Introduction to Gaming Monitors

Shopping for a gaming monitor can be a daunting task, with numerous factors to consider. Once you decide to invest in a gaming monitor, you’ll need to navigate a host of new considerations, including the type of panel, refresh rate, and adaptive sync technology. In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to help you find the perfect gaming monitor for your budget.

Table of Contents

* Best gaming monitors for 2025
* How we test gaming monitors
* Factors to consider before buying a gaming monitor
* Gaming monitor FAQs

Best Gaming Monitors for 2025

We’ve selected the top gaming monitors for 2025, considering factors like performance, features, and price. Our top pick is the AOC Q27G3XMN, which offers a great balance of features and affordability.

How We Test Gaming Monitors

We’ve extensively tested dozens of gaming monitors, including models with WOLED and QD-OLED panels. Our testing process involves evaluating factors like performance, features, and price to provide you with the best recommendations.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Monitor

Before buying a gaming monitor, you’ll need to consider several factors, including:

### LCD vs OLED

When shopping for a gaming monitor, you’ll need to decide between LCD and OLED panels. OLED monitors are generally more expensive but offer better contrast, color accuracy, and motion clarity. LCD monitors, on the other hand, come in various flavors, including TN, VA, and IPS panels, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

### What About OLED?

OLED monitors are ideal for gaming, offering true blacks, excellent motion clarity, and HDR support. However, they can be expensive and may have limitations like lower brightness and potential burn-in.

### Screen Size, Resolution, and Aspect Ratio

When choosing a gaming monitor, consider the size, resolution, and aspect ratio. A larger monitor with a higher resolution can provide a more immersive experience, but may require a more powerful graphics card to drive it.

### Refresh Rates and Response Times

A higher refresh rate can provide a smoother gaming experience, but may require a more powerful graphics card to achieve. Response times are also crucial, as slower response times can lead to motion blur and smearing.

### FreeSync vs G-Sync

Adaptive sync technologies like FreeSync and G-Sync can help reduce screen tearing, but may require specific hardware to function. Look for monitors that support both FreeSync and G-Sync for maximum compatibility.

### Inputs

Most gaming monitors come with at least one DisplayPort 1.4 connection, which is the recommended port to use for connecting your monitor to your graphics card. If you own a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S, look for monitors with HDMI 2.1 ports for the best possible performance.

### A Word About HDR

HDR performance has been slow to improve in gaming monitors, but recent advancements in Windows 11 and the release of more affordable mini-LED monitors have made HDR gaming more accessible.

Gaming Monitor FAQs

### Are Curved Monitors Better for Gaming?

Curved monitors can provide a more immersive experience, but may not be suitable for everyone. Personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best monitor for gaming.

### What Aspect Ratio Should I Look for in a Gaming Monitor?

The majority of gaming monitors feature 16:9 aspect ratios, which are widely supported by games. Ultrawide monitors with 21:9 or 32:9 aspect ratios may offer a more immersive experience but may not be supported by all games.

### Is OLED Good for Gaming?

OLED monitors are excellent for gaming, offering superior motion clarity, input latency, and HDR support. If budget is not a concern, an OLED monitor is an excellent choice for gaming.

### How Much Does a Good Gaming Monitor Cost?

While high-end gaming monitors can be expensive, the budget and midrange categories have become increasingly competitive. You can find excellent gaming monitors at various price points, from under $300 to over $1,000.


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