Buying Guide
The Best Budget-Friendly Gaming Monitors
Five gaming monitors under about $160 at the time of writing, with 1440p and 240Hz options.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
Budget monitors now reach 1440p at 200Hz and above. These five stay near or under $160 at the time of writing.
Figures come from each manufacturer listing.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best 1440p 240Hz
AOC Q27G41ZE
1440p at 240Hz near $160.
Best for: Mid-range PCs.
Best Rapid IPS
MSI MAG 274QF E20
A 200Hz Rapid IPS panel at 1440p.
Best for: Balanced 1440p play.
Our take Check price for MSI MAG 274QF E20 (opens in a new tab)
Best Brand Pick
Dell G2725D
1440p at 180Hz with 99% sRGB.
Best for: Buyers who want a Dell.
Best 1080p Speed
GIGABYTE G25F2A
240Hz with 120% sRGB.
Best for: Esports.
Our take Check price for GIGABYTE G25F2A (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price
AOC 24G42HE
200Hz near $98.
Best for: The smallest budgets.
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1440p at 240Hz near $160. | Mid-range PCs. | Check price for AOC Q27G41ZE (opens in a new tab) |
| A 200Hz Rapid IPS panel at 1440p. | Balanced 1440p play. | Check price for MSI MAG 274QF E20 (opens in a new tab) |
| 1440p at 180Hz with 99% sRGB. | Buyers who want a Dell. | Check price for Dell G2725D (opens in a new tab) |
| 240Hz with 120% sRGB. | Esports. | Check price for GIGABYTE G25F2A (opens in a new tab) |
| 200Hz near $98. | The smallest budgets. | Check price for AOC 24G42HE (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Best 1440p 240Hz1 of 5
AOC Q27G41ZE on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The Q27G41ZE runs 1440p at 240Hz natively, with an overclocked 260Hz mode, on an IPS panel.
Best for
- Mid-range PCs.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the 24G42HE, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It is rare to see that combination at this price. On refresh rate it ties with the G25F2A at 240Hz. It matches the MAG 274QF and the G2725D on screen size (27 inches).
It shares a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution with the MAG 274QF and G2725D; the 24G42HE goes with a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. It shares an IPS panel with the 24G42HE; the G25F2A goes with a SuperSpeed IPS panel. Like the 24G42HE, it has a G-SYNC Compatible, while the G2725D uses a FreeSync.
It also offers DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 inputs. To see 240Hz at 1440p, connect over DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1; older HDMI 2.0 ports cap the refresh rate lower. G-SYNC Compatible works on NVIDIA cards over DisplayPort, and FreeSync covers AMD cards. At our last price check it topped the group, with the MAG 274QF the nearest cheaper option.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Response: 0.3ms
- Adaptive sync: G-SYNC Compatible
Pros
- a 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Costs more than the 24G42HE at the time of writing
Best Rapid IPS2 of 5
MSI MAG 274QF E20 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The MAG 274QF runs 1440p at 200Hz on a Rapid IPS panel with FreeSync Premium.
Best for
- Balanced 1440p play.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the 24G42HE, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It is a balanced step down from the AOC. It matches the 24G42HE on refresh rate (200Hz). On screen size it ties with the Q27G41ZE and the G2725D at 27 inches.
Like the Q27G41ZE and G2725D, it has a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution, while the G25F2A uses a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. G-SYNC Compatible works on NVIDIA cards over DisplayPort, and FreeSync covers AMD cards. It also brings 200Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen.
Worth noting too: 0.5ms response, the only one here. Before buying, weigh one limit: costs more than the 24G42HE at the time of writing. Its price falls between the G2725D and the Q27G41ZE, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 200Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: Rapid IPS
- Response: 0.5ms
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible
Pros
- 200Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- a Rapid IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Costs more than the 24G42HE at the time of writing
Best Brand Pick3 of 5
Dell G2725D on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The G2725D offers 1440p at 180Hz with 99% sRGB at a very low price.
Best for
- Buyers who want a Dell.
Skip if
- Skip it if refresh rate matters most to you; the Q27G41ZE offers 240Hz.
Why we like it
Dell doesn't name the panel type. Its 180Hz refresh rate is the lowest in this group; the Q27G41ZE leads at 240Hz. On screen size it ties with the Q27G41ZE and the MAG 274QF at 27 inches.
Like the Q27G41ZE and MAG 274QF, it has a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution, while the G25F2A uses a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. No other pick in this guide offers a 99% sRGB color gamut; compare the G25F2A, which has a 120% sRGB color gamut. You get a FreeSync here, which sets it apart from the G25F2A and its a FreeSync Premium.
You also get 1440p at 180Hz at one of the lowest prices here at the time of writing. On price it sat third of 5, between the cheaper G25F2A and the pricier MAG 274QF, at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 180Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Color gamut: 99% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync
Pros
- 180Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- 99% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Refresh rate trails the Q27G41ZE (240Hz)
- Costs more than the 24G42HE at the time of writing
Best 1080p Speed4 of 5
GIGABYTE G25F2A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The G25F2A runs a 24.5-inch IPS panel at 240Hz with FreeSync Premium at a price that used to buy 144Hz.
Best for
- Esports.
Skip if
- Pass on it if hDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certificatio rules it out for your setup.
Why we like it
It is the pick for fast games. It matches the Q27G41ZE on refresh rate (240Hz). On screen size it sits mid-pack at 24.5 inches: the Q27G41ZE comes in at 27 inches, and the 24G42HE comes in at 24 inches.
