Looking to upgrade your gaming experience without breaking the bank? A high-quality gaming monitor can take your play to the next level compared to an everyday TV. With faster response times, higher refresh rates, and features tailored specifically for gaming, monitors provide a smooth, immersive experience.
The good news is you can get an excellent gaming monitor for under $300 in 2023. While more expensive monitors offer extras like 4K resolution or NVIDIA G-Sync, budget-friendly monitors provide impressive performance at a fraction of the price.
As an avid gamer and gaming gear analyst, I‘ve tested countless monitors over the years. In this guide, I‘ll share my research and recommendations to help you find the best gaming monitor under $300. You can game like a pro without spending a fortune. Let‘s dive in!
Why Choose a Gaming Monitor vs TV
Before we get to the monitor recommendations, let‘s quickly go over the benefits of a dedicated gaming monitor compared to an everyday TV:
- Faster response time – Gaming monitors have response times of 1ms or less, resulting in less motion blur. TVs are typically 10ms or slower, causing ghosting.
- Higher refresh rates – Top gaming monitors have 144Hz, 165Hz or even 240Hz refresh rates. TVs max out at 60Hz, producing stuttering and tearing in games.
- Lower input lag – Gaming monitors minimize input lag, the delay between pressing a button and the action on screen. TVs have higher input lag that can negatively impact gameplay.
- Better ergonomics – Monitors provide adjustable stands, eye-level viewing, and closer proximity for a more immersive experience. Playing games on a TV typically involves awkward long-distance viewing.
- More gaming features – Gaming monitors include AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync adaptive sync technologies for smooth variable refresh rates. Many also offer gaming-centric display settings and modes optimized for different game genres.
While TVs work fine for casual gaming, a dedicated monitor offers a competitive edge and takes the experience to another level. For serious gaming, a monitor is the way to go.
How We Evaluated the Best Budget Gaming Monitors
As a tech analyst, I evaluated dozens of sub-$300 gaming monitors based on key technical and performance criteria:
- Screen size – Between 24 and 32 inches for ideal desktop gaming field of view.
- Resolution – At least 1920 x 1080 for crisp image quality and vivid colors.
- Refresh rate – 144Hz or higher for smooth, tear-free gameplay.
- Response time – 1ms or lower to eliminate distracting ghosting/motion blur.
- Adaptive sync – AMD FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible to match display with GPU for stutter-free visuals.
- Panel type – IPS for best color and viewing angles or VA for contrast.
- Connectivity – HDMI and DisplayPort for connecting PC and game consoles.
- Ergonomics – Height, tilt, and swivel adjustment for ideal viewing position.
Based on these criteria, I hand-picked the 5 best gaming monitors you can get for under $300 in 2023. I‘ll now break down each monitor, their key specs, who they are ideal for, and how they compare to each other. Let‘s dive in!
1. Best 32 Inch Monitor: MSI Optix G32CQ4
Screen Size: 32 inches
Resolution: 2560 x 1440
Refresh Rate: 165 Hz
Response Time: 1 ms
Panel: VA
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DP, USB-C
Price: $251.99
If you want an immersive large-screen experience without breaking the bank, the MSI Optix G32CQ4 is the best 32-inch gaming monitor under $300.
The 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution paired with the broad 32-inch curved VA panel provides outstanding picture quality. Details and textures look crisp thanks to the higher pixel density. The 1500R curvature matches natural field of view for increased immersion.
With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, motion clarity and smoothness are also excellent. FreeSync Premium prevents tearing or stuttering when paired with an AMD GPU. This makes the G32CQ4 a great choice for both fast-paced competitive gaming as well as relaxed single-player adventures.
The ergonomics are good for the price with tilt adjustment to find your optimal viewing angle. There‘s also VESA mount compatibility for using third-party monitor stands and arms.
For those looking for an expansive cinematic experience without paying a premium, the MSI Optix G32CQ4 offers incredible value.
Pros
- 165Hz refresh rate with FreeSync Premium provides flawlessly smooth gameplay.
- 1500R curved display increases sense of immersion.
- 32-inch VA panel with QHD resolution looks sharp.
