March 31 2019

The 10 Best Gaming Monitors

Gone are the days where 1080p was the standard monitor resolution. In today’s world, gaming monitors must accommodate for the incredibly powerful CPU and graphics card market. This is often handled by bumping up the resolution to 4K. These higher resolution monitors often cost an arm and a leg, but don’t be put off; they feature higher refresh rates and astonishing HDR graphics for immersive visuals.

Sadly, only powerful PCs and modern consoles can handle 4K, so if you have a budget gaming PC, it’s best to stick with 1080p and 60Hz monitors. On the other hand, if your PC features the latest and fastest technology, go wild and choose any display from our list featuring the best gaming monitor currently out there.

Dell Alienware AW3418DW in Game Studio


10 Best Gaming Screens

Ditch bad viewing angles and ghosting with a top-quality gaming monitor

Now that you understand some important features of a monitor, it’s time to take a look at some of our favorite gaming monitors.

Best Choice: BenQ EX3501R

Pros & Cons

  • HDR technology
  • Ergonomic viewing
  • Low contrast compared to other VA panels

Specification

  • Screen Size: 35-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh Rate: 100Hz
  • Panel: VA
  • Weight: 21.3 lbs

BenQ EX3501R Review

We landed on this BenQ monitor when looking at some of the best gaming monitors for 2020, but the BenQ EX3501R isn’t like the other monitors on our list. Instead, it’s our best choice option thanks to all of the fantastic features of this BenQ 35 E series monitor, despite its low price tag. Compare this with the best budget gaming monitor.

When the BenQ EX3501R was released, high-dynamic range (HDR) display technology wasn’t as common in PC monitors as it is today, which is why this BenQ monitor had us all on the edge of our seats.

This HDR technology allows for improved contrast, increased brightness, and lifelike colors in photographs and videos. Albeit, most games aren’t HDR-enabled, those that are look incredibly lifelike on the BenQ EX3501R monitor.

Fortunately for you console lovers out there, modern consoles such as the PlayStation 4 Pro support 4K and HDR content out of the box thanks to its enhanced hardware. Although the game must take advantage of the technology itself, many big titles like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Red Dead Redemption 2 all support high-dynamic range technology.

Much like the Dell Alienware, The BenQ EX3501R features an elongated, 21:9 aspect ratio, as well as a 3440 x 1440 display for a lifelike gaming experience. Not only that, but the sturdy metal stand on this monitor is adjustable to ensure you feel even more comfortable whilst riding horses and kicking butt in RDR2.

Now, although the “ultra-slim bezels” aren’t as thin as our best quality monitor option, they are thinner than most monitors on our list, allowing for a pleasant viewing experience.

Best Quality: Dell Alienware AW3418DW

Pros & Cons

  • High refresh rates
  • Customizable lighting zon
  • Takes up a lot of space

Specification

  • Screen Size: 34-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh Rate: 100Hz (Overclock to 120Hz)
  • Panel: IPS
  • Weight: 26 lbs

Dell Alienware AW3418DW Review

Alienware is renowned for producing some of the best gaming laptops on the market, while their stunning gaming-focused monitors are way ahead of the competition. For this reason, the incredibly sleek Dell Alienware AW3418DW made it to the top 3 in our list. But what makes this monitor so impressive?

Thanks to the broad, 21:9 aspect ratio on the AW3418DW, its extra-wide screen will not only fill your peripheral vision for an immersive gameplay experience, but a widescreen monitor will naturally increase productivity. With a stunning 3440 x 1440 display, you can open up multiple windows and work with ease, without the need for a multiple monitor setup.

Not only that, the almost bezel-less design means there’s no wasted screen space, allowing you to have the best view of your video games possible. So, if you like to play games like Resident Evil, we advise that you position your chair a couple of feet away from the Alienware AW3418DW monitor. Unless of course, you want nightmares for the rest of your life.

Aside from the immersive experience, gameplay will be fluid due to the G-Sync technology that combats screen-tearing by syncing the monitor’s refresh rate to your in-game framerate. Now, although the refresh rate (100Hz) isn’t the highest rate we’ve seen from a G-Sync monitor, it’s standard for a 21:9 monitor and much better than the typical rate of 60Hz. Fortunately, the refresh rate on this AW can be overclocked to 120Hz, making it faster than the competition.

Yup, it’s possible to overclock a monitor.

The design of this Alienware monitor is sophisticated yet simple, complimented by customizable LEDs and a sharp curve. Though the monitor inevitably hogs desk space due to its width, there’s no denying that this is a good-looking monitor.

When it comes to the price tag, ultrawide monitors are never cheap, and though Alienware is pushing it a little with the price, it’s justified by the quality build and features. How does this stack up against the best ultrawide gaming monitor?

