Buying Guide
The Best Gaming Monitors Under $300
We weighed five monitors on refresh rate and screen size, and the VG259QMR5A costs the least.
By Alex Morgan, PC Hardware Editor
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 panel, the guide says so.
Quick Picks
Which of the 5 picks to look at first. Tap a name for the full analysis.
IPS Panel
Alienware AW2525HMAn IPS panel.
Best for: Buyers who want an IPS panel.
Check price for Alienware AW2525HM on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Premium Pick
MSI MAG 274QPF X32The top of this price range, adding AI Vision for dark-area detail.
Best for: Spending more than the XG27WCMS costs for the fullest feature set in this group.
Check price for MSI MAG 274QPF X32 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price Here
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5AThe cheapest way into this group, below the VG259QMRL5A.
Best for: Spending as little as possible, with the VG259QMRL5A the next step up.
Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Also Consider
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5AA 310Hz overclocked refresh rate.
Best for: Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate.
Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Strong Alternative
ASUS ROG Strix XG27WCMS CurvedA curved 1440p panel overclocked to 280Hz.
Best for: Buyers who want curved 1440p panel overclocked to 280Hz.
Check price for ASUS ROG Strix XG27WCMS Curved on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
IPS Panel1 of 5
Alienware AW2525HM
Alienware's AW2525HM runs a 24.5-inch 1080p IPS panel at 320Hz with 99% sRGB coverage.
Best for
- Buyers who want an IPS panel.
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. It matches the MAG 274QPF on refresh rate (320Hz). On screen size it ties with the VG259QMR5A and the VG259QMRL5A at 24.5 inches.
Like the VG259QMR5A and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution, while the MAG 274QPF uses a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution. It is the only pick here with an IPS panel; the MAG 274QPF has a rapid IPS panel instead. Like the VG259QMR5A and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 99% sRGB color gamut, while the XG27WCMS 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 XG27WCMS, based on our last check.
Key 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
Premium Pick2 of 5
MSI MAG 274QPF X32
The MAG 274QPF is built around AI Vision for dark-area detail.
Best for
- Spending more than the XG27WCMS costs for the fullest feature set in this group.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the VG259QMR5A, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
On the spec sheet, it offers a 320Hz refresh rate and offers a 27 inches screen size. Like the XG27WCMS, it has a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution, while the VG259QMRL5A uses a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. No other pick in this guide offers a rapid IPS panel; compare the AW2525HM, which has an IPS panel.
To see 320Hz 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. It was the highest-priced of the 5 picks at the time of writing, so the case for it rests on what it adds over the XG27WCMS and the rest.
Key specs
- Refresh rate
- 320Hz
- Resolution
- 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size
- 27 inches
- Panel
- Rapid IPS
- Response
- 0.5ms
- Adaptive sync
- FreeSync Premium, G-SYNC Compatible
Pros
- a 320Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 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 VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
Lowest Price Here3 of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMR5A
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, with the VG259QMRL5A the next step up.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: refresh rate of 310Hz, behind the AW2525HM (320Hz).
Why we like it
The 24.5-inch fast IPS panel overclocks to 310Hz and lists a 0.3ms response, with FreeSync Premium and G-Sync compatibility. 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 AW2525HM and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution, while the MAG 274QPF uses a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution. Like the AW2525HM and VG259QMRL5A, it has a 99% sRGB color gamut, while the XG27WCMS 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 VG259QMRL5A was the next step up.
Key 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)
The catch
The main gap: refresh rate of 310Hz, behind the AW2525HM (320Hz). If that matters, the AW2525HM offers 320Hz.
Also Consider4 of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QMRL5A
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 MAG 274QPF 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 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution with the AW2525HM and VG259QMR5A; the XG27WCMS goes with a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution. It shares a fast IPS panel with the VG259QMR5A; the MAG 274QPF goes with a rapid IPS panel. It shares a 99% sRGB color gamut with the AW2525HM and VG259QMR5A; the XG27WCMS 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 VG259QMR5A and below the AW2525HM at the time of writing.
