Gigabyte G27F2 Gaming Monitor Review: Premium Performance for a Low Price
Tom’s Hardware Verdict
For an impressively low price, the Gigabyte G27F2 delivers top quality contrast, color and video processing on par with many more expensive screens. Unless you must have greater resolution or built-in speakers, it’s a true performance bargain.
Pros
- +
Excellent color accuracy and contrast
- +
Quick response and low input lag
- +
Super-smooth overdrive and video processing
- +
Solid build quality
Cons
- —
No speakers
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In today’s gaming market, where relatively inexpensive consoles are delivering Ultra HD graphics at 120 Hz and 4K televisions are coming down in price, FHD monitors are getting less attention than they deserve. However, when you’re shopping for a desktop display, they can still perform at a high level while representing a small part of your system budget. For just over $200, you can get a well-made high-performance gaming monitor with 170 Hz, Adaptive-Sync, HDR and a wide color gamut.
The Gigabyte G27F2 is the second iteration of the G27F I reviewed two years ago.
Upgrades include 170 Hz instead of a 144 Hz refresh rate, the addition of HDR, and better overall performance. The best part is that the price is a tad lower than before. At this writing, the new G27F2 is selling for $210, about $25 less than its predecessor, making it a good candidate to rank among the best gaming monitors.
Gigabyte G27F2 Specs
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| Panel Type / Backlight | IPS / W-LED, edge array |
| Screen Size / Aspect Ratio | 27 inches / 16:9 |
| Max Resolution & Refresh Rate | 1920×1080 @ 170 Hz |
| FreeSync: 48-170 Hz | |
| G-Sync Compatible | |
| Native Color Depth & Gamut | 8-bit / DCI-P3 |
| Response Time | 1ms MPRT |
| Brightness (mfr) | 400 nits |
| Contrast (mfr) | 1,000:1 |
| Speakers | None |
| Video Inputs | 1x DisplayPort 1. 2 |
| 2x HDMI 2.0 | |
| Audio | 3.5mm headphone output |
| USB 3.2 | 1x up, 2x down |
| Power Consumption | 20w, brightness @ 200 nits |
| Panel Dimensions WxHxD w/base | 24.2 x 16.1-21.6 x 7.6 inches (615 x 409-549 x 194mm) |
| Panel Thickness | 1.7 inches (42mm) |
| Bezel Width | Top/sides: 0.3 inch (8mm) |
| Bottom: 0.9 inch (22mm) | |
| Weight | 11.4 pounds (5.2kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years |
If you’re shopping in the FHD category, you won’t always find a wide gamut or HDR but the G27F2 has both. Its IPS panel covers just over 91% of DCI-P3 according to my measurements and beats most other IPS monitors in native contrast with nearly 1,400:1.
While not quite in VA territory, it is visually superior to most of its competition. HDR has also been added where the original G27F didn’t support it. There’s no dynamic contrast, so you won’t see a significant difference between SDR and HDR. However, light output is a hair shy of 400 nits, meaning slightly brighter highlights and more vivid color.
Video processing has been improved, with a 170 Hz refresh rate. This gives the G27F2 a slight advantage over its 165 Hz competition. In fact, it is one of the more responsive displays I’ve tested at this price point, with a very low input lag score and a ghost-free overdrive. You also get a backlight strobe option which Gigabyte calls Aim Stabilizer. It works instead of Adaptive-Sync. Speaking of Adaptive-Sync, you can run FreeSync from 48-170 Hz and G-Sync from 1-170 Hz. Keep in mind, though, that the G27F2 has not been certified by Nvidia.
Gigabyte’s full suite of gaming enhancements is included with aiming points, timers, a frame counter and the info-rich dashboard, which monitors CPU and GPU stats in real-time.
With the OSD Sidekick app, available as a free download, you can control the G27F2 from the Windows desktop and even create custom aiming reticles. The only things missing here are an LED lighting feature and internal speakers. It is otherwise a complete and full-featured gaming monitor that performs well above its price point.
Assembly and Accessories
The G27F2’s panel and stand are already assembled for you out of the box, though you can easily unsnap the panel if you’d rather use the 100 mm VESA mount for an aftermarket solution. The base attaches with a captive bolt. The resulting package is light but solid and free of extraneous play. HDMI and DisplayPort cables are included, and a small external power supply provides the juice.
Product 360
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(Image credit: Gigabyte)(Image credit: Gigabyte)(Image credit: Gigabyte)(Image credit: Gigabyte)
Styling is simple and to the point, with a thin flush bezel around the top and sides and a wider strip at the bottom.
Only a Gigabyte logo adorns the front, and there’s another one in the back printed on a glossy area. You can also see the model number in shiny text down one side of the back panel. A few molded-in shapes signal the G27F2’s gaming intent, but nothing here draws too much attention. A tiny joystick is the only control. It navigates the OSD efficiently and doubles as a power toggle. In front, a white LED indicates power status, steady for on and flashing for standby. It can be defeated if you wish.
The stand offers a 130mm height adjustment and 5/20 degrees tilt. There is no swivel or portrait mode. The monitor is light enough that it can easily be turned by sliding the stand. The footprint is relatively small, and the base is just large enough to keep everything stable.