Best Value: BenQ Zowie RL2455S

Pros & Cons

  • Rapid response time
  • Black eQualizer for control and visibility
  • Smaller screen

Specification

  • Screen Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • Panel: TN
  • Weight: 9 lbs

BenQ Zowie RL2455S Review

The best value gaming monitor on our list is an extremely affordable option that could fit into almost everyone’s gaming monitor budget.

While the design of the BenQ Zowie RL2455S looks basic, don’t be fooled. It’s an upgraded, slimmer version of the BenQ Zowie RL2755 with some handy new features to ensure you’re relaxed during long hours of gameplay.

BenQ upgraded the RL2455S to eliminate flickering, regardless of what brightness you have it set to. Inevitably, this zero flicker feature reduces eye fatigue for visual comfort, perfect for those who have their eyes glued to a monitor all day. This model also comes with the Black eQualizer color engine technology, which enhances contrast to brighten darker scenes.

Black eQualizer technology is vital for preserving important details, allowing you to see everything for an in-game advantage. You’ll also benefit from this BenQ’s incredible performance thanks to the rapid 1ms response time, making it suitable for FPS games.

Going back onto the topic of design and other features, the Zowie RL2455 rocks a minimalist design, matt black design, great for a starter monitor option. We were, however, disappointed by the massive bezels since they obstruct the already restricting viewing space. Fortunately, the build is robust, so we forgive the dated frame.

The only real downside to the BenQ Zowie RL2455S is the screen size, as 24-inches may not be desirable in the age where massive 32-inch gaming monitors dominate.

Best Backlighting: Acer Predator X27

Pros & Cons

  • Astonishing 4K HDR graphics
  • High refresh rates
  • Ridiculously expensive

Specification

  • Screen Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz (overclocks to 144HZ)
  • Panel: IPS
  • Weight: 27.12 lbs

Acer Predator X27 Review

The Acer Predator x27 is another monitor that benefits from 4k resolution and stunning HDR thanks to 384-zone backlighting. While we have discussed the fact that some games don’t support HDR, and many older games don’t support 4K at all, the ones that do look phenomenal.

For the smoothest gameplay possible, you can overclock the Acer x27 to 144Hz in the settings using the on-screen controls. The catch is, if you want full color for realistic gameplay, the limit for SDR is 120Hz, and 98Hz for max 4:4:4 quality in HDR.

While this is still higher than the typical 60Hz refresh rate that most monitors offer, this limitation isn’t mentioned in the product description. Furthermore, the 384 backlighting zones allow for accurate highlights and shadows for realism, so we say the limitations can be forgiven.

But with all of these modern features, is this Acer a little ahead of its time? Well, you will need the latest hardware for this flagship monitor for it to work to its full potential, and for a 27-inches, it is ridiculously expensive. However, we can’t deny that games look outstanding on the Acer Predator x27.

Most Adjustable: ASUS ROG STRIX XG27VQ

Pros & Cons

  • AMD FreeSync technology
  • Superb image quality
  • Viewing angles

Specification

  • Screen Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Panel: IPS
  • Weight: 20.3 lbs

ASUS ROG STRIX XG27VQ Review

Though there are a few other superior curved monitors on our list, the curve on the ASUS ROG Strix XG27VQ stood out to us the most. This monitor features an 1800R curvature that can be swivelled, tilted, and height adjusted for your personal viewing angle preferences. Customization doesn’t stop there either.

Thanks to the “super-narrow bezels“, you can set up multiple monitors to boost productivity, without getting distracted by a huge bezel right in the middle of two screens. And, as the cost of the ROG Strix is relatively low, you should have no problem fitting a couple of these bad boys into your budget.

Even though the price is low, the ASUS ROG Strix features AMD FreeSync technology and 144Hz refresh rate for a lag-free gaming experience expanded across the 27-inch display. Because of this, you’ll have no problem seeing enemies approach you on the battlefield with the ROG Strix.

Best 27-Inch LG 27UK650-W

Pros & Cons

  • AMD FreeSync when connected to DisplayPort or HDMI
  • sRGB 99% color gamut
  • Limited brightness levels

Specification

  • Screen Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 5ms
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • Panel: IPS
  • Weight: 13.7 lbs

LG 27UK650-W Review

Like some of the other monitors that we chose for our list, the LG 27UK650-W sports a 27-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 3840 x 2160. Alongside the thin bezels, this LG monitor is suitable for FPS, MMO, MOBA, and most other game types.

To improve gameplay further, LG 27UK650-W supports AMD’s FreeSync technology which smooths out frame-rates for consistent and lag-free battles. Not only that, it’s HDR-capable, though as we have previously mentioned, you may be bummed out to know that your favorite game likely isn’t HDR10 compatible.

