11 best gaming monitors

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

To fully enjoy the game, you need a good monitor. On a simple, budget-friendly matrix, the 'picture' can appear dull and pale. In addition, if the gaming monitor has a short response time, the image is 'lagged' by 100-200 milliseconds, which will be critical during intense battles.

We have compiled a rating of 13 gaming monitors that are suitable for both amateurs and professional gamers.

How to choose a gaming monitor

The quality of a gaming monitor depends on many parameters. Let's consider the main ones.

Connection – HDMI or DisplayPort only

It's 2018 outside – and some stores still sell under the guise of 'gaming' monitors that connect to a computer via DVI or even VGA. But these standards are unable to provide detailed display at high resolution or frame rates over 30-60 fps. But HDMI or DisplayPort are capable. Moreover, the second is preferable, but not all video cards are equipped with the appropriate connector.

It is also desirable that the HDMI generation is 'fresh' – i.e. HDMI 2.0 or 2.1. The latter transmits a signal with a resolution of up to 10K and a frame rate of up to 120 fps.

Matrix – IPS or MVA

The most common three technologies used for gaming monitor matrices are TN, IPS and MVA (VA). The first option should not be taken in any case.

1. TN-matrices are dim, low-contrast and with narrow viewing angles of 90-120 degrees. Their only advantage is the response speed of 1-2 ms.

2. IPS and MVA have a minimum contrast ratio of 1000: 1, as well as viewing angles of 178 degrees and a response time of 2-5 ms. The former are slightly more expensive than the latter, but offer richer images.

3. If the budget is not important, then you should pay attention to the models with OLED – a matrix or with a matrix on quantum dots (QLED). These screens offer the most saturated and vivid images, as well as realistic dark colors due to the fact that each pixel in them glows by itself – and not due to the backlight. The only 'but' is that OLED is gradually fading, and QLEDs are too rare and expensive.

Diagonal and resolution

The optimal diagonal for a gaming monitor is 24-27 inches. Large sizes will lead to discomfort in use – especially if it is planned to conquer not only virtual worlds behind the screen, but also, for example, to work periodically. Or browse websites.

If there is not enough space on the table, then you can, of course, take a monitor with a diagonal of 17-21 inches. But subjectively, the 'picture' on it will not be as cinematic and impressive.

The resolution of a gaming monitor should ideally match the diagonal:

1. For a 17-24-inch matrix – minimum Full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels);

2. For a matrix with a diagonal of 24 inches – at least 2K (2560 × 1440 pixels).

These are guidelines rather than specific guidelines. However, it is worth considering that a 4K monitor with a diagonal of up to 24 inches can be very 'small', and a 27-inch FHD matrix can noticeably 'soap'.

Scanning frequency and response time

The scan rate shows how quickly the image on the monitor refreshes. The most common screens are 60 and 144 Hz. The image on them is updated 60 and 144 times per second, respectively. It is better to take a gaming monitor with a 144Hz scan rate, since it is suitable for fast-paced games.

The response time is determined not so much by the scanning frequency as by the characteristics of the matrix. The smaller it is, the better. The optimal value is considered to be 4-8 ms, the best is 1-2 ms.

Additional technologies

Brightness and contrast

The brightness of the gaming monitor must be at least 300 cd / m2, and the contrast must be static, not dynamic – at least 1000: 1.

HDR

HDR technology makes images 'cinematic' with enhanced contrast and color depth. Therefore, a monitor compatible with it would be a good buy. Only few games now support HDR – but the screen is purchased for more than one year.

G-Sync and FreeSync

These technologies synchronize the work of the video card and monitor for the fastest possible transfer of dynamic scenes. G-Sync is compatible with NVIDIA GPUs, while FreeSync is compatible with AMD. Take a gaming monitor with their support and enjoy the intense scenes in games.

Manufacturers

We recommend gaming monitors from AOC, Asus, Dell, LG, Acer and Eizo. Actually, it was their models that we included in our rating.

Ranking of the best gaming monitors

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best 24-25 '' gaming monitors	1	AOC g2460Pg	RUB 25,860
	2	Asus ROG Swift PG258Q	RUB 41,503
	3	Dell U2515H	RUB 28 490
	4	LG 25UM58	RUB 9,100
The best 27-28 '' gaming monitors	1	Asus PB287Q	RUB 29 304
	2	Acer Predator XB271HUbmiprz	RUB 62,990
	3	Asus ROG Swift PG278Q	RUB 55,950
	4	Eizo FlexScan EV2736WFS	RUB 58,500
	5	AOC G2770PF	RUB 23 646
The best ultra-widescreen gaming monitors	1	Asus ROG Swift PG348Q	RUB 89,990
	2	LG 34UC89G	RUB 48 490

The best 24-25 '' gaming monitors

AOC g2460Pg

Rating: 4.9

Why First Place: 1ms refresh time, G-Sync support, and relatively low price.