The input panel is up and underneath the left side and includes two HDMI 2.0 and one DisplayPort 1.2. In the middle is a 3.5mm headphone jack, then you get USB 3.2 ports, one upstream and two downstream. There are no built-in speakers.
OSD Features
The G27F2’s OSD is more full-featured than one would expect from a $210 monitor. You get everything required for image calibration, game performance and convenience.
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(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
The Gaming menu packs a lot of functionality, including the Aim Stabilizer, also known as backlight strobe for blur reduction. It reduces light output by around 20% and creates a slight phasing artifact. This is a common issue with the backlight strobes I’ve experienced, but Gigabyte controls theirs a bit better. I could see it faintly in test patterns but only occasionally in games. It works instead of Adaptive-Sync.
Super Resolution should be left off as it creates obvious edge enhancement in areas of high contrast. The G27F2 is sharp enough without help.
The Overdrive has three speed options plus one called Smart OD that varies the overshoot with frame rate. It is extremely effective at reducing blur and has no downside. There were no ghosting artifacts in either Smart OD or Picture Quality modes. It’s one of the best overdrives I’ve experienced in any gaming monitor.
In the Picture menu, you’ll find six preset picture modes and three custom memories. The default is Standard and can be calibrated with the full set of controls, color temp and gamma. Speaking of gamma, it tracks perfectly at each preset. If you choose 2.2, you get 2.2. The User Define color temp is very precise and rewarded me with pro-level accuracy during testing. Among the picture modes is an sRGB option which delivers that gamut.
Other Settings has a few convenience options, including one that turns off the front LED. You can also set the USB ports to charge devices if you wish. When you’ve tweaked the G27F2 to your liking, save the settings in one of the three memory slots.
If you press the joystick, then click left, it opens the Dashboard. When you have a USB connection along with the OSD Sidekick app running, you can monitor all sorts of CPU and GPU information in real-time. Gigabyte is the only company that has this feature to my knowledge.
Pressing the joystick and clicking right opens GameAssist which includes a set of timers, a frame rate counter and aiming points. A green cross is included, and you can load up to three more custom shapes from OSD Sidekick.
Gigabyte G27F2 Calibration Settings
The G27F2 can be enjoyed without calibration in its Standard mode, but its default grayscale is right on the edge of being too blue. That is easily remedied with the RGB sliders and no matter which way you go, gamma is spot-on with the best tracking I’ve seen from any monitor at any price. Color gamut accuracy is also quite good. Below are the settings I derived from my calibration. HDR signals gray out all picture options, but color is solid there as well.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Picture Mode | Standard |
| Brightness 200 nits | 45 |
| Brightness 120 nits | 18 |
| Brightness 100 nits | 12 |
| Brightness 80 nits | 5 (min. 64 nits) |
| Contrast | 50 |
| Gamma | 2.2 |
| Color Temp User | Red 97, Green 99, Blue 100 |
Gaming and Hands-on
No matter what I did on the G27F2, it gave the distinct impression that it should cost more than $210. I barely noticed the FHD resolution because contrast and color are so good. With perfect gamma, the contrast is enhanced further with a truly textural feel to the image.
The only place I wished for a bit more pixel density was when working with small fonts, mainly on websites or spreadsheets. With plenty of screen real estate to play with, it was easy to make Word documents big enough to read easily. Editing photos wasn’t a problem either.
I tried various combinations of Aim Stabilizer, Adaptive-Sync and overdrive to find the best and smoothest motion processing for games. The Smart OD option varies the amount of overshoot to best match the current frame rate. For the most part, I was running games in full detail at 170fps but there were occasional drops to 160fps. The Smart OD kept edges sharp and blur to a minimum. With the Aim Stabilizer, I saw a few frame tears as AS was turned off. I also saw slight phasing artifacts in areas of high contrast, such as the outline of a dark object against a bright sky. Interiors looked fine with no evidence of phasing. For competition, some users may prefer Aim Stabilizer as it provides the greatest amount of blur reduction.
I preferred Adaptive-Sync for my gaming sessions.
Response and control lag were non-existent in my experience. I could mow through enemies at will with quick and efficient movements of the mouse. The G27F2 responded to my every wish and whim. Though the very best players will likely benefit from a 240 Hz or faster screen, 170 Hz is plenty of speed for the rest of us.
With such tight gamma, the G27F2 makes the most of its wide color gamut in both SDR and HDR content. Though HDR doesn’t offer any more contrast, it does have better punch and brighter highlights. Color also pops a bit more. I didn’t notice any performance penalty when playing Doom Eternal or Call of Duty WWII in HDR mode and the picture was more vivid and engaging. At this price point, the G27F2 stands out compared to other inexpensive HDR screens.
MORE: Best Gaming Monitors
MORE: How We Test PC Monitors
MORE: How to Buy a PC Monitor: A 2022 Guide
MORE: How to Choose the Best HDR Monitor
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Christian Eberle is a Contributing Editor for Tom’s Hardware US.
He’s a veteran reviewer of A/V equipment, specializing in monitors.
The best budget gaming monitors for January 2023
(Image credit: Asus)
Incorporating one of the best budget gaming monitors into your setup is one of the best immediately-enhancing things you can do — and you won’t need to take out a second mortgage. Budget gaming monitors are so good now that they can offer a visual upgrade that is tangible and noticeable, even if they don’t offer all the bells and whistles that their more expensive brethren do.