Key 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 MAG 274QPF (27 inches)
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
The catch
It gives ground on screen size, where the MAG 274QPF comes in at 27 inches.
Strong Alternative5 of 5
ASUS ROG Strix XG27WCMS Curved
ASUS's XG27WCMS curves a 27-inch 1440p panel and overclocks it to 280Hz.
Best for
- Buyers who want curved 1440p panel overclocked to 280Hz.
Skip if
- Skip it if refresh rate matters most to you; the AW2525HM offers 320Hz.
Why we like it
USB-C input and a three-year warranty are listed. The 27-inch curved 1440p panel overclocks to 280Hz, lists a 1ms response, covers 95% of DCI-P3 and includes USB-C. On refresh rate it trails the group at 280Hz, while the AW2525HM offers 320Hz.
It matches the MAG 274QPF on screen size (27 inches). It shares a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution with the MAG 274QPF; the VG259QMR5A goes with a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution. A 95% DCI-P3 color gamut is unique to it among these picks, while the VG259QMRL5A uses a 99% sRGB color gamut.
To see 280Hz 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. When we checked, only the AW2525HM and cheaper picks cost less, and the MAG 274QPF cost more.
Key specs
- Refresh rate
- 280Hz
- Resolution
- 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size
- 27 inches
- HDR
- HDR
- Color gamut
- 95% DCI-P3
- Adaptive sync
- G-SYNC Compatible
- USB-C
- Yes
- Warranty
- 3-year
Pros
- a 280Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage
- G-SYNC Compatible to reduce screen tearing
Cons
- Refresh rate trails the AW2525HM (320Hz)
- Costs more than the VG259QMR5A at the time of writing
The catch
Refresh rate is its weakest area, and the AW2525HM covers it better at 320Hz.
How We Chose These Gaming Monitors Under $300
Alex Morgan compared the manufacturer specifications, connectivity, warranty terms and compatibility of every pick. Figures come from the makers unless a third-party source is named; we did not test these products ourselves.
- What we compared
- We compared five monitors on refresh rate, resolution, screen size and panel as the makers state them. These are research figures, not bench results: 1 of 5 picks leave out panel.
- What every pick has in common
- All 5, from the AW2525HM to the XG27WCMS, state refresh rate, resolution and screen size.
- Where the specs have gaps
- The XG27WCMS gives no panel; the VG259QMRL5A and the XG27WCMS give no response.
- Price range
- At our last check the picks ran from the VG259QMR5A ($150 to $250) to the MAG 274QPF ($250 to $500).
What to Look for in a Gaming Monitor Under $300
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Refresh rate across these picks
Here refresh rate runs from 280Hz on the XG27WCMS to 320Hz on the AW2525HM, a 14% spread. Start with the AW2525HM if refresh rate decides it.
How much screen size you need
Across these 5 picks screen size spans 24.5 inches (the VG259QMRL5A) to 27 inches (the MAG 274QPF). For less, the XG27WCMS is the runner-up at 27 inches.
A gaming desk with a monitor, a racing-style chair and shelves of figures Panel
The AW2525HM lists IPS; the MAG 274QPF lists Rapid IPS; the VG259QMR5A and the VG259QMRL5A list Fast IPS. Sort out panel before price: it splits 4 stated picks into groups of 2, 1 and 1.
Response
The AW2525HM and the MAG 274QPF list 0.5ms; the VG259QMR5A lists 0.3ms. Settling response first narrows 3 picks to 2 or 1.
A large monitor showing a game on a low media unit Extras that separate them
The VG259QMR5A: a 310Hz refresh rate for esports. The VG259QMRL5A: DisplayHDR 400 certification. The XG27WCMS: USB-C input.