Like the 24G42HE, it has a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution, while the G2725D uses a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution. No other pick in this guide offers a SuperSpeed IPS panel; compare the Q27G41ZE, which has an IPS panel. No other pick in this guide offers a 120% sRGB color gamut; compare the G2725D, which has a 99% sRGB color gamut.
You also get a 240Hz refresh rate under $100 at the time of writing. At 1080p, 240Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older. On price it sat second of 5, between the cheaper 24G42HE and the pricier G2725D, at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24.5 inches
- Panel: SuperSpeed IPS
- Response: 1ms
- HDR: HDR10
- Color gamut: 120% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium
Pros
- a 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- a SuperSpeed IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 120% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync Premium to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- HDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification
- Costs more than the 24G42HE at the time of writing
Lowest Price5 of 5
AOC 24G42HE on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The 24G42HE matches that 200Hz rate with a wider 116% sRGB colour coverage and G-SYNC Compatible support.
Best for
- The smallest budgets.
Skip if
- Skip it if screen size matters most to you; the Q27G41ZE offers 27 inches.
Why we like it
On refresh rate it ties with the MAG 274QF at 200Hz. Its 24 inches screen size is the smallest in this group; the Q27G41ZE leads at 27 inches. It shares a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution with the G25F2A; the G2725D goes with a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution.
It shares an IPS panel with the Q27G41ZE; the G25F2A goes with a SuperSpeed IPS panel. A 116% sRGB color gamut is unique to it among these picks, while the G25F2A uses a 120% sRGB color gamut. At 1080p, 200Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older.
G-SYNC Compatible works on NVIDIA cards over DisplayPort, and FreeSync covers AMD cards. No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the G25F2A was closest.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 200Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Response: 0.3ms
- Color gamut: 116% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: G-SYNC Compatible
Pros
- 200Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 116% sRGB colour coverage
- G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Screen size trails the Q27G41ZE (27 inches)
How We Chose These Budget-Friendly Gaming Monitors
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Resolution and refresh
- We compared listed resolution and refresh rate against the graphics power each needs.
- Panel
- We noted panel type and the trade-offs it brings for motion, contrast and burn-in.
- HDR and colour
- We recorded DisplayHDR certifications and listed colour gamut.
- Connectivity and stand
- We checked ports, USB-C and stand adjustment where the listing states them.
What to Look for in a Budget-Friendly Gaming Monitor
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Match resolution to your graphics card
1080p suits entry and mid-range cards and high refresh rates. 1440p is the balance for most gaming PCs. 4K needs a high-end card to hold high frame rates.
Pick the resolution your card can drive before looking at refresh rate.
Choose a refresh rate you can reach
A higher refresh rate only helps when your PC delivers matching frame rates. 144Hz to 180Hz suits most players; 240Hz and above rewards competitive shooters.
Pick the panel type
IPS offers wide viewing angles and good colour. VA has higher contrast but slower dark transitions. OLED has perfect blacks and very fast response but carries a burn-in risk with static content.
Size for your desk distance
24 to 25 inches suits 1080p and competitive play at a typical desk. 27 inches pairs well with 1440p and 4K; 32 inches suits 4K at a deeper desk.
Read HDR labels carefully
HDR10 means the monitor accepts an HDR signal, not that it displays it well. DisplayHDR 600 or True Black 400 certifications say more about real HDR performance.
Consider the stand
A stand with height, tilt and swivel adjustment saves buying a monitor arm. Check VESA mounting if you plan to use one anyway.
How to Choose a Budget-Friendly Gaming Monitor
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range PCs | Q27G41ZE | 1440p at 240Hz near $160 |
| Balanced 1440p play | MAG 274QF | A 200Hz Rapid IPS panel at 1440p |
| Buyers who want a Dell | G2725D | 1440p at 180Hz with 99% sRGB |
| Esports | G25F2A | 240Hz with 120% sRGB |
| The smallest budgets | 24G42HE | 200Hz near $98 |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q27G41ZE | 240Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | IPS |
| MAG 274QF | 200Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | Rapid IPS |
| G2725D | 180Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | Not listed |
| G25F2A | 240Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | SuperSpeed IPS |
| 24G42HE | 200Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24 inches | IPS |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
By price at the time of writing
Prices change often; these tiers reflect Amazon prices when this guide was updated.
| Price tier | Monitors |
|---|---|
| About $50 to $100 | 24G42HE, G25F2A |
| About $100 to $150 | G2725D |
| About $150 to $250 | MAG 274QF, Q27G41ZE |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a FreeSync monitor work with an NVIDIA card?
Most do as G-SYNC Compatible over DisplayPort. Check the product page or NVIDIA's compatibility list for the model.
Is HDR worth it on a budget monitor?
Rarely. Budget HDR10 monitors accept HDR but lack the brightness and contrast to show it well. OLED or DisplayHDR 600 models do it better.
Does a 1ms response time rating matter?
Makers measure response time differently, so compare panel type and independent reviews rather than the headline figure.
Is OLED burn-in still a problem?
It is a risk with static elements over many hours. Current OLED monitors use pixel-refresh routines to reduce it; check the maker's warranty for burn-in coverage.
Should I use HDMI or DisplayPort?
On a PC, DisplayPort usually supports the highest refresh rates. HDMI 2.1 is equivalent and needed for consoles.
Is 1080p fine on a 27-inch monitor?
It works, but text and detail look softer. 1440p is sharper at 27 inches; 1080p is best at 24 to 25 inches.
Bottom Line
AOC's Q27G41ZE is the standout for 1440p at 240Hz. MSI's MAG 274QF is the close alternative, and the two 24-inch screens suit 1080p esports.