Gaming should feel fast, sharp, and completely immersive. But finding a monitor that delivers all that without draining your wallet can feel impossible. The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to get top-tier performance. In 2025, monitors under $400 pack in the speed, clarity, and color accuracy gamers crave. Whether you live for competitive matches or story-rich adventures, the right budget-friendly monitor can transform the way you play.

What Makes a Gaming Monitor Great?

A great gaming monitor makes your games feel smooth, sharp, and immersive. If you want the best option under $400, focus on a few key features that matter most for gameplay.

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate shows how many times per second the screen updates. A higher rate means smoother action and fewer visual hiccups. For most gamers, 144Hz or more is ideal. It makes fast movement feel natural and gives you a real edge in competitive play.

Response Time

Response time measures how quickly each pixel changes color. The lower the number, the better. A response time of 1ms or less helps keep motion crisp. In fast-paced shooters, this split-second speed can make all the difference.

Resolution

Resolution decides how sharp and detailed your game looks. In 2025, many monitors under $400 now offer 1440p or even 4K. These give you a richer image than 1080p, without going over budget.

Panel Type

Different panel types shape the way your games look and feel. IPS panels bring vivid colors and wide viewing angles, perfect for story-driven or visually rich games. VA panels shine in dark scenes with their strong contrast. TN panels focus on speed and are often the most affordable choice, though they trade off some color depth.

Connectivity

The right ports make your setup smooth and future-ready. Look for HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4. These support the latest PCs and consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, so you get the most out of your hardware.

In this guide, we will explore 10 of the best gaming monitors for under $400 that deliver on all these aspects. Whether you’re a competitive player or a casual gamer, these monitors are designed to give you the best experience without going over your budget.

Top Picks (Quick Summary)

Here are our top three picks for gaming monitors under $400:

Best Overall:

Best Budget/Best for Console Gaming:

Best for Competitive Gaming:

Each of these monitors brings something special to the table, whether you’re after an ultra-wide immersive experience, the highest possible colour accuracy, or ultra-smooth gaming performance. Let’s dive deeper into the reviews of each monitor.

How We Picked and Tested

We wanted to recommend monitors that feel great to use, not just look good on paper. Every option was chosen with real gamers in mind.

What We Looked For

We focused on the features that matter most in real play. Refresh rates of 144Hz or higher make games feel smooth and responsive. A resolution of at least 1440p keeps the picture sharp, while 4K offers even more detail if desired. Panel type was another key factor, with IPS panels standing out for their vibrant colours and wide viewing angles. We also checked for HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, so the monitors work with modern consoles and PCs. And, of course, we ensured that every choice stayed under $400 for true value.

How We Tested

Each monitor was tested for a week across different genres. Fast shooters, epic RPGs, and racing games all put the displays to the test. We measured input lag with tools to confirm responsiveness. We checked colour accuracy after calibration to see how true the visuals looked. We also pushed response times in real-world gameplay to see how clear the action stayed during intense moments.

In-Depth Reviews

1. Samsung Odyssey G5 34″ Ultra-Wide Monitor

Overall Review

This monitor is built for gamers who want to feel fully inside their games. The 1000R curve pulls you right into the action, wrapping the screen around your vision so it feels more natural than flat displays. With WQHD resolution, HDR10 colours, and buttery smooth 165Hz refresh, everything looks sharp, vibrant, and fast. Add in AMD FreeSync Premium and you’ve got a display that keeps motion clear and gameplay seamless, even when things get hectic.

When I first set this monitor on my desk, I wasn’t prepared for how immersive it would feel. The curve instantly changed the way I saw my favorite RPG. It almost felt like I was inside the world rather than watching it. In shooters, the 165Hz refresh rate made every flick and movement feel incredibly smooth. I even noticed less eye strain during longer sessions, which is a huge plus for late-night gaming. I also loved how HDR10 added richness to the colors. Shadows looked deeper, and details popped in ways I didn’t notice before.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
1000R curve for true immersion	VA panel not as color-accurate as IPS
Smooth 165Hz refresh rate	Large size needs desk space
1ms response for fast action
HDR10 colors with great detail

If you want a monitor that makes every game feel more alive, this one delivers. It’s smooth, immersive, and a joy to use. For under $400, it feels like stepping into a premium setup without overspending.

2. ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K Monitor

Overall Review

The ASUS 27-inch 4K HDR gaming monitor is built for players who want both speed and stunning visuals. With a 160Hz refresh rate, 1ms response, and support for G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium, it keeps motion sharp and smooth even in the most intense games. The HDR performance and wide colour gamut make every scene pop with rich detail and vibrant tones. It’s the kind of monitor that balances raw performance with visual beauty, making it ideal for both competitive and cinematic gaming.

Switching to this ASUS monitor was like lifting a veil off my games. The 4K resolution brought out details I didn’t even know existed in some titles. When I jumped into a racing sim, the world looked breathtakingly real, from the shine of the cars to the shadows on the track. Then I loaded up a fast-paced shooter, and the 160Hz refresh rate with ELMB Sync kept everything fluid with no ghosting. It felt effortless to track enemies across the screen. I also noticed how well the matte surface reduced glare during daytime play. As a bonus, I tried the Adobe Creative Cloud trial, and editing photos on this screen was a joy with its accurate colours.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Sharp 4K HDR visuals	Needs a strong GPU for 4K at high FPS
Ultra-fast 160Hz refresh	Price pushes the upper $400 limit
ELMB Sync removes ghosting
Wide color gamut (95% DCI-P3)

This ASUS monitor is a powerhouse. It combines breathtaking 4K visuals with competitive-level speed. If you want a display that can handle esports and deliver cinematic beauty at the same time, this is a fantastic choice under $400.

3. Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Monitor

Overall Review

The Acer XV272U is a monitor that mixes raw speed with sharp visuals. Its QHD resolution delivers crisp detail, while the lightning-fast 300Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make gameplay incredibly smooth. Add HDR400 support and wide sRGB coverage, and you’ve got a screen that shines in both gaming and creative work. The sleek zero-frame design also makes the display feel bigger, while the ErgoStand ensures you can adjust it for comfort during long sessions.

When I tried this monitor, the first thing I noticed was the sheer smoothness. At 300Hz, even simple movements like panning the camera in a game felt unreal, almost too fluid to describe. In competitive shooters, that responsiveness gave me a real sense of control, as if the monitor was keeping up with my every move without delay. The glossy finish made colors pop, which looked amazing in vibrant RPG worlds. Later, I used it for some photo editing, and the accuracy of the colors was striking. Having 99% sRGB coverage meant I could trust what I was seeing. The adjustable stand was a lifesaver too, letting me tweak the height and angle until it felt just right for long gaming nights.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Blazing 300Hz refresh rate	Glossy finish can reflect light
Ultra-fast 0.5ms response time	Requires powerful GPU for 300Hz
Sharp QHD resolution
Wide sRGB color accuracy with HDR400

The Acer XV272U is perfect if you want extreme speed without giving up detail or colour accuracy. It delivers both competitive gaming performance and creative-friendly visuals, making it one of the most versatile monitors under $400.

4. ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD IPS Monitor

The ARZOPA 32-inch 4K UHD monitor brings together sharp resolution, smooth motion, and a generous screen size. With 144Hz refresh and IPS clarity, it strikes a balance between speed and stunning visuals. Its glossy surface makes colours look vibrant, while the adjustable stand ensures comfort during long hours of play. Add in HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and adaptive sync for both AMD and NVIDIA, and this monitor is ready for just about any setup.

MyExperience

When I first sat down in front of this 32-inch screen, I was blown away by the sheer size. Games felt cinematic, almost like I was in a theater. The 4K detail was incredible, from the tiny textures on armor in RPGs to the reflections in city skylines. At 144Hz, even hectic battles stayed smooth, with no tearing or stuttering. I also appreciated how easy it was to adjust the height and angle. During longer sessions, being able to raise the screen a little higher made a big difference in comfort. The extra ports were another pleasant surprise—I could keep both my console and PC connected without constantly swapping cables.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Large 32-inch 4K UHD screen	Glossy finish can cause reflections
Smooth 144Hz refresh rate	Takes up a lot of desk space
Wide connectivity options
Adaptive Sync with AMD and NVIDIA

The ARZOPA 32-inch monitor is a fantastic choice if you want a big, bold, and smooth gaming experience. It delivers excellent clarity and speed while giving you the flexibility to connect multiple devices with ease.