Nowadays, the reality is that manufacturers are catering to the bargain and entry-level screen market better than you expect, and even those budget, entry-level models will perform better than you might originally think. Yes, of course, there might be some reduction in features or flashiness, panel tech, but you can still expect stellar screens for Full HD, 1440p, and even 4K at different form factors.
It’s now no longer the case that you need to splash out in excess to get something that looks and runs great.
The best budget gaming monitors aren’t just reserved for 1080p resolution at 60 FPS, either. We’ve started to observe an uptick in affordability of the best gaming monitors as well as other monitor models that utilize high refresh rates and high resolutions to make gaming a joy all well under the $300 mark – sometimes even finding one of the best gaming monitors under $200.
Below you’ll find our top picks for the best budget gaming monitors by resolution, refresh rate, and form factor to give you as many choices as possible. If you’re interested in casting a wider net and maybe have a budget that can stretch a little, however, then we recommend checking out our best 4K monitors for gaming and best-curved gaming monitors buying guides, too.
The best budget gaming monitors in 2023
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1.
AOC G2490VX
The best budget gaming monitor for Full HD 144Hz
Specifications
Size: 24-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Display Type: LED
Notable Inclusions: AMD FreeSync Premium support
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Thin bezels
+
Low response time
+
Sleek design
Reasons to avoid
—
Only has HDMI and DisplayPort
For its price point, this monitor features all the essentials needed for effective PC gaming in Full HD. This is due in part to the inclusion of support for AMD FreeSync Premium — which prevents screen tearing at low response latency for a smooth overall gaming experience.
At the same time, it’s got a 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response rate — essential for competitive and fast gaming where every millisecond of delay matters.
Due to its inexpensive nature and thin bezels, this monitor would be ideal as part of a dual — or even triple — monitor setup stretched out across your desk.
(Image credit: Asus)
2. ASUS VP28UQG
The best budget 4K gaming monitor
Specifications
Size: 28-inch
Resolution: 4K (3840×2160)
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Great picture quality in 4K
+
Low Blue Light mode for long sessions
+
On the fly GamePlus settings
Reasons to avoid
—
Limited to 60Hz
Spend a bit more and you can bump the screen size and resolution up with all the same low latency, anti-screen-tearing technology, dual HDMI 2.0 ports, and — fortunately — a DisplayPort to make the most of Ultra HD gaming at 60FPS.
28-inch is a somewhat unconventional size for a monitor of this quality — not that we’re complaining — as it’s a fair amount of real estate to take advantage of the HDR technology and stellar colors that this panel can pump out.
The only concession is in the refresh rate — you won’t be able to get above 60 fps — if you’re content to have higher fidelity visuals at the cost of a capped frame rate, this may be what you’re been after; ideal for a dual monitor setup too.
(Image credit: Asus)
3. ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM
The best budget high refresh monitor
Specifications
Size: 24.5-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
Refresh Rate: 280Hz
Response Time: 0.5ms
Display Type: Fast-IPS
Notable Inclusions: Nvidia G-Sync support
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Perfect for professional gamers
+
Fast IPS technology
+
HDR support
Reasons to avoid
—
No HDMI 2.1 support
We’re stretching the definition of the word ‘budget’ with this Asus high refresh model, but given that it features a 280Hz fast IPS-panel for just over the $300 mark, it very much is affordable given what similar brands are asking for at that kind of display speed.
For those of you interested in competitive gaming, with its display rate being twice that of 144Hz, you’re sure to have the best frame advantages possible in games such as Valorent and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and still benefit from HDR and a rich color gamut thanks to the IPS panel, something which is rarely seen on 240Hz+ monitors even double the price of this one.
(Image credit: Viotek Ultrawide)
4. Viotek GNV29CB Curved Ultrawide
The best budget ultrawide gaming monitor
Specifications
Size: 29-inch
Resolution: Full HD (2560×1080)
Refresh Rate : 120Hz
Response Time: 5ms
Notable Inclusions: Nvidia G-Sync support
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Competitively priced for the form factor
+
Full 120Hz refresh rate
+
A great size for work and gaming
Reasons to avoid
—
Relatively high response time
Viotek has seemingly done something that’s lesser seen from other monitor brands: built a competitively priced curved ultrawide with a 120Hz refresh rate.
It’s worth enforcing just how promising the form factor is — even if it’s only limited to Full HD — for both gaming and working on with the added screen real estate.
That’s normally the trade-off for having just a twitch-happy level of snappiness when considering the MSRP compared to similar offerings from Samsung and LG in their gaming ranges. If high frame rates and a wider screen are worth it for you, then this is difficult to beat.
(Image credit: Z-Edge)
5. Z-Edge UG24 Curved
The best budget curved high refresh rate gaming monitor
Specifications
Size: 24-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
Refresh Rate: 165Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Notable Inclusions: AMD FreeSync Premium
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
165Hz refresh rate
+
Curved
+
Well priced for the size and features
Reasons to avoid
—
Limited to 1080p
The star of the show with this curved gaming monitor from Z-Edge is its 165Hz refresh rate.
