despite requiring more graphics power.

The monitor offers a solid 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support for smooth gameplay, though it may suffer from minor ghosting behind dark objects. Despite its competitive price, it includes a height-adjustable stand, multiple ports, and can serve as a USB hub.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?

For a budget gaming monitor, the sweet spot is around $200-$300. While cheaper options exist, they often compromise on quality. A gaming monitor should last 3-5 years, and a $100 monitor likely won't meet that expectation.

To find a monitor within this price range, understand what to look for and prioritize your needs to make the right compromises.

ResolutionRefresh RatePanel TypesScreen SizeGamers on a tight budget have more options than before, but still need to make some compromises. You can choose a higher resolution or a higher refresh rate, but not both in a budget monitor.

1080p remains the standard for budget displays, offering lower hardware requirements for high frame rates. 1440p is a nice upgrade and better value if your budget allows, providing higher pixel density than a 48" 4K TV on a 27" screen, though it sacrifices higher refresh rates.

4K is available on a budget but expect to pay around $400 or make sacrifices in brightness or size. Higher system requirements are necessary for 4K at high frame rates.

Refresh rates on budget gaming monitors typically range from 60 to 240Hz, with most at 144Hz or 165Hz. A 144Hz rate is versatile, while 240Hz is ideal for competitive gaming. Note that maximum refresh rates may not be supported on all inputs; DisplayPort is best for high refresh rates.

Panel technology is crucial. Our recommendations feature IPS or VA panels. IPS panels excel in motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, ideal for competitive gaming. VA panels offer superior contrast and dark scene performance, enhancing immersive gaming experiences.

Panel Types

TN (twisted nematic)IPS (in-plane switching)VA (vertical alignment)OLED (organic light-emitting diode)Screen size is less restrictive now. Our guide focuses on 27" and 34" options. Smaller 24" monitors are cheaper and preferred by competitive gamers. Larger monitors (32" and up) are more immersive but may lose detail without higher resolutions. Ensure your desk can accommodate the size; a 27" 16:9 monitor is a safe choice.

Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support is essential based on your graphics card. Most budget monitors support both standards.

Finally, note that HDR on budget monitors often falls short due to limited brightness, typically around 400 nits, which is considered HDR compatible but lacks the dynamic range for true HDR.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget gaming monitors typically feature VA or IPS panels. My top pick uses an IPS monitor with a mini-LED backlight, outperforming other panel types due to its technology. Choose this if your budget and needs align. Otherwise, the decision between VA and IPS depends on response time, colors, and contrast.

For response time and color accuracy, IPS panels are preferable, though response time differences are less significant now. IPS monitors offer vivid and accurate colors.

For contrast, VA panels have an advantage unless using a mini-LED backlight like my top pick. They provide richer blacks and better dynamic range.

There's no single "best" panel, but better choices based on your priorities.

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

The best times to buy gaming monitors at reduced prices are during events like Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday. Deals also appear during Back to School sales, and retailers often discount older models to clear inventory for new releases.

What size gaming monitor should I get for gaming?

Choosing a gaming monitor size depends on personal preference, but consider space and resolution. A 24" monitor suits 1080p gaming, while 27-32" is ideal for 1440p, offering detail and immersion. For 4K, a minimum of 27" is recommended. Avoid 1080p monitors larger than 27" to prevent the screen door effect.