1. Quick list
2. Best overall
3. Best for most
4. Best value
5. Best for consoles
6. Best premium
7. Best big screen
The best 4K monitor models swiftly becoming a standard, as UHD resolutions are now commonly used by both consoles and PC builds alike. While 1080p and 1440p are still relevant for now, especially when it comes to last gen systems and lower spec PCs, using a 3840 x 2160 display will deliver sharper visuals while playing the latest games on a machine that can handle the heat. If you've already made the jump, then we're perhaps preaching to the choir, but we're still on hand to help you choose the perfect panel regardless.
You could say now is perhaps the perfect time to invest in a 4K monitor, as UHD panels now compromise on specs a bit less. Sure, if you’re hellbent on picking the best gaming monitor with the faster refresh rate possible, chances are you’ll need to settle for 1080p or 1440p. However, screens with four times the number of pixels compared to full HD and a snappy 144Hz refresh rate are now commonplace within the scene, meaning you’ll be able to boost fps and harness every frame produced by your platform of choice.
To aid you in your quest for the perfect UHD panel, we’ve put the best 4K monitors for gaming to the test. You won’t necessarily have to break the bank acquire a high-resolution screen, but you’ll be able to narrow down whether you need something with a speedy refresh rate, an OLED panel, or other features that will pair well with your PC or console.
The Quick List
The best 4K monitor
The EX3210U is a superb 4K 144Hz screen with plenty of extra features that'll suit both PC and console gamers across the board.
The best 4K monitor for most
Looking for something with solid connections and a speedy 144Hz refresh rate, Corsair has your back.
The best value 4K gaming monitor
You're dropping down to a 60Hz refresh rate here, but still getting a gorgeous 4K display with a fantastic HDR.
The best 4K monitor for consoles
With a gorgeous HDR filter, HDMI 2.1, and PS5-exclusive features, the Sony Inzone M9 is perfect for consoles
The best premium 4K gaming monitor
If you're after top of the line specs as far as the eye can see you'll want to check out this this incredible mini-LED panel.
Best big screen 4K monitor
It's the size of many bedroom TVs, packs an OLED punch, and is armed with immersive Ambiglow lights.
The best 4K gaming monitor overall
Looking for a 4K gaming monitor with HDMI 2.1 that'll pair perfectly with consoles and the best graphics card? The BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U is probably the 4K monitor you've been looking for. Armed with a IPS panel with brilliant color accuracy and support for both HDR10 and VESA DisplayHDR 600, it's safe to say this display is a looker. It even has HDRi smarts, so you technically don't even have to use a support device to transform your favourite games and content into moreish eye candy.
Playing HDR-rich games like AC Origins, Red Dead Redemption and Destiny 2 is a real pleasure on this fast, smooth display. Admittedly, a lack of proper dimming zones lets the side down in terms of contrast, but that HDRi feature mentioned above makes up for that by automatically adjusting settings depending on what content you are consuming.
Unlike so many other gaming monitors, the Mobiuz EX3210U actually has a set of speakers that are worth using. The TrueSound by Trevolo is rich and full-bodied with great stereo separation. There's also a built-in microphone with some noise-cancelling abilities, but that might feel a little redundant if you already own one of the best gaming headsets or one of the best microphones for streaming.
If, like us, you loathe faffing around with bezel buttons on your screen of choice, you're in luck, as the Mobiuz EX3210U comes with a handy remote. That extra alone is sure to appeal to those of you transitioning from using the best TV for gaming in the living room to a fully fledged desk setup for the first time, you'll be able to navigate settings and switch between inputs from afar.
The BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U isn't exactly what we'd call cheap, but its price is in line with similar 4K monitors on the market. Unless you're already spoiled by the OLED wonders provided by your TV or Nintendo Switch, we doubt you'll be disappointed with the visual experience this screen provides.
Read more: BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U review
The best 4K gaming monitor for most
4K, 144Hz, 1ms, and HDR support on a 32-inch IPS panel makes for one heck of a spec list. And the new Corsair Xeneon 32UHD144 is indeed one heck of a 4K monitor for gaming. But it doesn’t quite deliver on all that promise. The HDR experience is enabled via just 16 edge-lit local dimming zones, which is a bit of a kludge. And the 1ms rating is MPRT, not grey-to-grey.
That said, the SDR experience is fantastic. This is a very punchy display, with accurate quantum dot-enhanced colours and zippy response whatever the official spec. Combine that characteristic razor-sharp 4K image quality with 144Hz refresh and you have one heck of a gaming experience. The caveat for PC users is that you also need one heck of a graphics card to drive it. For console gamers, meanwhile, there’s HDMI 2.1 connectivity for 4K 120Hz action. Oh, and note that while there is USB-C with power delivery, the latter only amounts to 15W, so it’s not enough to keep a laptop charged under load. Not nearly.