That’s not to say that this panel’s a slouch when it comes to other gaming-specific functions and specs: there’s a 1ms response time, and support for the premium version of FreeSync which adds support for 120Hz and HDR while also reducing ghosting and screen tearing.
The form factor of the display is something to note as well; yes, it’s curved but it also features very minimal bezels which means it’s ideal for a dual monitor battle station setup too.
(Image credit: Asus)
6. ASUS VG245H
The best budget gaming monitor for Full HD on console
Specifications
Size: 24-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
Refresh Rate: 75Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Display Type: LED
Notable inclusions: AMD FreeSync support
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Clear, bright display
+
Good colors
+
Affordable for what it is
Reasons to avoid
—
Fairly basic
If all you’re interested in is 1080p gaming at 60 fps then this ASUS monitor has all the essentials to provide a pleasant, no-frills experience with its 1ms response time and inclusion of AMD FreeSync support to rid the visuals of any screen-tearing when the action on-screen gets a little crazy.
If you’re interested in picking this panel up for use on PC, it’s important to note that there is no DisplayPort — just a pair of HDMI ports and VGA; something that seems like an oversight for a unit released in 2016. With that said, if you’re still gaming on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Xbox Series S and you want something budget that looks the part — it’s a good option for those systems.
(Image credit: Sceptre)
7. Sceptre 25 Edgeless 165Hz
A great super high refresh rate monitor
Specifications
Size: 25-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
Display Type: LED (TN)
Notable Inclusions: AMD FreeSync Premium support
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Ultra high refresh rates
+
Sleek form factor
+
Thin bezels
Reasons to avoid
—
Built-in speakers are small
For less than $200, there’s an awful lot that this gaming monitor gets right.
Offering a 1ms response time and a 165Hz refresh rate, there’s also AMD FreeSync Premium support as well as built-in speakers.
It’s worth noting that this is in fact a TN display, as opposed to the brighter IPS tech, but that’s the trade-off with entry-level, budget monitors, and particularly those that offer a high refresh rate. That’s not to count out the colors on this thing, unlike some other 165Hz monitors, there are virtually no reports of ghosting or greying (where blacks aren’t dark enough resulting in mediocre contrast) to speak of.
If you’re looking for an affordable screen to add to, or build, a multi-monitor HD gaming setup with then this could be what you’ve been searching for, especially given those ultra-slender bezels which make up the ‘edgeless design’. Two or three of these things on a desk would be unbeatable.
Note: You rarely find Sceptre monitors available outside the US, so if you’re not a US resident, you may want to check out the others on this page.
(Image credit: Dell)
8. Dell SE2-417HGX
A great budget gaming monitor in Full HD
Specifications
Size: 24-inch
Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
Refresh Rate : 75Hz
Response Time: 5ms
Notable inclusions: AMD FreeSync
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Budget price
+
75Hz refresh rate
+
Great at 1080p 60
Reasons to avoid
—
High response time
If you’ve been searching for something that’s affordable and does the job for casual gaming, web surfing, and watching movies then this could be the right display for you. Or for a spare bedroom or as part of a dual/triple monitor setup.
With its 75Hz refresh rate, you can be sure that the screen won’t ghost or cloud up under intense conditions — that’s afforded by FreeSync as with some other panels in this roundup.
For its size and price tag, the bevels are relatively thin, with the stand being adjustable as well.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: BenQ)(Image credit: BenQ)(Image credit: BenQ)(Image credit: BenQ)(Image credit: BenQ)
9. BenQ EL2870U
A great value 4K monitor for gaming
Specifications
Screen size: 28-inch
Panel type: TN
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Response time: 1ms
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Weight: 12.6 lbs
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent price point
+
Lovely 4K resolution and HDR tech
+
Tremendous picture quality
Reasons to avoid
—
Refresh rate is just 60Hz
—
No G-Sync
—
Now a legacy model so stock may be spotty
While it came out a few years ago and isn’t BenQ’s latest 4K contender for a budget gaming monitor, the EL2870U is still one of the best, most cost-effective, affordable 4K gaming monitors you’re likely to find.
With its price often around or under the $300 and £200 mark, the bang for buck ratio with the BenQ EL2870U is extraordinary. The picture quality and crispness are as good as a lot of its more expensive contemporaries and is some of the best seen we’ve seen on a TN screen. Each environment type in games is handled really well with good contrasts, colors, and shades presenting whatever is asked of it; a really good balance in terms of what it’s able to show.
It’s got a speedy 1ms response rate, but it is, rather predictably, limited to the usual 60Hz refresh rate and doesn’t offer G-Sync (though FreeSync is present), so it’s not got all the bells and whistles — but we are in budget waters here so you have to trade off a few things.
You’ll also get some neat BenQ-exclusive features with this monitor that others will not be able to offer: Brightness Intelligence + (B.I.+) changes the brightness and color temperature of on-screen images relative to the monitor’s surroundings; and the Low Blue Light Technology is part of the company’s eye-care tech that removes the harmful blue light.
These aren’t just clever-sounding features either, and one can definitely feel the benefit over long periods of use — I certainly found it out when I reviewed it for one of our sister sites.
A caveat for the EL2870U now however is that it isn’t being actively made or promoted by BenQ and is essentially a legacy model. You can still buy it from retailers though and if you see it, it really is worth considering — if you pick it up this monitor offers a wonderful deal for its price tag; genuine gaming specs on a great 4K screen for gaming that is crisp and clear, that won’t break the bank.
