The best gaming monitor 2024

The best gaming monitor options are only getting better, and your chances of finding the perfect panel should only increase in 2024. That’s largely thanks to the ever growing number of displays designed for playing console and PC games emerging on the market, including super sharp 4K screens and models that boast incredible OLED abilities. So, if you’re looking for a portal to your favorite worlds, you’ll want to stick with us for a multitude of tried and tested monitors for gaming.

If we’re speaking objectively, the best gaming monitor overall right now is the Alienware 34 AW3423DWF, as it’s armed with a 34-inch panel that brings a respectable 165Hz refresh rate and OLED prowess to the table. However, not everyone has the same setup needs or even the funds to achieve them, so we prefer to offer up multiple contenders that cater to a wide range of budgets and system specs. That way, you’ll find the best monitor for you personally, whether you prefer beaming 4K visuals into your eyes or pairing high frame rates with speedier capabilities. 

We’ve spent a lot of time putting the best gaming monitors to the test, and we’ll be roading testing a wide selection of 4K monitors, OLED displays, curved panels, and even ultrawide options as we sail through 2024. Below, you’ll find the models that stand out for their fidelity, features, and functionality, based on hours of using each to play the latest FPS games, RPG romps, and a bunch of other PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC outings.

The quick list

The best gaming monitor overall

The best gaming monitor overall

Specifications

Screen size: 34-inch
Aspect ratio: 21:9
Resolution: 3440 x 1440
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Brightness: 1,000 nits
Response time: 0.1ms
Viewing angle: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
Panel: OLED
Features: Freesync Premium Pro, 99.3% DCI-P3, 2x DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB hub

Reasons to buy

+
The glossy OLED panel really rips
+
Silly-fast pixel response
+
Good full-screen brightness

Reasons to avoid

-
Privacy for a 34-inch ultrawide
-
Not terribly high res
-
Non-standard subpixel structure

The Alienware 34 AW3423DWF is the sequel to one of our favorite screens, and it builds upon what made the original our best gaming monitor pick. Its brilliant OLED panel is dazzling enough to distract you from any shortcomings, white its ultrawide curve provides an immersive experience across numerous game genres.

Buy it if:

✅ You crave incredible visuals: This Alienware monitor's OLED screen provides exceptional contrast, colors, and black levels, especially when compared to traditional IPS display. 

✅ You value faster refresh rates: If you're a fan of FPS games, or just like the look of higher refresh rate screens, you'll appreciate this 34-inch panel's 165Hz abilities.

✅ You're looking for something bright: While OLED displays normally suffer from brightness issues, the AW3423DWF overcomes issues associated with its screen tech.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You prefer to play at 4K: If you've got a shiny new AMD or Nvidia graphics card, you may want to pick a monitor that can help it spread its resolution wings.

❌You're on a budget: The Alienware 34 AW3423DW isn't remotely cheap, and it's not going to drop below premium pricing levels any time soon.

Features: There wasn't much we didn't like about Alienware's OG OLED gaming monitor, the Alienware 34 AW3423DW. But the new "F" model, the AW3423DWF, fixes one obvious issue, the matte anti-glare coating that robbed the awesome Samsung-supplied QD-OLED panel of just a little of its drama.

This new model gets a glossy coating and it makes all the difference. Black tones are absolutely inky, while the HDR experience seriously sizzles. This monitor really does deliver on the promise of OLED's per-pixel lighting control, it's spectacular.

Design: If you're familiar with gaming PCs like the Alienware Aurora R15, you might be expecting the 34 AW3423DW to look a bit eccentric. Yet, Dell's approach when it comes to monitors is sort of the opposite, as its ultrawide screen features a more conservative shell with just hints of a spacecraft aesthetic. 

Performance: While OLED displays normally come with brightness caveats, the Alienware 34 AW3423DW manages to produce excellent results. Plus, it still retains everything we love about the screen tech, like a ridiculously fast response rate and superb viewing angles.

Alienware's 34 inch panel is 1440p, which lets the side down a little on the pixel density front. However, we'd argue the OLED screen boasts enough visual tricks to distract you from its lower resolution, with games like Cyberpunk 2077 looking like vibrant portals to another world while testing.

Verdict: Resolution caveats aside, Alienware 34 AW3423DW boasts incredible OLED tricks and value improvements over the original model. Not everyone will vibe with the fact this display is 1440p, but it brings a refined experience to the table regardless. 

