Diehard gamers understand the essence of having a decent monitor with excellent performance. However, you do not have to go for high-end monitors to enjoy first-class gaming. Some of the leading monitor models are affordable with as great quality as some of the best models. Obviously, they will lack some flashy features but that’s a compromise you have to pay for the price range.
Luckily, the majority of these panels feature magnificent screen resolutions like Full HD and 4k. So, here are some recommendations for the best budget gaming monitors in the market.
The Best Budget Gaming Monitor 2022
1. Best Overall – Acer Nitro XF243Y Pbmiiprx
Specifications
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Display Type: LED
- Response Time: 0.5ms
The Acer Nitro XF243Y is the best budget 1080p gaming monitor with a 24-inch panel. It features a 144Hz refresh rate that can overstretch to 165Hz, making it a quality monitor for gaming. This resolution offers clear imaging even in bright rooms. You will also enjoy the native FreeSync support with G-SYNC compatibility that reduces screen tearing.
The 24-inch screen might seem small and a turn-off, but it has wide viewing angles that support co-op gaming. In addition, the stand features a round base adjustable to 360 degrees allowing you to share the screen with a friend. The Acer Nitro XF243Y Pbmiiprx is a good motion handler with rapid response times with a refresh rate of 60Hz. You will barely notice any blurred motions behind rapidly-moving objects.
When operating within a narrow refresh rate, there is a strobing backlight feature that is limited in dark rooms. Thus, if you are looking for the best cheap gaming monitor for fast gaming, this is your chance to have one. You will not regret the response time even in games where every millisecond matters.
2. Best Budget – AOC G2490VX
Specifications
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Max Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Display Type: VA-LCD
- Response time: 1ms
The AOC G2490VX is a cheap monitor that provides all the necessities you would expect of a gaming PC. It is best for PC gaming with a Full HD panel that supports AMD FreeSync Premium—for preventing screen tearing. The AMD support also avoids screen tearing when playing in low response latency for a seamless gaming experience. The 24-inch screen has a 1080p resolution that works immeasurably for all gaming environments.
If you are into playing fast and competitive games, you understand that every millisecond counts. This screen offers a 144Hz refresh rate accompanied by a one-millisecond refresh rate that automatically eradicates lags. The AOC G2490VX looks inexpensive and classy, with thin bezels for dual and triple monitor setups. You can place this screen even on the smallest desks and gaming tables without consuming much space.
If you share a screen with a friend, the panel offers wider viewing angles, so you will not have to squint. The monitor also connects through HDMI and DisplayPort, which might be a disadvantage to individuals who prefer a variety of connectivity ports. Nevertheless, its sleek designs and favorable price tag make it the best budget gaming monitor.
3. Best Runner Up – Gigabyte M27Q
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 2560×1440
- Max Refresh Rate: 170Hz
- Display Type: IPS
- Response Time: 0.5ms
The Gigabyte M27Q is the best budget gaming monitor with a 27-inch, 1440p screen panel. Gigabyte is known to have the best gaming-ready PCs, which makes this monitor an excellent choice for gamers. The monitor has a high refresh rate of 170Hz and a rapid response time that makes fast-moving scenes smooth and crisper. The VRR support compatibility reduces screen tearing, and the FreeSync feature provides compatibility with NVIDIA’s G-SYNC.
The monitor’s design is straightforward, and although it does not look gamer-friendly, it still stands out. It has a sturdy and ergonomic stand that lets you adjust the tilt and height. It also has extra features, including two USB 3.0 inputs and a USB-C input for DisplayPort Alt Mode. The Picture-by-picture and picture-in-picture modes support the simultaneous connection of two input sources. The built-in KVM switch also allows control of both input sources.
The low-contrast ratio may not suit dark rooms, but the reflection handling is magnificent. The 27-inch screen also offers wider viewing angles with the ability to control glares. The color gamut also makes the Gigabyte M27Q the best budget monitor for content creators and photo editors. It has a near-full Adobe Average RGC coverage with a blue light filter and a flicker-free backlight that reduces eye strain.
4. Best Under $400 – Viotek GFI27DBXA
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 2560×1440
- Max Refresh Rate: 180Hz
- Display Type: W-LED
- Response Time: 5ms
If you are looking for a gaming monitor under $400, the Viotek GFI27DBXA might be better than most premium options. The color technology of this monitor features an impressive quad HD display that captures minor details. The full RGC sets the colors with accurate contrast, catering to all types of games you are playing. It also supports HDR 600 performance, surpassing most HD panels’ performance.
You enjoy high-quality graphics at a lower price. It’s also compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVidia’s G-Sync with a 180Hz refresh rate. These impressive features place the Viotek GFI27DBXA up there with some of the top-tier gaming monitors. The 27-inch screen and 1440p resolution give this panel superior performance abilities for less than $400. If you want a performance-oriented gaming PC monitor, this should be on your bucket list.
We cannot forget about the wide viewing angles on a flicker-free screen that protects your eyes. Whether gaming in a dark or well-lit room, the color brightness adjusts accordingly to ensure you never miss any game details.
5. Best for Dark Rooms – Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q1A
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 2560×1440
- Max Refresh Rate: 180Hz
- Display Type: LED
- Response Time: 0.5ms
Simply because you cannot afford the high-end PC gaming monitors, does not mean you have to miss out on a 4K gaming experience. Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q1A might not compare to more prominent brands with superior 4K panels, but it is one of the best budget monitors you can get. It is built with extra features that you cannot get in most budget monitors. For instance, its picture quality is superior with top-notch color accuracy. It also includes built-in speakers and faster response times.
