The best G-Sync monitor models could be your ticket to eliminating screen tearing, as mismatched frame rates can easily plague your gaming PC experience. Nvidia's frame stabilising tech effectively helps you boost fps while ensuring visuals match up to your screen's refresh rate, providing a smoother experience without resorting to traditional V-Sync methods. However, these panels can be admittedly pricey, so we've went to the trouble of rounding up the displays that are worth considering.
When hunting for an Nvidia G-Sync monitor, there are a few things worth keeping in mind. Firstly, not all the best gaming monitors out there right now have the graphics card maker's hardware baked in, with some opting for something called G-Sync Compatibility. The latter alternative uses open source methods like AMD's FreeSync to combat tearing, while full fat G-Sync adds a module within compatible panels dedicated to the cause.
G-Sync isn’t the only monitor feature of its kind, and if you own an AMD or Intel graphics card, you could opt for a Freesync-compatible monitor instead. Just keep in mind if you’re looking to specifically resolve screen tearing quirks, the open-source alternative is anything but a silver bullet. For example, running a PC game at 200fps on a 144Hz Freesync display may still create a divide in your screen that doesn't quite match up. Therefore, if you've got an Nvidia GPU, you’ll want to check out our best G-Sync monitor picks and prevent refresh rate hiccups.
The best G-Sync monitor overall
The Alienware 34 AW3423DW is something of an OLED champion, and it has earned its place at the top of the best G-Sync monitor table. Boasting better contrast and faster response times than any LCD panel we’ve tested, this specular screen is going to spoil your peepers with rich, immersive visuals, and vivid colors.
Delicious visuals aren’t the only thing going for the AW3423DW, as it’s a speedy 175Hz display that’ll prove invaluable while playing the best FPS games. Of course, the whole reason we’re talking about Alienware’s OLED display is that it’s G-Sync compatible, and native support for the feature will prevent that odd-numbered refresh rate from causing screen tearing terrors.
Alienware’s premium panel isn’t cheap, and if you’re nervous about OLED burn-in, you may want to consider other contenders on this list. That said, it’s still a G-Sync-compatible heavy hitter that easily snags the top spot, and it builds upon everything that made the original 34 AW3423DW model so great.
Read more: Alienware AW3423DW review
The best 1080p G-Sync monitor
Now, we know this is being a little loose with the term 'G-Sync' as this wonderful panel is only of the compatible variety not the full fat. However such is the prevalence and now quality of those G-Sync compatible monitors, we thing it's worth noting in this conversation.
For most gamers, 1440p and 144Hz is the current sweet spot; the best compromise between speed and visual detail. However, for esports aficionados, it’s all about frame rates and response. This is where the Acer Predator XB253QGX comes in.
Resolution-wise, it’s only 1080p from a 25-inch panel. But it clocks in at fully 240Hz refresh and is good for an ultra-low MPRT pixel response time of 0.5ms (GtG response is 1ms claimed). The Predator is also Nvidia G-Sync capable. HDR support is entry-level stuff in the form of DisplayHDR 400 certification. But that at least ensures punchy peak brightness of 400cd/m2.
The IPS panel tech likewise makes for more accurate and vibrant colours than an equivalent TN screen. For online shooters right through from Counter-Strike: Source to Call of Duty: Warzone, this panel is a peach. It’s very quick and blur-free and feels super responsive - thus showing that it can be one of the best G-Sync monitors, even with it being limited to being 'only' G-Sync compatible.
It’s less impressive rendering the latest eye candy in the likes of Cyberpunk 2077. The relatively low res makes for much fuzzier image quality than 1440p or 4K panels. But if speed is what you demand, the Acer Predator XB253QGX does that better than most while not entirely giving up on image quality.
Read more: Acer Predator XB253QGX review
The best 1440p G-Sync monitor
We’re big fans of the Corsair Xeneon 32QHD165 and its balanced approach to specs, and it just so happens to be our favourite 1440p G-Sync monitor. For around $799, you’ll get a decent 27-inch panel that boasts a respectable 165Hz refresh rate and solid built quality to boot, not to mention it includes a ‘console mode’ that downscales 4K to match the screen’s native resolution.
But hey, you’re not here to chat console compatibility, so let’s talk G-Sync. Naturally, the Xeneon 32QHD165’s inclusion on our list means it’s got an Nvidia chip dwelling within, so it’s going to get on great with your GeForce graphics card. However, it also doubles up as one of the best Freesync monitors, so if you’re reading this and aren’t batting for team green, you’ll still be able to enjoy GPU syncing perks.
Admittedly, there are monitors with better specs on paper available, particularly if you’re looking for a quicker screen. Nevertheless, the Corsair Xeneon 32QHD165 is beautifully built and is certainly one of the most premium we've seen, and it's definitely one of the best G-Sync monitors by virtue of its compatibility.
Read more: Corsair Xeneon 32QHD165 review
The best 4K G-Sync monitor
This is a beastly monitor in almost every respect. This is the most expensive and chock-full of quality specs model on this list and offers pretty much the best G-Sync monitor going right now if you have a big budget (but not crazy big) - thus there is still some value to this monitor's price tag and what it gets you.