Read more: Alienware 34 AW3423DW review

The best 1080p gaming monitor

The best 1080p gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen Size: 24-inch
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 144Hz
Brightness: 250 nits
Response time: 1ms
Viewing angle: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: 144Hz, variable refresh rate, DisplayPort 1.2; HDMI type HDMI 1.4 x2

Reasons to buy

+
Proper IPS panel
+
144Hz refresh
+
Variable refresh rate

Reasons to avoid

-
No HDR support
-
Relatively puny 24-inch panel
-
Not terribly bright

The AOC 24G2 is out go to 1080p display, and its perfect for anyone sticking to a $200 budget. Sure, 4K is slowly becoming a standard thanks to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but 'Full HD' screens are still relevant in 2023, especially if you're looking for the best PS4 monitor or rocking a budget gaming PC.

Buy it if:

✅ You've got an entry level PC: AOC's 1080p screen pairs nicely with lower spec gaming PCs, and its even a decent option for Steam Deck owners.

✅ You need something affordable: Opting for a 1080p screen means you'll be able to spend less while still benefiting from other specs.

✅ You play FPS games: The 24G2 provides snappy response times and 144Hz refresh rate, meaning it great for competitive play.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You've got a high end GPU: Depending on your graphics card, you're potentially better off trying to pick up something that's either 1440p or 4K.

❌You've already got a similar screen: If your current display uses an IPS panel, it might be time to try out an OLED screen instead.

Features: Armed with a 1080p 144Hz panel, the 24-inch AOC 24G2 makes up for its lower pixel density with a snappy 1ms response rate. That boon is going to appeal to budding esports enthusiasts looking for faster visuals, but the IPS screen will serve respectable visuals across all genres, even if it's not the highest spec model around. Sadly, one thing it is missing is HDR compatibility of any kind, so keep that in mind if you're privy to turning the setting on,

Design: AOC takes a subtle approach with 24G2 aesthetics, but red accents round the back and at its base serve as a reminder that it's a gaming monitor. Its V-shaped base sort of does the same, as it provides just enough edge to escape looking like office equipment. If you're allergic to bezels, you're also going to love the fact there's barely any frame present, which actually gives it a premium vibe. 

Performance: Believe it or not, 1080p doesn't look as bad in 2023 as you'd think, so long as you stick to 24-inches. Sure, you'll notice some pixilation and softer visuals if you sit real close, but realistically, you're going to be sitting at at desk with appropriate distance in between.

Plus, the AOC 24G2 trades fewer pixels for a faster refresh rate and lower latency, two factors that'll give you that critical edge in your Battle Royale or team-based shooter of choice, be that Apex Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, Battlefield 5, or Overwatch 2.

Verdict: We're not saying you should downgrade to 1080p if you've already ascended to 1440p or 4K glory, but the AOC 24G2 is a top tier option for PC gamers using a lower spec rig with a GPU like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060. It might even be a great solution if your setup includes the best Steam Deck dock, as Valve's gaming handheld is suited to running games at full HD anyway.

Read more: AOC 24G2 review

The best 1440p gaming monitor

The best 1440p gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 27-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 2560 x 1440
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Brightness: 350 nits
Response time: 1ms
Viewing angle: 170/178
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: HDR-10, Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync technology

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent picture quality
+
Great colours and vibrancy
+
Lovely and smooth
+
Solid settings menu

Reasons to avoid

-
Slightly haziness to some edges and images
-
Matte finish gives lighter pictures a sheen

The ASUS TUF VG27AQ is not exactly the flashiest entry on our best gaming monitor list, but it's a serious 1440p contender. While it looks fairly ordinary on the outside, it packs a punch and offers great specs that'll benefit competitive players and mid-range PC gamers alike.

Buy it if:

✅ You're looking to balance specs and price: 1440p monitors like the TUF VG27AQ strike a good balance between resolution, features, and price, which is crucial if you've not got infinite amounts to spend.

✅ You've got a mid-range PC: Graphics cards like RTX 4070 are going to get along just fine with this punchy 1440p panel, especially if you like to boost fps in shooters.

✅ You want something subtle: No racing stripes, no irregular shapes or RGB lighting. The TUF VG27AQ can slip into existing setups without upsetting the status quo.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're not fussed about refresh rate: 4K screens are getting cheaper if you're willing to abide 60Hz, and the TUF VG27AQ costs a bit more due to its higher refresh rate.

❌You're upgrading an older 4K screen: Lower resolutions aren't always a downgrade, but you'll notice the difference if you're used to a higher pixel density.

