When it comes to the best cheap gaming monitors on the market, even the most basic models can outperform your expectations. While these low-cost monitors may lack some of the features and flashiness found in the best gaming monitors, you can still expect stellar Full HD, 1440p, and even 4K screens in a variety of form factors.

It is no longer necessary to spend a lot of money to get something that looks and runs well. The best budget monitors don’t just have a 1080p resolution and a frame rate of 60 frames per second. We’ve seen an increase in low-cost monitor models that use high refresh rates and resolutions to improve gaming experience, all for less than $300.

If you want to cast a wider net, we also recommend reading our buying guides for the best 4K gaming monitors best-curved gaming monitors. Let’s take a look at the list of cheap gaming monitors below.

1. ASUS VG245H: The Best Low-Cost Full HD Gaming Monitor For Consoles

SPECIFICATIONS 

• Size: 24-inch 
• Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
• Refresh Rate: 75Hz
• Response Time: 1ms
• Display Type: LED 
• Notable inclusions: AMD Free Sync support

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PERKS– Clear, bright display, Good colors, Affordable

CONS– Fairly basic

If all you want to do is play 1080p games at 60 frames per second, this ASUS monitor has everything you need, including a 1ms response time and AMD Free Sync support to prevent screen tearing when things get a little crazy on-screen. This is an excellent low-cost gaming monitor.

If you intend to use this panel with a PC, keep in mind that there is no DisplayPort – only a pair of HDMI ports and VGA; this appears to be an oversight for a 2016 model. That being said, if you’re still gaming on a PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Xbox Series S and want something cheap that looks the part, this is a good option.

2. AOC G2490VX: The Best Low-Cost Full HD 144Hz Gaming Monitor

SPECIFICATIONS– 

• The display is 24 inches in size and features a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution
• A refresh rate of 144Hz
• A response time of 1ms
• AMD Free Sync Premium support is also included.

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PERKS– Thin bezels, Low response time, Sleek design

CONS- Only has DisplayPort and HDMI.

This monitor includes all of the essentials for effective PC gaming in Full HD for the price. The improvement can be attributed, in part, to AMD Free Sync Premium, which maintains low response latency for a smooth overall gaming experience while preventing screen tearing. This is the best deal cheap gaming monitor.

At the same time, it has a 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response rate, which are critical for competitive and fast gaming where every millisecond counts. Because of its low price and thin bezels, this monitor would be ideal as part of a dual – or even triple – monitor setup spread across your desk.

3. Gigabyte G27F

This is a great cheap gaming monitor. If you can find it for less than $250, go for it. If you can find it for less than $250 (we tested it when it was $220), Gigabyte’s G27F is the cheapest 27-inch on this list and still provides excellent gaming performance, aided by one of the best overdrive implementations we’ve seen recently (we tested it when it was $220).

The monitor’s overdrive provided a picture free of visible blur or ghosting art facts when set to its maximum setting. When it came to response time and input lag, this 1080p screen held its own against other 144 Hz monitors. The G27F’s fast refresh rate compensated for its low pixel density by reaching 144 fps in FHD resolution.

In terms of image quality, this screen has a rich and saturated color ratio as well as a contrast ratio of 1,165:1 after using our recommended calibration settings. The G27F is difficult to beat in the 27-inch category at this price. If you want to stay under $200, read our review of the Acer XFA240, which is typically $200 or less.

4. MSI Optix MPG321UR-QD: Best 4K Gaming Monitor

SPECIFICATIONS 

• Screen Size: 32 inches 
• Resolution: 4K
• Panel Type: IPS 
• Refresh Rate: 144 Hz 
• Response Time (GTG): 1ms
• Adaptive-Sync : Free Sync & G-Sync Compatible

PERKS– Bright and vibrant picture, USB-C input, HDMI 2.1, Highly saturated color & DisplayPort 1.4/DS

CONS– Calibration reduces light output, contrast, Native contrast just average

At a price of less than $900, the MSI Optix MPG321UR-QD offers an excellent combination of good performance and a plethora of features.

The 4K gaming display delivers stunning HDR quality while offering excellent color saturation at such a low price point. This is the best 4K cheap gaming monitor.

It also supports HDMI 2.1, has a refresh rate of 144Hz, and has a GTG response time of 1ms. The peak SDR brightness we measured with HDR content was 424 nits, and the peak SDR brightness was over 700 nits.

Similarly, its color gamut was 117 percent of DCI-P3. We also wish the Optix MPG321UR-QD had gamma presets because by calibrating the screen, we experienced a loss of contrast and light output.

