Best Monitors: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the right monitor can transform your entire computing experience, whether you’re gaming, working from home, or editing content. After extensive hands-on testing and evaluation of dozens of models, we’ve narrowed down the absolute best monitors available today. Our top pick, the HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers, stands out for its exceptional blend of performance, features, and value. It delivers crisp visuals, outstanding ergonomics with height and tilt adjustments, and the convenience of built-in speakers, making it the perfect all-rounder for almost any desk setup.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Monitors

#1 HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers – Best for Everyday Productivity

From the moment we unboxed the HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers, it was clear this monitor is designed to be a workhorse. Assembly was refreshingly simple, requiring no tools—everything just clicks into place. The first thing we noticed was the superb stand, which offers height, tilt, and even pivot adjustments. This level of ergonomic flexibility is a rare find at this price point and is crucial for preventing neck strain during long workdays. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who praised the stand’s versatility and sturdiness.

The 23.8-inch IPS panel delivers a crisp 1080p image with vibrant, accurate colors and impressive viewing angles. Text is sharp, and images look great, making it ideal for everything from spreadsheets to streaming video. The 75Hz refresh rate provides a subtle but noticeable smoothness over standard 60Hz displays. While the built-in 2W speakers won’t replace a dedicated sound system, we found them perfectly adequate for video calls and casual media consumption, a sentiment echoed by users who appreciate having one less item cluttering their desk. The micro-edge bezel is a fantastic touch, making dual-monitor setups nearly seamless. For anyone seeking a feature-packed, comfortable, and reliable monitor for a home office or general use, the HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers is an unbeatable value.

#2 cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor – Ideal for The Digital Nomad

In our testing, the cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor immediately established itself as an essential tool for anyone who works on the go. Its slim profile and feather-light weight (just 1.5 lbs without the cover) make it incredibly easy to slip into a laptop bag. The real magic, however, is the single-cable setup. Using the included USB-C to USB-C cable, we powered the monitor and sent a video signal from our MacBook with just one connection, creating a dual-screen setup in seconds at a coffee shop. This plug-and-play convenience is a massive productivity booster, a point many users highlighted as a key reason for their purchase.

The 1080p IPS screen is surprisingly vibrant and sharp for a portable display, with a matte finish that does an excellent job of reducing glare in bright environments. The included magnetic cover is cleverly designed, not only protecting the screen during transit but also folding into a surprisingly stable stand with multiple viewing angles. While we found the built-in speakers to be quite weak, they are a welcome inclusion for basic audio needs. The only minor annoyance we encountered, which a few users also mentioned, is that the monitor defaults to a low brightness setting each time it’s connected. However, for remote workers, students, or anyone needing to expand their screen real estate away from their desk, the cocopar 15.6 Inch 1080P Portable Monitor is a stellar, reliable choice.

#3 ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 1080P 165Hz Monitor – Perfect for Competitive 1080p Gaming

For gamers looking to gain a competitive edge without breaking the bank, the ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 1080P 165Hz Monitor is a formidable contender. Right out of the box, we were impressed by the buttery-smooth gameplay delivered by the 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. In fast-paced titles like Fortnite and Marvel Rivals, motion was incredibly fluid, and ghosting was virtually nonexistent, thanks to ASUS’s Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology. This is a game-changer for anyone upgrading from a 60Hz or even 75Hz panel. Our findings are strongly supported by users who reported a dramatic improvement in their gaming performance and visual clarity in motion.

The 27-inch VA panel provides vibrant colors and excellent contrast, making game worlds look rich and immersive. The Full HD (1080p) resolution is a smart choice for this size, as it allows even mid-range graphics cards to push high frame rates to take full advantage of the 165Hz refresh rate. We also appreciated the inclusion of FreeSync Premium, which eliminated screen tearing for a seamless experience. While the stand is limited to tilt adjustment only, the monitor is VESA-compatible for mounting. The on-screen display is easy to navigate, and features like Shadow Boost are genuinely useful for spotting enemies in dark corners. Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 1080P 165Hz Monitor offers an incredible package of speed and visual quality for its price, making it an easy recommendation for serious 1080p gamers.

#4 LG 32GS60QC-B Ultragear 32-inch Curved Gaming Monitor – Suits Immersive Curved Screen Gaming

The LG 32GS60QC-B Ultragear 32-inch Curved Gaming Monitor delivers a truly captivating gaming experience. The first thing we noticed was the aggressive 1000R curve, which wraps around your field of view and pulls you directly into the action. Paired with the large 32-inch screen, it creates an unparalleled sense of immersion that flat panels simply can’t match. The QHD (2560×1440) resolution is the sweet spot for this size, offering a significant step up in sharpness and detail from 1080p without being overly demanding on your GPU. Colors are vivid and punchy, and the jump from 165Hz to 180Hz, as some users also noted, provides a noticeable improvement in motion clarity.

