A gaming monitor is an essential part of any gaming battlestation even if you have a laptop. Competitive and immersive games look and play better on a standalone monitor. Even a modest 24-inch monitor is a big upgrade over a laptop display.
Gaming monitors have an expensive reputation, but there’s plenty of options for gamers on a tight budget. You can easily snag a display with a high pixel density and refresh rate for a few hundred dollars. 4K gaming monitors or a 240Hz refresh rate are within reach – and click here to see them in the UK.
Screen Size: 27” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: VA FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms (MPRT) | Inputs: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, Headphone out
The Dell 2721HGF is a great monitor that may make you wonder why you’d pay more. It has a VA panel with a strong contrast ratio that delivers deep, rich visuals. The panel has good color accuracy, too, so games look as vibrantly intended. Sharpness is the monitor’s only serious weakness, as 1080p can look grainy on a 27-inch screen. Still, at a typical retail price well below $250, that flaw can be forgiven.
It’s a good choice for fast-paced games thanks to the screen’s 144Hz refresh rate and support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. Games look smooth and crisp in motion. The monitor’s VA panel does tend to show ghosting behind dark objects, but it’s no worse than other monitors of this type. The display has a subtle curve that doesn’t significantly change the experience.
Dell throws in a sturdy, height-adjustable stand and two HDMI ports, along with one DisplayPort, for a total of three input options. This is the complete package.
Screen Size: 23.8” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: IPS G-Sync | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Our top budget gaming monitor, the Dell S2721HGF, is also a 1080p monitor - but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect for every gamer. In particular, its motion performance is not as impressive as an IPS display. That’s where the Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR comes in.
This monitor has a 1080p IPS panel with a refresh rate up 165Hz. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync compatible. That’s an important one-two punch with appeal to gamers who want a budget display for competitive titles. The VG259QR has a mediocre contrast ratio and does not look as appealing as the Dell S2721HGF, but the Asus performs better in motion.
The VG259QR also ticks off the required quality-of-life boxes with a height adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort.
Screen Size: 27” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS FreeSync and G-Sync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The LG Ultragear 27GN800-B is a great upgrade pick for gamers on a budget. It boosts the resolution to 2,560 x 1,440, which brings a serious increase in sharpness compared to a 1080p monitor. Yet you can still pick up the 27GN800-B for $300 or less.
This monitor excels in other areas, too. It has a 144Hz refresh rate and is compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth, tear-free gaming. Image quality is solid overall thanks to good color accuracy, though the contrast ratio is a bit disappointing in dark scenes. The monitor is plenty bright for use in a brightly lit room. LG throws in two HDMI inputs and one DisplayPort.
There’s just one flaw worth note, and that’s the lack of a height adjustable stand. The monitor has a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount, however, so you can add a third-party stand or monitor arm if needed.
Screen Size: 28” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Panel type: IPS FreeSync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 5ms | Inputs: 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
4K resolution is not easy to find on a tight budget, but the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q makes it possible. It has a 4K IPS panel with support for AMD FreeSync. This provides a sharp, smooth look that will blow a 1080p budget gaming monitor out of the water. There’s really no comparison.
This does mean sacrificing refresh rate, as this monitor is limited to 60Hz. Unfortunately, no current 4K gaming monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate is available for less than $500. The VG2891Q’s image quality is otherwise solid for the price, with good color performance and reasonable contrast for an IPS display.
The TUF Gaming VG289Q includes a height adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort. Asus has an alternative model, the VG289Q1A, which ditches one HDMI port and the height adjustable stand to reach an even lower price.
Screen Size: 32” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS G-Sync | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 175Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
First, an admission. The Asus ROG Swift PG329Q is much more expensive than other monitors on this list. Despite that, it’s on our budget list for good reason. This is the least expensive HDR capable monitor we recommend buying on the merits of its HDR performance.
The PG329Q has a maximum brightness of up to 600 cd/m2, which is almost twice that of other budget monitors on this list, and necessary to make HDR matter. It delivers a punchy, vivid experience that will make you want to turn on HDR in every game that supports it.
