Buying Guide
The Best Cheap 4K Monitors
Six 4K monitors at 27 and 32 inches from about $180 to $330 at the time of writing, compared on refresh, panel, colour and extras.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read6 products evaluated
4K monitors now start under $200, which makes sharp text and more workspace affordable. The cheapest models run at 60Hz, so check refresh if you game.
We compared six 4K monitors on refresh rate, panel type, colour and extras. The comparison uses maker specifications, not in-person testing.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Cheap 4K
Dell S2725QS
4K at 120Hz on IPS with FreeSync Premium.
Best for: Work and gaming on one screen.
Best Colour
LG UltraFine 27US500-W
90% DCI-P3 coverage at a low price.
Best for: Photo editing on a budget.
Our take Check price for LG UltraFine 27US500-W (opens in a new tab)
Best 32-Inch
Dell S3225QS
A 32-inch 4K screen at 120Hz.
Best for: Larger desks and media.
Worth Considering
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 27-inch
The ViewFinity S7 27-inch is a plain 4K IPS screen for sharp text.
Best for: Buyers who want 4k resolution for sharp text and detail.
Our take Check price for Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 27-inch (opens in a new tab)
Best for Two PCs
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S70H) 27-inch
A built-in KVM switch.
Best for: Sharing one screen between a work laptop and a PC.
Our take Check price for Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S70H) 27-inch (opens in a new tab)
Well-Rounded Choice
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 32-inch
The 32-inch ViewFinity S7 gives 4K on a larger IPS panel for spreadsheets and video.
Best for: Buyers who want 4k resolution for sharp text and detail.
Our take Check price for Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 32-inch (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Best Cheap 4K1 of 6
Dell S2725QS on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The S2725QS runs 4K at 120Hz on a 27-inch IPS panel with FreeSync Premium.
Best for
- Work and gaming on one screen.
Skip if
- Skip it if price comes first: the 27US500 cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
That refresh rate makes it the best all-rounder among cheap 4K screens. On screen size it ties with the 27US500, the ViewFinity S7 27 and the ViewFinity S70H at 27 inches. It is the only pick here with a 99% sRGB color gamut; the 27US500 has a 90% DCI-P3 color gamut instead.
At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy. Worth noting too: 4K resolution for sharp text and detail. Its price falls between the ViewFinity S7 27 and the ViewFinity S7 32, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Color gamut: 99% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 99% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync Premium to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing
Best Colour2 of 6
LG UltraFine 27US500-W on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The 27US500 offers 90% DCI-P3 coverage and HDR10 input on an IPS panel in a white finish.
Best for
- Photo editing on a budget.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: hDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification.
Why we like it
It suits creative work more than gaming. On screen size it ties with the S2725QS, the ViewFinity S7 27 and the ViewFinity S70H at 27 inches. No other pick in this guide offers a 90% DCI-P3 color gamut; compare the S2725QS, which has a 99% sRGB color gamut.
You also get a white borderless design and a Reader Mode. At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy. It undercut the ViewFinity S70H and every other pick on price at the time of writing. The maker doesn't give its refresh rate; if that figure matters, the S2725QS offers 120Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: IPS
- HDR: HDR10
- Color gamut: 90% DCI-P3
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 90% DCI-P3 colour coverage
- White borderless design
Cons
- HDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification
- Screen size of 27 inches, behind the S3225QS (32 inches)
Best 32-Inch3 of 6
Dell S3225QS on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The S3225QS brings 4K at 120Hz to 32 inches with 95% DCI-P3 on a VA panel.
Best for
- Larger desks and media.
Skip if
- Look at the others if this bothers you: a VA panel that can smear dark transitions.
Why we like it
It suits a deeper desk and media. It matches the ViewFinity S7 32 on screen size (32 inches). A VA panel is unique to it among these picks, while the 27US500 uses an IPS panel.
A 95% DCI-P3 color gamut is unique to it among these picks, while the 27US500 uses a 90% DCI-P3 color gamut. At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy. Worth noting too: 4K resolution for sharp text and detail. At our last price check it topped the group, with the ViewFinity S7 32 the nearest cheaper option.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 32 inches
- Panel: VA
- Color gamut: 95% DCI-P3
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage
- FreeSync Premium to reduce screen tearing
- 32-inch 4K screen at 120Hz
Cons
- a VA panel that can smear dark transitions
- Costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing
Worth Considering4 of 6
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 27-inch on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The ViewFinity S7 27-inch is a plain 4K IPS screen for sharp text.
Best for
- Buyers who want 4k resolution for sharp text and detail.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: hDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification.
Why we like it
Samsung doesn't state a refresh rate. TÜV-certified Eye Saver mode cuts blue light and flicker, and HDMI and DisplayPort inputs keep setup simple. It matches the S2725QS, the 27US500 and the ViewFinity S70H on screen size (27 inches).