5. CRUA 34-Inch WQHD VA Monitor

Overview

The CRUA 34-inch ultrawide monitor is designed to make gaming and work feel bigger, smoother, and more immersive. Its 21:9 aspect ratio with a 1500R curve pulls you into the action while giving you more screen space for multitasking. With WQHD resolution, vibrant 120% sRGB colors, and a 165Hz refresh rate, it blends speed and visual quality beautifully. Add FreeSync support and plenty of connectivity, and this becomes a versatile pick for gamers, creators, and even everyday productivity.

The first time I powered up this ultrawide, I felt like I was entering a whole new world. The curve stretched across my vision, making open-world games feel endless and cinematic. The wide aspect ratio gave me more room to see my surroundings, which was a big advantage in strategy games. At 165Hz, motion stayed sharp, so even in high-speed races, I never saw tearing or lag. Outside of gaming, the extra space was a dream for productivity. I could keep a game on one side of the screen and a browser or editing software on the other without feeling cramped. The crisp colours and contrast made everything from movies to editing photos look fantastic.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Huge 34-inch ultrawide curved screen	Not ideal for small desks
Smooth 165Hz refresh rate with FreeSync	Wide 120% sRGB colour and WQHD resolution
Wide 120% sRGB color and WQHD resolution
Great multitasking and connectivity

If you want a monitor that doubles as an immersive gaming screen and a productivity powerhouse, the CRUA 34-inch ultrawide is hard to beat. It feels premium, looks gorgeous, and makes both work and play more enjoyable.

6. CRUA Gaming Monitor 32-inch 4K IPS

Overall Review

The CRUA 32-inch 4K IPS monitor brings together sharp visuals and smooth performance at an affordable price. With a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR support, and FreeSync technology, it delivers both speed and clarity for gamers. Its wide 120% sRGB color gamut and 1.07 billion colors create rich, lifelike gradients, while the three-sided narrow bezel gives it a modern look. With plenty of ports and built-in speakers, it’s a versatile choice for gaming, work, or entertainment.

When I tested this CRUA 32-inch monitor, the first thing that struck me was the picture quality. The 4K resolution made game worlds look incredibly detailed, from tiny textures on armor to the glow of neon city lights. Switching on HDR gave colors extra depth, making bright scenes vivid and shadows more realistic. At 144Hz with FreeSync, everything felt smooth, especially in fast-paced shooters where every frame counts. I also liked having multiple HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4 ports—it was easy to connect my PC and console at the same time. The built-in speakers weren’t amazing but handy for quick use. The adjustable stand made long sessions more comfortable, and the slim bezels gave it a sleek feel on my desk.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Crisp 4K IPS display with HDR	Built-in speakers are average
Smooth 144Hz refresh rate with FreeSync	HDR setup requires manual enabling
Wide color coverage (120% sRGB, 1.07B colors)
Multiple HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4 ports

The CRUA 32-inch 4K monitor offers an excellent balance of speed, clarity, and connectivity. If you want a big, sharp screen for gaming and everyday use without breaking the bank, this is a solid option.

8. Samsung Odyssey G4 Monitor 25″

Overall Review

The Samsung Odyssey G4 25-inch monitor is built for speed. With a blistering 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and G-Sync compatibility, it’s a dream for competitive gamers who want every frame to count. The FHD IPS panel provides clear colors and wide viewing angles, while HDR10 adds extra depth to dark and bright scenes. Its fully adjustable stand and ultrawide game view mode make it versatile, whether you’re grinding ranked matches or enjoying casual play.

