Selecting Monitornerds’ Editor’s Choice gaming monitors is a grueling task because new models become better and better with lesser faults and issues each release cycle. Over the years, we have chosen the best at mixing performance, design, and value to recommend to users so they can get the best bang for every hard-earned buck. Greatness isn’t limited to this list, but each one is a superb example of what a responsive and visually stunning gaming monitor should be.
How We Select Editor’s Choice Gaming Monitors
1. Performance
We treat our selection of editor’s choice gaming monitors as if we were buying it for our gaming rigs at home. Before pulling the trigger on any gadget or device, we usually consult an expert or tester’s advice regarding a product’s capabilities before gauging anything else. We test these displays according to a fixed standard which includes color vibrancy and accuracy, speed, responsiveness, and panel uniformity.
Getting eye-popping color with just the right amount of saturation plus low input lag ratings usually, make the job easier. These two are what gamers usually look for to determine how enjoyable and lifelike the image output will be and at the same time how responsive a monitor is from input to output. After measuring, hours of testing with select titles will ensue, since let’s face it, games are the industry standard for benchmarking raw performance.
We avoid adding in panel uniformity in rating those eligible as editor’s choice gaming monitors because simply put; this facet varies from unit to unit. Sometimes, poor quality control is to blame, but these defects are natural limitations of LCD and LED screen technologies. Manufacturers have come a long way in advancements, but these flaws are almost impossible to avoid.
2. Design and Features
Again, just like buying it for ourselves, the selection is also based on how good a monitor looks. We adhere to the concept of form follows function, so making a gaming monitor look good without and practical reason isn’t well-liked. There are exceptional cases, but ergonomics, ease of use, dimensions, weight, and the general appearance of the whole product weights a lot in selection.
We also rate according to how robust and durable a monitor feels. Premium models often use thick, and high-quality materials which do not flex or creak, but we have seen some with almost brittle plastic or flimsy mechanics. Some have metal reinforcements to add heft and structural strength, while some trim their products’ dimensions to avoid adding unnecessary materials and bulk.
We also add in the factor of extra features in selecting editor’s choice gaming monitors because these additions often raise the value of the product against the dollar. Paying exorbitant amounts for a ho-hum product should always be avoided. We consider nifty extras such as remotes and headset hangers, but we also check software based add-ons like gaming overlays and filters. A well-rounded product usually has a lot to offer for owners to be able to customize and use a product with great results according to their desires. Selecting comfortable angles and image output, enhancements, or better yet fine tuning via calibration should always be flexible with numerous choices to enable personal optimization.
3. Value
After seeking out the best performance and wide array of features, we then come to pricing which seals the deal for selecting an editor’s choice gaming monitor. We generally take estimated average prices of the products we test and compare how much consumers save or add to that median. It’s a big plus if a cheaper option can outperform a more expensive unit, but we also have to balance the practicality of the premium another commands.
No matter how fantastic a monitor can be, if it’s too expensive, we typically can’t add it to the list of editor’s choice gaming monitors. Although these models become cheaper over time or during sales, we only take into consideration its current price within a week of publishing the review. No matter how much we all deliberate each of a gaming monitor’s aspect, it will always come down to cost versus your budget.
Our Editor’s Choice Gaming Monitors
1. Asus VG248QE
The Asus VG248QE is one of the first editor’s choice gaming monitors it has for its ground breaking capabilities which paved the way for the rest of the pack. It is one of the first to offer 1080p at 144Hz in a 24-inch form which, fast forward to today is still the universal standard for competitive gaming.
This model is compatible with 3D Vision which is mostly a legacy technology nowadays, but its Lightboost feature can be used as one of the best blur-busting solutions in the market. Back in its day, competitors struggled to match its performance in both speed and responsiveness, launching the industry into newer and bolder territory.
2. Acer XF240H
The Acer XF240H became one of the first alternatives to steal a chunk of sales and fame from the entry above because it offered similar performance ratings plus FreeSync. It’s also easy to maximize the potential of the images on the screen, despite having TN’s limitations. Once dialed in, the Acer XF240H is ready to rock with buttery smooth and blur-free gaming if you have an AMD card.
We also loved the fact that this venerable model came dressed as an office monitor with thin bezels. The ergonomics were superb as well, as it was easy to get a perfect view angle for people with different heights. At the time of review, the Acer XF240H was one of the cheapest offerings we came across making it much more affordable to achieve gaming greatness.
3. Acer XG270HU
The Acer XG270HU paved the way for monitors with FreeSync and a resolution of 2560 x 1440, which at the time, was mostly relegated to editing applications. Its 144Hz refresh rate and input lag of only 5ms made it a top choice for hardcore gaming. It’s TN panel suffered from lower gamut coverages due to the tech’s limitation, but its speed which helps avoid blurring helped this model’s reputation as a fast monitor.
Performance aside, you can easily see that the Acer XG270HU is the basis for the current design treatment for the brand’s modern offerings. Being one of the first to offer a frameless screen and a black and red aesthetic, this editor’s choice gaming monitor drove a lot of gamers mad with envy during its time.
4. Asus MG248Q
The Asus MG248Q improved on the pedigree that pushed its predecessors into success while also improving further. This blazingly fast gaming monitor combines 144Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and FreeSync built into one of the best exteriors the market has seen to create an absolute beast. It doesn’t need a lot of effort to utilize its maximum potential since it is ready to battle right out of the box.
