Buying Guide
The Best Monitors Under $800
Five monitors ranked on refresh rate and screen size, where the PG27AQDP has the highest refresh rate; the AW2725Q is the cheapest route in.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
Between $500 and $800 you can choose between fast OLED gaming panels and sharp 4K IPS screens. Every pick sits in that range at the time of writing, ordered by refresh rate.
We ranked these monitors on refresh rate, resolution and size using manufacturer specifications; where a maker leaves out color gamut, we say so rather than guess, since we have not benched them.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Fastest Refresh
ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDP
The highest refresh rate here (480Hz).
Best for: Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates.
Our take Check price for ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDP (opens in a new tab)
Also Consider
MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED
A built-in KVM switch.
Best for: Buyers who want built-in KVM switch.
Our take Check price for MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price Here
Alienware AW2725Q 4K QD-OLED
The lowest price of the group at our last check.
Best for: Keeping the budget tight.
Our take Check price for Alienware AW2725Q 4K QD-OLED (opens in a new tab)
Largest Screen Size
Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3425DW
The largest screen size here (34.2 inches).
Best for: Buyers who put screen size first.
Our take Check price for Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3425DW (opens in a new tab)
OLED Panel
LG UltraGear 27GS95QE OLED
An OLED panel.
Best for: Buyers who want an OLED panel.
Our take Check price for LG UltraGear 27GS95QE OLED (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The highest refresh rate here (480Hz). | Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates. | Check price for ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDP (opens in a new tab) |
| A built-in KVM switch. | Buyers who want built-in KVM switch. | Check price for MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED (opens in a new tab) |
| The lowest price of the group at our last check. | Keeping the budget tight. | Check price for Alienware AW2725Q 4K QD-OLED (opens in a new tab) |
| The largest screen size here (34.2 inches). | Buyers who put screen size first. | Check price for Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3425DW (opens in a new tab) |
| An OLED panel. | Buyers who want an OLED panel. | Check price for LG UltraGear 27GS95QE OLED (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Fastest Refresh1 of 5
ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDP on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The PG27AQDP goes further to 480Hz on a WOLED panel, the fastest here, for players whose PCs can feed it.
Best for
- Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: oLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements.
Why we like it
On refresh rate it leads this guide at 480Hz, ahead of the MPG 271QRX (360Hz). On screen size it trails the group at 26.5 inches, while the AW3425DW comes in at 34.2 inches. Like the MPG 271QRX and 27GS95QE, it has a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution, while the AW2725Q uses a 3840x2160 (4K) resolution.
It is the only pick here with a WOLED panel; the MPG 271QRX has a QD-OLED panel instead. To see 480Hz at 1440p, connect over DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1; older HDMI 2.0 ports cap the refresh rate lower. Leave the maker's pixel-refresh routines enabled and hide static taskbars to limit burn-in risk.
G-SYNC Compatible works on NVIDIA cards over DisplayPort, and FreeSync covers AMD cards. It was the most expensive pick when we checked, so weigh what it adds over the 27GS95QE.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 480Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 26.5 inches
- Panel: WOLED
- Response: 0.03ms
- HDR: DisplayHDR True Black 400
- Color gamut: 99% DCI-P3
- Adaptive sync: G-SYNC Compatible
- Warranty: 3-year
Pros
- a 480Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- a WOLED panel with per-pixel contrast
- DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification
Cons
- OLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements
- Screen size trails the AW3425DW (34.2 inches)
- Costs more than the AW2725Q at the time of writing
Also Consider2 of 5
MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The MPG 271QRX adds a KVM switch to a 360Hz QD-OLED panel with True Black 400.
Best for
- Buyers who want built-in KVM switch.
Skip if
- Pass on it if oLED burn-in risk with static desktop element rules it out for your setup.
Why we like it
Its built-in KVM switches a keyboard and mouse between two computers, and the stand adjusts for ergonomics. Its 360Hz refresh rate ranks second of 5 here, behind the PG27AQDP (480Hz) and ahead of the 27GS95QE (240Hz). On screen size it ties with the 27GS95QE at 27 inches.
