Looking for the best gaming monitor right now? The TechSearchers editorial team has hands-on tested seven of the most popular displays across FHD and QHD categories to save you hours of research. A high-refresh-rate monitor running at 120Hz or higher refreshes the screen more than twice as fast as a standard 60Hz display, delivering buttery-smooth, fluid visuals whether you’re gaming, streaming, or handling creative work. Paired with sharp IPS or VA panel technology, you get a display combining breathtaking clarity with seamless motion performance.
These monitors reduce motion blur, minimize eye strain during long sessions, and produce crisp, lifelike detail standard displays simply can’t match. Whether you’re editing video, dominating in fast-paced games, or streaming high-resolution content, the right monitor transforms your entire experience. Here’s exactly what we found.
| Monitor | Display specs | Key features | Est. price | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSI G241V E2MSI · 24″ | FHD 1080pIPS75Hz1ms | FreeSync Slim bezels, tilt stand, HDMI + DP | ~$100–$130Budget IPS pick | Amazon |
| LG UltraGear 27GL83A-BLG · 27″ | QHD 1440pIPS144Hz1ms | G-Sync + FreeSync HDR10, height/pivot stand, 99% sRGB | ~$230–$280Premium 1440p | Amazon |
| ASUS VG248QGASUS · 24″ | FHD 1080pTN165Hz0.5ms | G-Sync Compatible Flicker-Free, Low Blue Light, DP/HDMI/DVI | ~$160–$200Esports speed | Amazon |
| ASUS VP249QGRASUS · 23.8″ | FHD 1080pIPS144Hz1ms | FreeSync + ELMB Eye care, flicker-free, blue light filter | ~$130–$160Affordable IPS | Amazon |
| Sceptre Curved C275B-1858RNSceptre · 27″ | FHD 1080pVA Curved165Hz3ms | FreeSync Premium 1800R curve, built-in speakers, edge-less | ~$130–$160Budget curved | Amazon |
| Alienware AW2521HFDell · 24.5″ | FHD 1080pIPS240Hz1ms | G-Sync + FreeSync 99% sRGB, RGB downlight, pivot stand | ~$280–$380Premium esports | Amazon |
| Acer R240HY bidxAcer · 23.8″ | FHD 1080pIPS60Hz4ms | Zero Frame design, 178° viewing, Low Blue Light, VGA/HDMI/DVI | ~$90–$120Office/casual | Amazon |
MSI G241V E2 24-Inch
The MSI G241V E2 has received positive reviews from gamers and general users alike. Buyers appreciate its vibrant colors and fast response time, making it a popular choice for both gaming and everyday use. The monitor’s affordability combined with its performance has been highlighted as a key advantage.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand MSI, Screen Size 24 Inches, Resolution FHD 1080p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Glossy
Design:
The MSI G241V E2 features a sleek and modern design with a 24-inch display that fits well into any setup. Its slim profile and adjustable tilt function ensure a comfortable viewing experience, while the thin bezels provide a more immersive screen.
Key Features:
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Full HD, delivering sharp and clear visuals.
- Panel Type: IPS for wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction.
- Response Time: 1ms, reducing motion blur for smoother gameplay.
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz, providing a fluid visual experience with less screen tearing.
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync technology minimizes screen stuttering.
- Connectivity: Includes HDMI and DisplayPort for versatile connection options.
Performance:
The MSI G241V E2 offers excellent performance with its 1ms response time and 75Hz refresh rate, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming and media consumption. The IPS panel ensures consistent color and clarity from various angles.
Final Decision:
The MSI G241V E2 24″ Gaming Monitor is a solid choice for gamers and users seeking high-quality visuals and performance at an affordable price. Its features like FreeSync, fast response time, and Full HD resolution make it a valuable addition to any setup.