The 60Hz refresh rate is reasonable for gaming, but it would have been better considering the screen resolution. Nonetheless, you enjoy Adaptive-Sync support and compatibility with AMD and NVidia graphics cards. Such properties minimize screen tearing, especially on graphically-intense games.
The 28-inch display remains flicker-free even in higher brightness levels making it a good option for dark rooms. If you are co-playing on one screen, the wide viewing angles ensure you catch all the action. There are a few PCs compatible with 4K TVs that would rival this monitor, especially in dark rooms.
6. Best Curved Gaming Monitor Alternative – Z-Edge UG24 Curved
Specifications
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Max Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Display Type: LED
- Response Time: 1ms
Gamers who enjoy the luxury of a curved monitor can experience heightened experience with the Z-Edge UG24 Curved. Besides the extensive screen, you also enjoy higher refresh rates of 165Hz. The rapid response rate of 1ms makes and FreeSync support makes this PC gaming monitor performance-oriented, just like the premium brands.
The display also looks nice with a 24-inch screen and a 1080p resolution. You can use it for a dual or triple-monitor setup due to the minimal bezels that minimize obstacles. Setting up the monitor is easy with the AMD FreeSync Premium, which reduces screen tearing and ghosting. The brightness is great for both dark and bright rooms.
7. Best Ultra-wide Gaming Monitor Alternative – Acer Nitro XV340CK
Specifications
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 2560×1440
- Max Refresh Rate: 180Hz
- Display Type: LCD
- Response Time: 1ms
The Acer Nitro XV340CK is a leading budget monitor with a 34-inch ultra-wide screen. You should not spend more money on an ultra-widescreen because this panel offers an alternative at a lower price. The screen is not curved but offers magnificent viewing angles. Its 21:9 aspect ratio is pretty immersive and takes you deeper into the gaming action.
Its design element features attractive ergonomics and a well-built frame that allows you to place the screen in any position. If you share a screen with a friend, you both get enough viewing angles for a fulfilling experience. The Acer Nitro XV340CK ranks among the best budget gaming monitor 144Hz refresh rate and a fast response time for fast gaming. The downside of using this panel is its low contrast ratio.
You can connect the PC gaming monitor via two USB 3.0 ports and a USB-B upstream port. Therefore, you can connect your peripherals directly, especially for a budget-friendly ultra-wide screen.
What to Check While Buying the Best Budget Gaming Monitor
Having the best PC gaming monitor is essential whether you are a beginner or a professional gamer. The only issue denying a gamer a quality monitor is a price. The top-rated monitors are pretty expensive, forcing enthusiastic gamers to settle for budget monitors. Luckily, there are a few things you should look for in a gaming monitor to enjoy the exceptional performance even when you are on a budget.
1. PC Power and Refresh Rate
Your gaming monitor will only work best with the appropriate PC specifications. You might boast of the most impressive gaming monitor, only to experience stuttering and flickering due to poor graphics. If your CPU or GPU does not meet the minimum monitor requirements, you will struggle to keep up. Adaptive-sync is designed to help you adjust sync to render each video frame rapidly as your monitor adjusts.
The Adaptive-sync feature can only work for your GPU if you select a monitor with excellent refresh rates. When buying a budget PC gaming monitor, consider your computer and the graphics card frames per second. This ensures you get a lag-free game, keeping you fully glued to your screen.
2. Graphics Cards
Most PC gaming monitors are adaptive-sync compatible, but they perform better if they meet the graphics card requirements. Your PC’s graphics card should be aligned to the minimum standard for the monitor. Some use G-Sync for NVidia graphics cards and FreeSync for AMD. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, but you are likely to get better results if you use the same graphics cards across all the devices.
If you prefer using a TV, some of the best models are now supporting various GPUs to improve the gaming experience.
Best Budget Monitors for Gaming FAQs
1. Can you use any monitor for gaming?
Unfortunately, you can’t. While almost all monitors are gaming compatible, a normal monitor will really affect your mileage. Gaming monitors are better than standard monitors because they are consistent with higher refresh rates and response times. These features allow the monitor to manage graphically-intensive visuals. Most computers are often less-compatible with gaming and tend to lag but you can always pick the best programming monitors to double up as gaming monitors.
2. How is a gaming monitor different from a standard monitor?
Gaming monitors are regular monitors that have been optimized for gaming purposes. These monitors have better graphics handling than office monitors. They also improve the CPU and GPU performance to match your gaming preferences. In addition, gaming monitors have faster response rates, higher refresh rates, and more frames per second. Features you don’t need in a normal monitor but you can’t do without in gaming.
3. Can a 60Hz monitor be used for gaming?
This depends on the game you will play. Modern PC games are graphically intense, making 120Hz the minimum standard for gaming. This means that a 60Hz monitor is only suitable for gaming if you are not playing high-graphics games. Even the best budget gaming monitors should have a refresh rate of 144Hz upwards. The current gaming industry trends are shifting, and you need a responsive monitor, especially for fast games.
4. What monitor size works best for gaming?
The best gaming monitors have screen sizes from 24 inches upwards. 24-inch screens provide wider viewing angles that allow screen sharing. However, if you prefer ultra-wide screens, anything 32 inches can do the trick. A 24 inch with minimal bezels also works best for dual-monitor setups because they are less obstructive. If you are short on finances and need a more comprehensive screen, plenty of screen options are available to meet your needs.
