Playing games has become a hobby of many people, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This activity can reduce stress while staying at home. One of the important components when playing games is a good gaming monitor. Gaming monitors have different specifications from monitors in general.
In this article, we will review cheap gaming monitors that are of good quality. We will also review well-known monitor brands, such as Samsung, ACER, and ASUS. Check out tips on choosing it and the best product recommendations here!
How to choose a cheap gaming monitor?
Before going into product recommendations, we will give you some tips for choosing a cheap gaming monitor. Starting from the size and resolution of the screen, to the features that must be considered before buying a gaming monitor, we will discuss.
Pay attention to the refresh rate and response time in product specifications
The most important specifications that distinguish gaming monitors from other monitors are the refresh rate and response time of the monitor. Let's see the full discussion below.
Refresh rate: The higher the refresh rate, the better
The refresh rate is the number of times a monitor refreshes the image on the screen every second. A monitor with a refresh rate of 144 Hz means the screen can refresh the image up to 144 times per second.
In general, a monitor with a refresh rate of 60 Hz is sufficient when you play game consoles, such as the PS4 and PS5. Choosing a monitor with a higher refresh rate will not have any significant effect on your game console.
On the other hand, you need a monitor with a refresh rate above 60 Hz when you play PC games. PC games mostly contain high-speed scenes so you need a monitor that can refresh the image quickly. Choose a monitor with a refresh rate of 90 Hz, 120 Hz, or 144 Hz to make your gaming experience more enjoyable.
Response time: The shorter the response time, the better
Response time is the time it takes the pixels on the monitor to switch from one color to another. The shorter the response time, the better because it can eliminate annoying ghosting effects when playing.
Ghosting is a moving track of objects on the screen that appears when you play a genre of games where the images change very quickly.
Choose a gaming monitor with a response time of under 5 ms to avoid the effects of screen tearing and fluctuating frame rates. Currently, there are many gaming monitors that have a response time of only 1 ms.
If you play super fast games, such as FPS and racing games, this monitor is for you. The high refresh rate and low response time will result in smooth, sharp, and fluid images while playing.
Choose the optimal monitor size for gaming
You may think, the larger the monitor size, the better the monitor is used to play games. In fact, monitors measuring 24 inches to 27 inches are the best sizes for gaming.
When playing at the computer, you will usually sit about 40 cm–100 cm from the monitor. When using a large monitor, you can't see the entire screen while playing, so your eyes and neck get tired more quickly.
Monitors with sizes from 24 inches to 27 inches have a lower price with better quality. Professional gamers also prefer a 24-inch screen.
While there are large monitors at a low price, these monitors usually have a low pixel density. To achieve a high pixel density according to gaming specifications, it is usually quite expensive.
Choose a monitor with Full HD resolution
Screen resolution is important for a gaming monitor. Choose a gaming monitor with a minimum resolution of 1080 pixels or Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) for clear and detailed images. Besides the price is more affordable, almost all games already support this resolution.
This resolution has a fast response time and low input lag, making it suitable for fast and detailed games. If your budget is sufficient, you can also choose a monitor with a QHD resolution (2560 x 1440 pixels).
Also make sure your computer's graphics card supports this resolution. Do not buy a monitor with a 4K resolution if the graphics card installed in your computer is only capable of supporting a resolution of 1080 pixels.
However, the higher the resolution, the larger the screen size. The bigger the screen size, the more expensive the price. Consider this before you choose a gaming PC monitor.
Adjust the panel type to your needs
There are two types of monitor panels that are often used for gaming monitors, namely TN panels and IPS panels. Let's see the difference!
TN panels
TN panels or Twisted Nematic are quite popular in the gaming world because they are relatively cheaper than IPS monitors.
TN monitors also have faster response times and higher refresh rates. However, this panel is less comfortable to use because the TN panel display will usually change color when viewed from the side. TN panels have a smaller viewing angle, especially from the side
IPS Panel
The IPS panel display or In-Plane Switching has a wide viewing angle. You can view the image on the monitor well from any direction. In general, the IPS screen type is considered the best among other panels.
Color accuracy is also better making it suitable for HD gaming, multimedia editing, and professional design.
However, IPS screens have a slower response time than TN panels. IPS screen prices also tend to be more expensive.
Pay attention to the type of compatible input connector on the monitor
One of the points you need to pay attention to is the type and number of input connectors. There are several ports used on monitors today, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, and USB type-C. Monitors with high refresh rates usually use DisplayPort or HDMI.