- Rapid 1ms pixel response time reduces distracting motion blur.
Cons
- Lacks height adjustment and swivel in the stand.
- 250 cd/m2 max brightness is darker than pricier models.
2. Best Curved Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG24VQ
Screen Size: 24 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate: 165 Hz
Response Time: 1 ms
Panel: VA
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DP
Price: $199.99
The ASUS TUF Gaming VG24VQ is my top pick under $300 if you‘re looking for an immersive curved display for gaming.
This 24-inch VA monitor combines a tight 1500R curvature with super-fast response times and refresh rates. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time deliver flawlessly smooth, crisp visuals even in FPS games with fast movement.
The VA panel provides excellent 3000:1 contrast for inky blacks and vivid colors that look great in dark game scenes. The curve helps pull you into the action for a more engaging experience.
Fully adjustable ergonomics including tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment allow you to tweak the monitor to the perfect position. There are also ultra-thin bezels on three sides for minimized distractions.
For an immersive curved display that won‘t break the budget, the ASUS TUF Gaming VG24VQ hits the sweet spot.
Pros
- 1500R curvature increases immersion
- 165Hz refresh and 1ms response provide flawlessly smooth motion
- 3000:1 contrast ratio with VA panel
- Fully adjustable stand
Cons
- 24-inch size smaller than other options
- No speakers built-in
3. Best 144Hz IPS Gaming Monitor: AOC 24G2
Screen Size: 24 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
Response Time: 1 ms
Panel: IPS
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DP, 1 x VGA
Price: $169.99
The AOC 24G2 is my top recommendation for an IPS gaming monitor under $300. Thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate and extremely fast 1ms GtG response time, this monitor provides an excellent experience for fast-paced competitive gaming.
The IPS panel offers vibrant colors that pop as well as wide 178° viewing angles. This allows co-op gaming without experiencing washed-out colors when viewing the screen off-angle.
A fully adjustable stand with tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment provides ergonomic flexibility. There are also virtually borderless bezels for a distraction-free gaming experience.
At just 24 inches, the screen is a bit smaller than others on this list. However, that makes it ideal for uncompromised high-speed gaming on a desk without breaking the bank. For flashy IPS visuals with lightning-fast response, the AOC 24G2 is hard to beat at this price.
Pros
- 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth motion clarity
- 1ms GtG response time eliminates ghosting
- Vibrant colors and wide viewing angles with IPS
- Fully adjustable stand
Cons
- 24-inch screen smaller than other options
- Lower contrast ratio than VA alternatives
4. Best 27-inch Monitor: Gigabyte G27FC
Screen Size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate: 165 Hz
Response Time: 1 ms
Panel: VA
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DP
Price: $199.99
If you want a more expansive 27-inch monitor without going over budget, the Gigabyte G27FC is a superb choice. It provides the ideal balance between screen size and gaming performance.
The Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution looks nice and sharp on the 27-inch display. The 1500R curved VA panel provides vivid colors and excellent 3000:1 contrast thanks to the high brightness.
This monitor also delivers silky-smooth 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for crystal clear motion clarity in fast-action gameplay. AMD FreeSync Premium support reduces tearing for super fluid visuals when paired with a compatible GPU.
The stand on the G27FC offers tilt and height adjustments for ergonomic positioning. There‘s also VESA compatibility for mounting flexibility. At just $199.99, this monitor provides tremendous value.
Pros
- 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time
- 27-inch 1500R curved VA panel
- Height adjustable stand plus VESA mount compatibility
- Fantastic price given the size and specs
Cons
- 1080p resolution lower than 1440p options
- No speakers built-in
5. Best Budget Pick: ViewSonic VX2458-MHD
Screen Size: 24 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
Response Time: 1 ms
Panel: TN
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync
Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DP
Price: $159.99
If you want the fastest gaming monitor possible on a tight budget, the ViewSonic VX2458 is the perfect pick. It delivers premium features like a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for an unbeatable price.
The 24-inch TN panel ensures lightning-fast pixel transitions key to keeping up in twitch-reaction games. AMD FreeSync support also delivers perfectly smooth, tear-free visuals when used with a compatible GPU.
