Buying Guide
The Best Gaming Monitors Under $300
We weighed five monitors on refresh rate and screen size; the AW2525HM has the highest refresh rate, and the VG259QMR5A costs the least.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
Under $300, a high refresh rate is easy to find; panel type and resolution separate the options. Every pick refreshes at 144Hz or higher and cost $300 or less, ordered by refresh rate.
Rankings weigh refresh rate, resolution and size as the makers state them; we did not test these monitors ourselves, and if a maker skips response, the guide says so.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Fastest Refresh
Alienware AW2525HM
The highest refresh rate here (320Hz).
Best for: Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates.
Our take Check price for Alienware AW2525HM (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price Here
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A
The cheapest way into this group, below the C27G4ZH.
Best for: Spending as little as possible.
Our take Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A (opens in a new tab)
Also Consider
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A
A 310Hz overclocked refresh rate.
Best for: Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate.
Our take Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A (opens in a new tab)
Premium Pick
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A
The highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 1440p at 300Hz.
Best for: Buyers who want the most complete package.
Our take Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A (opens in a new tab)
VA Panel
AOC C27G4ZH Curved
A VA panel.
Best for: Buyers who want a VA panel.
Our take Check price for AOC C27G4ZH Curved (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The highest refresh rate here (320Hz). | Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates. | Check price for Alienware AW2525HM (opens in a new tab) |
| The cheapest way into this group, below the C27G4ZH. | Spending as little as possible. | Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A (opens in a new tab) |
| A 310Hz overclocked refresh rate. | Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate. | Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A (opens in a new tab) |
| The highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 1440p at 300Hz. | Buyers who want the most complete package. | Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A (opens in a new tab) |
| A VA panel. | Buyers who want a VA panel. | Check price for AOC C27G4ZH Curved (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Fastest Refresh1 of 5
Alienware AW2525HM on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Alienware's AW2525HM runs a 24.5-inch 1080p IPS panel at 320Hz with 99% sRGB coverage.
Best for
- Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates.
Skip if
- If budget leads, the VG259QMR5A was cheaper at our last price check.
Why we like it
It targets competitive shooters on a mid-range PC. Nothing else here matches its 320Hz refresh rate; the VG259QMR5A comes closest at 310Hz. On screen size it ties with the VG259QMR5A and the VG259QMRL5A at 24.5 inches.
It is the only pick here with an IPS panel; the VG259QMR5A has a fast IPS panel instead. Like the VG259QMR5A and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 99% sRGB color gamut, while the VG27AQM5A uses a 95% DCI-P3 color gamut. It also comes with a 0.5ms response time and Alienware styling at a mid price tier.
At 1080p, 320Hz 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. Its price falls between the VG259QMRL5A and the VG27AQM5A, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 320Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24.5 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Response: 0.5ms
- Color gamut: 99% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: G-SYNC Compatible
Pros
- a 320Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 99% sRGB colour coverage
- G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
Lowest Price Here2 of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The VG259QMR5A is the esports pick, with a 310Hz Fast IPS panel at 1080p and a 3-year warranty.
Best for
- Spending as little as possible.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: refresh rate of 310Hz, behind the AW2525HM (320Hz).
Why we like it
It matches the VG259QMRL5A on refresh rate (310Hz). On screen size it ties with the AW2525HM and the VG259QMRL5A at 24.5 inches. Like the VG259QMRL5A and VG27AQM5A, it has a fast IPS panel, while the AW2525HM uses an IPS panel.
Like the AW2525HM and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 99% sRGB color gamut, while the VG27AQM5A uses a 95% DCI-P3 color gamut. At 1080p, 310Hz 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.
It was the cheapest of the group when we checked; the C27G4ZH was the next step up. The main gap: refresh rate of 310Hz, behind the AW2525HM (320Hz). If that matters, the AW2525HM offers 320Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 310Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24.5 inches
- Panel: Fast IPS
- Response: 0.3ms
- Color gamut: 99% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible
- Warranty: 3-year
Pros
- a 310Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- a Fast IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 99% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Refresh rate of 310Hz, behind the AW2525HM (320Hz)
Also Consider3 of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
ASUS's VG259QMRL5A runs a 24.5-inch 1080p Fast IPS panel at 310Hz and adds DisplayHDR 400 and a height-adjustable stand.
Best for
- Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate.
Skip if
- Skip it if screen size matters most to you; the VG27AQM5A offers 27 inches.
Why we like it
It is the esports model in the TUF line. On refresh rate it ties with the VG259QMR5A at 310Hz. It matches the AW2525HM and the VG259QMR5A on screen size (24.5 inches).
