Best Gaming Monitor Under 200

Portable Monitor 15.6” 1080P FHD Gaming Monitor

The Portable Monitor 15.6” 1080P FHD Gaming Monitor is a versatile and sleek option for gamers who need flexibility and portability. This external monitor offers Full HD resolution on a 15.6-inch IPS screen, delivering crisp visuals and vibrant colors. It’s designed to be easily connected to a wide range of devices, including laptops, PCs, Macs, gaming consoles like PS4 and Xbox, as well as smartphones, thanks to its USB-C and HDMI ports.

Key Features:

• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS panel
• Compatibility: Works with laptops, PCs, Macs, smartphones, PS4, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch
• Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Mini HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
• Additional: Protective cover that doubles as a stand

Pros:

• Portable and lightweight design for easy travel
• IPS panel offers wide viewing angles and vibrant colors
• Versatile connectivity options with USB-C and HDMI ports
• Built-in speakers provide an all-in-one solution
• Protective cover doubles as a stand for easy setup

Cons:

• Smaller screen size may not be ideal for all gaming scenarios
• Built-in speakers may lack depth for immersive audio experiences
• Limited brightness compared to larger, dedicated gaming monitors

BenQ Gaming Monitor GW2490

The BenQ Gaming Monitor GW2490 is a 24-inch Full HD gaming monitor that combines solid performance with a range of eye-care technologies, making it a great choice for gamers who spend extended hours in front of the screen. This monitor features a 1920x1080p IPS panel, which delivers sharp, vibrant visuals with wide viewing angles, ensuring consistent color accuracy no matter where you sit. The 100Hz refresh rate offers smooth motion, making it suitable for casual gaming and multimedia consumption.

Key Features:

• Display: 24-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS panel
• Refresh Rate: 100Hz
• Eye-Care Technology: Low Blue Light, Flicker-Free, Adaptive Brightness
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
• Additional: Anti-glare coating for reduced reflections

Pros:

• IPS panel delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles
• Eye-Care technology reduces eye strain during long sessions
• Adaptive Brightness automatically adjusts screen brightness
• Anti-glare coating minimizes reflections
• Built-in speakers for convenient audio

Cons:

• 100Hz refresh rate may not be enough for competitive gaming
• Built-in speakers may not deliver immersive audio
• No height adjustment on the stand

AOC Curved Gaming Monitor CQ27G3Z

The AOC Curved Gaming Monitor CQ27G3Z is a 27-inch curved gaming monitor that takes your gaming experience to the next level with its high-resolution QHD 2K display and ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate. Designed with a 1000R curvature, this monitor wraps around your field of vision, creating an immersive gaming environment that draws you into the action. The VA panel offers deep contrasts and vibrant colors, ensuring that every scene looks stunning, whether you’re playing fast-paced shooters or exploring expansive open worlds.

Key Features:

• Display: 27-inch QHD 2K (2560×1440) VA panel with 1000R curvature
• Refresh Rate: 240Hz
• Response Time: 0.5ms
• Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Ergonomics: Height adjustable stand
• Warranty: 3-year zero-bright-dot warranty

Pros:

• High resolution QHD display with deep contrasts and vibrant colors
• Ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time for smooth gameplay
• Curved 1000R design enhances immersion
• FreeSync Premium reduces screen tearing and stuttering
• Ergonomic stand with height adjustment for comfortable viewing

Cons:

• VA panel may have slightly slower pixel response compared to TN panels
• Larger 27-inch size requires ample desk space
• No built-in speakers

ASUS TUF Gaming Monitor

The ASUS TUF Gaming Monitor VG277Q1A is a 27-inch Full HD monitor designed to meet the needs of gamers who demand both speed and quality. With a 165Hz refresh rate (supporting 144Hz) and a 1ms response time, this monitor delivers incredibly smooth and responsive gameplay, making it perfect for fast-paced games where split-second reactions are crucial. The monitor’s Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology further enhances motion clarity by eliminating ghosting and tearing, ensuring that every frame is crisp and clear.

Key Features:

• Display: 27-inch Full HD (1920×1080) TN panel
• Refresh Rate: 165Hz (supports 144Hz)
• Response Time: 1ms
• Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
• Additional Features: Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB), Shadow Boost, Eye Care Technology
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Ergonomics: Tilt-adjustable stand

Pros:

• High 165Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time for fast and smooth gameplay
• ELMB technology eliminates ghosting and tearing for clear visuals
• FreeSync Premium reduces screen tearing and stuttering
• Shadow Boost enhances visibility in dark game scenes
• Eye-care technologies reduce eye strain during long sessions

Cons:

• TN panel may not offer as vibrant colors or wide viewing angles as IPS or VA panels
• No height adjustment on the stand
• Built-in speakers not included

Sceptre Curved Gaming Monitor

The Sceptre Curved Gaming Monitor (C248W-1920RN Series) is a budget-friendly option for gamers who want an immersive experience without breaking the bank. This monitor features a 24-inch curved screen with a 1080p Full HD resolution, providing sharp and vibrant visuals that wrap around your field of view thanks to the R1500 curvature. The curved design enhances immersion by bringing the edges of the screen closer to your natural field of vision, making gaming, movies, and even everyday computing more engaging.