Not to worry, though, as the advanced gaming features will ensure you get the best possible experience. From the Black Stabilizer that reveals vital details darker scenes, and the Dynamic Action Sync feature that assures action in-game are fluid, you can’t go wrong with the LG 27UK650-W. Or can you?

Unfortunately, the maximum brightness is limited which makes the contrast pretty average. It doesn’t massively affect picture quality so long as you turn that brightness up, but doing so can cause eye fatigue after a long period of time.

Best Budget: ViewSonic XG2402

Pros & Cons

  • High refresh rate
  • Supports Freesync across DisplayPort and HDMI
  • The viewing angles aren’t great

Specification

  • Screen Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Panel: TN
  • Weight: 14.8 lbs

ViewSonic XG2402 Review

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly monitor with a TN panel, the ViewSonic XG2402 is a suitable option.

The XG2402 possesses a very high refresh rate of 144Hz, and although that won’t make you a better gamer, it sure will make your games run better. You can also wave goodbye to ghosting in video games thanks to the 1ms response time, and with the 22-level black stabilization for enhanced visibility, you’ll always know where your enemies are located.

To eliminate tearing even further, the AMD FreeSync technology allows the ViewSonic XG2402 to handle motion extremely well, which is why it made it to our list. Though you may be wondering if it is so great, why didn’t this ViewSonic make it to the top 3 best choices?

Admittedly, the viewing angles aren’t the best, but for a gaming monitor that’s under $200 (almost), it’s still one of our favorite gaming monitors in 2020.

Best Curved: AOC AGON AG352UCG6

Pros & Cons

  • High refresh rates
  • Immersive visuals
  • AMVA panel lags behind TN and IPS

Specification

  • Screen Size: 35-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Aspect Ratio: 21:9
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Panel: AMVA
  • Weight: 26 lbs

AOC AGON AG352UCG6 Review

Didn’t like the design of the ViewSonic? Let’s look into another monitor with a 1800R curvature.

One thing we didn’t mention about curved monitors is the fact that they cut down on distortion to reduce eye fatigue. What we have mentioned, however, is how undeniably awesome curved displays look. Have a look at the best curved gaming monitor.

The AOC Agon AG352UCG6 not only looks futuristic thanks to its fully adjustable stand and sleek curves, it features some of the most up-to-date technology for enhanced gameplay performance.

This is the first monitor on our list with an AMVA panel, which is usually seen as a middle ground between a TN and an IPS display. We touched on some advantages of an advanced multi domain panel monitor which include their high contrast ratios and deep black color depth. And though they are seen as a middle-ground, AMVA panels still lag behind TN and IPS technology.

Despite this, the 4ms grey-to-grey response time allows fast actions to be smoothly rendered, while the Nvidia G-Sync and 120Hz refresh rate allow for responsive gameplay.

Best 3D: ASUS VG248QE

Pros & Cons

  • High refresh rate
  • Affordable
  • Uses a TN panel

Specification

  • Screen Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Panel: TN
  • Weight: 12.13 lbs

ASUS VG248QE Review

Sometimes, companies must sacrifice features to keep the cost low, and while a TN panel isn’t all that terrible, color depth is definitely limited. For this reason, if you like to edit photos on the side or even for work, it’s best to opt for an IPS LCD/LED display. Though if you don’t edit photos, the 144Hz refresh rate makes this a better option for gaming compared to 60Hz monitors.

To reduce the price further, Asus opted for Trace Free 2 technology, rather than Nvidia’s G-Sync. Furthermore, the Asus VG248QE supports a high 144Hz refresh rate on a decent-sized 1080p panel, perfect for those who don’t have the most powerful CPU or GPU with tons of VRAM.

Asus also considered ergonomics by allowing players to tilt, pivot, and height-adjust the monitor for comfortable viewing positions. This versatile 3D monitor is also complimented by Nvidia’s 3D LightBoost Technology which increases the LED backlighting brightness for “3D vision”.

Aside from the panel type, this monitor has great features, which is why we are happy to put it onto our list.

Best Refresh Rate: Dell Alienware AW2518HF

Pros & Cons

  • 240 Hz Refresh rate
  • Thin bezels
  • Requires a fast CPU and GPU to work to full potential

Specification

  • Screen Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Panel: TN
  • Weight: 13.47 lbs

Dell Alienware AW2518HF Review

Last but not least on our list is the Dell Alienware AW2518HF.

We decided to finish up on a gaming monitor that hosts an incredibly fast 240Hz refresh rate. Combined with the 1ms response time, The AW2518HF is one of the best monitors to run modern games on, without the worry of lagging.

The design matches our best quality monitor, the Dell Alienware AW3418DW, though the AW2518HF has a much smaller screen size. However, a smaller, 24-inch screen is suitable for a smaller desk space, and for under $400, the price point is superb. It’s FreeSync technology also supports Nvidia and AMD graphics cards, perfect for any high-end gaming PC.