The design and build quality are outstanding, which Asus then applied to its newer models along the way. Users also get to enjoy 3D Vision two along with the specs mentioned above in case cravings for a unique experience would surface. The Asus MG248Q is one of the epitomes of premium gaming monitors in the 24-inch 1080p arena.
5. Asus PG278QR
The Asus PG278QR is our reigning overall best gaming monitor because of its perfect combination of speed, eye-popping visuals, and functionality. This 165Hz G-Sync equipped model has a native resolution of 2560 x 1440 which is a huge leap from 1080p, but it still is as nimble as a 1080p e-sports monitor with only 4ms of input lag.
The TN screen on the Asus PG278QR is proof that the panel tech has come a long way. Seeing it in person and testing it proves that some IPS models only have a marginal advantage in gamut and vibrancy, but you don’t suffer from slower pixel transitions. Every bit of this monitor’s cutting edge pedigree is then wrapped in Asus’ premium ROG treatment, with great ergonomics and build quality you can’t easily compare
6. Acer Predator XB271HU
The Acer Predator XB271HU features a gorgeous IPS panel boosted with advancements to create stunning images while minimizing blurs and interlacing. This G-Sync monitor is universally considered as the top IPS choice for Nvidia users because of its stunning performance and killer looks. Owners also get to enjoy E-sports-ready speed and responsiveness so that you can enjoy both immersive and competitive gaming in one unit.
The Acer Predator XB271HU has one of the most appealing aesthetics for gamers the market has seen. The aggressive matte black accented with bloody red fits a lot of build schemes, making this a top pick for players who want a unified look. The borderless screen plus the unique but fully ergonomic stand adds a ton of appeal, pushing the success of this editor’s choice gaming monitor in the market.
7. Asus PG258Q
The Asus PG258Q is a bold trendsetter for being first at offering 240Hz refresh rates with G-Sync. This product is rated as the best in the business regarding color and responsiveness thanks to its class-leading scores upon testing. If you have a Nvidia GPU and want to be competitive at E-Sports titles, this is your best bet since it comes with a competition standard 1920 x 1080 resolution.
Aside from the dazzling performance, the Asus PG258Q also features a killer exterior design featuring the new helix stand finished with titanium gray and bronze accents. Ergonomics and functionality aside, there is also a newer light projector function which completes the hardcore gamer look for your build.
8. AOC Agon AG251GZ
The AOC Agon AG251FZ is the FreeSync-based answer to the option above with similar capabilities like a 240Hz refresh rate and an amazingly low input lag. It’s results are stunningly ideal for competitive gaming, plus it has a few extra features that make the deal sweeter. Gaming is mostly blur-free, plus there are no delays and visuals are excellent.
Unlike the gaudy options above, the AOC Agon AG251FZ employs a minimalist aesthetic making it look like an executive’s display or a work of art. The metal stand is stylish yet functional, while the utilitarian extras like the OSD remote and the headset hanger complete the package. We can go as far as saying that this model is one of the best value purchases you can get if you want a 240Hz screen for your E-Sports endeavors.
9. LG 27UK650
The LG 27UK650 is one of the most popular 4K HDR monitors to arrive on retailers thanks to its absolutely affordable price. For a few bucks more than the venerable 27UD68-P, you get a superbly accurate IPS display that offers lush colors and decent motion clarity. LG’s HDR implementation adds a nice touch to the picture if your content is compatible, making it a huge bonus at this price point.
This monitor and its capabilities make it a practical choice for your PC and 4K HDR consoles like the Xbox One X or PS4 Pro. Connectivity leaves something to be desired, but you can’t argue with the affordability and the reliability of the LG 27UK650’s design. If you are into future proofing, you can consider the LG 27UK850 which is an identical model that is upgraded with a USB-C slot for your MacBook Pro.
10. Asus PG27UQ
The Asus PG27UQ is the new king of gaming monitors thanks to its 4K 144Hz display that is also capable of HDR1000 imagery. This model is tremendously expensive, but it packs the best the industry has to offer such as Quantum Dot technology and an individually dimming backlight array. The colors of the IPS panel are professional-grade, while the FALD backlight is agile enough to keep up with fast-paced action.
No high-end gaming monitor is complete without Nvidia G-Sync which is a feature necessary for monitors like the Asus PG27UQ. 4K 144Hz needs a ton of graphics horsepower to run natively, so having a solution that can cure tears and stutters is a must. Asus also designed the PG27UQ with high-end setups in mind, giving it the distinct ROG treatment that now includes a slick RGB logo that is compatible with the brand’s Aura Sync ecosystem.
Thoughts
Choosing Editor’s Choice gaming monitors is becoming more challenging by the day due to the boom in display technology in the last year. At the time of this writing, we are all already anticipating newer breeds with HDR, faster refresh rates, 2nd Generation VRR tech and more, feeding the market with diversity. This fact, however, is good for the community, because the more modern choices we get, the more enhancements become available for our enjoyment.
Despite all that, these models we selected are some of the best we have seen through the years. They serve as standard bearers which should still shine even if newer and better models come out. With that being said, you can’t go wrong with these beasts if you want a fantastic upgrade from your vanilla office monitor.
Mick says
Nice reviews, however you appear limited to the concept of “Cheap”?
Look at some more expensive options and let’s see how that works out on a product review, I was looking at the LG 32 inch
https://www.amazon.com/LG-32UD99-W-32-Inch-UHD-Monitor/dp/B06XDY3TXW
Some high end units are available… 😉
Paolo Reva says
Thank you for the suggestions, Mick! We will take it into consideration and see if we can secure a review unit of the LG 32UD99-W.