Overall image quality is excellent. This is a 32-inch monitor with 1440p resolution, a maximum refresh rate of 175Hz, and Nvidia G-Sync support. It’s smooth, colorful, and eye-catching, though the contrast ratio is low, as typical of monitors with an IPS panel. The monitor has a sturdy height-adjustable stand. Input options include two HDMI and one DisplayPort.
Screen Size: 34” | Aspect Ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Panel type: VA FreeSync | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
An ultrawide monitor is a great choice if you want an immersive gaming experience, and the Dell S3422DWG stands out as the best budget ultrawide. It has a contrast-rich VA panel with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 and provides a rich, vibrant, sharp image that looks great in any genre of game.
The monitor also has a 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync. Like the Dell S2721HGF, which also has a VA panel, the S3422DWG can suffer motion blur behind dark objects. Motion clarity is otherwise strong.
Despite its competitive price, the S3422DWG is an attractive monitor. It has a height-adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and can even be used as a USB hub.
Screen Size: 24” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: IPS Freesync and G-Sync | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The Alienware AW2521HF might be the hottest gaming monitor deal right now. Originally released in 2020 for about $450, the AW2521HF now routinely sells for about $300. That snags you a 25-inch 1080p monitor with a blazing fast 240Hz refresh rate. It also supports AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. It’s a fantastic monitor for competitive players.
What sets the AW2521HF apart is its image and build quality. It has great color accuracy and better than average contrast performance for an IPS monitor. It also features Alienware’s distinctive, eye-catching design. The 1080p resolution is not the sharpest, but that’s an acceptable trade-off given the monitor’s high refresh rate and attainable price.
The sturdy, height-adjustable stand can tilt, swivel, and can even pivot 90 degrees into portrait orientation. Display inputs include one DisplayPort and two HDMI – and it has a built-inUSB hub.
Screen Size: 32” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS Freesync and G-Sync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The Dell S3222DGM is essentially a bigger, upgraded version of our top pick, the Dell 2721HGF. It has a 32-inch VA panel with 1440p resolution, a 165Hz refresh rate, and support for AMD FreeSync (G-Sync compatibility is not listed). The panel has a subtle curve for a slightly more immersive experience.
This monitor uses a VA panel with a solid contrast ratio and good color performance, all of which leads to a deep, attractive image that outpaces what you’d expect from a budget gaming monitor. Like other VA panel monitors, you may see motion blur behind dark objects. Still, the 165Hz refresh rate provides smooth gaming in most situations.
It supports two HDMI inputs, one DisplayPort, and has a height-adjustable stand. It’s also a bit more attractive and sturdy than other budget 32-inch monitors, which adds to its overall value.
You don't always need to go above and beyond with your budget to ensure you're getting a decent gaming monitor. There are plenty of brilliant, and affordable, options available to those in the UK, with all the big brands set and ready to take your orders.
Gamers on a budget don’t have to make as many sacrifices as they once did, but there’s still a need for some compromise. In general, you can go for a higher resolution, or you can go for a higher refresh rate, but you won’t be able to snag both in a budget gaming monitor.
1080p remains the standard go-to resolution in budget displays. It certainly lacks the clarity of modern 4K TVs, but on the plus side, the low display resolution means you won’t need high-end hardware to play new games. That’s likely important if you are on the hunt for a budget gaming monitor.
1440p resolution is a nice upgrade, and a better overall value if you can stretch your budget. A 1440p monitor with a 27-inch screen actually has a higher pixel density than a 48-inch 4K television. However, this means a 240Hz refresh rate will no longer be affordable.
4K is available on a budget, but only at a 60Hz refresh rate. Some gamers might contend a 4K 60Hz display doesn’t truly qualify as a gaming monitor. In any case, this is the compromise you must make if you want to play at 4K for as little cash as possible.