Features: The TUF VG27AQ is kitted out with a 1440p 165Hz panel, and we reckon its specs are a PC gaming sweet spot. In fact, it's even a decent option for PS5 players, as the console now supports QHD resolutions. Regardless of your platform, this speedy screen offers a 1ms response time and HDR10 support, which hammers home the fact that this isn't an entry level model.

Design: Many ASUS products feature design queues that are in line with 'gamer' culture, but the VG27AQ is strangely pretty vanilla. In fact, if it wasn't for the fact we knew it's a TUF branded screen, we'd be fooled into thinking it's a screen from the company's productivity side of the business. Not that everything needs an edgy aesthetic or to be clad in RGB, but this 1440p panel is surprisingly vanilla compared to other options. 

Performance: When testing this monitor for review, we found that it delivered impressively crisp visuals. Stir in its HDR10 abilities and brightness levels too and the result is one of the nicest looking 1440p displays we've tried. The VG27AQ does a great job of balancing overall picture quality, speeds, all while targeting a price point that won't overly offend your bank account.

Verdict: If you're in the market for a 1440p monitor, the ASUS TUF VG27AQ is going to absolutely fill the brief. It does admittedly look a little soft if you're used to using 4K screens, but otherwise, it's got excellent visuals and speed on its side. As a side note, its matt finish might not be for everyone, as you can see a sort of sheen when lighter images are displayed.

Read more: ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ review

The best 4K gaming monitor

BenQ Mobiuz E3210U gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future/Kizito Katawonga)
The best 4K gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 32-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Brightness: 600 nits
Response Time: 1ms
Viewing angles: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 1000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: iHDR, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort, 4x USB 3.0, 2x USB-C, headphone jack

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful design, plenty of ports
+
Excellent speakers & built-in microphone
+
Intelligent HDRi 
+
Great in games and productivity

Reasons to avoid

-
Weak local dimming
-
No KVM Switch
-
Not the cheapest 4K gaming monitor going

The BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U is our best 4K monitor pick, and it brings more to the table than just UHD visuals. Its impressive array of features and impressive HDR abilities will give even the latest displays a run for their money, not to mention it's also a bit of a looker in terms of design.

Buy it if:

✅ You want great value 4K specs: The Mobiuz EX3210U  is an impressive 4K 144Hz screen that won't upset your bank account.

✅ You use both console and PC: Opting for 144Hz over 120Hz will ultimately benefit your experience on PC, but that's a good thing if you're rocking a rig and a console.

✅ You want plenty of extras: From built-in speakers to fancy back RGB illumination, this screen offers more than just visual specs.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're willing to spend a bit more: In 2023, you can pick up a monitor with superior contrast if you've got $200 extra to spare, and it's arguably worth it if you're looking for the best specs.

❌ You'd rather spend even less: It might be great value for a 4K monitor, but it is possible to grab lower-spec alternatives for a chunk less that'll still provide a decent PS5 experience.

Features: It's safe to say the Mobiuz EX3210U pushes the boat out when it comes to features, with integrated Trevolo speakers adding more than just visuals to the package. This specific model even has a microphone built-in, which may suit those of you looking for an all-in-one solution for your PC. Additional extras include striking RGB lights at the back and a remote control, which is always a big plus in our book.

Design: BenQ knows how to make an interesting looking screen, and while the EX3210U is rather unassuming round the front, there's a party round the back. It's white shell provides a futuristic design that strikes a nice balance between contemporary and that usual gamer aesthetic, and it's V-shaped stand adds a splash of orange into the mix for good measure.

Of course, you'll also find a hearty helping of ports round back hidden under a lip, and this may or may not be a good thing depending on your preferences. It can feel finnicky if you constantly find yourself connecting different consoles and PCs, but it helps to aid cable management for the most part.

Performance: While the Mobiuz EX3210U uses a fairly traditional IPS display, it produces surprising contrast and colors when handling 4K PC and console games. The panel's exceptional iHDR abilities help bolster its visuals using intelligent profiles, and there's even a virtual mode that will simulate High Dynamic Range on even SDR content. 

Being a 4K 144Hz screen, the EX3210U is also snappy. Shooters like Overwatch 2 and Halo Infinite feel super responsive thanks to its 1ms response time, not to mention combats potential screen tearing using FreeSync Premium Pro and (unofficial) G-Sync compatibility.

Verdict: At the moment, the Mobiuz EX3210U is our go to screen for anyone looking for excellent 4K abilities. The entire package stands out as better value than most other UHD displays out there right now, and it's price is getting better as time goes on.

