The Best Budget Gaming Monitors for All Gamer Types

Gaming monitor prices have skyrocketed, particularly for OLEDs, large screens, high refresh rates, and sharp resolutions. However, excellent affordable options exist that don't compromise image quality or features significantly. The Xiaomi G Pro 27i, with its impressive mini-LED, quantum dot screen for under $400, is a prime example. It rivals much more expensive monitors, showcasing the quality available on a budget—if you know where to look.

TL;DR – Best Budget Gaming Monitors:

Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
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Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A
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LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
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KTC H27P22S
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Dell S3422DWG
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Budget gaming monitors may lack some features, but still deliver excellent displays for your gaming PC. Even mid-range graphics cards and CPUs can be pushed with high refresh rates and 4K monitors available at relatively low costs. While trade-offs exist (adjustable stands, KVM switches), focusing on performance and personal needs yields great value at every price point.

Not all budget monitors are equal. A very cheap monitor might fail quickly or strain your eyes. Our picks cost more, but offer solid builds, excellent panels, and gaming features for a better experience. Higher-end options are available for larger budgets.

Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Matthew S. Smith

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1. Xiaomi G Pro 27i Mini-LED Gaming Monitor

Best Overall Budget Gaming Monitor

Incredible picture quality at an awesome price. See it at Amazon

The Xiaomi G Pro 27i is surprisingly good. Its mini-LED backlight with full array local dimming (FALD) and 1,152 local dimming zones (usually found in much more expensive monitors) significantly reduces blooming, resulting in a fantastic HDR experience closer to OLEDs without the burn-in risk. It boasts 180Hz refresh rate, low motion blur, and accurate colors. While lacking a USB hub and only supporting HDMI 2.0, these trade-offs are worthwhile given its picture quality and price.

2. Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A

Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor

Great gaming performance for around $150. See it at Amazon

The Asus TUF Gaming VG277Q1A offers excellent value, easily driven by various hardware. Its VA panel delivers deep blacks and wide dynamic range. Features like an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost, and ELMB enhance gameplay. Drawbacks include a non-adjustable stand (though VESA mountable) and lower pixel density due to its 1080p resolution at 27".

3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B

Best 1440p Budget Gaming Monitor

144Hz, 1440p with adaptive sync and color accuracy. See it at Amazon See it at Target

The LG UltraGear 27GN800-B offers a resolution boost to 1440p for sharper visuals, good color accuracy, 144Hz refresh rate, and compatibility with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. Low Framerate Compensation ensures smooth gameplay even below 144Hz. The non-adjustable stand is its main drawback, though VESA mountable.

4. KTC H27P22D

Best 4K Budget Gaming Monitor

Fast and fantastic 4K picture on a budget. See it at Amazon

The KTC H27P22D demonstrates significant advancements in budget 4K gaming monitors. Its 160Hz refresh rate, support for AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, and dual HDMI 2.1 ports make it excellent for console gaming. While lacking factory calibration and a USB hub, its performance and price are compelling.

5. Dell S3422DWG

Best Ultrawide Budget Gaming Monitor

Immersive ultrawide curved monitor with 1440p/144Hz. See it at Amazon See it at Dell

The Dell S3422DWG stands out as the best budget ultrawide, offering an immersive experience with its contrast-rich VA panel, 3440x1440 resolution, 21:9 aspect ratio, and slight curvature. It features a 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support for smooth gameplay. Minor ghosting is noted, but overall motion clarity is strong. It includes a height-adjustable stand and acts as a USB hub.

How Much Should You Spend on a Gaming Monitor?

A good sweet spot for budget gaming monitors is $200-$300. Cheaper options may compromise quality, impacting longevity. Consider these factors:

• Resolution: 1080p is standard for budget displays, while 1440p offers better value and 4K requires a higher budget and system requirements.
• Refresh Rate: 144Hz is a good all-around choice, while 240Hz is better for competitive gaming.
• Panel Types: IPS offers motion clarity and vibrance, while VA provides better contrast. Mini-LED backlights with IPS offer the best overall image quality.
• Screen Size: 27" is a good balance, while smaller (24") or larger (32"+) monitors may suit different needs. Consider pixel density.
• G-Sync/FreeSync: Support for either is recommended, many budget monitors support both.
• HDR: While marketed, HDR on budget monitors often lacks sufficient brightness.

Budget Gaming Monitor FAQs

What is the best type of panel?

Budget monitors typically use VA or IPS panels. The Xiaomi G Pro 27i (mini-LED backlight) is a top pick. Otherwise, choose based on priorities: IPS for response time and color, VA for contrast (unless using a mini-LED backlight).

When are gaming monitors most affordable?

Prime Day, Black Friday, Back to School sales, and new model releases often bring discounts.

What size gaming monitor should I get for gaming?

Consider available space, resolution, and pixel density. 24" for 1080p, 27-32" for 1440p, and 27"+ for 4K are good starting points.