The gaming monitor market continues to expand, offering an array of choices to suit different gaming preferences. When selecting a monitor, key factors such as refresh rate, resolution, and panel type play a significant role. Your ideal monitor will depend on the types of games you play—competitive gamers may prioritize high refresh rates and low response times, while those who prefer immersive experiences might seek 4K resolution with HDMI 2.1 support. There are also high-refresh-rate, high-resolution monitors available, but they require a powerful gaming setup to maximize their potential.
We conducted extensive testing on various monitors, taking thousands of measurements to determine the best options for different gamers. A monitor with a fast response time ensures clear motion handling, while low input lag improves responsiveness. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support minimizes screen tearing, enhancing overall gameplay. Premium gaming monitors excel in both performance and picture quality, though they tend to be more expensive.
1. MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED – Best Overall Gaming Monitor
The MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED stands out as the best gaming monitor of 2025. This high-end 4K, 240Hz display features a QD-OLED panel, delivering exceptional picture quality and outstanding gaming performance. Motion appears incredibly smooth due to its near-instantaneous response time, eliminating blur behind fast-moving objects.
This monitor includes HDMI 2.1 support, making it ideal for both modern gaming consoles and high-performance graphics cards. Additionally, it comes with useful features such as a KVM switch for seamless switching between different sources. If you’re looking for top-tier gaming performance combined with stunning visuals, this is an excellent choice.
2. MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED – Best Mid-Range Gaming Monitor
For those seeking a high-performance monitor without the premium price tag, the MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED is a great alternative. While it lacks the 4K resolution of the MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED, it still offers impressive features like HDMI 2.1 support, a KVM switch, and a USB hub.
This model features a 1440p resolution instead of 4K, meaning images may not be as detailed. However, it compensates with an ultra-high 360Hz refresh rate, making it a fantastic choice for competitive gaming. If you don’t require such a high refresh rate, you might consider other 240Hz OLED options, such as the ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG. However, the MSI model remains the best in this category due to its superior color accuracy and overall performance.
3. Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx – Best Value 4K Gaming Monitor
Gamers who want a mid-range option with strong performance should consider the Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx. While it doesn’t offer the deep blacks and near-instant response times of OLED panels, it still delivers great motion handling across its VRR range with minimal blur.
With a 160Hz refresh rate and 4K resolution, it provides sharp images and smooth gameplay. This monitor also features Mini LED local dimming, allowing for deep blacks and bright highlights, enhancing both SDR and HDR performance. However, one downside is its higher input lag at fixed 60Hz signals, which may affect reaction-based games. This issue can be mitigated by gaming at a higher refresh rate with VRR enabled.
4. AOC Q27G3XMN – Best Budget Mini LED Monitor
If you’re looking for an affordable monitor that still delivers solid gaming performance and decent picture quality, the AOC Q27G3XMN is a standout choice. It’s one of the few budget monitors featuring Mini LED backlighting, similar to the Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx.
This monitor has a high native contrast ratio and effective local dimming, producing deep blacks and bright highlights with minimal blooming. HDR content looks impressive thanks to its high peak brightness. However, its 1440p resolution means images aren’t as detailed as on 4K monitors. Additionally, while it has a fast response time, its VA panel introduces some black smearing.
For those who can’t find the AOC Q27G3XMN in their region, the Acer Nitro XV275U P3biipx is another great budget-friendly option with Mini LED technology, though its motion handling is slightly inferior.
5. LG 27GP850-B / 27GP83B-B – Best Entry-Level Gaming Monitor
For gamers on a tight budget who still want a capable monitor, the LG 27GP850-B and 27GP83B-B models are excellent choices. These two variants offer similar specifications, with the 27GP850-B including an overclockable 180Hz refresh rate and USB ports, while the 27GP83B-B is often available at a lower price.
These monitors feature a 1440p resolution, which is a step down from the AOC Q27G3XMN in terms of picture quality since they lack local dimming and have a lower native contrast ratio. As a result, blacks may appear gray in darker environments. However, their 165Hz refresh rate and VRR support make them great for gaming. Additionally, they exhibit less smearing than VA panels, making them ideal for gamers who prioritize smooth motion over deep contrast.
Both models perform well in bright rooms, thanks to their decent peak brightness and good reflection handling. While they don’t offer the best picture quality, they provide solid gaming performance at an affordable price.
