Whether you're after silky-smooth gameplay, a competitive edge, or just an epic upgrade, the best high refresh rate monitor can be a game-changer.
Measured in Hertz (Hz), refresh rate isn’t just a number—it’s key to reducing motion blur (alongside a low response time), improving responsiveness, and making every frame count, especially in fast-paced titles like Call of Duty and Rainbow Six Siege.
With monitor tech advancing rapidly, the options available today can be overwhelming. Maybe you want a 4K powerhouse like the ASUS ROG Swift PG32UCDM or a budget-friendly beast like the AOC 25G42E. Whatever your needs, we’ve rounded up seven of the best high refresh rate screens across different categories to help you find the perfect fit.
Quick List: Best High Refresh Rate Monitors
- ASUS ROG Swift Pro PG248QP - The highest refresh rate monitor around
- Alienware AW2524HF - Runner up to the ROG Swift Pro PG248QP
- AOC 25G42E - Best budget high refresh rate monitor
- Sony Inzone M10S - Best high refresh rate monitor for consoles
- ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM - Best high refresh rate 4K monitor
- Alienware AW2723DF - Best high refresh rate 1440p monitor
- Samsung Odyssey Neo G95NC - Best curved high refresh rate monitor
Why we chose the ASUS ROG Swift Pro PG248QP
If you want the absolute fastest gaming monitor around, look no further than the ASUS ROG Swift Pro PG248QP. With a staggering 540Hz refresh rate—the highest available when overclocked—it’s built for one thing: pure competitive dominance.
This insane speed is powered by ASUS’s revolutionary E-TN panel, which is about 50% more responsive than standard TN panels, pushing motion clarity and responsiveness to new heights. Paired with a lightning-fast 0.2ms GtG response time, every millisecond counts, giving you a serious edge in high-speed titles like Valorant.
The monitor is packed with NVIDIA tech too, including Reflex Analyzer for precise system latency measurements and G-Sync ULMB 2, which delivers over 2,000Hz of effective motion clarity—virtually eliminating blur. Plus, at 24.1 inches, it keeps all the action front and center, so nothing gets lost in your peripheral vision.
If you’re chasing peak performance with no compromises, this is the best high refresh rate monitor you can buy right now.
Why we chose the Alienware AW2524HF
If the ASUS ROG Swift Pro PG248QP is the king of speed, the Alienware AW2524HF is right on its heels.
With a blistering 500Hz overclocked refresh rate (480Hz native), this monitor is one of the fastest around, making it a top-tier choice for competitive gamers who demand peak performance.
While its 1080p resolution and 24.5-inch size might seem modest, these are actually ideal for esports, keeping all the action within your direct line of sight. Meanwhile, its fast IPS panel delivers a 0.5ms GtG response time—more than quick enough for pro-level play, even if it doesn’t quite match the 0.2ms of the ASUS ROG Swift Pro.
It also comes equipped with FreeSync Premium for near tear-free gameplay and TUV ComfortView Plus, reducing blue light emissions to keep your eyes comfortable during long grind sessions.
While it falls just short of the absolute top spot, the Alienware AW2524HF remains an elite high refresh rate monitor that’s ideal for those looking to compete at the highest level.
Why we chose the AOC 25G42E
If you're looking for an affordable high refresh rate monitor that doesn’t cut too many corners, the AOC 25G42E is a standout choice.
Offering a 180Hz refresh rate at an ultra-budget price, it is capable of delivering smooth, responsive gameplay without breaking the bank.
Measuring 24.5 inches, it’s close to the perfect size for competitive gaming, while its fast IPS panel ensures fluid motion with minimal ghosting—once properly calibrated. Also, it supports Adaptive Sync that helps keep screen tearing at bay, while the 1ms GtG response time means input lag won’t hold you back in fast-paced shooters—trust me, I've put this to the test myself (see my review above).
Of course, compromises exist. The 1080p resolution is standard for this price range, but higher-end monitors do offer sharper visuals. However, the anti-glare panel, sleek frameless design, and customizable settings through AOC’s G-Menu software add to its appeal.
Ultimately, the AOC 25G42E is hard to beat if you need a high refresh rate monitor on a budget.
Why we chose the Sony Inzone M10S
If you’re a console gamer looking for one of the fastest and most responsive monitors available, the Sony INZONE M10S is a top contender.
Designed with high-speed gaming in mind, it offers a rapid 480Hz refresh rate—making it one of the highest refresh rate monitors you can buy for console play.
Setting it apart is its self-illuminating OLED pixels and it delivering a near-instantaneous 0.03ms GtG response time for ultra-smooth, blur-free visuals. Paired with two HDMI 2.1 ports, it’s fully optimized for consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, ensuring seamless gameplay with minimal input lag.
Beyond performance, the INZONE M10S boasts a sleek, space-saving design with a 4mm minimalist base and ±180° tilt adjustments for optimal viewing angles. Plus, with insights from esports powerhouse FNATIC, it’s built to give competitive console players as it has real-life competitive experience behind its design.
Why we chose the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM
When it comes to high refresh rate monitors with a 4K resolution, the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM stands out as one of the best.
Combining a cutting-edge QD-OLED panel with a blistering 240Hz refresh rate, it delivers the perfect blend of ultra-smooth performance and stunning visual fidelity.