Read more: BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U review

The best OLED gaming monitor

Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 gaming monitor with Farah from Overwatch 2 on screen

(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
The best OLED gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 26.5-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 2560 x 1440p
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Brightness: 450 nits
Response time: 0.03ms GtG
Viewing angle: 178°
Contrast ratio: 1,500,000:1
Panel: OLED
Features: HDR10, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Display Port 1.4, 4x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 3.5mm auxiliary audio output

Reasons to buy

+
Superb OLED screen
+
Snappy 240Hz refresh rate
+
Loads of ports

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
OSD buttons are fiddly

There are plenty of great OLED gaming monitor options out there, but the Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 impresses with a snappy 240Hz refresh rate and excellent HDR. It's expensive, but we reckon the LG panel included with this display is worth the hype, particularly if you're looking for colors that pop.

Buy it if:

✅ You want exceptional contrast: This Corsair monitor is the OLED panel to beat, and it provides exceptional contrast and color.

✅ You've got a midrange graphics card: This screen is begging to be paired with ultra settings at 1440p.

✅ You want super speedy screen: 240Hz really makes a difference, and it's 0.03ms response time rivals even our favorite monitor for esports.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to play at 4K: It's QHD or nothing this time around, which might not suit those of you with expensive GPUs.

❌You need something bigger: 27-inches can feel dinky when it comes to desktop displays, and this Corsair monitor doesn't feel particularly large.

Features: The Xeneon 27QHD240 is begging to be hooked up to as many consoles and devices as possible, as it features an impressive number of ports round back. You'll be able to hook up a gaming PC, PS5, Switch, and Steam Deck dock if you've got one to hand, meaning the screen can serve as your one stop gaming shop. It's size might mean you'll be better sticking with a gaming desk than something that places distance in between, but more players these days are making thew switch from the living room to a specific gaming setups. 

Design: Gaming monitors are sometimes inherently loud and proud, but the Xeneon 27QHD240 takes a subtle, but striking approach. Compared to some slightly older models, Corsair's display looks like a screen from 2023, with its extremely slimline bezels framing what is a pretty elegant piece of hardware.

Performance: There's a good reason why the Xeneon 27QHD240 is our favorite OLED monitor right now, and it's largely thanks to its excellent LG panel. The display transforms the neon drenched streets of Cyberpunk 2077's Night City into a vivid landscape, with HDR helping provide a hint of realism to the RPG's impressive lighting. It even puts on enough of a lightshow to distract from the fact its only 1440p, as it takes a lot of concentration to look past the dazzling visuals and notice its reduced pixel density.

Of course, that 240Hz refresh rate really shines through too, and it makes it a pretty fantastic display for competitive play. Normally, we'd expect a monitor to end up catering to either pretty visuals or speed. Yet, the 27QHD240 targets both, offering reliable results no matter what you're playing.

Verdict: One of the only downsides to the Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 is its price, as at $999, it's a pretty expensive small screen experience. However, we'd argue it justifies its price with excellent fidelity and sky high refresh rate, and it might make more of an impression than larger 4K IPS displays at a similar price point. 

Read more: Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 review

The best curved gaming monitor

LG UltraGear 45GR95QE with Cyberpunk 2077 gameplay on screen

(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
The best curved monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 45-inch
Screen type: 21:9
Resolution: 3440 x 1440
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Brightness: 450 nits
Response time: 0.03ms GtG
Viewing angle: 178°
Contrast ratio: 1,500,000:1
Panel: OLED
Features: 800R curve, HDR10, 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x Display Port 1.4, 2x USB-A, 3.5mm headphone, optical output

Reasons to buy

+
Gorgeous 45-inch OLED display
+
Immersive ultrawide curve
+
Effective RGB backlighting

Reasons to avoid

-
Beyond expensive
-
1440p slightly soft at this screen size

It'll dominate both your desk and bank account, but the LG UltraGear 45GR95QE is one of the best curved monitors we've tested. Not only does it cater to fidelity with its curved OLED panel, but it'll also provide your eyes with a 240Hz visuals. That's fantastic given that many OLED displays feature a lower refresh rate, even if it does stick with 1440p on the resolution side of things.

Buy it if:

✅ You want a bigger screen: It's a few inches off the biggest monitor we've tested, but it's still massive for a desktop screen.

✅ You play games at 1440p: If you're a fan of QHD, this screen is going to fulfil your premium needs.

✅ You're used to higher refresh rates: This is another 240Hz display, meaning it's perfect for those making the jump from lower refresh rates and players that are used to speedy screens.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're not willing to trade away 4K: Most ultrawide screens stick with 1440p, and that could be problem if you're used to looking at UHD screens.