The refresh rate of budget gaming monitors is generally 60 to 240Hz, with most landing at 144Hz or 165Hz. A refresh rate of 144Hz is a great all-around choice that can handle most games with ease, but 240Hz is a noticeable upgrade for players who only care about competitive titles. For now, 360Hz remains out of reach for budget gaming monitors.
It’s important to note a monitor’s maximum refresh rate may not be supported by every input. For example, many monitors that reach up to 165Hz will only support 144Hz over HDMI. DisplayPort is the best bet if you want to use a high refresh rate.
A monitor’s display panel technology is an important and often overlooked factor. All the monitors we recommend use either an IPS or VA panel. IPS panels are prized for motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, all of which makes them great for competitive gaming. VA panels have a much better contrast ratio and far superior dark scene performance, so they’re better for games with immersive, high-end graphics.
Screen size is less of a limitation than it used to be. Our budget gaming monitor guide includes options for 24-inch, 27-inch, and 32-inch monitors, and for the first time includes a 34-inch ultrawide.
Smaller monitors tend to be less expensive and are also preferred by competitive gamers, who want the entire display to be firmly within their focus. Larger monitors are more immersive and a better choice for immersive gaming. With that said, it is possible to buy a monitor that’s too large for your desk, so measure if you’re unsure. If in doubt, a 27-inch monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe bet.
It’s wise to buy a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on whether you have an Nvidia or AMD video card. Many budget gaming monitors support both. Our picks all list the standards they support.
Finally, a note about HDR. We only recommend one HDR monitor on this list, and while it’s a great value, it’s also by far the most expensive recommended here. While HDR is available on other budget monitors, it unfortunately remains unimpressive on most as they only get up to a maximum 400-nits of screen brightness. We suggest looking for a monitor that’s at least VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified if HDR matters to you.
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Gaming monitors have an expensive reputation, but there’s plenty of options for gamers on a tight budget. You can easily snag a display with a high pixel density and refresh rate for a few hundred dollars. 4K gaming monitors or a 240Hz refresh rate are within reach – and click here to see them in the UK.
TL;DR – These are the Best Budget Gaming Monitors:
- Dell 2721HGF
- Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR
- LG 27GN800-B
- Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q
- Asus ROG Swift PG329Q
- Dell S3422DWG
- Alienware AW2521HF
- Dell S3222DGM
1. Dell 2721HGF
Best Budget Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 27” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: VA FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms (MPRT) | Inputs: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, Headphone out
The Dell 2721HGF is a great monitor that may make you wonder why you’d pay more. It has a VA panel with a strong contrast ratio that delivers deep, rich visuals. The panel has good color accuracy, too, so games look as vibrantly intended. Sharpness is the monitor’s only serious weakness, as 1080p can look grainy on a 27-inch screen. Still, at a typical retail price well below $250, that flaw can be forgiven.
It’s a good choice for fast-paced games thanks to the screen’s 144Hz refresh rate and support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. Games look smooth and crisp in motion. The monitor’s VA panel does tend to show ghosting behind dark objects, but it’s no worse than other monitors of this type. The display has a subtle curve that doesn’t significantly change the experience.
Dell throws in a sturdy, height-adjustable stand and two HDMI ports, along with one DisplayPort, for a total of three input options. This is the complete package.
2. Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR
Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 23.8” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: IPS G-Sync | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
Our top budget gaming monitor, the Dell S2721HGF, is also a 1080p monitor - but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect for every gamer. In particular, its motion performance is not as impressive as an IPS display. That’s where the Asus TUF Gaming VG259QR comes in.
This monitor has a 1080p IPS panel with a refresh rate up 165Hz. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync compatible. That’s an important one-two punch with appeal to gamers who want a budget display for competitive titles. The VG259QR has a mediocre contrast ratio and does not look as appealing as the Dell S2721HGF, but the Asus performs better in motion.
The VG259QR also ticks off the required quality-of-life boxes with a height adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort.
3. LG UltraGear 27GN800-B
Best Budget 1440p Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 27” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS FreeSync and G-Sync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The LG Ultragear 27GN800-B is a great upgrade pick for gamers on a budget. It boosts the resolution to 2,560 x 1,440, which brings a serious increase in sharpness compared to a 1080p monitor. Yet you can still pick up the 27GN800-B for $300 or less.
