Finding the perfect gaming monitor can be as exciting as it is overwhelming—especially if you’re new to PC gaming. With so many features to consider (refresh rates, resolution, panel technology, adaptive sync, and more), it can be tough to know where to start. In this guide, we’ve rounded up five of the best gaming monitors you can buy for under $600. Each option offers a winning combination of performance, image quality, and value, making them perfect for gamers and content creators alike.
Whether you’re building your first gaming rig or simply looking to upgrade from an older display, this guide will walk you through the essential factors and our top picks to help you make an informed decision.
What to Look for in a Gaming Monitor
Before diving into our top five picks, let’s break down the most important features to consider:
1. Resolution
For most gamers today, a 1440p (2560 x 1440) resolution strikes an excellent balance. It provides sharper images than 1080p while being less taxing on your graphics card than 4K. A 1440p display is ideal for immersive gaming and creative work alike.
2. Refresh Rate
A high refresh rate is crucial for smooth gameplay. Monitors with refresh rates between 144Hz and 170Hz deliver fluid motion, which is especially important in fast-paced titles like first-person shooters and racing games. Look for displays that promise minimal motion blur and low input lag.
3. Panel Technology
There are three primary panel types:
- IPS (In-Plane Switching): Offers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles. Ideal for gamers and creators who value vibrant visuals.
- VA (Vertical Alignment): Known for deep contrast ratios and rich blacks, though they may sometimes have slightly slower response times.
- TN (Twisted Nematic): Often the fastest response times but at the expense of color quality and viewing angles. For modern gaming, IPS and VA have become the preferred choices.
4. Adaptive Sync
Adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible help reduce screen tearing by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with your GPU. Many monitors today support one or both, so choose one that works best with your graphics card.
5. Ergonomics and Connectivity
A comfortable viewing experience matters, so consider monitors with adjustable stands (tilt, height, and swivel adjustments) and multiple connectivity options such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and sometimes even USB-C.
Our Top 5 Gaming Monitors Under $600
After extensive research and considering user reviews, performance tests, and value for money, here are our top five gaming monitors that won’t break the bank.
1. BenQ Mobiuz EX2510S
Price on Amazon: $139.99
Overview
The BenQ Mobiuz EX2510S is a favorite among gamers who want speed without a hefty price tag. This 24.5‑inch Full HD monitor features an IPS panel, delivering vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles—essential for competitive gameplay and fast-paced titles like Valorant or Overwatch.
Key Features
- Display: 24.5-inch Full HD (1920×1080)
- Panel Type: IPS for true-to-life colors and wide viewing angles
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz ensures fluid motion
- Response Time: 1ms (GTG) minimizes motion blur
- Adaptive Sync: Supports FreeSync to reduce screen tearing
Why It’s Great for Gamers
The Mobiuz EX2510S is engineered with competitive gaming in mind. Its low input lag and rapid refresh rate mean that every frame counts when milliseconds matter. Even if you’re new to gaming, the crisp, clear visuals and responsive performance make it an excellent entry point.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Super-fast 165Hz refresh rate
- Low 1ms response time for minimal ghosting
- IPS panel offers vibrant and consistent color reproduction
- Extremely budget-friendly for high-performance specs
Cons:
- Full HD resolution might feel dated for those wanting higher pixel density
- Limited connectivity options compared to larger monitors
2. ViewSonic Omni VX2728J-2K
Price on Amazon: $189.99
Overview
Step up your game with the ViewSonic Omni VX2728J-2K—a 27‑inch monitor that brings Quad HD (QHD) resolution to your desk without the premium price. Its 180Hz refresh rate makes it a solid choice for gamers seeking an immersive experience with crisp detail and smooth motion.