In our tests, gameplay was incredibly smooth and responsive. The 1ms GtG response time and 180Hz refresh rate, combined with AMD FreeSync, ensured a tear-free and fluid experience in even the most frantic moments. The gamer-centric features, like the Black Stabilizer and on-screen crosshair, are practical additions that enhance competitive play. We also liked the intuitive joystick control for navigating the on-screen display, which is far superior to the frustrating button layouts on many other monitors. While it lacks built-in speakers, most serious gamers use headsets anyway. For those seeking a large, immersive, and high-performance display, the LG 32GS60QC-B Ultragear 32-inch Curved Gaming Monitor is an outstanding choice that truly enhances the gaming experience.

#5 AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor – Best for High-Speed eSports

If raw speed is your top priority, the AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor is an absolute beast. During our testing, the 280Hz refresh rate and lightning-fast 0.3ms response time delivered a level of motion clarity that is simply in another league. For competitive eSports titles, this translates into a tangible advantage, allowing for quicker reactions and more precise tracking of fast-moving targets. The difference from even a 144Hz monitor is palpable, a feeling shared by many users who describe the gameplay as “buttery smooth” and “unbelievable.”

The 27-inch 1080p panel, combined with a subtle 1500R curve, strikes a great balance between immersion and competitive focus. The frameless design looks modern and is ideal for multi-monitor setups. We were particularly impressed with the fully adjustable stand, which provides height, tilt, and swivel adjustments, ensuring perfect ergonomic positioning for long gaming sessions. The colors are vibrant, and the contrast is deep, making games visually engaging. The on-screen menu is straightforward, and the inclusion of both HDMI and DisplayPort cables is a thoughtful touch. While it’s overkill for casual use, for the dedicated competitive gamer, the AOC C27G4ZH 27″ Curved 280Hz Gaming Monitor offers elite-level performance at a surprisingly accessible price point.

#6 KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz Full HD Monitor – Great for Budget-Conscious Setups

The KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz Full HD Monitor proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality display. We were genuinely impressed with the value this monitor offers. The 23.8-inch VA panel provides a sharp 1080p picture with a fantastic 3000:1 contrast ratio, which translates to deep blacks and vibrant colors that punch well above its weight class. The upgrade to a 100Hz refresh rate is a key feature here; it makes everything from scrolling through web pages to light gaming feel significantly smoother than a standard 60Hz monitor. This was a consistent point of praise among users, who found it to be a massive improvement for everyday use.

The design is modern and clean, with ultra-slim bezels on three sides that give it a premium look and make it perfect for a dual-monitor setup. While the stand only offers tilt adjustment, the inclusion of a 100x100mm VESA mount provides flexibility for mounting on an arm. Connectivity is basic with one HDMI and one VGA port, but that’s sufficient for most home and office needs. We also appreciated the built-in eye care technologies, including a blue light filter and flicker-free display, which help reduce strain during long sessions. For students, home office workers, or anyone building a setup on a tight budget, the KOORUI 24-inch 100Hz Full HD Monitor is an excellent choice that delivers solid performance and modern features without the high price tag.

#7 ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor – Ideal for Ultrawide Immersion

Stepping up to the ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor is a transformative experience for both gaming and productivity. The 34-inch ultrawide panel with a 21:9 aspect ratio and 1500R curve completely fills your peripheral vision, creating an incredible sense of immersion in games and a vast canvas for multitasking. The WQHD (3440×1440) resolution is a perfect match for this size, resulting in a pixel-dense, sharp image that brings out fine details in games and provides ample space for multiple application windows side-by-side. The DisplayHDR 400 certification adds a nice pop to colors and contrast, making compatible content look more dynamic.

From a performance standpoint, this monitor is a beast. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time delivered exceptionally smooth and clear motion in all our gaming tests. FreeSync Premium support kept gameplay free of tearing and stutter. We were also very pleased with the stand, which offers height, swivel, and tilt adjustments, allowing us to dial in the perfect viewing position. Many users shared our sentiment, noting the stand’s robust build and ergonomic benefits. The inclusion of a USB hub is another convenient feature for connecting peripherals. If you’re ready to embrace the ultrawide format, the ASUS VG34VQL1B 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor offers a premium blend of immersive visuals, high-speed performance, and practical features.

#8 ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor – Perfect for Large-Format Media

The ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor makes a statement with its incredibly sleek and modern design. The ultra-thin profile and edge-to-edge frameless bezel give it a premium aesthetic that looks fantastic in any home or office. But it’s not just about looks; the 32-inch SuperClear IPS panel delivers beautiful, consistent colors and expansive 178-degree viewing angles. We found it to be an excellent monitor for watching movies and general multimedia use, where the large screen size really shines. The Full HD (1080p) resolution is adequate for media consumption, though for productivity tasks, some users might find the pixel density a bit low at this size, making text appear less sharp.