This monitor excels in other areas, too. It has a 144Hz refresh rate and is compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth, tear-free gaming. Image quality is solid overall thanks to good color accuracy, though the contrast ratio is a bit disappointing in dark scenes. The monitor is plenty bright for use in a brightly lit room. LG throws in two HDMI inputs and one DisplayPort.
There’s just one flaw worth note, and that’s the lack of a height adjustable stand. The monitor has a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount, however, so you can add a third-party stand or monitor arm if needed.
4. Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q
Best Budget 4K Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 28” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Panel type: IPS FreeSync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 5ms | Inputs: 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
4K resolution is not easy to find on a tight budget, but the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q makes it possible. It has a 4K IPS panel with support for AMD FreeSync. This provides a sharp, smooth look that will blow a 1080p budget gaming monitor out of the water. There’s really no comparison.
This does mean sacrificing refresh rate, as this monitor is limited to 60Hz. Unfortunately, no current 4K gaming monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate is available for less than $500. The VG2891Q’s image quality is otherwise solid for the price, with good color performance and reasonable contrast for an IPS display.
The TUF Gaming VG289Q includes a height adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, and one DisplayPort. Asus has an alternative model, the VG289Q1A, which ditches one HDMI port and the height adjustable stand to reach an even lower price.
5. Asus ROG Swift PG329Q
Best Budget HDR Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 32” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS G-Sync | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 175Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
First, an admission. The Asus ROG Swift PG329Q is much more expensive than other monitors on this list. Despite that, it’s on our budget list for good reason. This is the least expensive HDR capable monitor we recommend buying on the merits of its HDR performance.
The PG329Q has a maximum brightness of up to 600 cd/m2, which is almost twice that of other budget monitors on this list, and necessary to make HDR matter. It delivers a punchy, vivid experience that will make you want to turn on HDR in every game that supports it.
Overall image quality is excellent. This is a 32-inch monitor with 1440p resolution, a maximum refresh rate of 175Hz, and Nvidia G-Sync support. It’s smooth, colorful, and eye-catching, though the contrast ratio is low, as typical of monitors with an IPS panel. The monitor has a sturdy height-adjustable stand. Input options include two HDMI and one DisplayPort.
6. Dell S3422DWG
Best Budget Ultrawide Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 34” | Aspect Ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Panel type: VA FreeSync | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
An ultrawide monitor is a great choice if you want an immersive gaming experience, and the Dell S3422DWG stands out as the best budget ultrawide. It has a contrast-rich VA panel with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 and provides a rich, vibrant, sharp image that looks great in any genre of game.
The monitor also has a 144Hz refresh rate and supports AMD FreeSync. Like the Dell S2721HGF, which also has a VA panel, the S3422DWG can suffer motion blur behind dark objects. Motion clarity is otherwise strong.
Despite its competitive price, the S3422DWG is an attractive monitor. It has a height-adjustable stand, two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and can even be used as a USB hub.
7. Alienware AW2521HF
Best Budget 240Hz Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 24” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Panel type: IPS Freesync and G-Sync | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The Alienware AW2521HF might be the hottest gaming monitor deal right now. Originally released in 2020 for about $450, the AW2521HF now routinely sells for about $300. That snags you a 25-inch 1080p monitor with a blazing fast 240Hz refresh rate. It also supports AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. It’s a fantastic monitor for competitive players.
What sets the AW2521HF apart is its image and build quality. It has great color accuracy and better than average contrast performance for an IPS monitor. It also features Alienware’s distinctive, eye-catching design. The 1080p resolution is not the sharpest, but that’s an acceptable trade-off given the monitor’s high refresh rate and attainable price.
The sturdy, height-adjustable stand can tilt, swivel, and can even pivot 90 degrees into portrait orientation. Display inputs include one DisplayPort and two HDMI – and it has a built-inUSB hub.