Our Take: After testing the MSI G241V E2 across multiple gaming sessions and productivity tasks, we found it punches well above its price tag. The IPS panel delivers noticeably better color consistency than similarly priced TN competitors, and the 1ms response time held up reliably during fast-paced gameplay. The 75Hz refresh rate is the one real limitation — you’ll feel it compared to 144Hz displays. But for casual gamers and everyday users on a tight budget, this remains one of the most honest value picks on the market.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable IPS gaming monitor with vibrant colors | 75Hz is lower than modern esports monitors |
| 1ms response time helps reduce motion blur | Limited to 1080p resolution |
| FreeSync support improves gameplay smoothness | Basic stand with limited adjustment |
| Thin bezels look modern and immersive | Not ideal for high-end competitive gaming |
Who Should Buy It
Budget gamers and casual users who want solid IPS image quality, smooth gameplay, and modern design without spending too much.
LG UltraGear QHD 27-Inch
The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B is praised by users for its impressive color accuracy and smooth gaming experience. Buyers appreciate its high refresh rate and support for both NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync, making it a popular choice among gamers.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand LG, Screen Size 27 Inches, Resolution QHD Wide 1440p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Hard coating (3H)
Design:
This 27-inch monitor features a sleek, black design with slim bezels that enhance the viewing area and fit seamlessly into any gaming setup. The ergonomic stand allows for height adjustment, tilt, and pivot, ensuring a comfortable viewing angle.
Key Features:
- Display: 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS panel for sharp and vibrant visuals.
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz for fluid motion and reduced screen tearing.
- Response Time: 1ms (GtG) for fast and accurate reactions.
- HDR 10 Compatibility: Enhanced contrast and color range for a more immersive experience.
- G-SYNC and FreeSync: Adaptive sync technologies to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.
Performance:
With a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, this monitor delivers crisp and smooth gameplay. The IPS panel provides consistent colors and wide viewing angles, while HDR 10 support enhances visual depth and detail.
Final Decision:
The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B stands out for its excellent gaming performance, rich color accuracy, and versatile compatibility with major adaptive sync technologies. It’s a top choice for gamers seeking high-quality visuals and smooth gameplay.
Our Take: The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B was the standout performer in our QHD testing category. The jump from 1080p to 1440p is immediately visible — text is sharper, game environments richer, and the 99% sRGB accuracy made color-sensitive work genuinely enjoyable. G-Sync and FreeSync dual compatibility is a practical advantage that most competing monitors don’t offer at this price. Our one reservation: you’ll need a mid-to-high-end GPU to consistently push 144fps at 1440p.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent color accuracy with IPS panel | Higher price than standard 1080p monitors |
| 144Hz refresh rate delivers very smooth gaming | Requires stronger GPU for 1440p gaming |
| G-SYNC and FreeSync support reduce screen tearing | HDR performance is limited compared to premium HDR displays |
| QHD resolution provides sharper visuals | No 4K resolution option |
Who Should Buy It
Gamers who want premium visuals, smooth performance, and strong color quality for AAA and competitive gaming.
ASUS VG248QG 24-Inch G-SYNC
Buyers appreciate the ASUS VG248QG 24″ monitor for its excellent gaming performance and smooth visuals. Users frequently highlight its impressive refresh rate and responsive design, which enhance their gaming experience. The eye care features are also praised for reducing eye strain during long gaming sessions.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand ASUS, Screen Size 24 Inches, Resolution FHD 1080p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Flat
Design:
The ASUS VG248QG features a sleek black design with slim bezels that fit well in any gaming setup. Its ergonomic stand allows for easy adjustments, including tilt, swivel, and height adjustments, ensuring comfort during extended use.
Key Features:
- 165Hz Refresh Rate: Provides incredibly smooth motion and reduces screen tearing.
- 0.5ms Response Time: Minimizes blurring and ghosting for crisp, clear visuals.
- G-SYNC Compatible: Syncs with NVIDIA GPUs to eliminate stuttering and screen tearing.
- Eye Care Technology: Includes Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light features to protect your eyes during long sessions.
- Multiple Inputs: Comes with DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI for versatile connectivity.
Performance:
With a 165Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, this monitor delivers fast and fluid performance, making it ideal for competitive gaming. The G-SYNC compatibility further enhances smooth gameplay by eliminating screen tearing.
Final Decision:
The ASUS VG248QG 24″ G-SYNC Gaming Monitor is an excellent choice for gamers seeking high performance, smooth visuals, and eye care features. Its combination of high refresh rate, rapid response time, and G-SYNC support makes it a top pick for a responsive and enjoyable gaming experience.
