Best Gaming Monitors: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After weeks of rigorous testing and countless hours of gameplay, we’ve navigated the vast sea of gaming monitors to bring you the definitive guide. From high-refresh-rate beasts to stunning 4K displays, we’ve evaluated them all. For us, one monitor stood out as the quintessential choice for the majority of users: the HP 24mh 23.8″ FHD IPS Monitor with Built-In Speakers. It strikes an impeccable balance between performance, features, and price. Its crisp IPS panel delivers vibrant colors, the highly adjustable ergonomic stand provides superior comfort, and the inclusion of built-in speakers makes it an incredible all-in-one package for both gaming and everyday use.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Gaming Monitors

#1 HP 24mh 23.8″ FHD IPS Monitor with Built-In Speakers – Ideal for: The All-Around Home Office & Casual Gaming Setup

The HP 24mh 23.8″ FHD IPS Monitor with Built-In Speakers immediately impressed us with its versatility and thoughtful design, making it our top overall pick. Right out of the box, the assembly was refreshingly simple; everything clicks into place without any tools, a sentiment echoed by many users who appreciate a quick, hassle-free setup. The standout feature for us is the stand. Its robust build provides excellent height and tilt adjustment, a level of ergonomic flexibility rarely seen at this price point. This allows for a perfectly comfortable viewing angle whether you’re working for hours or settling in for a gaming session. The 23.8-inch IPS panel delivers crisp 1080p visuals with vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it great for everything from spreadsheets to streaming videos. The 75Hz refresh rate provides a noticeable smoothness over standard 60Hz monitors, which is a welcome bonus for casual gaming. We also found the built-in speakers to be a fantastic convenience. While they won’t replace a dedicated sound system, they are perfectly clear and capable for video calls and casual media consumption, helping to reduce desk clutter. Many users confirmed this, finding them more than adequate for daily tasks. The micro-edge bezel is another highlight, creating a nearly seamless look that’s perfect for dual-monitor setups.

#2 cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor – Perfect for: Productivity and Gaming On-The-Go

For those who need a second screen while traveling or working remotely, the cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor is a game-changer. We were immediately struck by how thin and lightweight it is, weighing just 1.5 pounds. It easily slips into a laptop bag, making a dual-monitor setup possible from anywhere. The single USB-C cable for both power and display is the hero feature here; it drastically simplifies setup and eliminates cable clutter, a point many users rave about. Connecting it to our MacBook Pro was seamless—true plug-and-play. The 1080p IPS screen is surprisingly vibrant and sharp for a portable display, offering great viewing angles and respectable color for work tasks and even some light gaming. The included magnetic cover, which doubles as a stand, is both clever and effective, providing good protection and stable viewing angles. While we found the built-in speakers to be on the weaker side, they are a serviceable addition for when you don’t have headphones handy. One minor annoyance we experienced, which a few users also mentioned, is that the monitor can default to a low brightness setting when reconnected, requiring a quick adjustment. However, for its primary purpose—extending your screen real estate anywhere—the cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor performs exceptionally well and is an indispensable tool for the modern mobile professional or traveler.

#3 ASUS TUF Gaming VG277Q1A 27″ 1080P 165Hz Monitor – Suits: Budget-Conscious Competitive Gamers

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG277Q1A 27″ 1080P 165Hz Monitor is a testament to how accessible high-performance gaming has become. For its price, the feature set is simply outstanding. The 165Hz refresh rate is the star of the show, delivering that buttery-smooth motion essential for competitive titles like Fortnite and Marvel Rivals. During our tests, gameplay was fluid and responsive, a massive leap from 60Hz or 75Hz panels. This experience was confirmed by numerous users who reported a dramatic improvement in their gaming performance thanks to the high refresh rate and 1ms response time. The visuals are surprisingly vibrant for a VA panel, with deep blacks and rich colors that make games look fantastic. While it’s a 1080p monitor on a 27-inch screen, which some purists might find slightly less sharp than 1440p, we found it perfectly crisp for gaming and general use. In fact, many first-time monitor buyers noted they were blown away by the picture quality. The inclusion of ASUS’s Shadow Boost technology is a nice touch, making it easier to spot enemies lurking in dark corners without overexposing the rest of the scene. The on-screen display is easy to navigate, and the monitor comes with both HDMI and DisplayPort cables, so you’re ready to go right out of the box. For anyone looking to get into high-refresh-rate gaming without breaking the bank, this monitor is an easy recommendation.

