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Getting one of the best gaming monitors is a necessity for any serious gamer wanting to get the most out of their gaming PC. It is one of the most vital parts of any rig and can really help bring the best PC games alive in a way that a regular monitor canât.
What exactly sets these displays apart? There are a few different specifications to look at such as resolution, connectivity, and refresh rate. And, just like best graphics card and the best processor, different monitors are best suited for different gamers. Are you into Esports? Then youâll want a monitor with an incredibly quick refresh rate. If games like Control or Red Dead Redemption 2 are what really interest you, then you probably want something with better resolution or HDR capabilities.
There are so many brands and options available these days that it can be hard to figure out which displays are top quality. We rounded up our picks for the best gaming monitor here for your convenience. No matter what your gaming needs are, thereâs a monitor here thatâs perfect for you.
[ul]
[li]These are the best budget gaming PCs of 2020[/li][li]These are our top picks for the best gaming desks.[/li][/ul]
Best gaming monitors at a glance
[ol]
[li]Samsung CRG9[/li][li]Alienware AW3418DW[/li][li]AOC Agon AG352UCG6[/li][li]Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ[/li][li]BenQ PD3200U[/li][li]MSI Optix MPG341CQR[/li][li]Acer Predator CG7 [/li][li]BenQ Zowie XL2540[/li][li]AOC Agon AG322QC4[/li][li]Acer Predator XB3[/li][/ol]
[IMG alt=âSamsung CRG9â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hV...wuErzjP4Nh.jpg
The Samsung CRG9 is the best gaming monitor if youâve got the extra cash laying around. (Image credit: Samsung)
1. Samsung CRG9
How big is too big?
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 600cd/m2 â 1000cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: 1.07B
Great screen size
HDR
Menu can be tricky
Needs tweaking out of box
It may be very expensive and requires a killer gaming PC setup to run, but the Samsung CRG9 is completely worth it if youâve got the extra cash laying around. This bigger-than-average 49-incher boasts bezels thinner than most gaming monitors and a picture by picture mode feature that lets you use two different inputs, simulating a dual monitor setup in a single monitor. And, thatâs without mentioning that the Samsung CRG9 produces an out-of-this-world image right out of the box.
Read the full review: Samsung CRG9
[IMG alt=âAlienware AW3418DWâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Rf...gUhCfpwVHm.jpg
The Alienware AW3418DW delivers a level of immersion that only a 21:9 aspect ratio can. (Image credit: Alienware)
2. Alienware AW3418DW
The fastest ultrawide yet
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Highest refresh rate in an ultrawide
Alienware design and build quality
Expensive
Takes up a lot of space
The Alienware AW3418DW is one of the few gaming monitors that deliver a level of immersion that only a 21:9 aspect ratio can, while also offering up a high refresh rate. With a dense 3,440 x 1,440 resolution, ridiculously fast 4ms response times and a speedy 120Hz refresh rate, this ultrawide monitor gives you the best of both worlds. All these features donât come cheap though, so budget-minded gamers might want to look elsewhere or start saving up.
Read the full review: Alienware AW3418DW
[IMG alt=âAOC Agon AG352UCG6â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ue...FBZHFZHGn4.jpg
The AOC Agon AC352UCG6 carries over the originalâs best features. (Image credit: AOC)
3. AOC Agon AG352UCG6 Black Edition
Blacker than black
Screen size: 35-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 2,500:1: | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Phenomenal color performance
120Hz refresh rate
Clunky OSD menu
The AOC Agon AG352UCG was one of the best gaming monitors we ever got our hands on, so when we heard that a follow-up was coming â one that comes with a higher refresh rate and better contrast â it was hard not to get excited. The AOC Agon AC352UCG6 Black Edition carries over the originalâs best features but ramps them up to 11, making it a stunning display on which to experience ultra-wide gaming. Itâs expensive, yeah, but if you have the hardware to back it up, youâll be doing yourself a disservice by not investing.