Key Features
- Display: 27-inch QHD (2560×1440)
- Panel Type: IPS, offering excellent color accuracy and brightness uniformity
- Refresh Rate: 180Hz for ultra-smooth gameplay
- Adaptive Sync: Supports AMD FreeSync Premium for tear-free performance
- HDR Support: Basic HDR10 support enhances visual details in darker scenes
Why It’s Great for Gamers
With its higher resolution and faster refresh rate, the Omni VX2728J-2K is ideal for both fast-action games and visually rich titles. Beginners will appreciate the balance between stunning visuals and responsive performance, which can improve reaction times in competitive environments.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Sharp QHD resolution delivers more detail than Full HD
- 180Hz refresh rate for smooth and responsive gameplay
- IPS technology ensures consistent colors from any angle
- Affordable upgrade from standard 1080p monitors
Cons:
- HDR performance is modest compared to higher-end models
- May require a slightly more powerful PC to fully utilize QHD at high frame rates
3. Acer Predator XB323U
Price on Amazon: $469.99
Overview
Replacing the previous 3rd option, the Acer Predator XB323U is a 32‑inch curved gaming monitor that takes your gaming visuals to the next level. Boasting an IPS panel instead of VA, it delivers superb color accuracy and excellent viewing angles while maintaining a QHD (2560×1440) resolution. With a refresh rate of 170Hz and a near-instant 1ms response time, this monitor offers fast, fluid gameplay that competitive gamers demand—all for a price that won’t exceed $600.
Key Features
- Display: 32-inch curved QHD (2560×1440)
- Panel Type: IPS for vibrant colors and wide viewing angles
- Refresh Rate: 170Hz for ultra-smooth motion
- Response Time: 1ms (GTG) for minimal motion blur
- Adaptive Sync: Supports both FreeSync and G-Sync for tear-free gaming
Why It’s Great for Gamers
The XB323U’s IPS technology provides more accurate colors and better viewing consistency than VA panels, making it ideal for gamers who also dabble in content creation. Its 32-inch curved screen offers an immersive field of view, and the high refresh rate paired with a fast response time means you get a crisp, lag-free experience in competitive titles.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Large 32-inch curved display for immersive gameplay
- IPS panel delivers excellent color accuracy and viewing angles
- 170Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for smooth, responsive gaming
- Supports both FreeSync and G-Sync for versatile compatibility
Cons:
- Slightly higher price tag compared to smaller monitors
- Requires a robust GPU to fully leverage QHD resolution at high frame rates
- May be a tight fit on smaller desks due to its 32-inch size
4. Gigabyte M27Q
Price on Amazon: $199.99
Overview
The Gigabyte M27Q is a well-rounded 27‑inch gaming monitor that perfectly balances performance and price. With a QHD resolution, fast refresh rate, and nearly 1ms response time, it’s an ideal choice for both competitive gaming and everyday use.
Key Features
- Display: 27-inch QHD (2560×1440)
- Panel Type: IPS ensures stunning color accuracy and clarity
- Refresh Rate: 170Hz (overclockable in some cases) for smooth visuals
- Response Time: Approximately 1ms, ideal for fast-paced action
- Adaptive Sync: Compatible with both FreeSync and G-Sync, reducing screen tearing
Why It’s Great for Gamers
The M27Q excels in providing a crisp and responsive visual experience without compromise. Its near-instant response time means you won’t miss crucial details in competitive games, and the QHD resolution offers a sharp image that’s perfect for both gaming and content creation. Beginners will appreciate the monitor’s versatility, whether it’s for streaming, gaming, or productivity.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent balance of QHD resolution and fast refresh rates
- IPS panel offers superb color reproduction and wide viewing angles
- Nearly 1ms response time minimizes motion blur
- Adaptive sync compatibility ensures a tear-free experience
Cons:
- Slightly higher refresh rate might push your GPU if you’re on an older system
- Overclocking features may require manual tuning for optimal performance
- The design may feel a bit basic compared to more premium brands
5. LG UltraGear 34GN850-B
Price on Amazon: $521.98
Overview
Replacing our previous ultrawide option, the LG UltraGear 34GN850-B is a premium 34‑inch curved gaming monitor that delivers an immersive experience perfect for modern gaming. With a QHD (3440×1440) IPS panel and a fast 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160Hz), this monitor is designed for gamers who crave vibrant visuals and smooth motion without sacrificing performance.