It’s nicely built too - perhaps too nicely built with the hefty alloy stand taking up an awful lot of desk space (though the stand is actually optional). Less nice is the price. For sure, it’s on par with similar-specced screens. We just wish that for this kind of money, you got true HDR performance, especially given that you’re not far off the price of an entry-level 120Hz OLED TV.
Read more: Corsair Xeneon 32UHD144 review
The best value 4K monitor for gaming
If you want a monitor that can do a bit of everything in glorious 4K, then we recommend the BenQ EW3280U. Its 4K resolution, combined with its size, colors, and IPS panel make it a great all-rounder. It won't offer the mad speeds that non-4K monitors can offer, of course, but as 60Hz experiences go, we found this to be great. In particularly we enjoyed the picture quality, HDR and contrasts, and richness of every shade during out testing.
Its price tag might make it more of a contender during sales but this offering from BenQ is great and they really have proved they can run with the usual suspects again. One factor that stood out in our testing that you need to be aware of is that it does take up loads of room on the desk but, largely, it's very much worth it.
If you want a 32-inch big one when it comes to the best 4K monitors for gaming, then this is a very strong contender - particularly if you'll use the monitor for entertainment as well as general PC use. As a result, this is a strong contender for a top 4K monitor for gaming, but its niche might just lie elsewhere right now: it might just be the best PS4 monitors I've tested too.
Read More: BenQ EW3280U review
The best 4K monitor for PS5 / Xbox Series X
Sony is better known for TVs than desktop screens these days, but Inzone M9 monitor enters the market with a tremendous bang. Not only is this 27-inch IPS 4K HDR beauty an absolute beast, its unique aesthetic helps it look slick, especially when teamed with the PS5.
Unlike some of our other best 4K monitor picks, the Sony Inzone M9 features loads of ports, enabling you to easily connect your PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, or even the best Steam Deck dock without having to unplug any cables. There are two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB-B port, a USB-C port, three USB-A ports, and a standard DisplayPort, so you could also hook up all your required PC peripherals accessories to the screen and manage cable clutter.
The Inzone Hub app makes adjusting the monitor's settings and swapping through one of its five display modes incredibly easy - which is great since it can be a bit annoying to reach behind the screen.
Just like with the BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U, you won't have to fiddle around with tiny buttons to change settings, as the Inzone Hub app provides access via Windows. It's a good job too, as the monitor's design means reaching its physical buttons is something of a pain.
PlayStation fans will be able to take advantage of perks like auto swapping between cinema and game modes and automatic HDR optimisation upon booting up Sony's console. In turn, this also means you won't have to fiddle with any settings on your monitor when going between PS5 and PC use - a lovely little feature that not a ton of gaming monitors have.
The performance is nothing short of terrific too, providing gorgeous images, smooth pictures, and able to pump out the deepest blacks and brightest colours. In short, this is a stunning monitor in both display and design, and an excellent option if you're looking to make your setup even better - especially if you're a PS5 player.
Read more: Sony Inzone M9 review
The best premium 4K gaming monitor
Premium price aside, the AOC AGON PRO PD32M is probably one of the best 4K gaming monitor we've ever tested. The PD32M simply has every top specification you could possibly want from a gaming monitor - any gaming monitor - let alone a 4K one, and that alone could win you over.
The the AOC AGON PRO PD32M provides a truly premium experience, and packing the features it offers into one screen is no easy feat. Specifically, you're getting a 4K monitor that is: 32-inches; an IPS panel; 144Hz in refresh rate; 1ms in response time; mini-LED in its backlight type; 600 nits in its brightness; and Vesa-Certified DisplayHDR 1400 (!). This is a lot to squeeze into one product, but the resulting performance is breath-taking. Games look superb, run super smoothly, and produce one of the top gaming experiences we've ever seen. It's stacked with connectivity options too, and HDMI 2.1 support mean it's a great contender for best PS5 monitor or best Xbox Series X monitor, should you be looking for a high-end console companion.
The monitor is an absolute chonk, though, so you'll need a fair bit of desk space - though it is flat so doesn't hog up too much room with its stand. That said, the design is very cool and oozes that Porsche Design chic-ness to make a great-looking bit of kit. The RGB lighting on the sides is one of a few downsides as it's not really necessary for a screen where the panel does all the talking, and it can be tricky to optimise the screen for your use or different games as it is so bright and colourful.
The price tag is hard to ignore as it's just a lot of money, however, when you factor in literally all of the specs, features, and performance, it's not as ridiculous an investment as one might think. And it really could be all the gaming monitor you ever need.
Read more: AOC Agon PD32M review
The best big screen 4K monitor
Out of all the larger displays we've tested, the Philips Evnia 42M2N8900 shines the brightest. That's largely thanks to its exceptional 42-inch OLED panel, but it's also got plenty of features up its sleeve that stand out, including an immersive Ambiglow lighting system.