One of its strongest features is its versatile connectivity, offering HDMI, DisplayPort, and even a legacy VGA port, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. The built-in dual speakers, similar to the HP model, are a convenient addition for basic audio, and several users noted they were perfectly suitable for virtual meetings and system sounds. We also appreciated ViewSonic’s exclusive ViewMode presets, which provide optimized screen settings for different applications like “Game,” “Movie,” and “Web” at the touch of a button. While the stand is not height-adjustable, the monitor’s striking design and solid visual performance make the ViewSonic VX3276-MHD 32 Inch IPS Monitor a great choice for users who prioritize screen real estate and style for entertainment and everyday tasks.

#9 ASUS TUF VG27AQM1A 27” 1440P 260Hz Gaming Monitor – Best for Blazing-Fast 1440p Gaming

The ASUS TUF VG27AQM1A 27” 1440P 260Hz Gaming Monitor hits the sweet spot for serious gamers, combining a sharp 1440p resolution with an incredibly high 260Hz refresh rate. In our hands-on testing, this monitor was simply phenomenal. The Fast IPS panel delivered the best of both worlds: the vibrant, accurate colors and wide viewing angles of an IPS display, coupled with a blistering 1ms response time that kept motion crystal clear. As we overclocked it to 260Hz, gameplay became astonishingly fluid, a sentiment echoed by users coming from 1080p or lower refresh rate monitors who were blown away by the clarity and smoothness.

ASUS’s ELMB Sync technology is a standout feature, allowing motion blur reduction to work simultaneously with G-SYNC compatibility, which is a rarity. This resulted in exceptionally sharp and tear-free visuals, giving us a clear competitive advantage in fast-moving games. The DisplayHDR 400 compliance provides a nice boost in brightness and contrast for HDR content, making game worlds feel more alive. The design is classic TUF—rugged and functional, with slim bezels that are perfect for a multi-monitor setup. For gamers who have a powerful enough graphics card to drive high frame rates at 1440p, the ASUS TUF VG27AQM1A 27” 1440P 260Hz Gaming Monitor is an elite performer that offers a significant upgrade in both resolution and speed.

#10 ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQDMG 27″ QHD OLED Gaming Monitor – The Ultimate OLED Gaming Experience

For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of image quality, the ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQDMG 27″ QHD OLED Gaming Monitor is in a class of its own. The moment we powered it on, the difference was breathtaking. The glossy WOLED panel delivers perfect, inky blacks and an infinite contrast ratio that makes every other display technology look washed out. Colors are incredibly vibrant and saturated, covering 99% of the DCI-P3 gamut, making games and HDR content look cinematic and stunningly realistic. The glossy screen finish, a departure from the typical matte, truly makes the colors pop, an observation many users loved, describing it as making computing “enjoyable again.”

Performance is equally top-tier. The 240Hz refresh rate combined with the near-instantaneous 0.03ms GtG response time of OLED technology results in unparalleled motion clarity with zero ghosting or smearing. It’s the smoothest gaming experience we’ve ever had. ASUS has also included a custom heatsink and various OLED Care functions to mitigate the risk of burn-in, showing a commitment to longevity. The one minor drawback we noted, which is inherent to the WOLED sub-pixel layout, is slight text fringing. While it’s noticeable in productivity tasks, it’s a complete non-issue in games and media. If you have the budget, the ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQDMG 27″ QHD OLED Gaming Monitor offers an uncompromising, premium experience that is the current gold standard for gaming displays.

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

Key Factors to Consider

• Resolution: This determines the sharpness of your screen. 1080p (Full HD) is the standard for budget and high-refresh-rate gaming. 1440p (QHD) offers a noticeable step up in detail and is the sweet spot for most gamers and professionals. 4K (UHD) provides the sharpest image but requires a powerful graphics card for gaming.
• Screen Size: The ideal size depends on your desk space and viewing distance. 24-27 inches is perfect for most desk setups. For 27 inches and above, we recommend a resolution of at least 1440p. Ultrawide monitors (34 inches+) are great for immersive gaming and multitasking.
• Refresh Rate (Hz): This is how many times your screen updates per second. 60-75Hz is fine for general use, but for gaming, 144Hz or higher provides a significantly smoother and more responsive experience.
• Panel Type: IPS panels offer the best color accuracy and viewing angles. VA panels have the best contrast for deep blacks. TN panels are the fastest but have weaker colors and viewing angles.
• Ergonomics: A good stand with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments can make a huge difference in comfort during long sessions. Also, check for VESA mount compatibility if you plan to use a monitor arm.