Regardless of all the pros, you do require a fast CPU and graphics card for this monitor to work to its full potential. Though if you’re an avid PC gamer, we’re sure your computer includes the latest and greatest technology. Does your computer have the best graphics card for gaming?

 

How to Choose a Gaming Monitor – Buying Guide

There are many different features of a gaming monitor that you may not be aware of, which is why we have included a list of important terms and specifications, what they mean, and why they are important.

Resolution

Arguably the most important factor when looking for a gaming monitor is the resolution. We mentioned that 4k monitors are becoming increasingly popular, though you will require a powerful graphics card for anything over 1920 x 1080p, so choose wisely.

Screen Size

When buying a phone, one of your main concerns will be the size of your mobile display. In the same way, while browsing for a gaming monitor, screen size is one of the most important things to consider. Typically, the price goes up as the screen size increases, so think carefully about your budget before picking up the perfect monitor.

tv and monitor gaming setup

If you don’t have a large desk, it’s best to stick with a smaller screen. Though you’ll be missing out on the immersive gaming experience that larger screens offer.

Aspect Ratio:

The height and width of a gaming monitor are determined by the aspect ratio. As you will see on our list, newer monitors typically have an aspect ratio of 16:9, while the aspect ratio of ultra-wide monitors will be much higher (21:9).

Response Time:

The lower the response time, the faster and more fluid the actions on-screen are. Hence, high-end gaming monitors have a low response time, usually around 1ms on TN monitors, and 4ms on IPS monitors.

Refresh Rate:

If you’re into first-person shooters, a high refresh rate is important for a smoother gaming experience. The most common refresh rate is 60Hz, while higher-end monitors offer a refresh rate between 120Hz and 144Hz for more frames per second.

Before making a purchase, we recommend you check your monitor refresh rate and decide whether you need an upgrade.

Panel Types:

There are three main panel technologies to choose from when buying a monitor: In-Plane Switching (IPS), Twisted Nematic (TN), and Vertical Alignment (VA). Here are some characteristics of each and some other panels.

In one of our articles, we discuss IPS vs. LED which you might find interesting.

G-Sync and FreeSync:

Modern gaming monitors feature G-Sync or FreeSync technology, and sometimes both. This technology is designed to prevent screen tearing and reduce input lag to ensure you get the smoothest gameplay possible. As G-Sync was developed by Nvidia, you’ll require an Nvidia GPU. On the other hand, FreeSync was developed by AMD.


Gaming Monitors FAQ

Is a Curved Monitor Worth It for Gaming?

Curved monitors improve immersion thanks to their wider field of view. Despite that, they usually cost more than flat monitors which are just as good for gaming.

Which Panel Is Best for Gaming?

The cheapest and most common panel on the market is the twisted nematic panel, one that offers low response times for smooth gameplay experience. However, contrasts, colors, and viewing angles are mediocre.

On the other hand, vertical alignment panels offer far better-viewing angles and colors, yet they are slightly more expensive. So if you don’t really care for color accuracy, you could get away with opting for a TN panel to save yourself a couple of extra bucks.

Multiple Curved Extended Screens

That being said, the best panel for gaming is the in-plane switching panel which offers superb contrasts, colors, and viewing angles. Sadly, IPS panel monitors are far more expensive than TN and VA panel displays.

Is a 5ms Response Time Good for Gaming?

Anything between a 1ms and 5ms response time is great for gaming, so don’t bother paying more for a monitor with the faster response time.

Is a Monitor Better for Gaming Than a TV?

Both TVs and monitors are great for gaming, and while monitors offer faster response times, TVs host bigger screens. As an alternative, there are some excellent projectors for gaming that some people absolutely adore using.

However, size isn’t everything. I mean, if you were choosing between the best-performing mobile phone and the largest screen smartphone out there which has terrible speed and battery life, which one would you choose?


Final Verdict

Monitors are one of the most important aspects of gaming on PC. If you’re a hardcore console gamer, chances are you’re looking for the ultimate console gaming monitor as well. Luckily, there are monitors for every price range and graphics setting out there. The hard part is figuring out your budget and finding the perfect one that suits your needs as a gamer.

If you consider all of these too pricey for your budget, we recommend you take a look at some of the best gaming monitors under $150. Also, why not check out our favorite 1080p gaming monitors? You may just find the right one for you.


Sources:

  1. Ronald Kim, Refresh Rate (Hz) Explained, BenQ, November 17th, 2015
  2. David Nield, Everything You Need to Know About 4K Gaming, Gizmodo, June 14th, 2017
  3. Kate Murphy, Things to Consider When Buying a Monitor, The NY Times, August 22nd, 2012

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Author

Courtenay Smith