The Evnia 42M2N8900 is, first and foremost, an OLED monitor, with that 42-inch 4K screen serving as its biggest selling point. However, it's perks like its USB-C hub (completely with 90W Power Delivery) and accommodating array of ports that make it worth sticking with long-term. Of course, it also has some stylish moves to accompany its substance, as you'll find an immersive rig of Ambiglow RGB lights round the back, designed to provide an immersive lightshow that syncs up with your visuals.
Not all monitors look the part, but the Evnia 42M2N8900 is arguably one that'll blend in nicely to any room. It features an all white aesthetic, which just so happens to look dashing next to a PS5, and it's V-shaped stand is wide enough to accommodate accessories like a soundbar. It's a little chonkier than you might expect for an OLED at the back, but that's to be expected given it wields a bunch of RGB lights and built-in speakers.
When handling both PC and console games, the Evnia 42M2N8900 excels in the color and contrast department. Naturally, that can be attributed to its OLED panel, and Philips clearly knows how to make good use of the tech, with outings like Spyro Reignited Trilogy providing a vibrant punch on this display. Shooters like Halo Infinite and Overwatch 2 also feel snappy regardless of platform, with the monitor's 138Hz refresh rate providing speedy visuals alongside a 1ms response rate.
Ultimately, the Philips Evnia 42M2N8900 is an investment, and it caters to those looking for more than basic 4K visuals. That said, if you're looking for something that bit bigger that'll bring out the best in your rig or console, this specific screen is well worth a look.
Read more: Philips Evnia 42M2N8900 review
Best 4K monitor for gaming: FAQs
We've had experience with the best 4K monitors for gaming for many years and like to think that we know a thing or two when it comes to making the best of UHD displays. With that in mind, we've taken it upon ourselves to use our expertise to help you make an informed decision on whether the best 4K gaming monitors are right for you.
Should I get a 4K monitor in 2024?
4K monitors can offer incredible fidelity, but you'll need the right hardware to make full use of UHD screens. For example, if you're planning on playing the latest games on PC, you'll need a graphics card that can handle resolutions beyond 1440p and maintain playable frame rates. Otherwise, you'll have to dial resolution and settings back, which will ultimately degrade image quality. Simply put, if you've got a high end GPU or console like the PS5, you'll benefit from picking up a 4K display.
4K monitors vs TVs - what's the difference?
The latest 4K monitors tend to boast specs better suited to gaming, whereas 4K will include additional features that cater to all-round entertainment. As such, you'll find screens on the market without TV tuners and smart capabilities with a faster 144Hz+ panel and features like G-Sync, while traditional TVs will often target either 60Hz or 120Hz.
What actually is 4K
4K is another way of describing 3840 x 2160, with the name referring to the fact it features almost 4.000 pixels horizontally. You'll also see the same resolution standard described as UHD, short for 'Ultra high definition'.
Is 4K overkill for gaming in 2024?
4K isn't overkill in 2023, but that's not to say lower monitor resolutions are automatically obsolete. Many console and PC gamers are still gaming at 1080p in 2023, and 1440p is considered a sweet spot for many players. However, if you're looking to play your favourite adventures and embrace the abilities of your PS5, Xbox Series X, or PC, you'll want to invest in a 4K display.
Can 4K monitors run 144Hz?
Yes! There are now plenty of 4K 144Hz monitors on the market, so refresh rate is no longer a trade off when it comes to UHD. If you feel like you need something faster, you'll have to scale down to at least 1440p, but we'd argue that you'd need to be a serious esports player to notice the competitive difference between 144Hz and 240Hz.
How we test gaming 4K gaming monitors at GamesRadar+
Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
Between our on-team staff and our crew of expert freelance writers and reviewers, every monitor that comes our way is subject to the same kind of deep scrutiny to get to the bottom of its good bits, and not-so-good bits.
We spend hours and hours testing each monitor, living with it where possible and using it as our everyday screen for work and play. As a result, we test out work and productivity functionality to give you an idea as to whether you can rely on it for the more mundane things, and then we play and run a big bath of games on the screens to ensure it provides good performance, no matter the price point or feature set. When it comes to games, we test single-player expansive games like RPGs and strategies to examine their detail, colour, and image quality, while also ensuring we test them with online and competitive shooters to see how they hold up when speed is key.
For more information, you can read more on How we test monitors at GamesRadar+ here, and for an overview of our approach to gaming tech then you can check out our full Hardware Policy.
And If you're after something that's TV-shaped then head over to our best gaming televisions guide as well as our best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X, best OLED TV, best QLED TV, best cheap 4K TV deals, and best 120Hz 4K TV guides which will all see you right.