Thanks to its 0.03ms response time, motion blur should stay virtually nonexistent, making fast-paced gameplay feel incredibly fluid. Meanwhile, its HDR 400 True Black certification and 99% DCI-P3 color gamut make it just as impressive for immersive single-player adventures as it is for competitive gaming.
Longevity is also a priority, with a custom heatsink, advanced airflow design, and graphene film working together to reduce the risk of OLED burn-in. Also, connectivity is just as strong, with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C ensuring full compatibility with both high-end PCs and consoles.
If you want the absolute best mix of 4K visuals and high refresh rate performance, the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM is one of the finest options available today.
Why we chose the Alienware AW2723DF
Boasting a 1440p resolution and high refresh rate, the Alienware AW2723DF is another top monitor to consider.
With a native 240Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 280Hz) and a 1ms GTG response time, it has the tools in its locker to deliver ultra-smooth, lag-free gameplay, like most of the monitors on this list. However, with its 1440p resolution as well, it can bring detail to your gameplay alongside smoothness.
Thanks to AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility, and VESA AdaptiveSync certification, it's also capable of delivering tear-free visuals with minimal input lag. Plus, its 27-inch IPS panel with InfinityEdge design means it brings a stunning, immersive view, while 95% DCI-P3 color coverage and VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification ensure vibrant colors and deep contrast for both gaming and content consumption.
Beyond performance, Alienware includes some thoughtful extras. A built-in retractable headset hanger can help keep your setup organized, while ComfortView Plus technology reduces blue light emissions without compromising color accuracy—great for long gaming sessions and securing more wins.
Why we chose the Samsung Odyssey Neo G95NC
The 57-inch Samsung Odyssey Neo G95NC is one of the best curved high refresh rate monitors on the market, and for good reason.
First off, its DUHD resolution (7680 x 2160) essentially gives you the screen real estate of two UHD monitors, making it perfect for ultra-immersive gaming. However, to avoid its size becoming overwhelming, it features a 1000R curve that wraps around you, pulling you into the action like never before.
Of course, it features a high refresh rate at 240Hz alongside a 1ms response time to ensure everything moves smoothly with no lag or ghosting. Meanwhile, Quantum Matrix Technology with Mini LEDs means it delivers incredible picture quality.
It also features Picture-by-Picture and Picture-in-Picture modes, so you can multitask while gaming—like watching a tutorial or working on the side (we won't tell anyone...).
With CoreSync lighting to match your gameplay, the G95NC offers not just incredible performance but also the perfect setup for gamers who want everything on a massive curved screen.
Factors to Consider When Buying a High Refresh Rate Monitor
- Refresh Rate (Hz): Obviously the most important factor—Anything with at least 120Hz is considered high, but 144Hz or 240Hz+ for competitive gaming.
- Resolution: Higher resolutions (e.g., 1440p or 4K) offer better visuals but require a powerful GPU. 1080p is often the go-to for competitive gaming.
- Response Time: Lower response times (1ms or 2ms) reduce motion blur and ghosting.
- Panel Type: TN (fastest but lower color quality), IPS (better colors & viewing angles), or OLED (best contrast & response).
- Adaptive Sync: G-Sync (NVIDIA) or FreeSync (AMD) prevents screen tearing and stuttering.
- Connectivity: Ensure compatibility with your GPU (HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 for high refresh rates).
- Build Quality & Ergonomics: Adjustable stand, VESA mount compatibility, and slim bezels for multi-monitor setups.
- Price & Brand Reliability: Compare price-to-performance and consider warranty/support options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions to help you better understand high refresh rate displays.
Is a high refresh rate monitor worth it?
A high refresh rate monitor is absolutely worth it if you’re into gaming, especially fast-paced shooters, sports, or racing games.
The jump from 60Hz to 144Hz is instantly noticeable—everything feels smoother, more responsive, and easier on the eyes. It can even give you a competitive edge by reducing motion blur and improving reaction times. Even for general use, scrolling and animations can feel much more fluid, making everyday tasks a bit more enjoyable.
That said, if you’re just using your PC for work, movies, or casual browsing, a high refresh rate monitor isn’t a must-have.
You won’t gain much from 144Hz or 240Hz unless your content actually benefits from it. Also, higher refresh rates require seriously powerful hardware to maintain high frame rates.
So, while they’re amazing for gaming, they’re not essential for everyone.
Is a 480Hz+ monitor overkill?
A 480Hz+ monitor is definitely overkill for most people, but for ultra-competitive gamers, it could offer a slight edge.
At such high refresh rates, motion clarity reaches an almost imperceptible smoothness, reducing blur and improving reaction times. However, to fully take advantage of it, you’d need a powerful PC that can consistently push 480+ FPS, which isn’t easy—especially in graphically demanding games.
For casual gamers or general use, the difference between 240Hz and 480Hz is barely noticeable.
Most competitive players already find 240Hz or 360Hz more than enough. Plus, the higher the refresh rate, the more diminishing the returns. Unless you’re an esports pro playing games like Rainbow Six Siege at sky-high frame rates, a 480Hz+ monitor is more of a luxury than a necessity.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for a competitive edge or just want a smoother gaming experience, choosing the right high refresh rate monitor can elevate your play. No matter your budget or preference, there’s a top-tier option on this list to take your gaming setup to the next level.