Like the PG27AQDP and 27GS95QE, it has a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution, while the AW2725Q uses a 3840x2160 (4K) resolution. Like the AW2725Q and AW3425DW, it has a QD-OLED panel, while the PG27AQDP uses a WOLED panel. It also offers HDMI 2.1 inputs and an HDMI 2.1 input for consoles.
To see 360Hz at 1440p, connect over DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1; older HDMI 2.0 ports cap the refresh rate lower. Leave the maker's pixel-refresh routines enabled and hide static taskbars to limit burn-in risk. Its price falls between the AW2725Q and the AW3425DW, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 360Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: QD-OLED
- Response: 0.03ms
- HDR: DisplayHDR True Black 400
Pros
- a 360Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- a QD-OLED panel with per-pixel contrast
- DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification
Cons
- OLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements
- Costs more than the AW2725Q at the time of writing
Lowest Price Here3 of 5
Alienware AW2725Q 4K QD-OLED on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Alienware's AW2725Q is a 26.7-inch 4K QD-OLED at 240Hz with USB-C and a height, tilt, swivel and pivot stand.
Best for
- Keeping the budget tight.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: oLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements.
Why we like it
It has one of the most adjustable stands among the OLED models here. It matches the AW3425DW and the 27GS95QE on refresh rate (240Hz). On screen size it sits mid-pack at 26.7 inches: the AW3425DW comes in at 34.2 inches, and the PG27AQDP comes in at 26.5 inches.
No other pick in this guide offers a 3840x2160 (4K) resolution; compare the AW3425DW, which has a 3440x1440 resolution. Like the MPG 271QRX and AW3425DW, it has a QD-OLED panel, while the PG27AQDP uses a WOLED panel. You also get Dolby Vision support, 166 PPI at 4K and USB-C with 15W power delivery.
It undercut the MPG 271QRX and every other pick on price at the time of writing. The main gap: refresh rate of 240Hz, behind the PG27AQDP (480Hz). If that matters, the PG27AQDP offers 480Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Resolution: 3840x2160 (4K)
- Size: 26.7 inches
- Panel: QD-OLED
- Response: 0.03ms
- HDR: DisplayHDR True Black 400
- Color gamut: 99% DCI-P3
- Stand: height, tilt, swivel and pivot
- USB-C: Yes
Pros
- a 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 4K resolution for sharp text and detail
- a QD-OLED panel with per-pixel contrast
- DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification
Cons
- OLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements
- Refresh rate of 240Hz, behind the PG27AQDP (480Hz)
Largest Screen Size4 of 5
Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3425DW on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Alienware's AW3425DW puts a 34.2-inch QD-OLED ultrawide at 240Hz with 99% DCI-P3 coverage.
Best for
- Buyers who put screen size first.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: oLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements.
Why we like it
It pairs OLED contrast with a wide field of view. On refresh rate it ties with the AW2725Q and the 27GS95QE at 240Hz. On screen size it leads this guide at 34.2 inches, ahead of the MPG 271QRX (27 inches).
You get a 3440x1440 resolution here, which sets it apart from the 27GS95QE and its a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution. It shares a QD-OLED panel with the MPG 271QRX and AW2725Q; the 27GS95QE goes with an OLED panel. You also get 1000 nits peak HDR brightness.
Leave the maker's pixel-refresh routines enabled and hide static taskbars to limit burn-in risk. It was priced above the MPG 271QRX and below the 27GS95QE at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Resolution: 3440x1440
- Size: 34.2 inches
- Panel: QD-OLED
- Response: 0.03ms
- HDR: DisplayHDR True Black 400
- Color gamut: 99% DCI-P3
Pros
- a 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- a QD-OLED panel with per-pixel contrast
- DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification
- 99% DCI-P3 colour coverage
Cons
- OLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements
- Costs more than the AW2725Q at the time of writing
OLED Panel5 of 5
LG UltraGear 27GS95QE OLED on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
LG's 27GS95QE is a 27-inch 1440p OLED at 240Hz on a height, tilt and swivel stand.
