How to Choose the Best Gaming Monitor for You

Your Guide to buying the best Gaming monitors

Overview

A gaming monitor is an essential piece of hardware for any dedicated gamer. With the right monitor, you can get the most out of your gaming setup, delivering smooth and immersive experiences to fully enjoy your favorite games. But with so many different types of monitors available, it can be hard to know which one is the best choice for you. That’s why we’ve created this gaming monitor buying guide to help you find the best monitor for your gaming needs. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of monitors available, their features, and the key specs to look out for when buying your next gaming monitor. We’ll also share some tips on how to get the best value for your money when searching for a new monitor for gaming. With this guide, you can be sure you’re getting the best monitor for your budget.

Key features

  1. Panel Type - Modern gaming monitors come with one of two different panel types; TN (Twisted Nematic) and IPS (In-Plane Switching). TN panels generally have faster response times, but IPS panels generally have better image quality.
  2. Screen Size - The size of the monitor is an important factor to consider. Larger monitors allow for more immersion, though smaller monitors can be more portable and require less space.
  3. Resolution - Resolution is the number of pixels that make up the picture displayed on the monitor. Higher resolutions will provide a sharper image, but require a more powerful video card.
  4. Aspect Ratio - Aspect ratio refers to the width and height of the monitor's screen. Common aspect ratios include 16:9 and 21:9.
  5. Refresh Rate - Refresh rate is the number of times a monitor refreshes the image per second. Higher refresh rates provide smoother gaming experiences, but require a more powerful video card.
  6. Adaptive Sync - Adaptive sync is a feature that synchronizes the monitor's refresh rate with the frame rate of the graphics card. This eliminates screen tearing and can improve gaming performance.
  7. Connectivity - Make sure the monitor has all the ports you need for your gaming setup. Common ports include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB, and DVI.

See the most popular Gaming monitors on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Quality Display: Gaming monitors have a higher resolution, higher refresh rate and improved response time compared to traditional computer monitors, ensuring better clarity, colors and smoothness when gaming.
  • Screen Size: Gaming monitors come in a variety of sizes, from small 19" to larger 34" models, allowing the user to choose the best size for their gaming setup.
  • Ergonomics: Gaming monitors come with adjustable stands, enabling the user to choose the most comfortable viewing angle and height.
  • Adaptive Sync Technology: Adaptive sync technology is available on certain gaming monitors, synchronizing the refresh rate of the monitor with the frame rate of the graphics card, providing a smoother gaming experience.
  • Connectivity: Gaming monitors come with a range of ports and connections, such as HDMI, DisplayPort and USB, allowing the user to connect multiple devices to their monitor.

Cons

  • Size: Gaming monitors come in a variety of sizes, but some are too large for certain desks or rooms.
  • Price: Gaming monitors can be expensive, so those on a budget may not be able to afford certain models.
  • Input Lag: Some gaming monitors can have a delay between the mouse and the display, resulting in less responsive game play.
  • Viewing Angles: If you're using a TN (Twisted Nematic) panel, you may experience lower quality visuals when viewed from wider angles.
  • Eyestrain: Brightness, contrast, and color settings can cause eyestrain if not adjusted properly.
  • Compatibility: Some gaming monitors require specific computer components in order to operate properly.

Best alternatives

  1. Computer Desks - Desks designed to hold a monitor, keyboard, and mouse in an ergonomic and comfortable position.
  2. Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse - An ergonomically-designed keyboard and mouse to reduce strain on the hands, wrists, and arms.
  3. Gaming Chair - A comfortable chair designed specifically for gaming, typically featuring adjustable arm, neck, and back support.
  4. Headset - A gaming headset designed to enhance the gaming experience, providing immersive sound and comfortable wear.
  5. Controller - A gaming controller, typically wireless, designed to give gamers a more tactile and immersive gaming experience.
  6. Surge Protector - A surge protector designed to protect gaming monitors and other equipment from electrical spikes and surges.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Monitor Stand - An adjustable stand that allows the user to reposition their monitor for a better viewing angle.
  • Monitor Mount - A mount that allows a monitor to be attached to a wall or to a desk.
  • Headset - A headset with a microphone for clear communication with other players.
  • Mouse - A device used to control games, usually with two buttons and a scroll wheel.
  • Keyboard - A device used to type commands or buttons in games, usually with multiple keys.
  • Gaming Chair - A chair designed with ergonomic features and often with a heightened backrest to promote better posture.
  • Graphics Card - A component that allows a computer to display graphics, often necessary for gaming in high resolutions.
  • Processor - A component that processes instructions from the user, often necessary for gaming in high resolutions.
  • Memory - A component that stores data, often necessary for gaming in high resolutions.
  • HDMI Cable - A cable used to connect a monitor to a computer.

Common questions

  1. What is the ideal resolution for a gaming monitor?

    The ideal resolution for a gaming monitor depends on your preferences and the specifications of your gaming system. Most modern gaming monitors range between 1080p and 4K resolution, with 4K offering the highest level of sharpness and detail. However, if you have an older gaming system, a 1080p resolution may be the best option.

  2. What type of refresh rate should I look for?

    The refresh rate of a gaming monitor is important for providing smooth and responsive gameplay. Most gaming monitors have a refresh rate of at least 60Hz, with higher-end models offering up to 144Hz or even 240Hz for an even smoother experience.

  3. Should I get a curved or flat monitor?

    This is a matter of personal preference and depends on your budget. Curved monitors tend to provide a more immersive gaming experience, while flat monitors tend to be more affordable. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which type of monitor is best for your gaming needs.

  4. How important is the response time?

    The response time of a gaming monitor is important for providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Most gaming monitors have a response time of 4ms or lower, with higher-end models offering as low as 1ms or even 0.5ms response time.

  5. What type of connectivity should I look for?

    When shopping for a gaming monitor, you should look for a monitor that offers multiple types of connectivity. This includes HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB ports for connecting external devices. Additionally, you should look for a monitor that supports multiple types of display inputs, such as VGA, DVI, and HDMI.

  6. Is there a difference between TN and IPS panels?

    Yes, TN (Twisted Nematic) and IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels refer to the types of display technology used in gaming monitors. TN panels are

Trivia

In 2018, a gaming monitor was launched with a built-in 'eye protection' system, which provided users with an automatic 'blue light' reduction filter to help protect their eyes from fatigue. This system was developed by a company called ViewSonic and was named 'ViewSonic Blue Light Filter'. The gaming monitor was marketed as having "eye protection technology" and the product was widely praised by gamers and tech reviewers. This was seen as an innovative step forward in gaming monitor technology and was a welcomed addition to the gaming monitor market. Source: https://www.techradar.com/news/viewsonic-launches-eyeprotection-gaming-monitor-with-blue-light-filter

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.