❌You'd rather invest in different specs: Curved ultrawide OLED shenanigans isn't for everyone, and picking something with different target specs may better serve your needs.

Features: Measuring in at a whopping 45-inches, you won't want to pick up the monstrous LG UltraGear 45GR95QE if you live in a caravan or a cramped space. However, if you've got the desk to hold it, the gargantuan display will envelop you and produce an immersive experience that flat monitors simply cannot. The vivid contrast and colors of the OLED screen, paired with HDR10 and an 800R curve make for a hell of a ride when playing first person shooters, but you'll find yourself craving more screen space across your Steam library after using this display.

It's a small extra, but the UltraGear 45GR95QE also comes with a remote, and it makes all the difference when venturing into monitor settings. And you'll perhaps find yourself within menus more than you'd think, as the screen has various options including gaming related overlays, picture in picture functionality, and settings relating to FreeSync and G-Sync. Not to mention there's a whole separate menu dedicated to 'OLED care', which should help prevent any screen burn mishaps over time.

Design: It's evident that a lot of craft has went into the UltraGear 45GR95QE's design. From its simple to set up one click stand system to effective decorate RGB black lighting, there's plenty to like about LG's premium package. Being 45-inches, it the unboxing process is perhaps a little unwieldly for just one person, so be sure to keep your player 2 close by to prevent any  mishaps.

Performance: Immersive on multiple levels, the UltraGear 45GR95QE's panel both envelops you visually and feeds your field of view deep colors. It's not a deal breaker, but if you're used to using a 4K screen, it's worth reiterating that the LG UltraGear 45GR95QEh is only 1440p. That normally wouldn't matter so much since OLED displays can distract from that fact, but it's 45-inch stature means QHD looks a little bit softer than usual. Still, you'll only notice this if you don't heed your mother's advice and sit back a bit from the monitor, and it's still a stunning display even at half the resolution of flat alternatives. 

Verdict: The LG UltraGear 45GR95QE is without a doubt one of the best curved displays to come out of 2023. The experience it provides is arguably the closest thing you can get to VR immersion without sticking on a headset, and we struggled when swapping it back out for a conventional monitor. As with many premium screens, price is what sort of dampens the overall product, but that's not going to be an issue if you're in the market for this calibre of display.

Read more: LG UltraGear 45GR95QE review

The best ultrawide gaming monitor

Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 49-inch panel up close

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
The best ultrawide gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 49-inch
Apect ratio: 32:9
Resolution: 5120x1440
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Brightness: 250 nits
Response time: 0.03ms GtG
Viewing angle: 178°
Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
Panel: OLED
Features: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, HDR10, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Micro-HDMI 2.1, 3x USB-A 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1

Reasons to buy

+
Staggering 49-inch OLED panel
+
Stupendous image quality
+
Some nice extras

Reasons to avoid

-
Ultrawide aspect ratio is not always ideal
-
Smart features are a bit pointless

It's one of the priciest ultrawide gaming monitors around, but if you're looking for an epic screen with punchy OLED visuals, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 will more than deliver. It's got stiff competition from LG, but it's a 49-inch whopper that'll eclipse your workspace and provide plenty of extra features.

Buy it if:

✅ You want a huge OLED display: At 49 inches, you'd need to venture into the realm of gaming TVs to find anything bigger.

✅ You're happy with 1440p : If you think 4K isn't the be all and end all, this QHD screen isn't going to disappoint.

✅ You want integrated smart features: If you basically use your desk as a makeshift living room, you might appreciate this screen's app and streaming service support.

Don't buy it if:

❌ Ditching 4K isn't an option: If you're acclimatised to UHD visuals, it might be hard trading away resolution for better screen tech.

❌You don't need built in smart features: Let's be honest, you'll be plugging a PC or console into this ultrawide display, so additional smart features may feel redundant.

Fearures: Both the the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 and LG UltraGear 45GR95QE offer a very similar experience, but the OLED G9 is perhaps the better ultrawide contender due to its size. It also boasts smart features, but since you'll be likely hooking the screen up to a PC anyway, that extra quirk is perhaps slightly redundant. That said, it does join LG in including a remote, something that's almost always going to win us over.

Design: If you're familiar with Samsung's Odyssey range, you'll know what to expect from its new OLED titan. Its spaceship-esque silver finish provides just a hint of futurism to its aesthetic, and the back of the monitor looks almost clinically minimalist. Just like its LG rival, it makes sure to include RGB lighting in the form of a circular vortex, which certainly sets it apart visually from every other premium monitor we've tested.