Read the full review: AOC Agon AG352UCG6 Black Edition
[IMG alt="Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ "]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hr...wyiEuy3Ye9.jpg
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ might just be the most advanced gaming monitor to add to your arsenal. (Image credit: Asus)
4. Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ
The Rolls Royce of gaming monitors
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 50,000:1 | Color support: Adobe RGB 99% | Weight: 28 pounds
G-Sync and HDR
Fantastic image quality
Prohibitively expensive
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ might just be the most advanced â not to mention, best â gaming monitor to add to your arsenal⌠as long as youâre ready to pay for it. This display features a gorgeous 4K Ultra-HD resolution and HDR, as well as G-Sync and a lightning-quick 144Hz refresh rate. These specs add up to one of the most impressive gaming monitors thatâs ever existed â and when you see it in action, it will blow you away. The only thing that holds this gaming monitor back from true greatness is its ridiculous price tag. But, then again, if you have this kind of cash lying around, you should be able to afford a PC powerful enough to drive it.
Read the full review: Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ
[IMG alt=âBenQ PD3200Uâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/on...4MDkRn9qgD.jpg
Originally made for CAD professionals, the BenQ PD3200U is also great for gaming. (Image credit: BenQ)
5. BenQ PD3200U
A large 4K screen for your desk
Screen Size: 32-inch | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 4ms | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1 | Color Support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 19 lbs
4K UHD resolution
Large Screen
Inexpensive relatively
Design is a little bland
Professional tools are niche
Takes up a lot of space
While originally made for CAD professionals, the BenQ PD3200U is also great for gaming. This is mostly thanks to its rock-solid focus on graphic design so itâs able to offer incredibly wide viewing angles, which means that your friends can watch your game in comfort. And, unlike most 4K monitors on the market, you wonât have to mess around with the settings to get the best picture, since every unit is individually calibrated by BenQ before shipping. This is definitely one of the best gaming monitors out there, even though it wasnât actually designed for gaming.
Read the full review: BenQ PD3200U
[IMG alt=âMSI Optix MPG341CQRâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sS...ex4UmypAML.jpg
The MSI Optix MPG341CQRâs super-wide 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh certainly give gamers an edge. (Image credit: MSI)
6. MSI Optix MPG341CQR
MSIâs hot new 34-inch gaming monitor
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 nits | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB 105% | Weight: 21.16 pounds
Punchy VA panel
Great gaming performance
Really strong overall feature set
This class of monitor is expensive
While all of its extra frills make the MSI Optix MPG341CQR an even more appealing selection for potential buyers, it does an outstanding job of standing out on its own. The use of VA rather than IPS panel technology, for one, is a welcome advantage, offering punchier colors and better contrast. Plus, its super-wide 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh certainly give gamers an edge. The best part might be that this display is also reasonably priced, making it one of the best gaming monitors to consider in 2019.
Read the full review: MSI Optix MPG341CQR
[IMG alt=âAcer Predator CG7â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FZ...x8yYXdPFZP.png
(Image credit: Acer)
7. Acer Predator CG7
An epic screen
Screen size: 43-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 1000 cd/m² | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 4,000:1 | Color support: 16.7 Million
Responsive
G-Sync support
4K support
Expensive
Lacks some features
Too big for some, not big enough for others
An epic gaming experience awaits you with Acer Predator CG7âs 43-inch screen, 4000:1 contrast ratio, 1ms response time and 120Hz refresh rate. To be fair, there are bigger and badder gaming monitors out there, but for some people â particularly, those looking for a TV with gaming-level specs, this oneâs a winner. Itâs got some extra features as well â namely, a remote control, icons on that stand to encourage game controller storage, and RGB lighting that can sync to your music and games â so youâre getting your moneyâs worth, even if you are paying for a lot.
Read the full review: Acer Predator CG7
[IMG alt=âBenQ Zowie XL2540â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jr...HDPfd5AKgQ.jpg
The BenQ Zowie XL2540 forgoes flashy lighting effects for a blazing 240Hz refresh rate. (Image credit: BenQ)
8. BenQ Zowie XL2540
A monitor tailored to the needs of professional gamers
Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: NTSC 72% | Weight: 7.5kg
High refresh rates
Easy setup
Expensive
Limited appeal beyond pro gamers
Donât be turned off by its limitations. The BenQ Zowie XL2540 still absolutely deserves its place right up there on the best gaming monitors list. It forgoes flashy lighting effects for a blazing 240Hz refresh rate and rapid 1ms response time. This monitor is both FreeSync and G-Sync compatible, and if you have a setup thatâs able of keeping up with this refresh rate, then this gaming display will blow you away. The BenQ Zowie XL2540 keeps things simple by supplying you with a ton of visual presets, an âS Switchâ control pod for managing those presets and even a pair of adjustable light screens.