(Image credit: Gigabyte)
10. Gigabyte G27
The best budget IPS monitor
Specifications
Screen size: 27-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080
Brightness: 300 nits
Response time: 1ms (MPRT)
Viewing angle: 178/178 degrees
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Features: 144Hz, variable refresh rate, DisplayPort, 95% DCI-P3; HDMI type HDMI 1.
4 x2
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Good quality 27-inch IPS panel
+
144Hz refresh
+
95% coverage of DCI-P3
Reasons to avoid
—
No HDR support
—
Lacks some brightness
—
Not the quickest IPS tech around
Good image quality. High refresh. Fast pixel response. All for a price you can afford? Yup, the Gigabyte G27F ticks some very important gaming boxes for a budget gaming monitor. Of course, at this price point, you can’t have everything. Most notably, you can’t have all eight million pixels that come with full 4K; this is a 1080p model.
This does mean that the lower resolution leads to faster frame rates which can be critical in online shooters and battle royale games, including the likes of Fortnite, Warzone, and CS:GO, where low latency is king in a very competitive environment.
There’s no HDR support here, but it’s worth remembering that an awful lot of supposedly ‘HDR’ monitors are nothing of the sort. In fact, hardly any monitors are capable of true HDR visuals, so, the Gigabyte G27F’s lack of HDR is largely academic. And it’s not as if it implies poor panel quality: Gigabyte says the G27F is good for 95 percent of the DCI-P3 gamut, which is better than some content creation panels.
If there is a weak spot, it’s likely to be the response time. Gigabyte claims 1ms pixel response, but courtesy of the MPRT metric. The best IPS monitors achieve 1ms via the more demanding gray-to-gray standard. Still, the Gigabyte G27F is hardly a slouch and, for the money, it’s very appealing for those looking to get the most for their money in the form of an IPS panel.
(Image credit: ViewSonic)
11. ViewSonic VX2768-PC-MHD
The best budget1500R 1080p monitor
Specifications
Screen size:: 27-inch
Aspect ratio:: 16:9
Resolution:: Full HD; 1920×1080
Brightness:: 250cd/m2
Response time:: 1ms
Viewing angle:: 178/178 degrees
Contrast ratio:: 3,000:1
Today’s Best Deals
Reasons to buy
+
Full support for 120Hz refresh
+
High-contrast VA panel
+
Remarkably affordable
Reasons to avoid
—
No HDR support
The 27-inch panel sports a tight 1500R curve for that immersive, wrap-around feel and is based on VA technology.
The implications of VA tech include outstanding static contrast of 3,000:1, plus punchy colours and good viewing angles. VA technology used to suffer from poor pixel response. But the latest generation of panels is much improved. Consequently, ViewSonic reckons the VX2768-PC-MHD is good for 1ms response times.
The kicker, of course, and the key enabler of high frame rates is the 1,920 by 1,080 as opposed to 4K native resolution. It is a significant step down versus 4K when it comes to detail and sharpness. But 1080p is still two million pixels and for fast-paced games, the improved response and buttery smooth frame rates are arguably more important than the pixel count.
You don’t get HDR support either. But then true HDR was never going to be available at this ultra-aggressive price point. In short, this monitor represents an awful lot of high-refresh, curved fun for the money.
Best budget gaming monitors: buying advice
We’ve been PC and console gamers for many years and like to think that we know a thing or two when it comes to what makes the best budget gaming monitors worth it.
With that said, we’ve applied our knowledge to answer some of the more frequently asked questions online right now.
Are budget 144Hz monitors worth it?
Budget 144Hz gaming monitors, at the very least, will offer a decent color gamut and higher frame rates than what’s available on a 60Hz panel. With the speed of this refresh rate at a cheaper price, you’re more than likely going to either have a TN or VA display, as opposed IPS, with the latter option providing better overall picture quality.
Is a 60Hz monitor good for gaming?
Gaming at 60Hz is the standard that you want to aim for regardless of resolution you’re playing in. Fortunately, hitting 60Hz in 1080p isn’t too intensive on entry-level and mid-tier GPUs, but to achieve this in 1440p and 4K you will need a more powerful graphics card. With that said, rock-solid 60FPS is good for gaming regardless of platform, as gameplay will be smooth as needed.
Should I go for an IPS, TN or VA panel?
If you have the budget for it, we would always strongly recommend opting for an IPS panel for your next budget gaming monitor as the contrast and colors will be far more vivid.
However, as we’ve seen through some high refresh rate budget gaming monitors, VA displays can look comparable in some cases, too, so keep that in mind when choosing your next display.
Is a 23-inch monitor good for gaming?
While there’s an argument to say that all sizes of monitor are ‘good enough’ for gaming, we would probably put 23-inches just outside the ideal range and minimum bottom line. 24-inches and above are perfect for gaming and at that size still don’t take up too much room even in the smallest of city apartments. (Though, this is all subject to each particular scenario of course.)
We prefer bigger screens but there’s a case for 24-inches as a particularly good size as it offers enough space for gaming, and everything on-screen is neatly in your vision by default, meaning you don’t have to move your head as much. This size isn’t brilliant for immersion, but if speed is your thing then a smaller monitor can be great.
