The best budget gaming monitor is the one that's going to level up your setup without breaking the bank. Fortunately, monitor technology has improved drastically in recent years, which means you can now buy some seriously stacked screens for less than ever before.
High refresh rates, low response times, and crisp visuals are all available between $100-$300 these days (sometimes even less), which means you can even buy some of the best monitors for first-person shooters within this price bracket.
Although some features, like OLED technology, do require you to spend a bit more, this guide is here to help with a breakdown of all the best budget displays within each gaming niche.
What is the Best Budget Gaming Monitor?
In my experience, the AOC 25G42E is one of the best budget gaming monitors overall. However, there are other options worth considering...
- Best budget gaming monitor overall — AOC 25G42E
- Best budget 240Hz gaming monitor — KOORUI GN02
- Best budget 360Hz gaming monitor — Pixio PX259 Prime S
- Best budget 1440p gaming monitor — Philips Evnia 27M2N3501PA
- Best budget curved gaming monitor — Dell S2721HGF
- Best budget OLED gaming monitor — AOC AGON PRO AG276UZD
- Best budget 32-inch gaming monitor — KOORUI 32E6QC
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 24.5-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type — IPS
- Refresh Rate — 180Hz
- Response Time — 1ms (GtG) + 0.5ms (MPRT)
Why we chose the AOC 25G42E
If you’re after a budget-friendly gaming monitor that doesn’t feel like a compromise, the AOC 25G42E is an excellent pick. Having tested this one myself, I can honestly say it delivers far more than you’d expect at this price.
With a 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time (0.5ms MPRT), it keeps fast-paced action razor sharp, with next to no ghosting or blur, just smooth motion that makes tracking enemies effortless. The Fast IPS panel is a real bonus too, balancing speed with vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, so you’re not sacrificing visuals for performance.
Add in Adaptive Sync for tear-free gameplay and a low input lag mode that prioritizes responsiveness, and you’ve got a monitor that feels built for competitive gaming without the premium price tag.
The included AOC G-Menu software makes tweaking your setup easy as well, while extras like HDR10 support and an ergonomic stand round out a surprisingly polished package.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 27-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type — VA
- Refresh Rate — 240Hz
- Response Time — 1ms (MPRT)
Why we chose the KOORUI GN02
If your budget extends a little further, you might want to consider the KOORUI GN02. It's one of the best 240Hz gaming monitors available, yet it costs less than $200 (or £200) at the time of writing.
With its 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, gameplay will be buttery smooth and incredibly responsive, which, of course, is optimal for shooters, especially when paired with Adaptive Sync for more tear-free action than otherwise.
What's most surprising is its color performance. Covering 90% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB, it delivers vibrant, accurate visuals that make games pop while still looking natural. Plus, handy built-in tools like FPS, timer, and crosshair overlays give you subtle but useful boosts in tactical awareness.
Setup is simple too, thanks to HDMI and DisplayPort support, tilt adjustment, and VESA mounting options if you’re running a multi-monitor rig.
240Hz monitors don't come much cheaper than this. So, if you're seeking a top display for the likes of Warzone or Rainbow Six Siege, but relatively cheap, the KOORUI GN02 might just be your ticket to more wins.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 24.5-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type — IPS
- Refresh Rate — 360Hz
- Response Time — 1ms (GtG)
Why we chose the Pixio PX259 Prime S
If speed and smoothness really are paramount to the type of games you play (shooters, racing, etc.), a top 360Hz gaming monitor might be worth forking out for. That said, you won't have to fork out much for the Pixio PX259 Prime S, with it costing less than $300 at the time of writing.
The star of the show here is, of course, the 360Hz refresh rate, paired with a 1ms GTG response time. That combo makes motion feel absurdly smooth. Having tried 360Hz myself, you should definitely notice less blur, faster reactions, and an overall sharper feel to your gameplay.
Beyond speed, the Fast IPS panel is a huge win. You’re not trading vibrant color and wide viewing angles for raw performance, as the PX259 manages to deliver both. Plus, it boasts Adaptive Sync support, so you can forget about screen tearing or stutter breaking your flow.
