Buying Guide
The Best Gaming Monitors for RTX 5060
Five monitors compared, from the G24B36N to the MP243L, with the trade-offs of each named.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
The RTX 5060 is built for 1080p, where it can drive high refresh rates in most games. Every pick is a 1080p monitor at 144Hz or more, ordered from the lowest price.
This is a research roundup, not a lab test: refresh rate, resolution and size come from each maker's published specs; a missing panel is flagged, not filled in, and no figure here comes from our own testing.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Lowest Price Here
AOC G24B36N
Undercutting the SE2426H on price when we checked.
Best for: Keeping the budget tight.
Also Consider
Dell SE2426H
A 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing.
Best for: Buyers who want 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing.
Fastest Refresh
Acer Nitro KG251Q X3
The highest refresh rate here (200Hz).
Best for: Competitive shooters where motion clarity matters most.
Our take Check price for Acer Nitro KG251Q X3 (opens in a new tab)
Strong Alternative
Westinghouse 24-inch Curved 165Hz Gaming Monitor
A 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel.
Best for: Buyers who want 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel.
Our take Check price for Westinghouse 24-inch Curved 165Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Worth a Look
MSI PRO MP243L E14
Flicker-free and low blue light modes.
Best for: Buyers who want flicker-free and low blue light modes.
Our take Check price for MSI PRO MP243L E14 (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undercutting the SE2426H on price when we checked. | Keeping the budget tight. | Check price for AOC G24B36N (opens in a new tab) |
| A 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing. | Buyers who want 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing. | Check price for Dell SE2426H (opens in a new tab) |
| The highest refresh rate here (200Hz). | Competitive shooters where motion clarity matters most. | Check price for Acer Nitro KG251Q X3 (opens in a new tab) |
| A 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel. | Buyers who want 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel. | Check price for Westinghouse 24-inch Curved 165Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Flicker-free and low blue light modes. | Buyers who want flicker-free and low blue light modes. | Check price for MSI PRO MP243L E14 (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Lowest Price Here1 of 5
AOC G24B36N on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The G24B36N runs 180Hz overclocked on a VA panel and includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 inputs.
Best for
- Keeping the budget tight.
Skip if
- Pass on it if a VA panel that can smear dark transition rules it out for your setup.
Why we like it
VA gives good contrast but can smear dark scenes. It has HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 and a headphone output, with Adaptive Sync and HDR support. On refresh rate it sits mid-pack at 180Hz: the KG251Q X3 offers 200Hz, and the MP243L comes in at 144Hz.
It matches the SE2426H and the MP243L on screen size (23.8 inches). It shares a VA panel with the Westinghouse 24 Curved; the MP243L goes with an IPS panel. It also offers an overclocked 180Hz mode above 144Hz native.
At 1080p, 180Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older. No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the SE2426H was closest.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 180Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 23.8 inches
- Panel: VA
- Response: 0.5ms
Pros
- 180Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 inputs
- Overclocked 180Hz mode above 144Hz native
- Undercutting the SE2426H on price when we checked
Cons
- a VA panel that can smear dark transitions
- Refresh rate of 180Hz, behind the KG251Q X3 (200Hz)
Also Consider2 of 5
Dell SE2426H on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The SE2426H is Dell's 144Hz IPS monitor at the lowest price in this list.
Best for
- Buyers who want 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing.
Skip if
- If budget leads, the G24B36N was cheaper at our last price check.
Why we like it
It covers the basics without extras. It runs at 144Hz with a 1ms MPRT response and carries TÜV Rheinland's 3-star eye comfort certification. The 178-degree viewing angles keep colour consistent off-axis.
On refresh rate it ties with the MP243L at 144Hz. It matches the G24B36N and the MP243L on screen size (23.8 inches). It shares an IPS panel with the MP243L; the Westinghouse 24 Curved goes with a VA panel.
Like the Westinghouse 24 Curved and MP243L, it has a FreeSync, while the KG251Q X3 uses a FreeSync Premium. At 1080p, 144Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older. When we checked, only the G24B36N cost less, and the KG251Q X3 cost more.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 144Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 23.8 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Response: 1ms
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync
Pros
- 144Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- FreeSync to reduce screen tearing
- 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing
Cons
- Costs more than the G24B36N at the time of writing
Fastest Refresh3 of 5
Acer Nitro KG251Q X3 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The Nitro KG251Q X3 runs 200Hz with FreeSync Premium on a 24.5-inch screen for under $90.
Best for
- Competitive shooters where motion clarity matters most.
Skip if
- Price-first buyers should look at the G24B36N, which cost less when we checked.
Why we like it
It is the best gaming screen at this price. Its 24.5-inch 1080p panel supports AMD FreeSync Premium to stop tearing. It suits competitive games at high frame rates.
Its 200Hz refresh rate is the highest here; the G24B36N comes next at 180Hz. Nothing else here matches its 24.5 inches screen size; the Westinghouse 24 Curved comes closest at 24 inches. A FreeSync Premium is unique to it among these picks, while the SE2426H uses a FreeSync.