#4 LG 32GS60QC-B Ultragear Curved Gaming Monitor QHD 180Hz – Ideal for: Immersive QHD Gaming on a Large Screen

Stepping up to the LG 32GS60QC-B Ultragear Curved Gaming Monitor QHD 180Hz felt like a significant upgrade in both size and performance. The 32-inch screen combined with a 1000R curve creates a truly enveloping experience that pulls you right into the game. We found the QHD (2560×1440) resolution to be the sweet spot for this screen size, offering a sharp, detailed image without demanding a top-of-the-line graphics card. The jump to a 180Hz refresh rate from the common 144/165Hz standard is noticeable, providing exceptionally smooth motion that feels incredibly responsive. Many users upgrading from 1080p displays shared our sentiment, praising the stunning clarity and fluidity. The colors are vibrant, covering 99% of the sRGB gamut, and the HDR10 support adds a nice pop to compatible games and movies. We appreciated the gamer-centric features like the Black Stabilizer and on-screen FPS counter. One thing we noted, which some users also pointed out, is that the auto-dimming feature tied to the power-saving mode can be aggressive, but it’s easily disabled in the settings for a consistent brightness level. The build quality is solid, and the three-sided borderless design gives it a modern, sleek look. For gamers who want a large, immersive, and high-performance display, this LG Ultragear is a fantastic choice.

#5 AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor – Perfect for: Elite-Level Esports Performance

When speed is the only thing that matters, the AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor delivers in spades. This monitor is built for one purpose: to give competitive gamers every possible advantage. The 280Hz refresh rate is absolutely blistering, providing a level of motion clarity that is second to none. In our testing of fast-paced shooters, aiming felt incredibly precise, and tracking fast-moving targets was effortless. This is a sentiment we saw echoed repeatedly by users who felt their gameplay improved instantly. The 0.3ms response time further eliminates any hint of ghosting or motion blur, resulting in a crystal-clear image no matter how frantic the on-screen action gets. The 1500R curve adds a subtle layer of immersion without being distracting, and the frameless design is perfect for multi-monitor setups. While it’s a 1080p monitor, the focus here is purely on frame rate and response, which is the priority for esports. We were also impressed by the stand, which offers full height, tilt, and swivel adjustability for perfect ergonomic positioning during long gaming sessions. The colors are vibrant, and the contrast is strong, making games pop. If you’re a serious competitive player looking for maximum performance, the AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor is an absolute beast.

#6 KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz FHD Computer Monitor – Suits: Budget-Minded Users Needing a Solid Performer

The KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz FHD Computer Monitor proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality display. We were genuinely surprised by the performance this monitor offers for its price. The 24-inch screen with a Full HD 1080p resolution is sharp and ideal for both work and play. The biggest upgrade over typical budget monitors is the 100Hz refresh rate. This provides a noticeably smoother experience when scrolling through documents, browsing the web, and especially in casual gaming. It’s a small but significant step up from 60Hz or 75Hz that enhances the overall feel of using your PC. The VA panel delivers a fantastic 3000:1 contrast ratio, which means blacks are deep and colors have a pleasing richness. Our findings are backed by many users who purchased these for home offices and were impressed with the picture quality and value. The design is modern and clean, with slim three-sided bezels that make it look more expensive than it is and are great for multi-monitor arrangements. While the stand only offers tilt adjustment, the inclusion of VESA mounting holes provides an easy upgrade path for better ergonomics. For anyone building a setup on a tight budget, whether for work, school, or light gaming, the KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz FHD Computer Monitor is an excellent, reliable choice that delivers more than its price tag suggests.

#7 ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: The Ultimate Ultrawide Gaming and Productivity Experience

Diving into the world of ultrawide with the ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor was an absolutely breathtaking experience. The 34-inch, 21:9 aspect ratio screen completely fills your peripheral vision, creating an unparalleled level of immersion in games like Skyrim and cinematic single-player adventures. The WQHD (3440×1440) resolution provides a huge amount of screen real estate, which we found just as valuable for productivity as it is for gaming; having multiple windows open side-by-side without compromise is a workflow revolution. Performance-wise, this monitor is a powerhouse. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time ensure that gameplay is incredibly fluid and sharp, with no noticeable motion blur or tearing, thanks to FreeSync Premium support. We were particularly impressed with the DisplayHDR 400 certification; it adds significant depth and punch to the visuals, making colors more vibrant and highlights pop. Many users shared our enthusiasm, calling it a game-changer for both work and play. The stand is also fantastic, offering a full range of height, swivel, and tilt adjustments, which is crucial for a monitor of this size. The built-in USB hub is another convenient feature, simplifying cable management for peripherals. If you’re ready to embrace the ultrawide format, the ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor is a top-tier choice that excels in every area.