It shares a fast IPS panel with the VG259QMR5A and VG27AQM5A; the C27G4ZH goes with a VA panel. It shares a 99% sRGB color gamut with the AW2525HM and VG259QMR5A; the VG27AQM5A goes with a 95% DCI-P3 color gamut. At 1080p, 310Hz 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. It was priced above the C27G4ZH and below the AW2525HM at the time of writing. It gives ground on screen size, where the VG27AQM5A comes in at 27 inches.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 310Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24.5 inches
- Panel: Fast IPS
- HDR: DisplayHDR 400
- Color gamut: 99% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible
- Stand: height adjustment
Pros
- a 310Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- a Fast IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 99% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Screen size trails the VG27AQM5A (27 inches)
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
Premium Pick4 of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQM5A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The VG27AQM5A pushes a 27-inch 1440p Fast IPS panel to 300Hz with 95% DCI-P3 coverage.
Best for
- Buyers who want the most complete package.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the VG259QMR5A, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It is the fastest 1440p model in the TUF range here. On refresh rate it sits mid-pack at 300Hz: the AW2525HM offers 320Hz, and the C27G4ZH comes in at 280Hz. It matches the C27G4ZH on screen size (27 inches).
A 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution is unique to it among these picks, while the VG259QMR5A uses a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. It shares a fast IPS panel with the VG259QMR5A and VG259QMRL5A; the C27G4ZH goes with a VA panel. A 95% DCI-P3 color gamut is unique to it among these picks, while the VG259QMRL5A uses a 99% sRGB color gamut.
It also offers built-in speakers and a 3-year warranty. To see 300Hz 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 AW2525HM the nearest cheaper option.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 300Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: Fast IPS
- Response: 0.3ms
- Color gamut: 95% DCI-P3
- Adaptive sync: G-SYNC, ELMB Sync
- Warranty: 3-year
Pros
- a 300Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- a Fast IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage
Cons
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
VA Panel5 of 5
AOC C27G4ZH Curved on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
AOC's C27G4ZH curves a 27-inch 1080p VA panel and runs it at 280Hz on a height, tilt and swivel stand.
Best for
- Buyers who want a VA panel.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: a VA panel that can smear dark transitions.
Why we like it
It trades resolution for speed. On refresh rate it trails the group at 280Hz, while the AW2525HM offers 320Hz. It matches the VG27AQM5A on screen size (27 inches).
You get a VA panel here, which sets it apart from the VG27AQM5A and its a fast IPS panel. It also comes with 280Hz on a 1500R curve and VESA mounting. At 1080p, 280Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older.
It was priced above the VG259QMR5A and below the VG259QMRL5A at the time of writing. It gives ground on refresh rate, where the AW2525HM offers 320Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 280Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: VA
- Response: 0.3ms
- HDR: HDR
- Stand: height, tilt and swivel
Pros
- a 280Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- a stand with height, tilt and swivel
- 280Hz on a 1500R curve
- Height-adjustable stand
Cons
- a VA panel that can smear dark transitions
- Refresh rate trails the AW2525HM (320Hz)
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
How We Chose These Gaming Monitors Under $300
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.
- HDR and colour
- We recorded DisplayHDR certifications and listed colour gamut.
- Panel
- We noted panel type and the trade-offs it brings for motion, contrast and burn-in.
- Connectivity and stand
- We checked ports, USB-C and stand adjustment where the listing states them.
What to Look for in a Gaming Monitor Under $300
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
How much refresh rate you need
Among these picks, refresh rate runs from 280Hz on the C27G4ZH to 320Hz on the AW2525HM. Match this to what you will actually do with it, then let price decide between the picks that qualify.
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.
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.
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.
How to Choose a Gaming Monitor Under $300
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates | AW2525HM | The highest refresh rate here (320Hz) |
| Spending as little as possible | VG259QMR5A | The cheapest way into this group, below the C27G4ZH |
| Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate | VG259QMRL5A | A 310Hz overclocked refresh rate |
| Buyers who want the most complete package | VG27AQM5A | The highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 1440p at 300Hz |
| Buyers who want a VA panel | C27G4ZH | A VA panel |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AW2525HM | 320Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | IPS |
| VG259QMR5A | 310Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | Fast IPS |
| VG259QMRL5A | 310Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | Fast IPS |
| VG27AQM5A | 300Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | Fast IPS |
| C27G4ZH | 280Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 27 inches | VA |
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 | VG259QMR5A, C27G4ZH, VG259QMRL5A, AW2525HM |
| About $250 to $500 | VG27AQM5A |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do these monitors compare on screen size?
The VG27AQM5A, at 27 inches. The C27G4ZH follows at 27 inches, while the VG259QMRL5A has 24.5 inches.
Which is the cheapest pick in this guide?
The VG259QMR5A cost the least when we checked, and the VG27AQM5A sat at the top of the range. Prices move often, so check the current listing before buying.
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.
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.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the AW2525HM. Look at the VG259QMR5A for the cheapest way into this group, below the C27G4ZH, the VG259QMRL5A for a 310Hz overclocked refresh rate and the VG27AQM5A for the highest-priced pick here at the time of writing, with 1440p at 300Hz if those matter more to you.
Set the refresh rate in Windows display settings; it often defaults to 60Hz.