Description: The AOC g2460Pg gaming monitor is equipped with a TN-matrix, but it still deservedly takes first place in our rating due to an instant response of 1 ms. Therefore, it is suitable for gamers for whom victory in intense online battles is more important than the saturation and brightness of the 'picture'. In addition, the maximum refresh rate of the monitor is 146 Hz, the G-Sync technology for synchronizing with the NVIDIA video card is available, and the WLED backlight does not flicker (Flicker-free method).

The monitor is connected to the video card via DisplayPort, there are no other connectors, except for several USB 3.0 in the form of a hub. The matrix with a diagonal of 24 inches has a resolution Full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels). The model supports 3D shutter technology.

Static contrast ratio of the monitor – 1000: 1, dynamic – 8000000: 1. Brightness – 350 cd / m2. A nice addition – a compact stand with several degrees of freedom and a body made of matte plastic 'like metal'.

Advantages

• 146Hz refresh rate, G-Sync support, 1ms refresh rate;

• Compact stand with several degrees of freedom;

• 3D support.

disadvantages

• The matrix is ​​made using TFT TN technology with small viewing angles;

• Connecting to a computer only via DisplayPort, HDMI is not;

• Noticeable dithering effect at refresh rates below 60 Hz.

Asus ROG Swift PG258Q

Rating: 4.9

Why runner-up: 240Hz refresh rate, Flicker-free backlight, but TFT TN matrix.

Description: This gaming monitor could lead the rating – it uses such a high-quality TF matrix that it is not inferior to IPS in terms of brightness, color rendition, or even viewing angles. But the monitor costs twice as much as its predecessor. Thanks to the TN matrix, the monitor has a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz and a response time of 1 ms. 3D support with shutter technique is also there.

The model is connected to a computer via DisplayPort or HDMI ports, compatible with NVIDIA G-Sync technology. The diagonal of the matrix is ​​24.5 inches, the resolution is 1920 × 1080 pixels. The static contrast ratio is 1000: 1, the brightness of the WLED backlight is 400 cd / m2. The matrix is ​​covered with an anti-reflective 'semi-gloss' layer.

The design of the monitor incorporates ROG's proprietary 'aggressive' backlit tripod stand in a compact footprint. Additionally, the device is equipped with a USB hub and headphone output.

Advantages

• Refresh rate – 240 Hz, response speed – 1 ms, G-Sync support;

• Adjusts the depth of shadows regardless of image detail;

• Compact stand that can be 'redesigned on site'.

disadvantages

• Uneven backlight bleed closer to the edges of the matrix;

• Few settings for picture profiles;

• Sensitive to network noise.

Dell U2515H

Rating: 4.7

Why third place: High resolution and IPS matrix, but no G-Sync or FreeSync (which is not surprising for an IPS matrix).

Description: The Dell U2515H gaming monitor is part of the proprietary UltraSharp series and has the highest resolution in the rating – 2560 × 1440 pixels with a screen diagonal of 25 inches. The matrix is ​​made using TFT IPS technology, so there is simply no concept of 'refresh rate' in it. The screen response speed is 6 milliseconds. It is also worth considering that the monitor does not support either N-Sync or FreeSync. The matrix is ​​complemented by a matte anti-reflective coating that does not reduce detail and color reproduction.

But the matrix has a high contrast ratio – static 1000: 1, dynamic 2,000,000: 1; and a brightness of 350 cd / m2. The backlight is made using LED technology and does not flicker (Flicker-free).

The model connects to a video card via HDMI, DisplayPort and Mini DisplayPort. It also comes with 6 USB 3.0 hubs and built-in speakers. Supports MHL.

Advantages

• High resolution IPS matrix;

• Thin frames and visually beautiful stand;

• The best combination of price and quality.

disadvantages

• No 'gaming features' (fast 6ms response time, no N-Sync or FreeSync)

• Uneven backlighting, especially near edges and corners

• Touch buttons without tactile response.

LG 25UM58

Rating: 4.7

Why the fourth place: IPS-monitor with an aspect ratio of 21: 9, but with a connection only via HDMI and a relatively low brightness.

Description: Closes the rating of the 'elongated' monitor LG 25UM58, which is rightly in last place – the brightness of the matrix with flicker-free WLED backlighting is 250 cd / m2. But the aspect ratio of the screen is 21: 9, the diagonal is 25 inches, and the resolution is 2560 × 1080 pixels. The matrix is ​​made using IPS technology, which provides excellent color reproduction, but a high response time of 5 ms. Of course, G-Sync or FreeSync technologies are not featured here. The image refresh rate is up to 75 frames per second.

The model is connected to a computer via HDMI, there is no DisplayPort. There are also no USB connectors typical of other models in the top. There is a headphone output.