8. Dell S3222DGM
Best Budget 32-inch Gaming Monitor
Screen Size: 32” | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Panel type: IPS Freesync and G-Sync | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Inputs: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The Dell S3222DGM is essentially a bigger, upgraded version of our top pick, the Dell 2721HGF. It has a 32-inch VA panel with 1440p resolution, a 165Hz refresh rate, and support for AMD FreeSync (G-Sync compatibility is not listed). The panel has a subtle curve for a slightly more immersive experience.
This monitor uses a VA panel with a solid contrast ratio and good color performance, all of which leads to a deep, attractive image that outpaces what you’d expect from a budget gaming monitor. Like other VA panel monitors, you may see motion blur behind dark objects. Still, the 165Hz refresh rate provides smooth gaming in most situations.
It supports two HDMI inputs, one DisplayPort, and has a height-adjustable stand. It’s also a bit more attractive and sturdy than other budget 32-inch monitors, which adds to its overall value.
Where to Get the Best Budget Gaming Monitors in the UK
You don't always need to go above and beyond with your budget to ensure you're getting a decent gaming monitor. There are plenty of brilliant, and affordable, options available to those in the UK, with all the big brands set and ready to take your orders.
What to look for in a Cheap Gaming Monitor
Gamers on a budget don’t have to make as many sacrifices as they once did, but there’s still a need for some compromise. In general, you can go for a higher resolution, or you can go for a higher refresh rate, but you won’t be able to snag both in a budget gaming monitor.
1080p remains the standard go-to resolution in budget displays. It certainly lacks the clarity of modern 4K TVs, but on the plus side, the low display resolution means you won’t need high-end hardware to play new games. That’s likely important if you are on the hunt for a budget gaming monitor.
1440p resolution is a nice upgrade, and a better overall value if you can stretch your budget. A 1440p monitor with a 27-inch screen actually has a higher pixel density than a 48-inch 4K television. However, this means a 240Hz refresh rate will no longer be affordable.
4K is available on a budget, but only at a 60Hz refresh rate. Some gamers might contend a 4K 60Hz display doesn’t truly qualify as a gaming monitor. In any case, this is the compromise you must make if you want to play at 4K for as little cash as possible.
The refresh rate of budget gaming monitors is generally 60 to 240Hz, with most landing at 144Hz or 165Hz. A refresh rate of 144Hz is a great all-around choice that can handle most games with ease, but 240Hz is a noticeable upgrade for players who only care about competitive titles. For now, 360Hz remains out of reach for budget gaming monitors.
It’s important to note a monitor’s maximum refresh rate may not be supported by every input. For example, many monitors that reach up to 165Hz will only support 144Hz over HDMI. DisplayPort is the best bet if you want to use a high refresh rate.
A monitor’s display panel technology is an important and often overlooked factor. All the monitors we recommend use either an IPS or VA panel. IPS panels are prized for motion clarity, vibrance, and responsiveness, all of which makes them great for competitive gaming. VA panels have a much better contrast ratio and far superior dark scene performance, so they’re better for games with immersive, high-end graphics.
Screen size is less of a limitation than it used to be. Our budget gaming monitor guide includes options for 24-inch, 27-inch, and 32-inch monitors, and for the first time includes a 34-inch ultrawide.
Smaller monitors tend to be less expensive and are also preferred by competitive gamers, who want the entire display to be firmly within their focus. Larger monitors are more immersive and a better choice for immersive gaming. With that said, it is possible to buy a monitor that’s too large for your desk, so measure if you’re unsure. If in doubt, a 27-inch monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio is a safe bet.
It’s wise to buy a monitor with Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync support, depending on whether you have an Nvidia or AMD video card. Many budget gaming monitors support both. Our picks all list the standards they support.
Finally, a note about HDR. We only recommend one HDR monitor on this list, and while it’s a great value, it’s also by far the most expensive recommended here. While HDR is available on other budget monitors, it unfortunately remains unimpressive on most as they only get up to a maximum 400-nits of screen brightness. We suggest looking for a monitor that’s at least VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified if HDR matters to you.
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