It also comes with a 200Hz refresh rate under $90 at the time of writing. At 1080p, 200Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 200Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24.5 inches
- Response: 0.5ms
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium
Pros
- 200Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- FreeSync Premium to reduce screen tearing
- 200Hz refresh rate under $90 at the time of writing
- Largest screen size of the picks (24.5 inches)
Cons
- Costs more than the G24B36N at the time of writing
Strong Alternative4 of 5
Westinghouse 24-inch Curved 165Hz Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Westinghouse's 24-inch curved monitor uses a VA panel with a 3000:1 contrast ratio and a 165Hz refresh rate.
Best for
- Buyers who want 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel.
Skip if
- Pass on it if a VA panel that can smear dark transition rules it out for your setup.
Why we like it
It adds built-in speakers and FreeSync at one of the lowest prices here. On refresh rate it sits mid-pack at 165Hz: the KG251Q X3 offers 200Hz, and the MP243L comes in at 144Hz. Its 24 inches screen size ranks second of 5 here, behind the KG251Q X3 (24.5 inches) and ahead of the MP243L (23.8 inches).
It shares a VA panel with the G24B36N; the MP243L goes with an IPS panel. Like the SE2426H and MP243L, it has a FreeSync, while the KG251Q X3 uses a FreeSync Premium. You also get a 1500R curved screen. At 1080p, 165Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 165Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 24 inches
- Panel: VA
- Response: 1ms
- Color gamut: 110% sRGB
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync
Pros
- 165Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- 110% sRGB colour coverage
- FreeSync to reduce screen tearing
- 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel
Cons
- a VA panel that can smear dark transitions
- Costs more than the G24B36N at the time of writing
Worth a Look5 of 5
MSI PRO MP243L E14 on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
MSI's MP243L is a 23.8-inch 1080p IPS screen at 144Hz with FreeSync.
Best for
- Buyers who want flicker-free and low blue light modes.
Skip if
- Skip it if refresh rate matters most to you; the KG251Q X3 offers 200Hz.
Why we like it
It is one of the lowest-priced monitors here. On refresh rate it ties with the SE2426H at 144Hz. It matches the G24B36N and the SE2426H on screen size (23.8 inches).
It shares an IPS panel with the SE2426H; the Westinghouse 24 Curved goes with a VA panel. Like the SE2426H and Westinghouse 24 Curved, it has a FreeSync, while the KG251Q X3 uses a FreeSync Premium. It also offers flicker-free and low blue light modes, 1500:1 contrast and the lowest price tier among these gaming picks.
At 1080p, 144Hz is within reach of mid-range graphics cards in esports titles; use DisplayPort if your card's HDMI port is older. It gives ground on refresh rate, where the KG251Q X3 offers 200Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 144Hz
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p)
- Size: 23.8 inches
- Panel: IPS
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync
Pros
- 144Hz for smoother motion than a 60Hz office screen
- an IPS panel with wide viewing angles
- FreeSync to reduce screen tearing
- Flicker-free and low blue light modes
Cons
- Refresh rate trails the KG251Q X3 (200Hz)
- Screen size trails the KG251Q X3 (24.5 inches)
- Costs more than the G24B36N at the time of writing
How We Chose These Gaming Monitors for RTX 5060
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 Gaming Monitor for RTX 5060
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Decide on screen size first
Among these picks, screen size runs from 23.8 inches on the MP243L to 24.5 inches on the KG251Q X3. Settle how much you need before comparing prices, since paying for more rarely helps if your use never reaches it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How to Choose a Gaming Monitor for RTX 5060
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Keeping the budget tight | G24B36N | Undercutting the SE2426H on price when we checked |
| Buyers who want 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing | SE2426H | A 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing |
| Competitive shooters where motion clarity matters most | KG251Q X3 | The highest refresh rate here (200Hz) |
| Buyers who want 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel | Westinghouse 24 Curved | A 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel |
| Buyers who want flicker-free and low blue light modes | MP243L | Flicker-free and low blue light modes |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G24B36N | 180Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 23.8 inches | VA |
| SE2426H | 144Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 23.8 inches | IPS |
| KG251Q X3 | 200Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24.5 inches | Not listed |
| Westinghouse 24 Curved | 165Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 24 inches | VA |
| MP243L | 144Hz | 1920x1080 (1080p) | 23.8 inches | IPS |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of these monitors has the highest refresh rate?
The KG251Q X3 leads at 200Hz, ahead of the G24B36N at 180Hz; the MP243L sits at the other end with 144Hz.
What is the least I can spend on one of these monitors?
That was the G24B36N at our last check; if you can stretch, the SE2426H is the next step up and the MP243L the priciest.
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 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 1ms response time rating matter?
Makers measure response time differently, so compare panel type and independent reviews rather than the headline figure.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the G24B36N, chosen for undercutting the SE2426H on price when we checked. Look at the SE2426H for a 144Hz IPS panel at the lowest price in this list at the time of writing, the Westinghouse 24 Curved for a 3000:1 contrast ratio from its VA panel and the MP243L for flicker-free and low blue light modes if those matter more to you.
Use DisplayPort to get the full refresh rate and G-SYNC Compatible support.