You can use DVI as an alternative to HDMI if your GPU or monitor doesn't have a sufficient number of ports.
Although you can add a selector on a monitor without a DisplayPort, the performance will be less stable. Therefore, choose an input connector that matches your monitor and needs.
Check the gaming support features on the monitor
Some of the gaming features that can support today's games, including the adaptive-sync feature and low motion blur. Check out the full explanation below!
Adaptive-sync feature
The adaptive-sync feature functions to synchronize the refresh rate of the graphics card with the monitor so that it can reduce the display of lag games. Currently there are two adaptive sync technologies, namely G-Sync from Nvidia and FreeSync from AMD.
Monitors with AMD FreeSync features are more popular because they are cheaper than monitors with Nvidia G-Sync features.
In addition, you need to pay attention to the hardware configuration (GPU) on your PC. Nvidia G-Sync monitors require the use of an Nvidia graphics card, while AMD FreeSync monitors require an AMD graphics card to operate.
Low motion blur feature
The low motion blur feature is a technology that allows both motion blur and adaptive-sync technology to be activated simultaneously.
This feature can eliminate ghosting and tearing resulting in very sharp visuals at high frame rates when playing games.
10 Recommendations for the best cheap gaming monitors
Next, we will recommend ten of the best cheap gaming monitor products that we determined based on how to choose above. These products are carefully selected by considering product quality, buyer reviews, and the level of trust in the seller. Our products are sorted by popularity in the marketplace.
1. Lenovo G-SYNC Gaming Monitor - G25-10
This 24.5-inch Full-HD monitor has a high frame rate and vivid colors making it perfect for e-sports enthusiasts. Having a high refresh rate, 144 Hz, and a response time of 1 ms, you can enjoy smooth gameplay.
Also supported by Nvidia G-Sync, this monitor is able to present visuals smoothly and almost without ghosting or tearing.
You can also play games for hours in comfort with this monitor thanks to its eye protection technology and anti-glare display. Very interesting, isn't it?
- Display: 24.5 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 170°/160°
- Panel type: TN
- Terminal input: 1 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x DP 1.2, 1 x Audio out (3.5 mm)
- More features: NearEdgeless bezel, NVIDIA® G-SYNC®, anti-glare
2. Acer LED Gaming Monitor - KG221Q
Acer LED Gaming Monitor is suitable for those of you who like monitors with a screen size that is not so large. With a minimalist design and triangular stand, this series monitor is quite cheap. You can get a monitor with AMD Freesync features that are suitable for gamers for only 2 million.
- Display: 22 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 75 Hz
- Viewing angle: 90° Horizontal, 65° Vertical
- Panel type: TN: Terminal input
- VGA, HDMI, Headphone
- More features: AMD Free-Sync, Ultra-Low Blue Light technology, Ultra Low Input Lag technology, Flickerless technology, ComfyView Display, 6-Axis Color Adjustments
3. MSI Optix Esports Gaming Monitor - G241
The Optix G241 monitor is built with FreeSync technology that can match the screen's refresh rate to your GPU's for ultra-smooth gameplay.
The Optix series gaming monitors also have a wider gamut range than typical monitors. Colors and gameplay details will look more realistic and smooth with this series monitor.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178° (H) / 178° (V)
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: 2x HDMI (1.4b), 1x Display Port (1.2a), 1x Earphone Out
- More features: Anti-glare, Wide Color Gamut, AMD FreeSync™ Technology, Night Vision, Anti-Flicker and Less Blue Light
4. Viewsonic Entertainment Monitor - VX2458-P-MHD
ViewSonic VX2458-P-MHD is suitable for those of you who like to play games casually. With a 144 Hz refresh rate that supports AMD FreeSync, this monitor will display smooth gaming visuals.
This monitor is also equipped with ViewSonic's exclusive ViewMode™ presets. This feature optimizes screen performance for entertainment needs, such as watching movies, editing, or playing video games.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 170º horizontal, 160º vertical
- Panel type: TN
- Terminal input: 3.5mm Audio Out, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, Display Port, 3-pin Socket
- More features: AMD FreeSync™ Premium, Blue Light Filter, Flicker-Free, Mega Dynamic Contrast, low energy consumption
5. AOC LED Gaming Monitor - 24G2E
AOC 24G2E is one of the gaming monitors featuring premium FreeSync Technology. This feature is combined with a smooth 144 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time.