The headline spec for the Acer XB273K is that it is a 4K gaming monitor - a whopping resolution of 3840 x 2160. The second headliner is that it's a 4K monitor that also offers HDR. High dynamic range really takes colors and contrasts to another level, and until relatively recently was limited to our TVs only. Now it's a welcome addition to gaming monitors. On top of that, the XB273K offers that sweet G-Sync and applies it to IPS panels capable of 144Hz refresh and 4ms response. For a 4K monitor, this is exquisite. You'll need a beastly PC to really push the monitor to use all its bells and whistles to its maximum but anything remotely close will be a true treat too.
If we're really strict, the HDR is fine, but not mind-blowing. However, if you really wanted to chase the HDR dream, you'd be looking at adding hundreds more to the price so that's why this is your best bet to get a 4K HDR G-Sync monitor in terms of value and what you get for your money.
(Small note: this monitor has two different variants which are very similarly named so note which one it is you're interrogating through the links below. One is G-Sync 'proper' and one is G-Sync compatible - they are both very good!)
The best ultrawide G-Sync monitor
The Acer Predator X38 is a beast of an ultrawide G-Sync monitor if you're looking for a go-big or go-home screen to get that sweet, G-Sync hit.
Our variant of the X38 - there are a couple floating about so make sure to interrogate the specs list to make sure you get the one you're after - is the X38 Pbmiphzx model and features a whole bunch of gaming-focused specs that produce a glorious ultrawide playing experience.
The screen is a 38-inch Agile-splendor IPS panel, and there's a 1ms GtG response time, and a 175Hz refresh rate which is plenty fast enough for such a sizeable ultrawide monitor. That gentle curve of 2300R is nowhere near as harsh or aggressive as those going for the 1000R measure, but this doesn't impact immersion - there's just so much screen to take in, and your eyes are really blessed.
Throw in G-Sync functionality too and you are flying with the smoothest images. The image quality is beautiful, crisp, and vibrant (despite a 'just OK' HDR performance), and the amount of game, landscape, or spreadsheet you can take in is spectacular.
We really value the extra screen inches compared to the 34- or 35-inch ultrawide monitors that colleagues have, and the extra height, as well as width, makes it a great monitor for work as well ensuring there's plenty of space no matter the task. It's even comfortably light enough to be mounted on a monitor arm despite its size. It has gaming at its forefront, but the Acer Predator X38 is easily one of the best ultrawide monitors whatever you'll use one for.
Read more: Acer Predator X38 review
The best cheap G-Sync monitor
This is a great G-Sync monitor, and one that doesn't add quite as much of a premium to its price for the luxury of offering the tech. The Acer XB241H tones everything down ever so slightly in terms of resolution, screen size and panel type but the subsequent changes are combined to make one of the best G-sync monitors that won't destroy your bank balance.
The XB241H is a 24-inch monitor that has a 1080p resolution on a TN panel. It offers the oft-seen 144Hz refresh rate as standard but, as it's a TN panel, can offer much faster response times - it comes in at just 1 ms. Lightning. Its port setup could be seen to be a bit stingy though: it only has one HDMI and one DisplayPort.
However, the price point of the monitor combined with the G-Sync, as well as all the above genuinely good gaming specs and pedigree that Acer offers means you will not be disappointed by this wonderful, smaller monitor. If you had to get two 24-inch screens for a multi-monitor setup then I couldn't think of any better model to go for.
FAQ
Is G-Sync better than Freesync?
G-Sync is designed to address visual bugbears like screen tearing and artefacts, whereas Freesync better targets input lag. Both will resolve potential stuttering, but if you've got an Nvidia GeForce GPU, you'll find that the former produces better results.
What monitors have real G-Sync?
Nvidia has a master list of every G-Sync and G-Sync compatible gaming monitor available right now, including each screen's supported tier and baseline specs. Referring to this list is a handy way to double check if the feature is present before buying, as not every retailer and listing makes it clear.
Is it worth getting a monitor with G-Sync?
In honesty, we wouldn't go out your way to pay more for a G-Sync monitor specifically. Most of the time, you'll either end up with one just by picking the best screen for your needs, or you'll still end up with FreeSync support. That latter alternative normally comes with G-Sync compatibility, so you'll still feel the benefits even if you don't aim for the green team's proprietary tech baked in.
How do I know if my monitor is G-Sync compatible?
The best way to tell what kind of G-Sync your monitor features is to refer to the manufactures specifications, but many displays also proudly wear a badge on the front. Nvidia also has an official list of supported screens over on its site, so checking over there should also clear things up.
What is the best refresh rate for G-Sync?
Nvidia G-Sync supports refresh rates up to 360Hz, so you won't have to compromise on monitor specs to eliminate screen tearing. Of course, if you're planning to boost fps in competitive games, we'd suggest picking up something quicker than a 60Hz display, as you'll be able to reap the rewards of high-framerate PC gameplay.
Why is G-Sync more expensive?
G-Sync monitors feature extra hardware within that links up directly with Nvidia graphics cards, meaning they cost more to produce. Naturally, that's what then causes a screen to be more expensive than a non G-Sync display, but the emergence of G-Sync compatible FreeSync monitors is remedying previous price woes.
Is a G-Sync monitor worth buying?
In short, yes. Pairing your Nvidia GPU with a G-Sync monitor is a surefire way to eliminate screen tearing and other disruptive nasty artefacts. While it'd traditionally mean splashing out on a premium screen that's got the right innards, 'compatible' displays that use adaptive sync are now commonly available.
If you're after something that's TV-shaped then head over to our best gaming TV guide as well as our best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X, best OLED TV, and best 120Hz 4K TV guides which will all see you right.