The stand and body of the gaming monitor are made of polished plastic. The anti-reflective coating on the matrix is ​​'semi-glossy', therefore it does not change the color rendition or the sharpness of the image.

Advantages

• The lowest price;

• Matrix TFT IPS with realistic color reproduction and rich hues;

• Modern 21: 9 format.

disadvantages

• The plastic of the body and stand 'collects' dust;

• Unstable fastening of the matrix on the stand, with a fragile installation, the display may wobble;

• There is no DisplayPort, but there is a second HDMI connector.

The best 27-28 '' gaming monitors

Asus PB287Q

Rating: 4.9

Why # 1: 4K resolution, 1ms response speed, and great value.

Description: Asus PB287Q tops the list because it is an affordable 4K monitor. Moreover, its response speed is the usual 1 ms. The matrix is ​​made using TFT TN technology, has a diagonal of 28 inches and a resolution of 3840 × 2160 pixels. However, the refresh rate is up to 75fps and G-Sync or FreeSync is not supported.

The TN matrix used in the monitor is of high quality – the dynamic contrast ratio is 100,000,000: 1, the brightness is 300 cd / m2. The backlight is made using WLED technology, not flicker (Flicker-free).

The model connects to a computer via HDMI and DisplayPort ports, and also supports MHL. There are headphone jacks, but no USB hub. But stereo speakers are built in.

The monitor is housed in a 'standard' matte plastic case. The stand is large and stable, but takes up a lot of table space and has few degrees of freedom.

Advantages

• 4K resolution;

• Viewing angles up to 160 degrees;

• The response time is 1 ms.

disadvantages

• No G-Sync and FreeSync, refresh rate up to 75 Hz;

• Small speakers with a 'squeaky' sound;

• Color reproduction with a bias in yellow shades.

Acer Predator XB271HUbmiprz

Rating: 4.8

Why second place: IPS-matrix with support for G-Sync technology, but a resolution of 2K.

Description: The only monitor in this segment of the rating with a matrix made using TFT IPS technology, which is synchronized with the video card via G-Sync. The refresh rate is up to 165 Hz (165 fps), and the display response speed is 4 ms. The diagonal of the matrix is ​​27 inches, the resolution is 2560 × 1440 pixels. The dynamic contrast ratio is 100,000,000: 1, the brightness is 350 cd / m2, and the backlighting is performed using the LED method and is free from flicker (Flicker-Free).

The gaming monitor connects to your computer via DisplayPort or HDMI. Equipped with a USB hub with Gen 3.0 connectors. The monitor has built-in stereo speakers, each speaker has a power of 2 watts.

The proprietary stand, although rather bulky, securely holds the monitor even on an unstable surface and has an attractive 'aggressive' design. Wall mount included. The bezels around the monitor are thin, 0.7 cm.

Advantages

• Refresh rate up to 165 Hz, G-Sync;

• Uniform illumination without highlights, dark areas and backlight bleed;

• A stand with many degrees of freedom.

disadvantages

• Bulky stand;

• Mediocre built-in speakers

• Glow effect on dark scenes (which, however, is normal for non-technology monitors OLED).

Asus ROG Swift PG278Q

Rating: 4.8

Why third place: 144Hz refresh rate, G-Sync support, but TN and 2K resolution.

Description: In the middle of the rating – one of the most 'versatile' monitors for gamers. Asus ROG Swift PG278Q is equipped with a TN matrix, which provides a response time of 1 ms; with a diagonal of 27 inches and a resolution of 2560 × 1440 pixels. Screen refresh rate – up to 144 Hz, support for G-Sync technology is available. Static matrix contrast – 1000: 1, brightness – 350 km / m2, WLED backlight without flicker, angle of rotation – up to 170 degrees both horizontally and vertically. The model supports 3D Vision and uses shutter technology for this – i.e. you need the appropriate glasses.

The gaming monitor is connected to the computer via DisplayPort, HDMI is not. Built-in USB hub with two Gen 3.0 ports. No speakers or headphone jack.

The monitor stand is compact but holds the screen securely even when placed on an unstable surface.

Advantages

• Response time 1 ms, refresh rate up to 144 Hz, support for G-Sync;

• Compact and reliable stand;

• Realistic color reproduction and viewing angles up to 170 degrees.

disadvantages

• Poor location of USB ports;

• Unreliable power supply, it is recommended to purchase a spare after a few months of using the monitor;

• No speakers and few built-in ports.

Eizo FlexScan EV2736WFS

Rating: 4.7

Why 4th place: IPS-matrix with 2K resolution and WLED backlight, but low refresh rate and no support for G-Sync.

Description: The only 'non-gaming monitor for gamers' in the rating. The device is equipped with an IPS-matrix with a resolution of 2560 × 1440 pixels and uniform WLED backlighting without flicker (Flicker-free). The refresh rate is up to 61 Hz. The static contrast of the matrix is ​​1000: 1, the brightness is 300 cd / m2, the viewing angles are 178 degrees. The surface is semi-matt, diffusing the Glow effect.