Key Features:

• Display: 24-inch Full HD (1920×1080) VA panel with R1500 curvature
• Color Gamut: 98% sRGB for vibrant and accurate colors
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x VGA, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
• Mounting: VESA wall mount compatible
• Design: Sleek, machine black finish with a slim profile

Pros:

• Affordable price with good performance for the cost
• Curved R1500 design enhances immersion
• 98% sRGB color gamut for accurate color reproduction
• Multiple connectivity options with HDMI and VGA ports
• VESA mountable for flexible setup

Cons:

• Built-in speakers may not offer high-quality sound
• No advanced gaming features like FreeSync or high refresh rate
• Limited adjustability with the stand

Sceptre 24-inch Professional Thin 1080p LED Monitor

The Sceptre 24-inch Professional Thin 1080p LED Monitor (E248W-19203R Series) is a stylish and versatile option for gamers, professionals, and casual users alike. This monitor features a sleek, ultra-thin design with a 24-inch Full HD display that delivers sharp visuals and excellent clarity. The 1080p resolution is perfect for everyday computing, gaming, and media consumption, offering a crisp and clear viewing experience.

Key Features:

• Display: 24-inch Full HD (1920×1080) LED panel
• Color Gamut: 99% sRGB for vibrant and accurate colors
• Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x VGA, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
• Mounting: VESA wall mount compatible
• Design: Ultra-thin profile with a machine black finish

Pros:

• Sleek and modern design with an ultra-thin profile
• 99% sRGB color gamut for accurate and vibrant colors
• Multiple connectivity options with dual HDMI and VGA ports
• Energy-efficient LED backlighting
• VESA mountable for flexible setup options

Cons:

• Built-in speakers may lack depth and volume
• No advanced gaming features like high refresh rates or adaptive sync
• Stand offers limited adjustability

Samsung Monitor 27 Inch Curved

The Samsung Monitor 27 Inch Curved (LC27F398FWNXZA) offers a blend of style, comfort, and performance, making it an excellent choice for both gaming and everyday use. With its 27-inch curved screen and Full HD resolution, this monitor provides an immersive viewing experience that enhances your enjoyment whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or working. The 1800R curvature wraps around your field of vision, reducing eye strain and creating a more natural viewing experience that’s easy on the eyes during long sessions.

Key Features:

• Display: 27-inch Full HD (1920×1080) VA panel with 1800R curvature
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz with AMD FreeSync support
• Response Time: 4ms
• Ports: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Design: Ultra-slim profile with a glossy black finish
• Mounting: VESA wall mount compatible

Pros:

• Immersive 1800R curved screen for a more natural viewing experience
• AMD FreeSync minimizes screen tearing and stuttering during gaming
• VA panel delivers wide viewing angles and vibrant color reproduction
• Ultra-slim design enhances aesthetic appeal and saves desk space
• VESA compatibility allows for flexible mounting options

Cons:

• 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy competitive gamers
• Limited stand adjustability (only tilt)
• Built-in speakers not included

Conclusion

Choosing the Best gaming monitor under $200 involves balancing various factors such as refresh rate, response time, and panel type. Each of the monitors reviewed here offers a unique combination of features that cater to different gaming preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize speed, visual quality, or immersive experiences, there’s a monitor on this list that will fit your budget and enhance your gaming setup.

For competitive gamers, monitors like the Sceptre E255B-1658A and BenQ Zowie XL2411P offer the high refresh rates and fast response times necessary for an edge in fast-paced games. On the other hand, if you’re looking for immersive visuals, the AOC C24G1 and MSI Optix G24C4 provide curved displays that wrap around your field of vision. For those who value vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, IPS monitors like the ASUS VP249QGR and Gigabyte G27F offer excellent visual quality and smooth gameplay.

Ultimately, the best gaming monitor for you will depend on your specific needs and gaming habits. Consider what aspects of gaming are most important to you, and choose a monitor that aligns with those priorities.

FAQs Best gaming monitor under 200

What refresh rate should I look for in a gaming monitor under $200?

When shopping for a gaming monitor under $200, a refresh rate of 144Hz is often considered the sweet spot. This refresh rate ensures that the monitor refreshes the image on the screen 144 times per second, resulting in smoother and more fluid gameplay. This is particularly beneficial in fast-paced games where split-second reactions are crucial. A higher refresh rate reduces motion blur and screen tearing, giving you a competitive edge by making the action appear more fluid and responsive.