Performance: Aside from providing you with heaps of screen space for productivity, the OLED G9 boasts one the best HDR experiences in any monitor we've tried to date. Pairing the feature with Samsung's OLED panel makes for outrageous contrast and vivid colors, and while the fact this screen is 1440p isn't ideal, you'll be too busy gazing at its sizzling visual abilities. 

Verdict: The Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 is far from perfect, and there's a cheaper version without the smart features on the way. However, it's earned its position as our new go to ultrawide monitor, even if it's price serves to be a big barrier. 

Read more: Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 review

The best gaming monitor for PS5

The best gaming monitor for PS5

Specifications

Screen size: 27-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Brightness: 600 nits peak HDR
Response time: 1ms
Viewing angle: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: HDR 600, Nvidia G-Sync, 70mm heigh adjustment, built-in speakers, DisplayPort 1.4 x1, HDMI 2.1 x2, USB hub

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful contrast, great HDR quality
+
Competitively priced for other 4K gaming monitors
+
Great exclusive PS5 features
+
Sleek design

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited screen mobility
-
Ports are tough to reach

The Sony Inzone M9 stands as the best PS5 monitor in 2024, as it feels like a natural extension of the 4K console. That's not to say it won't deliver fantastic results for PC and Xbox Series X players too, but you only have to look at this premium display to know that it belongs next to a PlayStation 5.

Buy it if:

✅ You want a PS5 monitor: It looks like a PlayStation and comes with tailored features. Enough said.

✅ You want a high spec 4K screen: Armed with 4K 144Hz capabilities, this display is up there with the best UHD contenders.

✅ You want something different: The Inzone M9 is definitely a conversation starter design-wise, and it'll turn heads no matter where you take it.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't need lofty specs: Arguably, the PS5 doesn't even always make full use of its max potential, so a cheaper screen may provide a more balanced experience.

❌You need something more subtle: The M9 isn't going to blend into your living room, so keep that in mind if you've got a sneaky setup over in the corner.

Features: The Sony Inzone M9 provides quite a few ports, allowing you to easily connect your PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S (cheeky) 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. An 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 dang thing. 

With some exclusive PS5 features that include auto swapping between cinema and game modes and automatically optimizing HDR settings upon booting up the console. This means you won't have to fiddle with any settings on your monitor when going between PS5 and PC use, which is a lovely little feature that not a ton of gaming monitors have. 

Design: Sony has stepped into the gaming monitor world with an absolutely beautiful beast. The Inzone M9 is a gorgeous monitor boasting a 27" 4K HDR screen and a sleek PS5-inspired design that clearly shares design DNA with the new-gen console. Its tripod stand also stands out compared to traditional pedestals and feet, but it's not super adjustable in terms of height and angle.

Performance: The Inzone M9 fits the PS5 like a glove specs-wise, and it really helps the new gen console strut its stuff. We immediately could feel the difference playing Overwatch 2 at 120fps, with its higher refresh rate pulling responsive stunts not afforded to console monitors of the past. While it's not an OLED display, it managed to surprise us with its color and contrast capacities, with Elden Ring coming across as a vibrant canvas on screen.

Verdict: In short, the Sony Inzone M9 is a stunning screen in both display and design, and an excellent option if you're looking to improve your PS5 setup. That said, we'd also argue that this is the best monitor for Xbox Series X, which sounds weird given the brand, but its specs equally benefit Microsoft's compact console.

Read more: Sony Inzone M9 review

The best high refresh rate gaming monitor

The best high refresh rate gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 27-inch
Apect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 360Hz
Brightness: 400 nits
Response time: 0.5ms GTG
Viewing angle: 178/178
Contrast ratio: 1,500,000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible, DisplayPort 1.4 x2, HDMI x 1

Reasons to buy

+
Super responsive
+
Nice selection of overlays
+
Plenty of ports

Reasons to avoid

-
1080p shows its wrinkles
-
Color and contrast are lacking

Dell's Alienware AW2724HF is our current go to high refresh rate monitor for competitive games and esports performance. Armed with a 360Hz panel, this screen is one of the speediest we've tested, even if faster 500Hz displays are now available.

Buy it if:

✅ You need a furiously fast screen: 360Hz is almost as fast as gaming monitors get, and it'll cater to the niche needs of competitive players.

✅ You aren't ready for 500Hz: If you know for a fact you won't be able to hit near 500fps in PC games using your rig, this screen is a more sensible choice.