#8 ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor – Perfect for: A Stylish Large-Screen Multimedia Hub

The ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor immediately stands out with its stunning design. The ultra-slim profile and silver metallic finish give it a premium, elegant look that elevates any desk setup. But it’s not just about aesthetics; the 32-inch SuperClear IPS panel delivers a beautiful picture. We found the colors to be rich and accurate, with excellent viewing angles that ensure a consistent image from anywhere in the room. This makes it a fantastic choice for watching movies or sharing content with others. While the 1080p resolution on a 32-inch screen might result in a lower pixel density than smaller monitors, we found it perfectly acceptable for general use and multimedia consumption, a point many satisfied users agreed with, praising its value. The 75Hz refresh rate offers a slight but welcome improvement in smoothness for casual gaming over standard 60Hz displays. We also appreciated the inclusion of built-in dual speakers, which, like our top pick, are great for everyday audio needs and keeping your desk tidy. The versatile connectivity, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and even a legacy VGA port, means it can connect to a wide range of devices. For those seeking a large, stylish monitor for home office work and entertainment without a hefty price tag, the ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor is a superb option.

#9 ASUS TUF Gaming 27” QHD 260Hz Fast IPS Monitor – Suits: Serious Gamers Seeking Speed and Visual Fidelity

The ASUS TUF Gaming 27” QHD 260Hz Fast IPS Monitor represents the perfect marriage of speed and image quality for the serious gamer. In our testing, this monitor was simply phenomenal. The QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution on the 27-inch screen provides a super sharp, detailed picture that makes games look incredible—a significant step up from 1080p. The Fast IPS panel technology ensures that you don’t have to sacrifice color for speed; the visuals are vibrant and accurate, looking great from any angle. But the main event is the overclocked 260Hz refresh rate. The smoothness and clarity in fast-motion scenes are top-tier, giving a tangible competitive edge. We were able to track targets in FPS games with pinpoint accuracy. Many users who made the jump from 144Hz displays noted the buttery-smooth difference. The ELMB Sync technology is another killer feature, allowing motion blur reduction to work simultaneously with G-SYNC/FreeSync, which kept our image tear-free and crystal clear. DisplayHDR 400 support also adds a nice touch of dynamic range to the experience. This monitor hits the sweet spot for high-end gaming, offering elite-level refresh rates without compromising on the stunning visuals of a QHD IPS panel.

#10 ASUS ROG XG27AQDMG 27” QHD OLED Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: The Ultimate Visual Experience with Uncompromised Performance

If you’re looking for the absolute pinnacle of gaming display technology, the ASUS ROG XG27AQDMG 27” QHD OLED Gaming Monitor is it. The moment we powered it on, the difference was astounding. The OLED panel delivers perfect, inky blacks and an infinite contrast ratio that makes every other panel type look washed out. Colors are incredibly vibrant and lifelike, covering 99% of the DCI-P3 gamut, making games and HDR content look breathtakingly cinematic. But this monitor isn’t just a pretty face; its performance is otherworldly. The 240Hz refresh rate combined with a near-instantaneous 0.03ms response time provides motion clarity that is simply perfect. There is zero ghosting, zero smearing—just pure, fluid motion. Our experience was confirmed by competitive players who described the responsiveness as a true game-changer. The glossy screen finish, a departure from the typical matte, makes the colors pop even more, creating a stunningly clear image. ASUS has also included a custom heatsink and various OLED care functions to mitigate the risk of burn-in, addressing a key concern with the technology. While the price is undeniably premium, for those who demand the absolute best in both visual fidelity and competitive performance, the ASUS ROG XG27AQDMG 27” QHD OLED Gaming Monitor is in a class of its own and worth every penny.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Resolution: This determines the sharpness of the image. 1080p (Full HD) is the standard for budget and high-refresh-rate esports monitors. 1440p (QHD) offers a significant step up in detail and is the current sweet spot for mid-to-high-end gaming. 4K (UHD) provides the ultimate clarity but requires a very powerful graphics card to run smoothly.
• Refresh Rate (Hz): Measured in Hertz, this is how many times your monitor updates the image per second. A standard monitor is 60Hz. For gaming, 144Hz or higher is recommended for a much smoother, more responsive experience, which is crucial in fast-paced games.
• Response Time (ms): This is how quickly a pixel can change color. A lower response time (like 1ms) reduces motion blur and ghosting, resulting in a clearer image during fast action. For competitive gaming, this is a critical spec.
• Panel Type: The three main types are IPS, VA, and OLED. IPS panels have the best color accuracy and viewing angles. VA panels offer the best contrast with deep blacks. OLED panels provide perfect blacks, incredible colors, and the fastest response times, but come at a premium price.
• Screen Size & Curvature: 24-27 inches is the standard for most desk setups. Larger screens (32+ inches) and ultrawide monitors offer more immersion but require more desk space and GPU power. Curved screens can enhance immersion, especially on larger and ultrawide models.