While color accuracy and viewing angles are not as strong as IPS/VA panels, the VX2458 provides an incredibly responsive competitive gaming experience on a budget. The simple tilt-only stand helps keep costs down. But there‘s also VESA compatibility for connecting to a different monitor arm or stand.
For fast and fluid gaming on a tight budget, the ViewSonic VX2458 hits the mark.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 144Hz and 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync support for tear-free gameplay
- Excellent price for the speed and performance
- VESA mount compatible
Cons
- TN panel has poorer viewing angles/color vs IPS
- Tilt-only stand lacks height adjustability
Gaming Monitor Buying Guide – How to Pick the Perfect Monitor Under $300
Looking for a high-performance gaming monitor but stuck to a $300 budget? Keep these tips in mind when choosing the best model for your needs and gameplay style:
Pick the Right Screen Size
- 24" to 27" – Ideal for maximum immersion when sitting 2-3 feet away at a desk. Allows viewing the entire screen without excessive eye/head movement.
- Curved 27" to 32" – Curve provides a panoramic field of view that pulls you into the action. Great for a more cinematic experience.
- Avoid larger than 32" – Larger monitors are overwhelming when sitting close at a desk. Best suited for TV-like setups across a room.
Shoot for the Highest Refresh Rate
- 144Hz – Provides ultra smooth visuals for fast-paced competitive gaming. Minimum to target for a good gaming experience.
- 165Hz or 175Hz – Offers an even faster refresh for gaining an edge in competitive esports titles like CSGO or Overwatch.
- Don‘t worry about 240Hz – Those are overkill for under $300 and appeal primarily to professional esports players, so 144-165Hz is plenty.
Seek out the Lowest Response Times
- 1ms – Provides sharp visuals with no distracting ghosting or motion blur, ideal for fast action games.
- Don‘t go higher than 5ms – Anything higher than 5ms response time can cause noticeable blurring during gaming.
Pick IPS for Best Colors or VA for Deeper Blacks
- IPS – Offers the most accurate and vibrant colors with wide 178° viewing angles. Makes colors look great even when viewing monitor off-center.
- VA – Provides excellent 3000:1+ contrast ratio for deeper blacks. Best for dark game scenes or horror/cinematic games.
- Avoid TN – TN panels have poor color reproduction and narrow viewing angles. Fine for absolute cheapest monitors only.
Check for Adaptive Sync Support
- AMD FreeSync – Matches monitor‘s refresh rate to AMD GPU‘s frame rate to prevent screen tearing. Requires AMD graphics card.
- Nvidia G-Sync Compatible – Does the same but for Nvidia GPUs. Confirm monitor is certified G-Sync compatible for the best experience with an Nvidia card.
Don‘t Worry About 4K
- 1080p or 1440p – More than enough resolution given the smaller monitor sizes. Lets graphics card better handle high frame rates.
- 4K not recommended – 4K monitors become expensive quickly and lower refresh rates/performance. Better suited to large living room setups. Stick to 1440p or 1080p.
Look for Ergonomic Adjustability
- Tilt, swivel, height – Allows tweaking the monitor for personalized comfort and ergonomics to avoid neck/eye strain.
- Rotation – Lets you flip monitor orientation from landscape to portrait (not necessarily needed for gaming).
Check Connectivity for Your Devices
- HDMI x2 – Allows connecting both a PC and game console like PS5/Xbox. Look for HDMI 2.0.
- DisplayPort – Modern connector needed for high resolutions and frame rates. Look for DisplayPort 1.4.
- USB hub – A plus for connecting wired gaming mice, keyboards, headsets. Not mandatory.
Game Like a Pro without Breaking the Bank
Hopefully this guide gave you a comprehensive overview of what to look for when buying a new gaming monitor under $300. The monitors above offer the perfect blend of screen size, refresh rates, response times and gaming-centric features.
While premium monitors with bleeding-edge specs will cost you an arm and a leg, these budget-friendly picks provide super responsive and immersive gaming performance. By picking the monitor that best fits your priorities and system, you can take your gaming to the next level without overspending.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m happy to provide any other insights or monitor recommendations based on your needs. Game on!