Is 75Hz good for gaming?
The perennial number-throwing of refresh rates is one of the most consistent points of discussion when it comes to the best budget gaming monitors.
(As you can see from this FAQ and buying advice section!)
However, with a broad brush, we would say that, yes, 75Hz absolutely works and is good for gaming! Unless you’re really chasing the slightest of advantages in super competitive play, then 1080p or 1440p particularly at 75Hz will do you just fine and provide you with a great, solid gaming experience.
Are Hz and fps the same?
Yes, but also no. While ‘Hz’ refers to a monitor’s refresh rate — how fast it can refresh an image every second — ‘fps’ refers to how fast your machine and graphics card can produce images and frames on the screen each second. They are directly and intimately related — having a graphics card powerful enough to pump 100 frames per second is easily compatible with a 75Hz monitor, for example, even though there’s extra headroom not being capitalised on — but are separate in their own rights, for sure.
Is 165Hz better than 144Hz?
There did seem to be a brief time when everyone thought that 165Hz would be the new 144Hz — but it hasn’t stuck around, and certainly didn’t replace or budget the 144Hz standard mark.
Anyway, that’s because, for us, there’s basically no difference (apart from the literal one) between the two, and if it means you can save a bit more money and go for a budget gaming monitor that has 144Hz instead of 165Hz then that’s definitely worth it in our eyes.
Have you been looking for that perfect gaming companion for your new console? If so, our guides to the best 120Hz 4K TV, the best gaming TV, and the best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X may help you find the right choice to make the most out of the current generation’s full capabilities.
Round up of today’s best deals
AOC G2490VX
£139.97
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Asus VP28UQG
£350
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Asus TUF VG259QM
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Z-Edge UG24
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BenQ EL2870U
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Aleksha McLoughlin served as the Hardware Editor for GamesRadar from June 2021 until August 2022.
Her main area of expertise was the PC gaming platform, which comprised buying guides, features, reviews, and news coverage on components and prebuilt machines. She was also responsible for gaming chairs and storage. She now works on a freelance basis while studying to become a university lecturer specializing in English for foreign territories. Prior to joining GamesRadar, she wrote for the likes of Expert Reviews, The Rory Peck Trust, No Clean Singing, Vinyl Chapters, and Tech Spark while also working with the BBC.
How to choose a gaming monitor in 2022
How to choose a gaming monitor in 2022 — instructions from Delta Game.
When assembling a new computer, many people often first of all select a video card and processor, thinking about the monitor almost in the last place. But the monitor is the thing that you have to look at almost always when you are sitting at the computer. It depends on the monitor how you see the graphics of games, what impression you get from it, and the fact that your vision depends on it is also important.
So when buying a gaming PC, it’s worth budgeting for a monitor of the right caliber to get your ideal build. In this article, we will analyze in detail the characteristics of a gaming monitor, taking into account the latest trends from manufacturers. nine0003
Diagonal and resolution
The first thing you pay attention to when choosing a monitor is its diagonal. The range from 21 to 27 inches is optimal and common, it makes no sense to take less, more is possible, but only if you are ready for it. Above 27 inches, you’ll have to move your neck a little, and the price will be much higher. The average balanced size is 24 inches, excellent impressions from the 27th inch.
When choosing a screen resolution, you should be aware that there must be a balance between diagonal and resolution. The initial resolution with which you can take the monitor is 1920×1080 (Full HD). An image with this resolution will look good at 21-25 inches. With a large monitor in FHD resolution, the picture will be fuzzy, blurry, pixels will be noticeable due to their lower density.
Therefore, when choosing a monitor from 27″ to approximately 31.5″, you need a higher resolution — 2560×1440 (Quad HD). Modern video cards are quite capable of showing good FPS at this resolution. And finally, the leader among resolutions is 3840×2160 (Ultra HD), which is also 4K. Taking a 4K monitor only makes sense if you have a suitable, very powerful computer, and the monitor itself is 32 inches or larger. The price of such a monitor is correspondingly high, and the content is still not enough. nine0003
Keep in mind that the higher the screen resolution, the more powerful your graphics card needs to be. Additionally, you need to know that when buying a monitor with a resolution of 2K or higher, in most cases you will have to enable screen scaling in the Windows settings, otherwise the image may be too small, for example, a 27-inch monitor with a resolution of 2560×1440 will require a screen scaling of 125%.
What happens if I get a monitor with too high a resolution? Imagine that you have purchased a 27-inch 4K monitor.
In this case, the content will be too small, you will have to turn on the scaling to 200%. As a result, you will get an ultra-clear image that cannot be distinguished from an image obtained at 2K resolution and a similar diagonal, but you will not have additional screen space. In addition, the video card will be loaded harder and you will get less FPS. nine0003
Matrix type
Another key feature of a monitor is its matrix. There are a lot of types of matrices, but all stem from the following:
TN matrices are the oldest and cheapest. It is not recommended to take a monitor with such a matrix. Cons: low color reproduction, small viewing angles, low maximum brightness. Of the pluses, only the shortest response time. But it’s not worth taking such a monitor because of this, take care of your eyes. The only option is to put such a monitor second, third, if you already have it, but it’s a pity to throw it away. The exception is TN monitors with a refresh rate of 200 Hz or higher, which is popular with professional players in fast-paced games.