Read the full review: BenQ Zowie XL2540
[IMG alt=âAOC Agon AG322QC4â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FW...QtG7PgFmvU.jpg
The AOC Agon AG322QC4 has a lot of aces up its sleeves. (Image credit: AOC)
9. AOC Agon AG322QC4
A gaming monitor with a little HDR goodness
Screen Size: 49-inch | Aspect Ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 1,080 | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1 | Color Support: N/A | Refresh Rate: 144Hz | Weight: 33 pounds
Punchy VA panel packs lots of contrast
Both 144Hz and FreeSync 2
Not really a âtrueâ HDR monitor
A bit of HDR is always a welcome addition, even if itâs not true HDR. And yet, the AOC Agon AG322QC4 has more aces up its sleeves. That includes a 144Hz refresh rate, FreeSync 2 and a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, ranking this among the best gaming monitors of 2019. And it offers users beautiful, super smooth visuals, all while looking good doing so. Itâs not exactly a steal, but the Agon AG322QC4 is still reasonably priced for gamers who arenât shopping in the bargain basement.
Read the full review: AOC Agon AG322QC4
[IMG alt=âAcer Predator XB3â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vt...H2Kehch7bD.jpg
(Image credit: Acer)
10. Acer Predator XB3
Making 4K, 144Hz, G-Sync gaming goodness a little cheaper
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m² - Native, 400 cd/m² - Peak (HDR Mode) | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: 1.07 Billion
Superb IPS 4K panel
Strong feature set
Cheaper than some alternatives
Not a true HDR panel
Still expensive given the 27-inch proportions
When it comes to 4K gaming, things donât come cheap. Thatâs true with monitors as well, especially those with higher refresh rates. So, in terms of affordability, the Acer Predator XB3 beats quite a few of its rivals. And, it comes with a few extra goodness too â Nvidia G-Sync and certified VESA DisplayHDR 400, to name a couple. The 4K resolution plus 144Hz refresh and G-Sync support give this one outstanding speed and precision, and that IPS panel allows it to be punchy, accurate and precise. Not that itâs perfect â its construction is a little cheap, it lacks true HDR capabilities and itâs only 27 inches. But, itâs still one of the best value 4K monitors around.
Read the full review: Acer Predator XB3
How to buy the best gaming monitor in 2020
If in the market for the best gaming monitor 2020 has to offer, know that there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing which display should grace your desk.
Youâll want to familiarize yourself with the following terms and specifications to help guarantee that youâre getting the best gaming monitor thatâs most ideal for you. It also means you wonât have to pay extra for additional features that you might not actually care about.
Screen size: When looking for a gaming monitor, one of the most important things to consider is the screen size. Larger display sizes can lead to more immersive gaming experiences as the game fills more of your field of vision, but youâll also have to make sure that you have the space to keep a large monitor. And, it goes without saying that the larger the monitor, the higher the price as well.
Aspect ratio: The aspect ratio of a gaming monitor helps determine the width and height of the display. Most widescreen monitors have an aspect ratio of 16:9, while older monitors have closer to a square format of 4:3 that might feel pretty out of date in 2020. Ultra-wide monitors with aspect ratios of 21:9 are rapidly growing in popularity, as they offer a wider view of your games, which is why many ultra-wides have made our list of the best gaming monitors 2020.
Resolution: One other critical factor to consider when searching for the ideal monitor for your needs is the resolution. The higher the number, the sharper the picture. You will, however, require a more powerful graphics card for anything over Full HD (1,920 x 1,080), even if many gaming monitors feature resolutions as high as 2,560 x 1,400 (WQHD) and 3,840 x 2,160 (4K).