5. BenQ Zowie RL2455: The Cheapest 24-Inch Gaming Monitor

This is the best cheap gaming monitor. The most common desktop monitor size is 24 inches. The BenQ Zowie RL2455 is a no-frills, no-hassle recommendation for this.

It gets the fundamentals right, with a clear and vibrant screen, 1ms response time, and multiple input ports. However, BenQ’s minor improvements make a significant difference.

For example, the monitor includes preset modes for various types of games, such as strategy games, shooters, and so on. BenQ also has smart built-in software called Black eQualizer, which brightens dark areas of the screen so you can see clearly without having to turn the entire screen bright. A number of customers and reviewers have praised this feature.

6. ViewSonic VX2476: The Best Cheap Gaming Monitor with IPS

The BenQ Zowie comes with a TN panel. If you are buying a gaming monitor, deciding between an IPS and TN screen is important. IPS screens generally offer better viewing angles and colors, while TN panels offer faster response times and refresh rates. However, these are outdated monitor myths. This is the best deal cheap gaming monitor.

When it comes to low-cost gaming monitors, an IPS screen doesn’t add much oomph. If you prefer it, you can choose ViewSonic VX2476, which is less expensive. Various sizes (22, 23, 24, 27, and 32 inches) are available at an affordable price.

In case you prefer to watch movies over play games but still want a good gaming experience, this game is for you.

7. Dell S2417DG: The Best Budget Gaming Monitor With G-Sync

Nvidia’s G-Sync differs from AMD’s Free Sync in that it requires monitors to have a chip. This raises the price while also improving the quality. If you have an Nvidia card, the well-known Dell S2417 is the way to go.

Even on a TN panel, the colors pop like they would on an IPS panel. At 2560×1440 pixels, the resolution is even higher. This is the best budget cheap gaming monitor.

Almost everyone agrees that this is the best budget gaming monitor on the market right now. It’s so good that you should buy it even if you have an AMD graphics card and will not be able to use Free Sync.

This Dell model is also available in a 27-inch version with the same features.

8. BenQ EX3203R: An Affordable Curvy Gaming Monitor With HDR

The Dell S2417DG should be the most they spend on a monitor for most budget-conscious gamers. However, if you want a little more oomph, consider the BenQ EX3203R.

A gaming monitor with HDR and FreeSync support. The resolution is 2560×1440 pixels, which is more than enough for a gaming monitor when the rest of the image quality is so good. Forget about 4K resolution. This is the best affordable cheap gaming monitor.

Of course, you get a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time at this price. This model also includes a USB-C port, which is uncommon on monitors. In our BenQ EX3203R review, we were very impressed.

9. Samsung 390 Series

The Best Cheap Gaming Monitor With Free Sync. Whether in 24-inch or 27-inch form, Samsung’s 390 series is a good choice for those who have AMD graphics cards that support Free Sync, making it the best cheap gaming monitor. Samsung employs a VA panel, which is a cross between an IPS and a TN panel.

10. Asus VG248QE: Cheap Gaming Monitor With 144Hz Refresh Rate

144Hz refresh rate monitors are the best choice if your budget allows it. It is the most visually appealing feature when it comes to modern gaming.

The Asus VG248QE is the best low-cost option with that feature. This is a great cheap gaming monitor. Except for the 144Hz refresh rate, this Asus model is unremarkable.

It is simply a reliable device that performs all of the essential functions as well as possible. Make certain to purchase the 144Hz model with a TN panel, as there is also a 75Hz model with an IPS panel.

11. ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM: A Cheap 280Hz Refresh Rate Gaming 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

PERKS- Perfect for professional gamers, Fast IPS technology, HDR support

CONS– No HDMI 2.1 support

With this Asus high refresh model, we’re stretching the definition of ‘cheap,’ but given that it features a 280Hz fast IPS panel for just over $300, it’s very much affordable given what comparable brands are asking for at that kind of display speed. This is a great cheap gaming monitor.

For those interested in competitive gaming, it’s the best option. With its display rate being twice that of 144Hz, you’ll be sure to have the best frame advantages possible in games like Valorant and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.

While also benefiting from HDR and a rich color gamut thanks to the IPS panel, which is rarely seen on 240Hz+ monitors, even double the price of this one.

12. Sceptre 25 Edgeless 165Hz

SPECIFICATIONS

• Size: 25-inch 
• Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
• Display Type: LED (TN)
• Notable Inclusions: AMD Free Sync Premium support

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PERKS– Ultra-high refresh rates, Sleek form factor, Thin bezels

CONS -Built-in speakers are small

There’s a lot that this gaming monitor gets right for less than $200. There’s also AMD Free Sync Premium support and built-in speakers and a 1ms response time, and a 165Hz refresh rate.