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IPS-matrices — ideal in terms of color reproduction, contrast and viewing angles — 178 degrees. Previously, they had a high response time, but now this problem is no longer there. IPS matrices have been constantly improved, various modifications have been produced. The latest type is called AH-IPS, it has improved color reproduction, resolution and PPI, increased brightness and reduced power consumption, the response time does not exceed 5-6 ms. It is this type of IPS that is worth taking.
MVA/VA matrices are in the middle between TN and IPS. Plus in comparison with IPS — excellent contrast ratio, plus in comparison with TN — good viewing angles. In addition, good color reproduction and the cost is lower than that of IPS. Of the minuses — a long response time, which also grows rapidly with a decrease in the difference between the final and initial states of the pixel, so these monitors are not very well suited for dynamic games. nine0003
Response time
Response time is measured in milliseconds and indicates how long it takes the monitor to change frames.
The parameter directly affects how many frames per second your monitor can display. The average on good monitors is 5ms. A higher value is fraught with the fact that the image will be blurry and leave a trail of moving objects in dynamic games. It is ideal to take a monitor with an even lower response time — 1-2 ms. nine0003
Backlight Brightness and Contrast
Brightness is measured in candela and represents the amount of light emitted from a completely white monitor screen. The optimal value for a gaming monitor is 250-300 cd / m2. More — you can, less — we do not recommend.
Monitor contrast can be static or dynamic. Static displays the ratio of the brightness of the darkest and brightest point on the screen. The optimal value is 1:1000. Dynamic Contrast is a marketing ploy, meaning the black level at minimum backlight (the screen is completely off) to the white level at maximum backlight (brightness at full). You can ignore this option. nine0003
Screen refresh rate + G-SYNC / FreeSync
Refresh rate refers to how many times per second the monitor completely redraws and displays the image.
The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the motion. Thus, if you have a monitor with a refresh rate of 60 Hz, then you will not be able to see more than 60 FPS on the monitor. For example, if your graphics card is 300 FPS and your monitor is 60 Hz, then you will only see 60 FPS. If you have a powerful computer, then it makes sense to take a monitor with a frequency of 120 Hz and higher. nine0003
Monitors with a refresh rate of 120Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz display a smoother image. Therefore, if your video card gives out in games, respectively, 120, 144, 240 FPS or more, then it makes sense to get such a monitor.
We invite you to watch the following short video to understand the difference in screen refresh rate:
Graphics card manufacturers NVIDIA and AMD have invented dynamic refresh rate technologies — G-Sync (NVIDIA) and FreeSync (AMD). These technologies allow you to change the refresh rate of the image on the monitor, depending on the rendering frame rate in computer games.
Visually, this is expressed in a noticeable increase in the smoothness of movements at a rendering speed of 30 — 60 frames per second or even lower, which is typical for most modern games. They also get rid of the «tearing» that occurs when vsync is turned off. nine0003
The difference between G-SYNC and FreeSync is that the first technology from NVIDIA is paid, and the second technology from AMD is free, which means that monitors with G-SYNC are more expensive. A gaming monitor usually uses one of two technologies (and some use both), and for it to work you need to have an appropriate video card: from NVIDIA for G-SYNC or from AMD for FreeSync.
Screen Coating
Glossy coating has better color reproduction and richer colors, but it does show reflections and glare. The matte screen has an anti-reflective coating, so you won’t see the reflection and the sun shining on the monitor screen. Therefore, when choosing a monitor, evaluate where it will stand, if the sun does not shine on your monitor, then it makes sense to take a model with a glossy finish, otherwise we recommend a matte finish.
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Curved screen
One of the latest monitor trends is the curved screen. Curved monitors mimic the field of view of the human eye. Therefore, the curve of the monitor screen creates the most comfortable conditions for the eyes, which will be much less tired from prolonged sitting at the computer, which is confirmed by research conducted by the Harvard Medical School.
In addition, this monitor has much less distortion, because they provide the same distance from the eye to any area of the monitor. Such monitors have a parameter — the radius of curvature (1800R, 4000R, 2300R, 3000R). The smaller the radius of curvature, the more the screen is concave. Since the game monitor is located next to us, the radius should be minimal. The maximum recommended distance from the monitor is equal to the radius of curvature in millimeters, i.e. if the radius is 1800R, then we should sit at a distance of no more than 1.8 meters from the monitor. In general, curved monitors have many pros and almost no cons.
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However, at the moment, most curved screens are made on VA matrices, and only expensive models use IPS. If you’re on a budget, then you’ll have to choose between a curved VA screen or a flat IPS screen.
And there is another interesting point — if you switch from a curved monitor to a flat one, then for some time (1-2 days), until your eyes get used to it, the flat monitor will seem convex to you, like an old kinescope TV.
Bezels
Bezels are not one of the main features of a monitor, but they make an important contribution to the overall aesthetic. When choosing a monitor, take a closer look at frameless options. The absence of thick panels on three sides of the image (top and sides) looks very nice and modern.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you in choosing the perfect gaming monitor for you. Before buying such a thing that will always be in front of your eyes, we recommend that you carefully study all the characteristics of the monitor that you like.