Refresh rate: When youâre mostly looking to play Counter-Strike and other first-person shooters like it, refresh rate is even more vital. The higher the refresh rate, the more frames per second (fps) the monitor can support, leading to a considerably smoother gaming experience. A 60Hz refresh rate is still the most common in 2020, but refresh rates of 144Hz and even 200Hz are becoming more prominent â not to mention, more and more necessary.
Response time: An excellent gaming monitor offers low response times, which means youâre getting fast and fluid actions, with little to no input lag. The lowest response time for TN monitors (weâll get to this in the next section) is 1 millisecond, whereas the newer IPS monitors typically have slower 4ms response times. When youâre playing games competitively, itâs vital to keep this number as low as you can in order to avoid latency.
Panel type: This is where things get a little technical. The type of panel a gaming monitor uses will largely contribute to its response time and image clarity. TN (twisted nematic) panels, which are often more affordable, have the lowest response times but usually donât come with great viewing angles. IPS (in-plane switching) panels, on the other hand, have fantastic viewing angles and color reproduction, but usually have higher response times. Meanwhile, VA (vertical alignment) panels are between the two, although its slow response times makes these panels rare in the gaming world.
Viewing Angle: While most people play games right in front of their gaming monitor, this isnât always be the case, particularly when there is an audience. A monitorâs viewing angles tell you what angle you can look at the monitor from and still make out a clear image. The closer these numbers are to 180, the better your viewing experience will be when standing further to either side of the monitor or looking at it from above or below.
G-Sync and FreeSync: Youâve probably noticed that many of the best gaming monitors in 2020 come with either G-Sync or FreeSync technology â sometimes even both. These help keep frames per second (fps) smooth, combat screen tearing and minimize input lag. G-Sync is developed by Nvidia, so it requires an Nvidia GPU. And, the tech is built into the monitor, which can bump up their price tag. FreeSync, on the other hand, was made by AMD. Since it is free to use by manufacturers, the monitors that have them are usually more economical.
Check out our HDR Explained video below.
Gabe Carey, Bill Thomas and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article
Image Credit: TechRadar
[ul]
[li]Looking for a more general monitor? Check out our list of the best monitors[/li][/ul]
Continue readingâŚ[/IMG]
What exactly sets these displays apart? There are a few different specifications to look at such as resolution, connectivity, and refresh rate. And, just like best graphics card and the best processor, different monitors are best suited for different gamers. Are you into Esports? Then youâll want a monitor with an incredibly quick refresh rate. If games like Control or Red Dead Redemption 2 are what really interest you, then you probably want something with better resolution or HDR capabilities.
There are so many brands and options available these days that it can be hard to figure out which displays are top quality. We rounded up our picks for the best gaming monitor here for your convenience. No matter what your gaming needs are, thereâs a monitor here thatâs perfect for you.
[ul]
[li]These are the best budget gaming PCs of 2020[/li][li]These are our top picks for the best gaming desks.[/li][/ul]
Best gaming monitors at a glance
[ol]
[li]Samsung CRG9[/li][li]Alienware AW3418DW[/li][li]AOC Agon AG352UCG6[/li][li]Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ[/li][li]BenQ PD3200U[/li][li]MSI Optix MPG341CQR[/li][li]Acer Predator CG7 [/li][li]BenQ Zowie XL2540[/li][li]AOC Agon AG322QC4[/li][li]Acer Predator XB3[/li][/ol]
[IMG alt=âSamsung CRG9â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hV...wuErzjP4Nh.jpg
The Samsung CRG9 is the best gaming monitor if youâve got the extra cash laying around. (Image credit: Samsung)
1. Samsung CRG9
How big is too big?
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 600cd/m2 â 1000cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: 1.07B
Great screen size
HDR
Menu can be tricky
Needs tweaking out of box
It may be very expensive and requires a killer gaming PC setup to run, but the Samsung CRG9 is completely worth it if youâve got the extra cash laying around. This bigger-than-average 49-incher boasts bezels thinner than most gaming monitors and a picture by picture mode feature that lets you use two different inputs, simulating a dual monitor setup in a single monitor. And, thatâs without mentioning that the Samsung CRG9 produces an out-of-this-world image right out of the box.