The AOC 24G2E offers e-sports professional standards for gaming. Another plus of this monitor lies in its HDR mode. This mode can deliver vivid images with a high level of clarity.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178° (H) / 178° (V) (CR > 10)
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: VGA x 1, HDMI 1.4 x 2, DisplayPort 1.2 x 1
- More features: AMD FreeSync Premium, HDR Mode, AOC Low Input Lag mode, Flicker-free technology
6. ASUS Frameless Esports Gaming Monitor - VP249QGR
The ASUS VP249QGR gaming monitor display is designed for the professional gaming arena. With a Full HD IPS panel, 144 Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync on the monitor, the resulting game visuals will be very smooth.
The advantages of this monitor are also found in ASUS GamePlus technology. This feature will make you unable to distinguish between the virtual world and the real world. You will have a different and more exciting gaming experience!
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178°
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI(v1.4) x 1, VGA x 1, PC Audio Input
- More features: Adaptive-Sync (FreeSync™), ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB™) technology, Frameless, ELMB, Shadow Boost, Low Blue Light, Flicker Free, Wall Mountable
7. AIRO Pixel Perfect Gaming Monitor - AIO24X
AIRO is an Indonesian local brand that started its sales in January 2020. Although relatively new, AIRO focuses on offering several gaming monitors for the market in the country. One of them is the AIRO AIO24X monitor which is equipped with a refresh rate of up to 165 Hz.
Not only that, you can also find additional features, such as Freesync and G-sync on this monitor. You can also adjust the monitor screen according to your needs, from height, rotation, to screen tilt. So sophisticated, yes!
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 165 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178º/178º
- Panel type: IPS LED
- Terminal input: DP + HDMI + VGA - 165hz via displayport only - hdmi 1.4 only (120hz)
- More features: FreeSync, G-Sync, Flicker Free, Plug & Play, Low Blue Light Mode
8. Philips LED Gaming Monitor - 242M8
This Philips Momentum monitor can give you a more enjoyable gaming experience. AMD FreeSync technology and a 144 Hz refresh rate are capable of supporting flawless gaming performance.
Another advantage of this monitor lies in the Ultra Wide-Color Technology. This technology provides a wider color spectrum and extremely brilliant images. The color gamut in this feature is wider, resulting in more natural-looking, more vibrant colors.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178º (H) / 178º (V)
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: VGA (analog), HDMI (digital, HDCP), DisplayPort x 1, Audio out
- More features: AMD FreeSync™ Premium, LowBlue Mode, Flicker-free technology, anti-glare
9. LG UltraGear Full HD - 24GN600-B
This monitor has an excellent feature, namely premium AMD FreeSync. Gamers can experience smooth and smooth movement when playing high-resolution games that require fast reactions.
This FreeSync feature also minimizes image shattering and shaking. Also equipped with Dynamic Action Sync and Black Stabilizer, this feature helps gamers capture critical moments in real-time.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 1 ms
- Refresh rate: 144 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178º (R/L), 178º (U/D)
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: HDMI x 2, Headphone Out, DisplayPort x 1
- More features: AMD FreeSync™ Premium, Smart Energy Saving, Motion Blur Reduction Technology, Dynamic Action Sync, HDR (High Dynamic Range), Black Stabilizer, anti-glare
10. Samsung Bezel Less Design Gaming Monitor - S24R350
The Samsung S24R350 is a 24-inch FHD monitor with a bezel-less design, AMD Freesync, and a 75Hz refresh rate. This monitor stands out for its stylish and sleek design.
Not only the design is attractive, the technology in it is also very sophisticated. For a gaming monitor with a relatively cheap price, this monitor has complete features. This monitor is suitable for those of you who have a limited budget, but want superior design and features.
- Display: 24 inch Full HD
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Response time: 5 ms
- Refresh rate: 75 Hz
- Viewing angle: 178°/178°
- Panel type: IPS
- Terminal input: HDMI 1 EA, D-Sub 1 EA, HDMI Version 1.4
- More features: AMD Radeon FreeSync™, Flicker Free technology, Eye Saver Mode, HDMI, D-sub ports, Eco Saving Plus
Conclusion
Have you found a cheap gaming monitor product that fits your needs? There are many monitors with different sizes, specifications, and prices. Consider the points on how to choose which we have described above as your guide.
In addition to the specifications that suit your needs, the budget is an equally important point for you to consider. Hopefully this review can help you find a monitor product that fits your needs and budget.