At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy. Worth noting too: an IPS panel with wide viewing angles. When we checked, only the ViewFinity S70H and cheaper picks cost less, and the S2725QS cost more. If you want a confirmed refresh rate, look to the S2725QS instead: it offers 120Hz, while this one gives no figure.
Key dimensions & specs
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: IPS
- HDR: HDR10
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 4K on a 27-inch IPS panel
Cons
- HDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification
- Costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing
Best for Two PCs5 of 6
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S70H) 27-inch on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The ViewFinity S70H adds a KVM switch, so one keyboard and mouse can control two computers.
Best for
- Sharing one screen between a work laptop and a PC.
Skip if
- Look at the others if this bothers you: hDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification.
Why we like it
TÜV-certified Eye Saver mode cuts blue light and flicker, and 178-degree viewing angles keep brightness even. It matches the S2725QS, the 27US500 and the ViewFinity S7 27 on screen size (27 inches). It also offers HDR10 support.
At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy. Worth noting too: 4K resolution for sharp text and detail. When we checked, only the 27US500 cost less, and the ViewFinity S7 27 cost more. If you want a confirmed refresh rate, look to the S2725QS instead: it offers 120Hz, while this one gives no figure.
Key dimensions & specs
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 27 inches
- HDR: HDR10
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- Built-in KVM switch for two computers
- HDR10 support
Cons
- HDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification
- Screen size trails the S3225QS (32 inches)
- Costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing
Well-Rounded Choice6 of 6
Samsung ViewFinity S7 (S71H) 32-inch on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The 32-inch ViewFinity S7 gives 4K on a larger IPS panel for spreadsheets and video.
Best for
- Buyers who want 4k resolution for sharp text and detail.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: hDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification.
Why we like it
TÜV-certified Eye Saver mode cuts blue light and flicker, and Game Mode adjusts colour and contrast. It matches the S3225QS on screen size (32 inches). At 4K, check that your graphics card and cable support 4K at the refresh rate you want before you buy.
Worth noting too: 4K resolution for sharp text and detail. It also brings an IPS panel with wide viewing angles. Before buying, weigh one limit: costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing.
It was priced above the S2725QS and below the S3225QS at the time of writing. There is no published refresh rate figure, whereas the S2725QS offers 120Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 32 inches
- Panel: IPS
- HDR: HDR10
Pros
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 32-inch 4K IPS panel
- Screen size of 32 inches, ahead of the S2725QS
Cons
- HDR10 support without a DisplayHDR certification
- Costs more than the 27US500 at the time of writing
How We Chose These Cheap 4K Monitors
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Panel
- We noted panel type and the trade-offs it brings for motion, contrast and burn-in.
- Resolution and refresh
- We compared listed resolution and refresh rate against the graphics power each needs.
- 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 Cheap 4K Monitor
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Check ports and cables
High refresh rates at 1440p and 4K need DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI 2.1. Consoles need HDMI 2.1 for 4K at 120Hz.
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.
How to Choose a Cheap 4K Monitor
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Work and gaming on one screen | S2725QS | 4K at 120Hz on IPS with FreeSync Premium |
| Photo editing on a budget | 27US500 | 90% DCI-P3 coverage at a low price |
| Larger desks and media | S3225QS | A 32-inch 4K screen at 120Hz |
| Sharing one screen between a work laptop and a PC | ViewFinity S70H | A built-in KVM switch |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S2725QS | 120Hz | 3840x2160 (4K) | 27 inches | IPS |
| 27US500 | Not listed | 3840x2160 (4K) | 27 inches | IPS |
| S3225QS | 120Hz | 3840x2160 (4K) | 32 inches | VA |
| ViewFinity S7 27 | Not listed | 3840x2160 (4K) | 27 inches | IPS |
| ViewFinity S70H | Not listed | 3840x2160 (4K) | 27 inches | Not listed |
| ViewFinity S7 32 | Not listed | 3840x2160 (4K) | 32 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 $150 to $250 | 27US500, ViewFinity S70H, ViewFinity S7 27 |
| About $250 to $500 | S2725QS, ViewFinity S7 32, S3225QS |
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Do I need a GPU that matches the refresh rate?
To benefit fully, yes. A 240Hz monitor still feels smoother at 150fps than a 144Hz one, but the gains shrink when frame rates are far below the refresh rate.
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 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.
Bottom Line
The Dell S2725QS is the pick, the LG 27US500-W suits colour work, and the Dell S3225QS is the 32-inch option.
The Samsung ViewFinity S7 models cover plain 4K work, and the S70H adds a KVM switch.