Read the full review: Samsung CRG9
[IMG alt=âAlienware AW3418DWâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Rf...gUhCfpwVHm.jpg
The Alienware AW3418DW delivers a level of immersion that only a 21:9 aspect ratio can. (Image credit: Alienware)
2. Alienware AW3418DW
The fastest ultrawide yet
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Highest refresh rate in an ultrawide
Alienware design and build quality
Expensive
Takes up a lot of space
The Alienware AW3418DW is one of the few gaming monitors that deliver a level of immersion that only a 21:9 aspect ratio can, while also offering up a high refresh rate. With a dense 3,440 x 1,440 resolution, ridiculously fast 4ms response times and a speedy 120Hz refresh rate, this ultrawide monitor gives you the best of both worlds. All these features donât come cheap though, so budget-minded gamers might want to look elsewhere or start saving up.
Read the full review: Alienware AW3418DW
[IMG alt=âAOC Agon AG352UCG6â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ue...FBZHFZHGn4.jpg
The AOC Agon AC352UCG6 carries over the originalâs best features. (Image credit: AOC)
3. AOC Agon AG352UCG6 Black Edition
Blacker than black
Screen size: 35-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 2,500:1: | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Phenomenal color performance
120Hz refresh rate
Clunky OSD menu
The AOC Agon AG352UCG was one of the best gaming monitors we ever got our hands on, so when we heard that a follow-up was coming â one that comes with a higher refresh rate and better contrast â it was hard not to get excited. The AOC Agon AC352UCG6 Black Edition carries over the originalâs best features but ramps them up to 11, making it a stunning display on which to experience ultra-wide gaming. Itâs expensive, yeah, but if you have the hardware to back it up, youâll be doing yourself a disservice by not investing.
Read the full review: AOC Agon AG352UCG6 Black Edition
[IMG alt="Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ "]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hr...wyiEuy3Ye9.jpg
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ might just be the most advanced gaming monitor to add to your arsenal. (Image credit: Asus)
4. Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ
The Rolls Royce of gaming monitors
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 50,000:1 | Color support: Adobe RGB 99% | Weight: 28 pounds
G-Sync and HDR
Fantastic image quality
Prohibitively expensive
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ might just be the most advanced â not to mention, best â gaming monitor to add to your arsenal⌠as long as youâre ready to pay for it. This display features a gorgeous 4K Ultra-HD resolution and HDR, as well as G-Sync and a lightning-quick 144Hz refresh rate. These specs add up to one of the most impressive gaming monitors thatâs ever existed â and when you see it in action, it will blow you away. The only thing that holds this gaming monitor back from true greatness is its ridiculous price tag. But, then again, if you have this kind of cash lying around, you should be able to afford a PC powerful enough to drive it.
Read the full review: Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ
[IMG alt=âBenQ PD3200Uâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/on...4MDkRn9qgD.jpg
Originally made for CAD professionals, the BenQ PD3200U is also great for gaming. (Image credit: BenQ)
5. BenQ PD3200U
A large 4K screen for your desk
Screen Size: 32-inch | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 4ms | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1 | Color Support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 19 lbs
4K UHD resolution
Large Screen
Inexpensive relatively
Design is a little bland
Professional tools are niche
Takes up a lot of space
While originally made for CAD professionals, the BenQ PD3200U is also great for gaming. This is mostly thanks to its rock-solid focus on graphic design so itâs able to offer incredibly wide viewing angles, which means that your friends can watch your game in comfort. And, unlike most 4K monitors on the market, you wonât have to mess around with the settings to get the best picture, since every unit is individually calibrated by BenQ before shipping. This is definitely one of the best gaming monitors out there, even though it wasnât actually designed for gaming.