Our Take: For pure competitive gaming speed, the ASUS VG248QG delivered exactly what its specs promise. The 0.5ms response time is among the fastest we’ve tested at this price point, and the 165Hz refresh rate produced visibly smoother motion in fast-paced shooters compared to standard 144Hz panels. Colors and viewing angles are the expected trade-off with TN technology — acceptable for esports, limiting for anything color-critical. If winning matters more than visual fidelity, this is your monitor.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely smooth 165Hz refresh rate | TN-style visual quality weaker than IPS panels |
| Ultra-fast 0.5ms response time for esports | Limited to 1080p resolution |
| G-SYNC compatibility improves gameplay fluidity | Colors and viewing angles are average |
| Ergonomic stand offers strong adjustability | Design feels older compared to newer slim-bezel monitors |
Who Should Buy It
Competitive gamers focused on speed, responsiveness, and esports performance over image quality.
ASUS VP249QGR 23.8-Inch
The ASUS VP249QGR has received positive reviews from users who praise its excellent performance for gaming and everyday tasks. Buyers appreciate its smooth visuals and fast response time.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand ASUS, Screen Size 23.8 Inches, Resolution FHD 1080p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Glossy
Design:
This monitor features a sleek, black design with thin bezels, making it an attractive addition to any gaming setup. Its 23.8-inch screen size is ideal for immersive gaming and detailed work.
Key Features:
- 144Hz Refresh Rate: Delivers smooth and fluid motion, reducing blur during fast-paced action.
- Full HD (1920 x 1080): Provides crisp and clear visuals for a better viewing experience.
- IPS Panel: Offers wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction.
- 1ms Response Time: Minimizes ghosting and lag for a more responsive gameplay experience.
- FreeSync Technology: Reduces screen tearing and stuttering for smoother gaming.
- ELMB Technology: Enhances motion clarity to keep fast-moving scenes sharp.
- Eye Care Features: Includes flicker-free technology and blue light filters to reduce eye strain.
Performance:
The ASUS VP249QGR excels in delivering high-quality visuals with minimal delay, making it perfect for competitive gaming. The combination of high refresh rate and quick response time ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Final Decision:
The ASUS VP249QGR 23.8” Gaming Monitor is a top choice for gamers and general users alike. With its impressive features like a 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and eye care technologies, it offers excellent performance and value for money.
Our Take: The ASUS VP249QGR sits in a competitive sweet spot. Our testing confirmed that the IPS panel delivers meaningfully better color reproduction than TN panels at similar price points, while the 144Hz refresh rate keeps gameplay smooth. ELMB (Extreme Low Motion Blur) technology is a genuine differentiator — fast-moving scenes stayed sharper than on several pricier competing monitors we tested. The basic stand and absent HDR are the only real compromises at this price.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| IPS panel delivers better colors than TN competitors | Basic stand with limited adjustment |
| 144Hz refresh rate provides smooth gaming | HDR support is missing |
| FreeSync and ELMB improve motion clarity | The smaller 23.8-inch size may feel compact |
| Eye care features reduce eye strain | Build quality feels mid-range |
| Strong balance between gaming and daily use | Speakers are not included |
Who Should Buy It
Gamers wanting an affordable IPS monitor with 144Hz smoothness, decent colors, and good everyday usability without spending too much.
Sceptre Curved 27-Inch
The Sceptre Curved 27” FHD 1080p Gaming Monitor has garnered positive reviews from users for its immersive viewing experience and smooth gameplay. Buyers appreciate the monitor’s vibrant display and its effective integration with gaming setups.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand Sceptre, Screen Size 27 Inches, Resolution FHD 1080p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface curved
Design:
The monitor features a sleek, edge-less design that enhances the modern look of any gaming rig. Its curved screen offers a more immersive experience, wrapping around your field of view for better engagement during gaming sessions.
Key Features:
- Refresh Rate: The monitor supports up to 165Hz via DisplayPort and 144Hz via HDMI, providing ultra-smooth motion for fast-paced games.
- AMD FreeSync Premium: This technology reduces screen tearing and stuttering, ensuring fluid gameplay.
- Built-in Speakers: Integrated speakers provide convenient audio without needing external speakers.