While there are monitors with refresh rates higher than 144Hz, they typically come with a higher price tag and may offer diminishing returns unless you’re playing highly competitive games at an elite level. For most gamers, 144Hz provides an optimal balance between performance and affordability, delivering a significant improvement over the standard 60Hz or 75Hz found in many budget monitors. If you’re upgrading from a lower refresh rate monitor, you’ll likely notice a dramatic improvement in how smooth and seamless your gaming experience feels.

Is a 1ms response time necessary for gaming?

A 1ms response time is often touted as essential for gaming, especially in competitive environments where every millisecond counts. This specification refers to how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another, which directly affects the amount of motion blur and ghosting visible on the screen. A 1ms response time minimizes these effects, ensuring that fast-moving objects, such as in first-person shooters or racing games, appear sharp and clear without any trailing images.

However, while a 1ms response time is ideal for competitive gamers who play fast-paced titles and need the quickest possible input response, it may not be a necessity for all gamers. Casual players or those who play less demanding games may find that a slightly higher response time, such as 3ms or 4ms, is perfectly adequate and still provides an enjoyable gaming experience. It’s also worth noting that the difference between 1ms and 4ms can be subtle to the average gamer, particularly on higher-quality panels like IPS, which may offer better color accuracy and viewing angles despite a marginally slower response time.

What is the difference between TN, IPS, and VA panels?

TN (Twisted Nematic) panels are known for their fast response times and are often favored by competitive gamers who need the quickest possible reaction times. However, they suffer from limited viewing angles and less vibrant color reproduction, which can result in washed-out colors, especially when viewed from an angle. This makes TN panels less ideal for those who prioritize visual quality or use their monitors for activities beyond gaming, such as photo editing or watching movies.

IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels, on the other hand, are renowned for their superior color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them a great choice for gamers who also use their monitors for creative work or media consumption. IPS panels provide more consistent and accurate colors, which enhances the overall visual experience. However, they typically have slower response times compared to TN panels, though advancements in technology have reduced this gap significantly, making IPS a viable option even for competitive gaming.

VA (Vertical Alignment) panels offer a middle ground between TN and IPS, providing better color accuracy and viewing angles than TN panels while maintaining a high contrast ratio that results in deeper blacks and more vivid images. However, VA panels can sometimes struggle with slower response times and ghosting in fast-paced games. This makes them a great choice for gamers who play a mix of genres and want a balance between performance and visual quality. Each panel type has its strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on your specific gaming and usage needs.

Do I need FreeSync or G-Sync for gaming?

FreeSync and G-Sync are technologies developed by AMD and NVIDIA, respectively, to synchronize the refresh rate of your monitor with the frame rate output by your GPU. This synchronization helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering, which can occur when the monitor’s refresh rate is out of sync with the game’s frame rate. Screen tearing can be particularly distracting and detrimental to the gaming experience, especially in fast-paced games where it disrupts the fluidity of on-screen movement.

While these technologies are not absolutely necessary for gaming, they can significantly enhance your experience, particularly if you’re sensitive to visual inconsistencies or play a lot of fast-paced, competitive games. FreeSync is typically more common in budget monitors under $200 and is compatible with a wider range of GPUs, including some NVIDIA cards, making it a more accessible option. G-Sync, on the other hand, is generally found in higher-end monitors and is specifically optimized for NVIDIA GPUs, offering a more premium experience with additional features like variable overdrive.

For gamers who want the smoothest possible experience without the distractions of screen tearing or stuttering, investing in a monitor with FreeSync or G-Sync is highly recommended. However, if you’re on a tight budget or primarily play games where these issues are less noticeable, you can still enjoy a great gaming experience without these technologies.

Can I use a gaming monitor for work or media consumption?

Yes, gaming monitors can be quite versatile and are often well-suited for work or media consumption, especially those with IPS panels. IPS monitors offer excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them ideal for tasks that require precise color reproduction, such as photo or video editing. The vibrant colors and sharp images also enhance the viewing experience when watching movies or streaming content, making these monitors a great choice for both gaming and multimedia use.

However, if you’re planning to use a gaming monitor for work, it’s important to consider factors like screen size, resolution, and ergonomic features. A larger screen with higher resolution, such as 1440p, can provide more screen real estate, making it easier to multitask and work on detailed projects. Additionally, monitors with adjustable stands that offer height, tilt, and swivel options can improve comfort during long work sessions, reducing strain on your neck and eyes.

While gaming monitors are optimized for fast refresh rates and response times, these features do not detract from their suitability for other uses. In fact, many gaming monitors are designed to be versatile, providing excellent performance across a variety of tasks. If you’re looking for a monitor that can handle both intense gaming sessions and productive workdays, many options on the market can easily accommodate both needs.