For me, what makes this monitor exciting is that it brings elite-level smoothness into the realm of budget-friendly gear. If you’ve ever wanted to see what 360Hz gaming actually feels like, the PX259 Prime S is one of the best ways to experience it without emptying your wallet.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 27-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — QHD (2560 x 1440)
- Panel Type — IPS
- Refresh Rate — 260Hz
- Response Time — 0.3ms (Smart MBR), 1ms (GtG)
Why we chose the Philips Evnia 27M2N3501PA
For some games, a crisp resolution is more important than raw refresh rate — think open-world single-player adventures like Assassin’s Creed Shadows. In those cases, it pays to step up to a sharper display like 1440p. Enter the Philips Evnia 27M2N3501PA, which lands right in that sweet spot, while also offering some surprisingly high-end gaming features at a budget-friendly price.
Input lag is practically non-existent thanks to a 1ms response time combined with Smart MBR and SmartResponse, minimizing ghosting and motion blur. Whether you’re sneaking through shadows or blasting through firefights, your reactions feel instant.
The design is just as thoughtful as the specs. With a frameless three-sided screen and the SmartErgoBase, you can tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust height for the perfect viewing angle.
It also features HDR10 support, SmartContrast, and extras like ShadowBoost and a Smart Crosshair, resulting in a monitor that’s built for both immersion and competitive clarity.
Connectivity is versatile, too, with two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and a headphone jack, making it easy to switch between PC, console, or other devices.
Although resolution isn’t always the headline feature for gaming monitors, the Philips Evnia 27M2N3501PA proves why it matters, especially when paired with its blazing-fast refresh rate, responsive performance, and thoughtful extras. At a budget-friendly price, it delivers a premium-feeling experience without the premium price tag.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 27-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Panel Type — VA
- Refresh Rate — 144Hz
- Response Time — 1ms (MPRT)
Why we chose the Dell S2721HGF
Although this list already covers a curved monitor or two, the Dell S2721HGF is another solid option to consider in this field, especially considering its ultra-cheap price.
Its 27-inch 1500R curved display wraps visuals around your field of view, giving a more immersive experience without needing a massive screen. Fortunately, it's got that competitive edge too, as the 144Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms (MPRT) response time keeps motion smooth and crisp.
The monitor is also G-Sync compatible and supports AMD FreeSync Premium, which eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, keeping gameplay fluid no matter your GPU. I've personally found this technology makes a noticeable difference in shooters and racing games, where smoothness is key.
Comfort isn’t overlooked either. The ergonomic stand allows for easy height and tilt adjustments, so marathon sessions stay comfortable. Meanwhile, the gaming-focused OSD controls make adjusting settings mid-game quick and painless.
Though there are bigger, more curved monitors out there, the S2721HGF does a good job of balancing the immersive gaming experience a curved screen brings with an inexpensive price that makes upgrading your gaming setup much, much more affordable.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 26.5-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Panel Type — QD-OLED
- Refresh Rate — 240Hz
- Response Time — 0.03ms (GtG)
Why we chose the AOC AGON PRO AG276UZD
While this one isn't technically below $500 (at the time of writing), the AOC AGON PRO AG276UZD is one of the cheapest OLED gaming monitors you can buy. The technology just isn't cheap in the first place, but don't let that put you off from buying this outrageously good screen.
The QD-OLED panel delivers breathtaking visuals, with 4K resolution on a 26.5-inch screen that balances detail and screen real estate perfectly.
Colors pop, blacks are truly deep, and HDR highlights shine as well, thanks to DisplayHDR True Black 400 and 99.3% DCI-P3 coverage. For me, it makes both fast-paced shooters and story-rich adventures feel cinematic.
Speed isn’t compromised either. The 240Hz refresh rate with a 0.03ms GTG response time covers all your smootheness and ghosting concerns. And console players aren’t left out either: HDMI 2.1 support lets you push up to 120Hz on next-gen systems, making it a versatile pick across platforms.