It’s worth noting that this is a TN display rather than the brighter IPS technology, but that’s the trade-off with entry-level, low-cost monitors, especially those with a high refresh rate. This is the best deal cheap gaming monitor.

With a display rate twice that of 144Hz, you’ll be sure to have the best frame advantages possible in games like Valorant and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. While also benefiting from HDR and a rich color gamut thanks to the IPS panel, which is rarely seen on 240Hz+ monitors, even double the price of this one.

13. Z-Edge UG24 Curved: The Best Low-cost Curved Gaming Monitor with a High Refresh Rate

SPECIFICATIONS

• Size: 24-inch 
• Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
• Refresh Rate: 165Hz
• Response Time: 1ms
• Notable Inclusions: AMD Free Sync Premium

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PERKS– 165Hz refresh rate, Curved, Well priced for the size and features

CONS– Limited to 1080p

The 165Hz refresh rate of this curved gaming monitor from Z-Edge is the star of the show. That’s not to say this panel is lacking in other gaming-specific features and specifications: it has a 1ms response time and supports the premium version of Free Sync, which adds 120Hz and HDR support while also reducing ghosting and screen tearing. This is the best cheap gaming monitor.

The display’s form factor is also worth noting; yes, it’s curved, but it also has very small bezels, making it ideal for a dual monitor battle station setup.

14. Dell SE2-417HGX: Full HD Cheap Gaming Monitor at a Great Price

SPECIFICATIONS

• Size: 24-inch 
• Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080)
• Refresh Rate: 75Hz 
• Response Time: 5ms
• Notable inclusions: AMD Free Sync.

TODAY’S BEST DEALS- CHECK AMAZON

PERKS– Cheap price, 75Hz refresh rate, Great at 1080p 60

CONS– High response time

If you’re looking for a low-cost display that can handle casual gaming, web browsing, and movie watching, this could be the display for you.

Alternatively, it could be used in a spare bedroom or as part of a dual/triple monitor setup. This is a great cheap gaming monitor.

With a refresh rate of 75Hz, you can be sure that the screen will not ghost or cloud up under high-intensity use, as Free Sync does on some of the other panels in this roundup. The bevels are relatively thin for their size and price, and the stand is also adjustable.

15. Samsung 27-inch CRG5 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor

The Samsung CRG5 240Hz curved gaming monitor checks all of the boxes for any gamer, making it our top pick for the best budget gaming monitor.

Specifications 

• Dimensions: 9.86 L x 24.26 W x 18.6 H in.
• Size: 27-inch curved display 
• Display Features: 240Hz, adaptive-sync compatible

PERKS- Superfast fresh rate, Works with G-Sync, Stunning color accuracy, Gameplay optimization options

CONS- Stand isn’t adjustable, Slow response time

If you’re a competitive gamer looking for a high-end, 240Hz display, Samsung’s CRG5 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor is one of the most cost-effective options. This is the best cheap gaming monitor.

If you have an Nvidia graphics card capable of 240Hz, the CRG5 is certified G-Sync compatible, which means it has been thoroughly tested by Nvidia to ensure that this monitor can keep up for a tearing-free gaming experience.

While the hardware itself lacks significant extra bells and whistles, it does include several different modes that you can use to optimize your monitor for whatever game you’re playing. Picture mode modifies the black gamma, contrast, sharpness, and color to match the game genre.

Low input lag mode reduces the amount of time between your controller or keyboard and the display. Then there’s eye saver mode, which reduces screen flicker and minimizes blue light to relieve eye strain.

The CRG5 loses a few points for its lack of swivel or height adjustments on the stand, and its mediocre response time occasionally causes ghosting (That is, a visual distortion in which a trail of pixels follows moving objects, similar to motion blur but unintentional).

Overall, Samsung hit the ball out of the park with this one, offering high-end performance at an affordable price for one of the best budget gaming monitors.

16. Viotek GNV29CB Curved Ultrawide

SPECIFICATIONS

• Size: 29-inch 
• Resolution: Full HD (2560×1080)
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz
• Response Time: 5ms

PERKS-Competitively priced for the form factor, Full 120Hz refresh rate, A great size for work and gaming

CONS– Relatively high response time

Viotek appears to have done something unusual among monitor manufacturers: it has created a competitively priced curved ultrawide with a refresh rate of 120Hz. It’s worth noting how promising the form factor is, despite the fact that it’s only available in Full HD for both gaming and working with the extra screen real estate.

When comparing the MSRP of similar offerings from Samsung and LG in their gaming ranges, that’s usually the trade-off for having only a twitch-happy level of snappiness. If you value high frame rates and a larger screen, this is difficult to beat.

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Last Updated on November 27, 2022 by Rojalin Mahapatro