Best for
- Buyers who want an OLED panel.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: oLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements.
Why we like it
It costs more than the 27GS93QE for the better stand. On refresh rate it ties with the AW2725Q and the AW3425DW at 240Hz. It matches the MPG 271QRX on screen size (27 inches).
It shares a 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution with the PG27AQDP and MPG 271QRX; the AW3425DW goes with a 3440x1440 resolution. You get an OLED panel here, which sets it apart from the AW3425DW and its a QD-OLED panel. It also offers a 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio and an HDMI 2.1 input.
To see 240Hz at 1440p, connect over DisplayPort or HDMI 2.1; older HDMI 2.0 ports cap the refresh rate lower. Leave the maker's pixel-refresh routines enabled and hide static taskbars to limit burn-in risk. It was priced above the AW3425DW and below the PG27AQDP at the time of writing. It gives ground on refresh rate, where the PG27AQDP offers 480Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Refresh rate: 240Hz
- Resolution: 2560x1440 (1440p)
- Size: 27 inches
- Panel: OLED
- Response: 0.03ms
- HDR: DisplayHDR True Black 400
- Adaptive sync: FreeSync Premium
- Stand: height, tilt and swivel
Pros
- a 240Hz refresh rate for fast motion
- 1440p resolution, sharper than 1080p at 27 inches
- a OLED panel with per-pixel contrast
- DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification
Cons
- OLED burn-in risk with static desktop elements
- Refresh rate trails the PG27AQDP (480Hz)
- Costs more than the AW2725Q at the time of writing
How We Chose These Monitors Under $800
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- HDR and colour
- We recorded DisplayHDR certifications and listed colour gamut.
- Resolution and refresh
- We compared listed resolution and refresh rate against the graphics power each needs.
- Connectivity and stand
- We checked ports, USB-C and stand adjustment where the listing states them.
- Panel
- We noted panel type and the trade-offs it brings for motion, contrast and burn-in.
What to Look for in a Monitor Under $800
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Where these picks differ: refresh rate
Among these picks, refresh rate runs from 240Hz on the 27GS95QE to 480Hz on the PG27AQDP. 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 Monitor Under $800
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Esports players with a GPU that can feed high frame rates | PG27AQDP | The highest refresh rate here (480Hz) |
| Buyers who want built-in KVM switch | MPG 271QRX | A built-in KVM switch |
| Keeping the budget tight | AW2725Q | The lowest price of the group at our last check |
| Buyers who put screen size first | AW3425DW | The largest screen size here (34.2 inches) |
| Buyers who want an OLED panel | 27GS95QE | An OLED panel |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Monitor | Refresh rate | Resolution | Size | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG27AQDP | 480Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 26.5 inches | WOLED |
| MPG 271QRX | 360Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | QD-OLED |
| AW2725Q | 240Hz | 3840x2160 (4K) | 26.7 inches | QD-OLED |
| AW3425DW | 240Hz | 3440x1440 | 34.2 inches | QD-OLED |
| 27GS95QE | 240Hz | 2560x1440 (1440p) | 27 inches | OLED |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pick leads on screen size?
The AW3425DW, at 34.2 inches. The MPG 271QRX follows at 27 inches, while the PG27AQDP has 26.5 inches.
Which pick costs the least here?
At our last price check the AW2725Q was the cheapest pick and the PG27AQDP the most expensive; the MPG 271QRX was the next step up from the AW2725Q.
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 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.
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.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the PG27AQDP. Look at the MPG 271QRX for a built-in KVM switch, the AW2725Q for the lowest price of the group at our last check and the AW3425DW for the largest screen size here (34.2 inches) if those matter more to you.
Check the GPU's outputs for the refresh rate you want.