How to Choose a Gaming Monitor Under $300
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Buyers who want an IPS panel | AW2525HM | An IPS panel |
| Spending more than the XG27WCMS costs for the fullest feature set in this group | MAG 274QPF | The top of this price range, adding AI Vision for dark-area detail |
| Spending as little as possible, with the VG259QMRL5A the next step up | VG259QMR5A | The cheapest way into this group, below the VG259QMRL5A |
| Buyers who want 310Hz overclocked refresh rate | VG259QMRL5A | A 310Hz overclocked refresh rate |
| Buyers who want curved 1440p panel overclocked to 280Hz | XG27WCMS | A curved 1440p panel overclocked to 280Hz |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
The AW2525HM leads on refresh rate at 320Hz, ahead of the MAG 274QPF at 320Hz. "Not listed" marks panel where the XG27WCMS leaves the figure out.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AW2525HM | 320Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | IPS |
| MAG 274QPF | 320Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | Rapid IPS |
| VG259QMR5A | 310Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | Fast IPS |
| VG259QMRL5A | 310Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | Fast IPS |
| XG27WCMS | 280Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | Not listed |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
By price at the time of writing
The VG259QMR5A was the lowest-priced pick ($150 to $250) and the MAG 274QPF the highest ($250 to $500) when we checked; tiers move with Amazon pricing.
| Price tier | Monitors |
|---|---|
| About $150 to $250 | VG259QMR5A, VG259QMRL5A, AW2525HM |
| About $250 to $500 | XG27WCMS, MAG 274QPF |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the MAG 274QPF add over the VG259QMR5A?
On paper it adds refresh rate (320Hz against 310Hz) and screen size (27 inches against 24.5 inches). On our last price check the VG259QMR5A was in the $150 to $250 tier and the MAG 274QPF in the $250 to $500 tier, with 3 other picks between them; pay the difference only if refresh rate and screen size decide your purchase.
Why is the VG259QMR5A our Lowest Price Here pick?
The label rests on the cheapest way into this group, below the VG259QMRL5A. It is aimed at spending as little as possible, with the VG259QMRL5A the next step up.
Do the AW2525HM and the MAG 274QPF differ on resolution?
The AW2525HM, the VG259QMR5A and the VG259QMRL5A use 1920x1080 (1080p); the MAG 274QPF and the XG27WCMS use 2560x1440 (1440p).
What extras do the AW2525HM and the MAG 274QPF include?
The AW2525HM: 320Hz at 1080p. The MAG 274QPF: AI Vision for dark-area detail. The VG259QMR5A: a 310Hz refresh rate for esports.
Who should choose the AW2525HM?
The AW2525HM carries our IPS Panel label for an IPS panel. It ranks first of 5 here and sat in the $150 to $250 tier at our last price check; it suits anyone who wants an IPS panel.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the AW2525HM, chosen for an IPS panel. Look at the MAG 274QPF for the top of this price range, adding AI Vision for dark-area detail, the VG259QMR5A for the cheapest way into this group, below the VG259QMRL5A and the VG259QMRL5A for a 310Hz overclocked refresh rate if those matter more to you.
Set the refresh rate in Windows display settings; it often defaults to 60Hz.
Related Guides
- Related guideThe Best Gaming Monitors to Buy Now
- Related guideThe Best 1440p Gaming Monitors to Buy
- Related guideThe Best OLED Gaming Monitors
- Lower budgetThe Best Gaming Monitors Under $200
- Higher budgetThe Best 1440p Gaming Monitors Under $400
- ExplainerHow to Choose a 1080p Monitor
- ExplainerHow to Choose a 1440p Monitor
- Also see: graphics cardsWhen Is Integrated Graphics Enough for a PC?
- Similar guideThe Best 240Hz Gaming Monitors Under $300
- Topic hubAll gaming monitors guides
About the author
PC Hardware Editor
Alex covers PC hardware, monitors, components, upgrades and peripherals for The PC Journal, with a focus on helping readers understand specifications, compatibility and meaningful product trade-offs.
Covers: Monitors, Graphics cards, Processors, PC components, Peripherals, Upgrades and compatibility
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