In short, the AG276UZD delivers premium OLED performance at a fraction of the usual cost, giving you rich colors, fast responsiveness, and 4K detail without breaking the bank. For anyone craving high-end visuals and speed on one screen, it’s a standout value in today’s market.
Specs:
- Screen Size & Aspect Ratio — 31.5-inch, 16:9
- Resolution — QHD (2560 x 1440)
- Panel Type — VA
- Refresh Rate — 170Hz
- Response Time — 1ms
Why we chose the KOORUI 32E6QC
If you’re craving a bigger, more immersive gaming experience without blowing your budget, the KOORUI 32E6QC is a solid pick.
This 32-inch curved 1440p ultrawide monitor really pulls you into the action, thanks to its 1500R curve that covers your entire field of view for those all-important cinematic gaming moments, or for just some more intense shooter action.
Alongside this, it boasts a 170Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms response time to keep motion smooth and blur-free, giving you a competitive edge in those aforementioned fast-paced shooters.
Setup and comfort are also well-considered. The tilt-adjustable stand and VESA mount support let you find the perfect viewing angle for long gaming sessions without neck strain. Plus, with 2 HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.2, connecting multiple devices like a PC, Xbox, or PlayStation is straightforward.
Although bigger screens aren't always best for FPS action, a 32-inch monitor still has its place in the gaming world. If you are looking for something in this realm, then make sure you consider the KOORUI 32E6QC before you buy.
Best Budget Gaming Monitors: Factors to Consider When Buying
- Refresh Rate: On a budget, aim for at least 120Hz or 144Hz. Though if you can go higher, it's worth considering spending a little extra.
- Response Time: Look for 1ms to reduce motion blur and ghosting, even on a budget.
- Resolution: 1080p (Full HD) is standard for budget monitors, offering a good balance of quality and performance.
- Panel Type:
- IPS: Typically, better colors and viewing angles
- TN: Usually faster response times, and typically cheaper
- VA: Good contrast, decent all-around performance
- Adaptive Sync: Support for FreeSync (AMD) or G-Sync Compatible (NVIDIA) to eliminate screen tearing.
- Size: 24-inch to 27-inch is ideal for most gaming setups without overwhelming desk space.
- Ports: Ensure it has HDMI and DisplayPort for compatibility with your PC or console.
- Ergonomics: Adjustable stands and VESA mount compatibility can improve comfort.
- Build Quality: Durable design and thin bezels are a plus, even on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re upgrading your setup or just getting into PC gaming, monitor specs can be confusing. Here are quick answers to some of the most common questions gamers ask.
Is a cheap 144Hz gaming monitor worth it?
Yes, if you're upgrading from 60Hz, even a budget 144Hz monitor can be a major improvement.
Even a budget 144Hz monitor delivers a noticeably smoother experience in fast-paced games, though it's not just about the raw frames. Everything from aiming, tracking, and general responsiveness tends to feel snappier.
Just check reviews first, because some cheap panels have bad color, ghosting, or poor build quality. But if you're mainly into competitive shooters or esports titles, a cheap 144Hz monitor is a solid upgrade that won’t break the bank.
Is a 24-inch or a 27-inch better for gaming?
24-inch is better for 1080p and competitive gaming; 27-inch is ideal for 1440p and more immersive play.
If you're gaming at 1080p, a 24-inch screen offers the best pixel density, meaning images look sharper and more defined at this size. Plus, you won’t have to move your eyes as much, which is a real advantage in esports and reaction-based games.
On the flip side, if you're using a 1440p resolution, 27 inches is where the screen size starts to complement the extra detail. It’s great for more cinematic or immersive experiences, and you get more room for multitasking too.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on your resolution and how close you sit to the screen, but for most gamers on 1080p, a 24-inch is the sweet spot.
Final Thoughts
No matter your budget or gaming style, there's a high-performance monitor out there that won’t drain your wallet. With the right choice, you can elevate your gaming experience without compromising on quality or features.