8 Best Gaming Monitors to Buy in 2026

How we chose and tested

We evaluated monitors based on real-world gaming performance, including motion clarity, color accuracy, and input lag. Each display was assessed for its balance of features, price, and suitability for different gaming scenarios. We considered refresh rates, response times, panel technology, and practical factors like connectivity and build quality.

The best gaming monitors right now

Asus ROG Swift PG27UCDM - Best overall

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This 27-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor delivers what many consider the best gaming experience available today. It combines exceptional contrast with smooth 240Hz performance, making it suitable for both competitive play and immersive single-player games.

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Who it is for: Gamers who want the best visual quality and have the hardware to support 4K gaming at high frame rates.

Alienware AW2525DM - Best value

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For competitive gamers who prioritize speed over resolution, this 27-inch QHD 180Hz monitor delivers exceptional performance at an accessible price. It's built specifically for esports and fast-paced gaming where every millisecond counts.

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Who it is for: Competitive gamers who want maximum smoothness without spending a fortune.

Acer Predator X34 OLED - Best ultrawide

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This 34-inch curved ultrawide OLED monitor creates an immersive gaming experience that's hard to match. The combination of ultrawide aspect ratio and OLED technology makes games feel more expansive and engaging.

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Who it is for: Gamers who want maximum immersion and have the space for an ultrawide display.

Alienware AW2725DF - Best for esports

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When every frame matters, this 1440p 360Hz QD-OLED monitor delivers competitive advantage. It combines the visual benefits of QD-OLED with esports-level refresh rates, creating a display that's both beautiful and fast.

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Who it is for: Competitive gamers who want both visual quality and maximum smoothness.

Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQL3A - Best budget 1440p

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For gamers who want 1440p performance without premium pricing, this monitor delivers solid performance across the board. It's a practical choice that doesn't sacrifice essential gaming features.

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Who it is for: Gamers who want 1440p gaming performance without spending a lot of money.

• MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED - a top-tier 4k oled at a better price.
• Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 - massive super-ultrawide for ultimate immersion.
• LG UltraGear OLED (27GX790A) - fast 27-inch oled with sharp motion.

Match resolution to your GPU

4K looks great but needs high-end hardware. If you have a midrange GPU, 1440p usually gives the best balance of clarity and frame rate.

Choose refresh rate by game type

Esports players benefit most from 240Hz and higher, while story-driven games can prioritize image quality over maximum refresh.

Pick the right panel tech

OLED and QD-OLED deliver the best contrast and response times. IPS is a strong all-around option at lower prices.

Think about size and desk depth

Bigger screens and ultrawides feel more immersive, but they need more space and a comfortable viewing distance.

Check connectivity before buying

Make sure the monitor has the ports you need for your PC or console, especially DisplayPort and HDMI 2.1 where relevant.

FAQ

Are ultrawide monitors good for gaming?

Yes, they can be extremely immersive in supported games. The tradeoff is higher GPU demand and occasional compatibility issues.

Is 4K worth it for gaming?

It is worth it if your GPU can sustain good frame rates at 4K. Otherwise, 1440p often gives a smoother overall experience.

Should I choose OLED or IPS for gaming?

OLED offers better contrast and faster pixel response, while IPS is usually cheaper and still delivers strong color and motion performance.