The monitor connects to a computer via DisplayPort or DVI-D (which is useful for 'old' video cards), is equipped with a built-in USB hub for 2 Gen 2.0 ports, as well as headphone jacks and two stereo speakers of 1 W each.

The matrix covers up to 95.6% of the sRGB spectrum out of the box. There is a built-in calibration tool. The model is equipped with light and presence sensors to automatically adjust the brightness and color scheme, as well as switch to power saving mode after the owner leaves the screen.

Advantages

• Color reproduction – realistic, coverage of 95.6% of the sRGB spectrum out of the box;

• Uniform illumination, no Glow effect;

• Light and presence sensors.

disadvantages

• Few built-in ports;

• No 'gaming features', long response times;

• Inconvenient controls.

AOC G2770PF

Rating: 4.6

Why fifth place: FreeSync support, refresh rate up to 146 Hz, but Full HD at 27 inches.

Description: And here is the only gaming monitor in the rating with support for FreeSync technology, which synchronizes the refresh rate between the screen and the AMD graphics card. AOC G2770PF is equipped with a TN-matrix with a diagonal of 27 inches and a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels. The static contrast ratio is 1000: 1, the brightness is 300 cd / m2, the image refresh rate is up to 144 Hz, and the 'picture' response time is 1 ms. The backlight is performed using WLED Flicker-free technology (no flicker).

The monitor is equipped with a full range of ports for connecting to a computer: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI and even the 'ancient' VGA. Built-in USB hub with 4 Gen 3.0 ports. The model is also equipped with two speakers of 2 W each, there is a headphone output.

The model is equipped with a 'movable' stand – it can be raised, lowered, tilted and rotated in the main plane. But it provides a secure fixation of the screen.

Advantages

• 144 Hz refresh rate, 1 ms response time, FreeSync technology support;

• Convenient stand;

• Soft and uniform illumination.

disadvantages

• Color rendition falls short of IPS and high-quality TN versions;

• Weak speakers with flat sound;

• Small viewing angles.

The best ultra-widescreen gaming monitors

Asus ROG Swift PG348Q

Rating: 4.9

Why # 1: 34-inch 4K Curved IPS Monitor.

Description: Opens a rating of recommended widescreen monitors Asus ROG Swift PG348Q – one of the best models for gamers. This 34-inch display is equipped with a curved matrix, which is made using IPS technology. At the same time, the monitor supports the G-Sync frequency synchronization technology, and the maximum image refresh rate is 100 frames per second (100 Hz). Static contrast ratio of the matrix – 1000: 1, dynamic – 1,000,000,000: 1, response speed – 5 milliseconds, brightness – 300 cd / m2, backlighting is performed using LED technology without flicker. The screen is covered with an anti-reflective film.

The gaming monitor is connected to a computer via DisplayPort or HDMI and is equipped with a 4-port USB hub supporting the 3.0 standard. Built-in two 2W stereo speakers. There is also a headphone output.

The monitor supports sRGB mode for ultra-accurate color reproduction. There are built-in picture settings patterns.

Advantages

• Refresh rate 100Hz, support for G-Sync;

• SRGB support and built-in color schemes;

• Resolution 3440 × 1440 pixels, aspect ratio 21: 9.

disadvantages

• Lights are noticeable in dark areas;

• Flat, expressionless sound;

• Inconvenient stand that requires the monitor to be installed exclusively on a flat surface.

LG 34UC89G

Rating: 4.8

Why the second place: Lower resolution than the leader of the rating, but G-Sync and IPS-matrix are available.

Description: 34-inch gaming monitor LG 34UC89G is equipped with a curved IPS-matrix with a resolution of 2K (2560 × 1080 pixels) and an aspect ratio of 21: 9. It is compatible with G-Sync frame rate sync technologies, and the maximum display rate is 144Hz. The matrix response time is 5 ms, the static contrast ratio is 1000: 1, the brightness is 300 cd / m2, the WLED backlight is uniform and flicker-free. The screen is covered with an anti-reflective semi-matt film.

The monitor connects to a computer via HDMI (version 1.4) or DisplayPort (generation 1.2). It also features a dual-port USB 3.0 hub and headphone jacks. They are not placed very well.

The stand is compact, but holds the monitor securely, even if the device is placed on an unstable surface. It also has an attractive design.

Advantages

• 144Hz refresh rate, 5ms response speed, G-Sync support;

• Convenient control (lever, not buttons);

• Realistic color reproduction and built-in color scheme modes.

disadvantages

• Resolution is not enough for such a diagonal and aspect ratio;

• Slight flare closer to the corners of the matrix;

• Small bending radius (3800R).

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.