Understanding Panel Technology: IPS vs. VA vs. OLED

Choosing the right panel technology is crucial as it dictates the core visual characteristics of your monitor. IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels are renowned for their superior color accuracy and wide viewing angles. This means the image looks vibrant and consistent even when viewed from the side. They are the all-around choice for gamers who also do creative work. VA (Vertical Alignment) panels are the contrast kings, offering much deeper blacks than IPS panels. This makes them great for gaming in dark rooms and for enjoying cinematic content. Their main trade-off can sometimes be slower response times, though modern VA gaming panels have improved significantly. Finally, OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) is the premium technology. Each pixel is its own light source, allowing them to turn off completely for perfect, true blacks and an effectively infinite contrast ratio. They also boast the fastest response times and most vibrant colors, but they are the most expensive and carry a long-term risk of burn-in.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes is creating a bottleneck in your system. Don’t buy a 4K, 240Hz monitor if your graphics card can only handle 1080p at 60 frames per second; you’re paying for performance you can’t use. Conversely, don’t pair a top-of-the-line GPU with a basic 60Hz monitor. Another error is ignoring ergonomics. A monitor with a fixed stand can lead to neck and back strain. Look for models with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments. Lastly, don’t get fixated on a single spec. A monitor with a 1ms response time might sound great, but if it’s a TN panel with poor colors, your overall experience may suffer. Consider the complete package: resolution, refresh rate, response time, and panel type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is refresh rate or resolution more important for gaming?

This depends on the type of games you play. For fast-paced competitive games like first-person shooters (FPS) or racing sims, a higher refresh rate (144Hz and above) is more important. It provides smoother motion and lower input lag, giving you a competitive advantage. For slower-paced, visually rich games like RPGs or strategy games, a higher resolution (1440p or 4K) is more important as it delivers a more detailed and immersive world.

What is response time and why does it matter for gamers?

Response time, measured in milliseconds (ms), is the time it takes for a pixel to change from one color to another (typically gray-to-gray). A lower response time is better because it reduces visual artifacts like motion blur and ghosting, where a faint trail is visible behind moving objects. For gamers, a fast response time (5ms or less, ideally 1ms) ensures the image stays crisp and clear during fast action.

Is NVIDIA G-Sync better than AMD FreeSync?

Both G-Sync and FreeSync are adaptive sync technologies designed to eliminate screen tearing by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s frame output. Historically, G-Sync required a dedicated hardware module in the monitor, making it more expensive but often providing a more consistent experience. FreeSync is an open standard and generally less expensive. Today, the lines have blurred with NVIDIA supporting “G-Sync Compatible” on many FreeSync monitors. For most users, both technologies perform exceptionally well, and the choice often comes down to the monitor’s specific implementation rather than the brand name.

Are OLED gaming monitors worth the high price?

For those seeking the absolute best image quality, yes. OLED monitors offer unparalleled contrast with perfect blacks, incredibly vibrant colors, and near-instantaneous response times that no LCD technology (IPS or VA) can match. However, they are significantly more expensive and come with a risk of permanent image retention, or “burn-in,” if static images are left on screen for extended periods. If your budget allows and you prioritize visual fidelity and performance above all else, an OLED is worth it.

What is the best monitor size for competitive gaming?

Most professional and competitive gamers prefer monitors in the 24 to 25-inch range. This size is large enough to be immersive but small enough that you can see the entire screen at a glance without moving your head or eyes excessively. This allows for faster reaction times as all critical information (like the minimap and health bar) remains within your immediate field of view.

Do I need an HDR monitor for the best gaming experience?

HDR (High Dynamic Range) can significantly enhance the gaming experience by providing a wider range of colors and a greater difference between the brightest whites and darkest blacks. It makes game worlds look more realistic and vibrant. However, it’s not strictly necessary. A good quality standard dynamic range (SDR) monitor can still provide a fantastic experience. True, impactful HDR performance also requires a high peak brightness, so look for certifications like DisplayHDR 400 or higher.

Is an ultrawide monitor good for first-person shooter games?

Ultrawide monitors (21:9 aspect ratio) can be great for FPS games as they expand your peripheral vision, potentially allowing you to see enemies you might miss on a standard 16:9 screen. This creates a more immersive experience. The downside is that some competitive games may not support the ultrawide aspect ratio or may crop the vertical view to prevent an unfair advantage. They also demand more from your graphics card.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we can confidently say that the best gaming monitor for most people is the HP 24mh 23.8″ FHD IPS Monitor with Built-In Speakers. It’s a masterclass in balance, offering features typically found in more expensive models at an incredibly accessible price. The crisp 1080p IPS panel provides beautiful, accurate colors, while the 75Hz refresh rate adds a welcome layer of smoothness for both gaming and daily use. What truly sets it apart, however, is its superb ergonomic stand with full height and tilt adjustment, ensuring comfort during long sessions. The addition of built-in speakers is the final touch that makes this a complete, clutter-free solution. It’s the perfect do-it-all display that doesn’t compromise on the essentials.

Last update on 2025-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API