✅ You want to connect multiple devices: With plenty of ports at its disposal, the Alienware AW2724HF can hook up to multiple  consoles and your PC at the same time.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don't really need higher than 240Hz: Most players won't benefit that much from higher refresh rates.

❌1080p is a no go: If you can't imagine playing the latest games at 1080p in 2023, this isn't the monitor for you.

Features: Dell normally includes a healthy OSD menu with its monitors, and the Alienware AW2724HF is no exception. From overlays that cater to FPS games to smart HDR options, you'll find everything you need to get the most out of this speedy screen. It does sadly use one of those annoying joystick nubs, though, which depending on your preferences, might be a pain.

Design: The Alienware AW2724HF is pretty subtle design wise, but that's perhaps a good thing. Its adjustable base is versatile and will blend in with most setups, and round the back isn't as flashy as an Alienware gaming PC. Yet, it still looks like a product worthy of the Zeta head logo, even if this particular model boasts more substance than style.

Performance: Of course, performance is priority when it comes to high refresh rate monitors. Thankfully, the Alienware AW2724HF delivers on that front, facilitating speedy visuals that will help you maintain peak performance in fast paced shooters. When paired with a high polling rate gaming mouse, you'll instantly feel the difference compared to lower spec screens, with each hand movement translating to a super slick maneuverer on screen. Sadly, 360Hz comes with caveats, as color and contrast both take a back seat.

Verdict: Ultimately, if you're looking for a monitor fit for esports gameplay, the Alienware AW2724HF fits the bill. It could lose its place on this list if 500Hz displays become more affordable, but even then, not everyone is going to feel the benefits of refresh rates above 500Hz. Preferably, we'd love to see a 1440p successor arrive at some point, as 1080p felt a little pixelated during testing.

Read more: Alienware AW2724HF review

The best portable gaming monitor

10. ASUS ROG Strix XG17

The best portable gaming monitor

Specifications

Screen size: 17.3-inch
Aspect ratio: 16:9
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 240Hz
Brightness: 300cd/m2
Response time: 3ms
Viewing angle: 178/178 degrees
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Panel: IPS
Features: Built-in battery, 240Hz refresh rate, adaptive sync, USB-C x 2, HDMI, 7800mAh battery

Reasons to buy

+
High quality IPS panel
+
240Hz plus adaptive sync
+
Built-in battery

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive
-
No HDR support

Arguably the current daddy, and best portable monitor for gaming in terms of stature and price, the Asus ROG Strix XG17 offers surprising specs for an on the go screen. Seriously, there are desktop displays that pack far less features into a far bulkier package, so it's easy to see why this foldaway solution wins our top spot.

Buy it if:

✅ You want the best portable performance: This 1080p 240Hz screen is pretty cutting edge considering its portable.

✅ You need a built-in battery: If you'd rather not hang out next to power outlets, this monitor's built in batter will see you right.

✅ You play competitively: 240Hz is going to make a difference in fast paced FPS games.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You've got low spec portable devices: Handhelds like the Steam Deck aren't going to make full use of this screen's specs.

❌You want a higher resolution: 1080p might feel a bit low, so you may want to consider UHD alternatives.

Features: The ROG Strix XG17 is a 1080p 240Hz monitor that's designed for traveling around with you. It's even got a built in batter, providing you with over 3 hours of completely untethered use. Again, we've tested screens that can't provide much on top of that while constantly plugged in, and Asus' 17-inch panel doesn't even sacrifice image quality as a result.

Design: Weighing in at over a kilo, you'll absolutely notice whether the ROG Strix XG17 is in your backpack. An optional tripod adds an extra 0.65kg to the setup, but that's really only if you want to turn it into a desktop display. In terms of looks, the Asus screen is surprisingly unassuming, with a silver bottom bezel and white logo on the back serving as the only standout design features included. Still, it looks and feels pretty premium thanks to its brushed metal chassis, and it's arguably more important than aesthetics. 

Performance: Again, 1080p 240Hz is what's on offer with the ROG Strix XG17, making it a performance beast. Its 3ms response, wide color gamut coverage, a gaming-friendly 1080p native resolution all provide it with portable prowess too , with a full range of OSD menu options including pixel overdrive settings serving as nice extras. Unless you want to go 4K or need HDR support, this is probably as good as portable gaming panels get.

Verdict: It's admitted pretty damn expensive, but if you want the best portable screen experience currently available to on the go players, the Asus ROG Strix XG17 is it. If you're merely looking to extend your gaming handheld screen, you might want to consider far cheaper options like Verbatim's Portable Touchscreen Monitor. Otherwise, be prepared to splash out.