Look at the reviews on it, read the reviews of people who have already purchased such a monitor. Pay attention to the manufacturer — we recommend making a choice in favor of one of the proven brands. nine0003
Buy gaming monitor
Best cheap gaming monitors: 1080p, 4K, Ultrawide and high refresh rates for less
Updated:
(Image credit: Viotek)
There are a few things to consider when looking for an inexpensive gaming monitor. First of all, it is the size of the panel and the resolution of the device, as well as its refresh rate and response time — depending on the use of the screen. nine0003
No more spending a small inheritance just to get an ultra-wide or 4K gaming display; Indeed — while Full HD monitors are the top choice for some — we’ve rounded up our pick of the best cheap gaming monitors for the most modest budgets.
- Browse the full range of cheap gaming monitors at Amazon |
If you find you have a little more in your pocket than you first thought and want to find something premium, that’s not a problem as we have a complete review of the best gaming monitors if money is no problem. In the meantime, if you love the look of anything Ultra HD, take a look at the best 4K monitor for gaming guide — that should be a good starting point. nine0003
(Image credit: Asus)
1. ASUS VG245H
Best cheap Full HD gaming monitor on console
Size: 24″ | Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) | Refresh rate: 75 Hz | Response time: 1 ms | Display type: LED | Notable innovations: support for AMD FreeSync.
Prime $169 View on Amazon 19$3.46 View at Amazon446 Amazon Customer Reviews ☆☆☆☆☆
If all you care about is 1080p gaming at 60fps, then this ASUS monitor has everything you need to deliver an enjoyable, no-frills response time 1ms and AMD FreeSync support to eliminate screen tearing visuals.
when the on-screen action gets a little crazy.
If you’re interested in choosing this panel for PC use, it’s important to note that there’s no DisplayPort here — just a pair of HDMI and VGA ports; what seems like an oversight for a device released in 2016. With that said, if you’re still playing on a PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Xbox Series S and need something cheap that looks like a piece — this is a good option for those systems. nine0003
(Image credit: Asus)
2. ASUS VP28UQG
Best Cheap 4K Gaming Monitor
Size: 28″ | Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160) | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 1ms
Prime $249 View at Amazon $249 View at BH Photo $399 View at Walmart See all prices (5 found) Excellent 4K picture quality Low Blue Light for long sessions On-the-fly GamePlus settings Limited up to 60 Hz
For a little more, you can increase your screen size and resolution with the same low latency, anti-tearing technology, two HDMI 2.
0 ports and, thankfully, a DisplayPort port to get the most out of Ultra HD gaming at 60fps. give me a sec.
The 28-inch is a somewhat unconventional size for a monitor of this quality — we’re not complaining about that — as it’s quite a lot of room to take advantage of the HDR technology and stellar colors this panel can deliver. The only concession is the refresh rate — you won’t be able to get more than 60 fps — if you’re happy with the higher rendering fidelity at the expense of the limited frame rate, this might be what you’re looking for; ideal for a dual monitor setup. nine0003
(Image credit: Viotek Ultrawide)
3. Viotek GNV29CB Curved Ultrawide
Best Cheap Ultrawide Gaming Monitor
Size: 29″ | Resolution: Full HD (2560×1080) | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 5 ms | Notable Features: Nvidia G-Sync support.
$249.99 View at Best BuyCheck Amazon Competitive price for form factor Full 120Hz refresh rate Great size for work and play Relatively fast response time
Viotek seems to have done something that is less noticeable with monitors from other manufacturers: built a curved ultra-wide monitor at a competitive price with a refresh rate of 120Hz.
It’s worth emphasizing how promising the form factor is — even if it’s only limited to Full HD — for both gaming and secondary screen work.
This is usually a trade-off in that when considering the suggested suggested retail price (MSRP) one can get just a satisfying level of speed compared to similar offerings from Samsung and LG in their gaming ranges. If you want high frame rates and a wider screen then this is hard to beat. nine0003
(Image credit: Z-Edge)
4. Z-Edge UG24 Curved
Best Cheap High Refresh Rate Curved Gaming Monitor
Size: 24″ | Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1 ms | Notable innovations: AMD FreeSync Premium.
Prime $199.99 Viewing on Amazon at 165Hz refresh rateCurvedWell priced for size and features Limited to 1080p
The star of the show with this Z-Edge curved gaming monitor is its 165Hz refresh rate.
This is not to say that this panel is slouching when it comes to other gaming features and specs: 1ms response time and support for premium FreeSync, which adds support for 120Hz and HDR, and reduces ghosting and screen tearing.
Also of note is the display form factor; yes, it’s curved, but it also has very minimal bezels, which means it’s also perfect for a dual-monitor battlestation setup. nineDell SE2-417HGX Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) | Refresh rate: 75 Hz | Response time: 5 ms | Notable innovations: AMD FreeSync.
Check Amazon Inexpensive price 75Hz refresh rate Excellent at 1080p 60 Fast response time
If you’re looking for something affordable and suitable for general gaming, web surfing and movie watching, then this display might be the right choice for you. Either for a spare bedroom or as part of a dual/triple monitor system.
With a 75Hz refresh rate, you can be sure the screen won’t double or fog in intense environments — FreeSync delivers, as do some of the other panels in this review.