- Machine Black Finish: The sleek black finish adds a stylish touch to any setup.
Performance:
With its high refresh rate and FreeSync Premium, the Sceptre monitor delivers exceptional performance, making it ideal for gamers seeking smooth and responsive visuals. The 1080p resolution ensures clear and sharp images, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Final Decision:
The Sceptre Curved 27″ Gaming Monitor (C275B-1858RN) stands out for its high refresh rate, immersive curved design, and built-in speakers. It’s a solid choice for gamers looking for a reliable and stylish monitor that delivers excellent performance and visual clarity.
Our Take: The Sceptre Curved 27″ surprised us with how immersive the 1800R curvature feels during long gaming sessions. The 165Hz refresh rate via DisplayPort performed consistently in our testing, and FreeSync Premium integration eliminated screen tearing in every title we ran. Color accuracy is the honest weak point — VA panels at this price range struggle with accurate grays and shadow detail. But as a large, affordable curved gaming monitor with built-in speakers, few rivals match its overall package per dollar.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large 27-inch curved screen creates immersive gameplay | 1080p resolution looks softer on a 27-inch display |
| 165Hz refresh rate delivers smooth gaming performance | Color accuracy is weaker than premium IPS monitors |
| FreeSync Premium reduces tearing and stuttering | Built-in speakers are basic quality |
| Edge-less design looks modern and clean | Stand has limited ergonomic adjustment |
| Affordable high-refresh curved gaming monitor | Motion clarity weaker than top esports monitors |
Who Should Buy It
Gamers wanting a large curved display with high refresh rates and immersive visuals at an affordable price.
Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor 24.5-Inch
The Alienware AW2521HF has received high praise from gamers for its exceptional performance and sleek design. Users appreciate its sharp visuals and smooth motion, enhancing their gaming experience.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand Dell, Screen Size 24.5 Inches, Resolution Full HD, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Gloss
Design:
This monitor features a sleek, dark gray finish known as “Dark Side of the Moon.” Its modern, edgy design complements any gaming setup, while its slim profile ensures it fits comfortably on most desks. The 24.5-inch screen size provides an immersive experience without overwhelming your space.
Key Features:
- 240Hz Refresh Rate: Provides ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal motion blur.
- Full HD Resolution (1920×1080): Ensures crisp, clear images for an immersive experience.
- IPS Technology: Enhances color accuracy and offers wide viewing angles, perfect for gaming and multimedia.
- Adaptive Sync Technology: Reduces screen tearing and stuttering for a seamless visual experience.
Performance:
With its high refresh rate and quick response time, the AW2521HF excels in fast-paced games, offering a fluid and responsive experience. The IPS panel ensures vibrant colors and consistent brightness from any angle.
Final Decision:
The Alienware AW2521HF is a top choice for gamers seeking high performance and stylish design. Its 240Hz refresh rate and IPS technology deliver excellent visual quality and smooth gameplay, making it a strong investment for serious gamers.
Our Take: The Alienware AW2521HF is the most technically impressive display on this list. In our testing, the 240Hz IPS panel delivered a genuinely different experience compared to 144Hz monitors — the extra smoothness at 240fps is perceptible and meaningful in competitive titles. Build quality is premium throughout, the pivot stand is excellent, and dual G-Sync/FreeSync support means it works optimally regardless of your GPU brand. The price premium is real, but for serious esports players, it’s fully justified.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate for esports gaming | Limited to Full HD resolution |
| IPS panel provides strong colors and viewing angles | Premium pricing compared to standard 144Hz monitors |
| Very low motion blur and responsive gameplay | Smaller 24.5-inch screen may feel compact |
| Premium Alienware design looks high-end | HDR performance is limited |
| Adaptive Sync improves gameplay smoothness | Requires powerful GPU to fully use 240Hz |
Who Should Buy It
Competitive esports gamers who prioritize maximum smoothness, ultra-fast response times, and premium build quality.
Acer 23.8-Inch
Customers appreciate the Acer 23.8” Full HD monitor for its clear and vibrant display. Many users highlight its excellent value for both home and office use, noting that its features enhance productivity and reduce eye strain during extended use.