Best gaming monitors: quickfire glossary

R45w-30

(Image credit: Future)

Best gaming monitor lists like ours try to give you as much information as concisely as possible, however this also means relying on tech speak and acronyms sometimes. Here we have outlined some of the most common terms and what they mean so you can be fully informed.

Color accuracy: How closely a displayed color is able to match its real world counterpart. 

Contrast ratio: How bright and dark a display can get at maximum settings.

HDR: High Dynamic Range is a display technology that allows for a broader range of contrast and color, enabling brighter highlights, deeper blacks, and richer color.

IPS: In-plane Switching, a technique and panel type of LCDs that provides the best viewing angles and color amongst competitive LCD tech (VA and TN).

Local dimming: A technique of using backlight to dim or light zones of a panel to enhance contrast and picture quality.

Peak brightness: Literally how bright a monitor or display can be, measured in nits.

Refresh rate: Measured in hertz, refresh rate is a measure of how many times the image on a display is updated. A refresh rate of 60Hz is equivalent to 60 frames per second (and so on).

Resolution: The number of pixels a display is capable of displaying, written as width by height. A 1920 x 1080 display renders 1920 pixels across and 1080 pixels vertically, but often referred to as just '1080p' - a pattern of abbreviation used throughout the resolutions of displays.

Tearing: Tearing is the appearance of an image being severed, with one frame appearing on one side of the tear and another on the opposite side.

TN: Twisted Nematic is the cheapest and fastest LCD display technique which traps nematic liquid crystal between two planes of polarized glass. 

UHD: Ultra-high-definition, the term used to describe 4K and 8K resolutions.

VA: Vertical Alignment, an LCD panel technology with the best image depth and highest contrast amongst other competitive LCD techniques (TN and IPS) but often slowest response time.

The best gaming monitors - FAQ

What gaming monitor type is best for gaming?

Choosing a gaming monitor panel type is intrinsic to the types of games you want to play. For example, if you love competitive FPS games, we'd recommend sticking with a high refresh rate IPS panel. If you want to embark on massive RPG adventures with colourful landscapes, an OLED screen will bring fictional worlds to life. Those of you who are craving more workspace might even want to switch things up with an ultrawide panel, as the extra width also offers a broader view in games.

Should I get one or two gaming monitors?

Ultimately, most players will only use a single monitor for actually playing games, but there are benefits to rocking a dual setup. From using an extra panel for Discord to having more space for streaming apps like OBS and Streamlabs, having an additional display to hand is going to make doing more than gaming easier. That said, picking up an ultrawide monitor with a broader aspect ratio can provide similar benefits, with some models like the Lenovo Legion R45w-30 being able to display two inputs at once.

What type of monitor is best for FPS gaming?

Competitive players and esports enthusiasts will want to pay close attention to a monitor's refresh rate and responsiveness, as both will affect how FPS games feel when using a mouse and keyboard. Providing you've got a PC that can keep up in terms of frame rate, we'd say 360Hz is plenty if you're looking to keep your shooters ultrasmooth, and trying to stick with a 1ms response rate will eliminate any possibility of latency. 

How we test 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.

Philips Evnia 25M2N5200P in the GamesRadar office displaying a scene from The Last of Us

(Image credit: Jeremy Laird)

Between our on-team staff and our crew of expert freelance writers and reviewers, every monitor that comes our way is is put through its paces to check whether it's worthy of your attention, or one you should consider avoiding.

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 batch 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


If you're after something that's TV-shaped then head over to our best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X, best OLED TV, and best 120Hz 4K TV guides for big screen alternatives.

Phil Hayton
Hardware Editor

I’ve been messing around with PCs, video game consoles, and tech since before I could speak. Don’t get me wrong, I kickstarted my relationship with technology by jamming a Hot Wheels double-decker bus into my parent’s VCR, but we all have to start somewhere. I even somehow managed to become a walking, talking buyer’s guide at my teenage supermarket job, which helped me accept my career fate. So, rather than try to realise my musician dreams, or see out my University degree, I started running my own retro pop culture site and writing about video games and tech for the likes of TechRadar, The Daily Star, and the BBC before eventually ending up with a job covering graphics card shenanigans at PCGamesN. Now, I’m your friendly neighbourhood Hardware Editor at GamesRadar, and it’s my job to make sure you can kick butt in all your favourite games using the best gaming hardware, whether you’re a sucker for handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch or a hardcore gaming PC enthusiast.

With contributions from