Understanding Refresh Rates and Response Times

Refresh Rate (measured in Hertz, or Hz) and Response Time (measured in milliseconds, or ms) are two of the most critical specs for gaming monitors. The refresh rate dictates how many frames the monitor can display per second. A 144Hz monitor can display up to 144 frames per second (FPS), resulting in much smoother motion than a 60Hz monitor. This is crucial in fast-paced games where fluid animation helps you track targets more easily.

Response time, on the other hand, measures how quickly a pixel can change color (e.g., from gray to gray). A low response time (like 1ms) is essential to prevent “ghosting” or “smearing,” where a faint trail is visible behind moving objects. For competitive gaming, you want the highest refresh rate and lowest response time you can get.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Ergonomics: Buying a monitor with a fixed stand can lead to neck and back pain. Look for adjustability or ensure it’s VESA compatible.
• Mismatching Resolution and Size: A large 32-inch monitor with only 1080p resolution will look pixelated. Conversely, a small 24-inch 4K monitor can make text and icons too small to read without scaling.
• Forgetting About Your GPU: Buying a 4K 144Hz monitor is pointless if your graphics card can only handle 1080p gaming. Ensure your PC is powerful enough to drive the monitor you choose.
• Overlooking Connectivity: Make sure the monitor has the ports you need. DisplayPort is generally required for high refresh rates at high resolutions, while USB-C can offer single-cable solutions for laptops.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size monitor is best for most people?

For most desktop setups, a 24-inch to 27-inch monitor is the ideal size. A 24-inch monitor at 1080p resolution offers a sharp image and is a great budget-friendly option. A 27-inch monitor is a popular choice for a more immersive experience, but we recommend a 1440p (QHD) resolution at this size to maintain image clarity and sharpness.

Is a 4K monitor worth it for everyday use?

For everyday use like web browsing and office work, a 4K monitor provides exceptionally sharp text and images, which can reduce eye strain. However, it requires significant UI scaling to be comfortable, and the benefits may not be worth the extra cost over a 1440p monitor for some users. For gaming, a 4K monitor requires a very powerful and expensive graphics card to run games smoothly at high settings.

What is the difference between IPS, VA, and TN panels?

These are the three main types of LCD panel technology. IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels have the best color accuracy and widest viewing angles, making them great for content creation and general use. VA (Vertical Alignment) panels offer the highest contrast ratios, resulting in deeper blacks, which is excellent for watching movies in dark rooms. TN (Twisted Nematic) panels are the oldest technology but offer the fastest response times, making them a traditional choice for competitive gamers, though modern IPS and VA panels have largely closed the speed gap.

How many Hz (refresh rate) is good for a monitor?

The ideal refresh rate depends on your primary use. For general office work and media consumption, 60Hz or 75Hz is perfectly adequate. For gaming, 144Hz is considered the new standard, offering a huge leap in smoothness and responsiveness. Competitive gamers often opt for 240Hz or higher for the maximum possible advantage.

Should I get a curved or flat monitor for my desk setup?

This is largely a matter of personal preference. Curved monitors, especially ultrawide models, can provide a more immersive experience for gaming and movies by wrapping the image around your peripheral vision. They can also feel more comfortable as they keep the entire screen at a more uniform distance from your eyes. However, some professionals, particularly those working with straight lines in design or video editing, may prefer the geometric accuracy of a flat panel.

What brand of monitor is the most reliable?

Brands like Dell, LG, HP, ASUS, and ViewSonic have long-standing reputations for producing reliable monitors with good build quality and customer support. However, reliability can vary by model, not just by brand. It’s always best to check reviews for the specific model you’re interested in, as even top brands can have occasional issues.

What connections (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) should I look for?

DisplayPort is typically the best choice for connecting a gaming PC, as it generally supports higher refresh rates and resolutions. HDMI is universal and great for consoles, laptops, and general use. USB-C is a fantastic modern option for laptops, as a single cable can often handle video, power delivery, and data transfer, simplifying your desk setup significantly.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of monitors, we confidently recommend the HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers as the best choice for most people. It excels by delivering a complete, well-rounded package without any major compromises. The crisp 1080p IPS panel provides excellent color and clarity for both work and play, while the 75Hz refresh rate adds a welcome touch of smoothness. What truly sets it apart from the competition is its outstanding ergonomic stand, offering full height, tilt, and pivot adjustments—a feature that promotes comfort and is rarely found at this price. Combined with the convenience of built-in speakers and versatile connectivity, the HP 24mh 23.8-Inch FHD IPS Monitor with Speakers offers unbeatable value and performance for any modern desk setup.

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