SPECIFICATIONS
Brand Acer, Screen Size 23.8 Inches, Resolution FHD 1080p, Aspect Ratio 16:9, Screen Surface Glossy
Design:
This monitor features a sleek, Zero Frame design that minimizes bezels, providing a modern and immersive viewing experience. Its 23.8-inch screen size fits well in various desk setups, offering a stylish and efficient addition to any workspace.
Key Features:
- Full HD Resolution: Delivers sharp and detailed images with a 1920 x 1080 resolution.
- IPS Panel: Provides consistent and accurate colors from wide viewing angles (178°).
- Color Accuracy: Covers 72% NTSC color gamut and 16.7 million colors for vibrant visuals.
- Low Blue Light: Reduces eye strain by minimizing blue light emission.
- Adjustability: Features tilt compatibility for comfortable viewing angles.
- Connectivity: Includes VGA, HDMI, and DVI ports for versatile connection options.
Performance:
The Acer R240HY bidx monitor excels in providing crisp, clear images and vibrant colors. Its low blue light technology helps reduce eye fatigue, making it suitable for long hours of work or entertainment.
Final Decision:
The Acer 23.8” Full HD monitor is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, high-quality display for home or office use. Its combination of design, features, and performance offers excellent value and versatility.
Our Take: The Acer R240HY bidx is not a gaming monitor — and that’s precisely its strength. In our office and productivity testing, the Zero Frame IPS panel delivered accurate, comfortable visuals across 6+ hour work sessions with noticeably less eye fatigue than cheaper TN alternatives. The 178° viewing angles make screen-sharing and multi-person viewing genuinely comfortable. At 60Hz, gaming is possible but not enjoyable. As a home office display with a small footprint and clean aesthetics, it remains one of the most reliable budget picks we’ve tested.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| IPS panel delivers vibrant and accurate colors | Only 60Hz refresh rate for gaming |
| Zero Frame design looks modern and clean | Limited to 1080p resolution |
| Wide 178° viewing angles improve comfort | Basic stand with tilt-only adjustment |
| Low blue light helps reduce eye strain | Not designed for competitive gaming |
| Excellent value for office and daily use | No adaptive sync support |
Who Should Buy It
Office users, students, and casual users wanting a reliable IPS monitor with strong image quality and comfortable long-term viewing.
Conclusion
After hands-on testing all seven monitors, our TechSearchers verdict is clear. Budget gamers get the best honest Monitors value from the MSI G241V E2 or ASUS VP249QGR, both offering IPS quality at accessible prices. Competitive esports players should invest in the Alienware AW2521HF — its 240Hz IPS performance is in a class of its own at this price range. The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B remains our top all-rounder pick for gamers wanting QHD sharpness with reliable adaptive sync. The Sceptre Curved 27″ wins on immersion per dollar, and the Acer R240HY is the clear office champion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Gaming Monitor Is Best Overall in 2026?
The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B is the best overall choice thanks to its 1440p IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, strong color accuracy, and G-SYNC support. It balances competitive gaming performance, immersive visuals, and everyday productivity better than most gaming monitors in 2026.
Which Monitor Is Best for Competitive Esports Gaming?
The Alienware AW2521HF stands out for esports gaming with its ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate, IPS panel, and low motion blur. It delivers extremely responsive gameplay for FPS titles like Valorant, CS2, and Call of Duty competitive multiplayer matches.
Which Budget Gaming Monitor Gives the Best Value?
The ASUS VP249QGR offers excellent value with a 144Hz IPS panel, FreeSync support, and strong motion clarity. It combines smooth gaming performance, good colors, and affordability, making it one of the best budget gaming monitors currently available.
Which Curved Gaming Monitor Is Best for Immersion?
The Sceptre Curved 27-Inch C275B-1858RN provides an immersive curved gaming experience with a large 27-inch display and 165Hz refresh rate. Its curved design improves engagement during racing, open-world, and cinematic gaming while remaining affordable for most gamers.
Which Monitor Is Best for Daily Use and Casual Gaming?
The MSI G241V E2 is ideal for casual gaming and daily productivity with its IPS panel, slim bezels, and smooth 75Hz refresh rate. It delivers balanced image quality, low input lag, and reliable performance without requiring a large budget.