Read the full review: BenQ PD3200U
[IMG alt=âMSI Optix MPG341CQRâ]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sS...ex4UmypAML.jpg
The MSI Optix MPG341CQRâs super-wide 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh certainly give gamers an edge. (Image credit: MSI)
6. MSI Optix MPG341CQR
MSIâs hot new 34-inch gaming monitor
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 nits | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB 105% | Weight: 21.16 pounds
Punchy VA panel
Great gaming performance
Really strong overall feature set
This class of monitor is expensive
While all of its extra frills make the MSI Optix MPG341CQR an even more appealing selection for potential buyers, it does an outstanding job of standing out on its own. The use of VA rather than IPS panel technology, for one, is a welcome advantage, offering punchier colors and better contrast. Plus, its super-wide 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh certainly give gamers an edge. The best part might be that this display is also reasonably priced, making it one of the best gaming monitors to consider in 2019.
Read the full review: MSI Optix MPG341CQR
[IMG alt=âAcer Predator CG7â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FZ...x8yYXdPFZP.png
(Image credit: Acer)
7. Acer Predator CG7
An epic screen
Screen size: 43-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 1000 cd/m² | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 4,000:1 | Color support: 16.7 Million
Responsive
G-Sync support
4K support
Expensive
Lacks some features
Too big for some, not big enough for others
An epic gaming experience awaits you with Acer Predator CG7âs 43-inch screen, 4000:1 contrast ratio, 1ms response time and 120Hz refresh rate. To be fair, there are bigger and badder gaming monitors out there, but for some people â particularly, those looking for a TV with gaming-level specs, this oneâs a winner. Itâs got some extra features as well â namely, a remote control, icons on that stand to encourage game controller storage, and RGB lighting that can sync to your music and games â so youâre getting your moneyâs worth, even if you are paying for a lot.
Read the full review: Acer Predator CG7
[IMG alt=âBenQ Zowie XL2540â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jr...HDPfd5AKgQ.jpg
The BenQ Zowie XL2540 forgoes flashy lighting effects for a blazing 240Hz refresh rate. (Image credit: BenQ)
8. BenQ Zowie XL2540
A monitor tailored to the needs of professional gamers
Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: NTSC 72% | Weight: 7.5kg
High refresh rates
Easy setup
Expensive
Limited appeal beyond pro gamers
Donât be turned off by its limitations. The BenQ Zowie XL2540 still absolutely deserves its place right up there on the best gaming monitors list. It forgoes flashy lighting effects for a blazing 240Hz refresh rate and rapid 1ms response time. This monitor is both FreeSync and G-Sync compatible, and if you have a setup thatâs able of keeping up with this refresh rate, then this gaming display will blow you away. The BenQ Zowie XL2540 keeps things simple by supplying you with a ton of visual presets, an âS Switchâ control pod for managing those presets and even a pair of adjustable light screens.
Read the full review: BenQ Zowie XL2540
[IMG alt=âAOC Agon AG322QC4â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FW...QtG7PgFmvU.jpg
The AOC Agon AG322QC4 has a lot of aces up its sleeves. (Image credit: AOC)
9. AOC Agon AG322QC4
A gaming monitor with a little HDR goodness
Screen Size: 49-inch | Aspect Ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 1,080 | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1 | Color Support: N/A | Refresh Rate: 144Hz | Weight: 33 pounds
Punchy VA panel packs lots of contrast
Both 144Hz and FreeSync 2
Not really a âtrueâ HDR monitor
A bit of HDR is always a welcome addition, even if itâs not true HDR. And yet, the AOC Agon AG322QC4 has more aces up its sleeves. That includes a 144Hz refresh rate, FreeSync 2 and a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, ranking this among the best gaming monitors of 2019. And it offers users beautiful, super smooth visuals, all while looking good doing so. Itâs not exactly a steal, but the Agon AG322QC4 is still reasonably priced for gamers who arenât shopping in the bargain basement.