Key Features
- Display: 34-inch curved ultrawide QHD (3440×1440) with a 1500R curve
- Panel Type: IPS for outstanding color accuracy and wide viewing angles
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz (overclockable to 160Hz) for ultra-smooth gameplay
- Response Time: 1ms (GTG) minimizes motion blur
- Adaptive Sync: Supports both NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium for tear-free gaming
Why It’s Great for Gamers
The LG UltraGear 34GN850-B’s expansive ultrawide screen provides an immersive field of view that pulls you deep into every game. Its IPS technology guarantees rich, accurate colors, while the high refresh rate and low response time keep fast-paced action smooth and responsive. Ideal for competitive shooters and sprawling open-world games alike, this monitor transforms your gaming experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Immersive 34-inch ultrawide display with a gentle 1500R curve
- IPS panel offers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles
- Fast 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160Hz) for fluid gameplay
- Supports adaptive sync technologies (G-Sync & FreeSync) for tear-free performance
Cons:
- Near the $600 limit—may require stretching your budget slightly
- Ultrawide aspect ratio might not be ideal for all older games
- Requires a robust GPU to fully utilize its high resolution at maximum refresh rates
Final Thoughts and Buying Tips
In 2025, gamers don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a high-performance display. Whether you’re drawn to the lightning-fast response of the BenQ Mobiuz EX2510S or the immersive curved experience of the LG UltraGear 34GN850-B, there’s something here for every beginner and avid gamer alike.
- For competitive gameplay:
The BenQ Mobiuz EX2510S offers unbeatable speed and responsiveness for under $150. - For a visual upgrade:
The ViewSonic Omni VX2728J-2K and Gigabyte M27Q deliver stunning QHD visuals and high refresh rates at around $190 and $330, respectively. - For immersive experiences:
The Acer Predator XB323U offer a superior 32-inch curved IPS display with enhanced color accuracy and faster response times, while the LG UltraGear 34GN850-B provides a premium ultrawide experience—all while staying under $600.
Buying Tips for Beginners
- Consider your hardware: A higher resolution (like QHD) or ultrawide display demands more from your graphics card. Make sure your PC can handle your new monitor at the settings you desire.
- Prioritize refresh rate and response time: For competitive gaming, look for monitors with refresh rates of at least 144Hz and low response times (around 1ms). This helps reduce motion blur and input lag.
- Adaptive Sync is key: Features like AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync ensure smoother gameplay by matching your monitor’s refresh rate with your GPU’s output. All the monitors on our list support one or both of these technologies.
- Think about your desk space: Larger or ultrawide monitors require more desk real estate. Consider your workspace before committing to a 32‑inch or 34‑inch display.
- Keep an eye on prices: Amazon prices keeps changing, so check frequently for deals or discounts. Our listed prices are accurate as of early 2025 but may change over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gaming monitor is about balancing performance with your budget. In 2025, high-quality displays under $600 are more accessible than ever. The monitors we’ve reviewed here—ranging from the budget-friendly BenQ Mobiuz EX2510S to the immersive LG UltraGear 34GN850-B—offer a variety of features tailored for both competitive and casual gamers.
For beginners, these monitors provide a great starting point. They deliver responsive gameplay, vibrant colors, and immersive qualities to elevate your gaming experience without overspending. Before making a purchase, consider your current PC setup, the types of games you play, and your workspace to ensure you select the best monitor for your needs.
Now that you’re armed with the information, it’s time to upgrade your setup and experience your games in a whole new light.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments below! Happy gaming! 🎮
Note: Prices mentioned are current as of early 2025 on Amazon and are subject to change. Always check for the latest deals and reviews before making a purchase.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links which will take you to the product page on Amazon website. If you click on a product link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the content I create.