Read the full review: AOC Agon AG322QC4
[IMG alt=âAcer Predator XB3â]https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vt...H2Kehch7bD.jpg
(Image credit: Acer)
10. Acer Predator XB3
Making 4K, 144Hz, G-Sync gaming goodness a little cheaper
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m² - Native, 400 cd/m² - Peak (HDR Mode) | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: 1.07 Billion
Superb IPS 4K panel
Strong feature set
Cheaper than some alternatives
Not a true HDR panel
Still expensive given the 27-inch proportions
When it comes to 4K gaming, things donât come cheap. Thatâs true with monitors as well, especially those with higher refresh rates. So, in terms of affordability, the Acer Predator XB3 beats quite a few of its rivals. And, it comes with a few extra goodness too â Nvidia G-Sync and certified VESA DisplayHDR 400, to name a couple. The 4K resolution plus 144Hz refresh and G-Sync support give this one outstanding speed and precision, and that IPS panel allows it to be punchy, accurate and precise. Not that itâs perfect â its construction is a little cheap, it lacks true HDR capabilities and itâs only 27 inches. But, itâs still one of the best value 4K monitors around.
Read the full review: Acer Predator XB3
How to buy the best gaming monitor in 2020
If in the market for the best gaming monitor 2020 has to offer, know that there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing which display should grace your desk.
Youâll want to familiarize yourself with the following terms and specifications to help guarantee that youâre getting the best gaming monitor thatâs most ideal for you. It also means you wonât have to pay extra for additional features that you might not actually care about.
Screen size: When looking for a gaming monitor, one of the most important things to consider is the screen size. Larger display sizes can lead to more immersive gaming experiences as the game fills more of your field of vision, but youâll also have to make sure that you have the space to keep a large monitor. And, it goes without saying that the larger the monitor, the higher the price as well.
Aspect ratio: The aspect ratio of a gaming monitor helps determine the width and height of the display. Most widescreen monitors have an aspect ratio of 16:9, while older monitors have closer to a square format of 4:3 that might feel pretty out of date in 2020. Ultra-wide monitors with aspect ratios of 21:9 are rapidly growing in popularity, as they offer a wider view of your games, which is why many ultra-wides have made our list of the best gaming monitors 2020.
Resolution: One other critical factor to consider when searching for the ideal monitor for your needs is the resolution. The higher the number, the sharper the picture. You will, however, require a more powerful graphics card for anything over Full HD (1,920 x 1,080), even if many gaming monitors feature resolutions as high as 2,560 x 1,400 (WQHD) and 3,840 x 2,160 (4K).
Refresh rate: When youâre mostly looking to play Counter-Strike and other first-person shooters like it, refresh rate is even more vital. The higher the refresh rate, the more frames per second (fps) the monitor can support, leading to a considerably smoother gaming experience. A 60Hz refresh rate is still the most common in 2020, but refresh rates of 144Hz and even 200Hz are becoming more prominent â not to mention, more and more necessary.
Response time: An excellent gaming monitor offers low response times, which means youâre getting fast and fluid actions, with little to no input lag. The lowest response time for TN monitors (weâll get to this in the next section) is 1 millisecond, whereas the newer IPS monitors typically have slower 4ms response times. When youâre playing games competitively, itâs vital to keep this number as low as you can in order to avoid latency.
Panel type: This is where things get a little technical. The type of panel a gaming monitor uses will largely contribute to its response time and image clarity. TN (twisted nematic) panels, which are often more affordable, have the lowest response times but usually donât come with great viewing angles. IPS (in-plane switching) panels, on the other hand, have fantastic viewing angles and color reproduction, but usually have higher response times. Meanwhile, VA (vertical alignment) panels are between the two, although its slow response times makes these panels rare in the gaming world.
Viewing Angle: While most people play games right in front of their gaming monitor, this isnât always be the case, particularly when there is an audience. A monitorâs viewing angles tell you what angle you can look at the monitor from and still make out a clear image. The closer these numbers are to 180, the better your viewing experience will be when standing further to either side of the monitor or looking at it from above or below.
G-Sync and FreeSync: Youâve probably noticed that many of the best gaming monitors in 2020 come with either G-Sync or FreeSync technology â sometimes even both. These help keep frames per second (fps) smooth, combat screen tearing and minimize input lag. G-Sync is developed by Nvidia, so it requires an Nvidia GPU. And, the tech is built into the monitor, which can bump up their price tag. FreeSync, on the other hand, was made by AMD. Since it is free to use by manufacturers, the monitors that have them are usually more economical.
Check out our HDR Explained video below.
Gabe Carey, Bill Thomas and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article
Image Credit: TechRadar
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