Personal Experience

Using the Odyssey G4 felt like switching into turbo mode. At 240Hz, even fast-paced shooters and racing games looked buttery smooth, and the 1ms response time eliminated motion blur completely. I was especially impressed with how well it handled synchronisation, whether with NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync Premium; I never noticed tearing or stuttering. Ultrawide Game View was a fun feature too; stretching the screen to 21:9 gave me extra visibility, especially in driving sims. The IPS panel delivered vibrant colours, and HDR10 made explosions and lighting effects pop. Ergonomics was another highlight; I could tilt, swivel, and raise the screen to the perfect height for long sessions. The Auto Source Switch+ was surprisingly convenient, instantly detecting when I switched from PC to console.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
240Hz refresh rate & 1ms response	FHD resolution may feel limited vs. 1440p/4K
G-Sync & FreeSync Premium support	25-inch size might be small for some setups
IPS panel with HDR10
Ergonomic stand + Auto Source Switch+

9. LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor 32-inch QHD

The LG 32GN650-B Ultragear is a QHD monitor that balances speed and visual quality perfectly. Its 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms motion blur reduction make fast-paced games feel crisp and responsive. With AMD FreeSync support and HDR10, the colours pop, and gameplay remains smooth without tearing. The 32-inch screen with a 3-sided virtually borderless design feels immersive, while the adjustable stand allows you to customise your setup for comfort during long gaming sessions.

Using this LG monitor was a joy from the start. The 32-inch QHD screen made RPGs and open-world games look stunning, with detailed textures and vibrant colours that drew me into the game world. Fast-paced shooters felt smooth and precise, thanks to the 165Hz refresh and 1ms motion blur reduction. FreeSync worked flawlessly, eliminating any noticeable screen tearing, while HDR10 added depth to both bright and dark scenes. The adjustable stand allowed me to tilt, pivot, and change the height easily, which made long sessions more comfortable. I also appreciated the virtually borderless design, which made multi-monitor setups feel seamless.

Pros	Cons
165Hz refresh rate & 1ms motion blur	Glossy finish may reflect light
HDR10 with 95% sRGB color gamut	No built-in speakers
AMD FreeSync support
Large 32-inch immersive screen

The LG 32GN650-B is a fantastic all-around monitor for gamers who want speed, colour accuracy, and a large immersive display. It’s especially strong for competitive gaming without compromising visual quality.

10. KTC 32-Inch 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor

The KTC 32-inch 240Hz curved gaming monitor is designed for gamers who crave speed, clarity, and immersion. Its 1000R curvature wraps around your vision, making games feel more natural and engaging. With QHD resolution, HDR, and 122% sRGB coverage, the colors are vibrant and lifelike. The 240Hz refresh rate combined with FreeSync and G-Sync ensures ultra-smooth gameplay with minimal tearing. Its frameless design and multiple ports make it versatile for competitive gaming and multi-display setups.

From the moment I powered up this monitor, I could tell it was built for speed. The 240Hz refresh via DisplayPort made every fast-moving scene crisp and fluid. The 1000R curve truly enhanced immersion, pulling me into open-world games in a way flat screens can’t match. HDR combined with QHD resolution made colors pop, and even subtle details in shadows became visible. Playing shooters, I noticed almost no ghosting, and FreeSync kept gameplay tear-free. I also loved the wide 178-degree viewing angle and anti-blue light feature—it kept my eyes comfortable during long sessions. The frameless edge-to-edge design made multi-monitor setups feel seamless, and the range of HDMI and DP ports made connecting my PC, console, and headphones effortless.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate	Large size may overwhelm small desks
Immersive 1000R curved screen	VA panel less vibrant than IPS in some cases
Vibrant 122% sRGB color coverage
Multiple connectivity options

The KTC 32-inch 240Hz monitor is perfect for competitive gamers who want speed, immersion, and accurate colors. It’s a feature-packed display that delivers both performance and comfort for long gaming sessions.

The Competition (Why Others Fell Short)

While there are several monitors in this price range that deliver great performance, a few models didn’t make the cut for our top picks. Here’s why:

1. BenQ ZOWIE XL2411P:
   Despite being a solid choice for competitive gaming, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2411P lacks the advanced color accuracy and high refresh rates that more modern monitors like the Acer Nitro or ASUS TUF offer. Additionally, its 24-inch size felt a bit small compared to others on this list.
2. Acer Predator XB241H:
   This monitor offers a 144Hz refresh rate and G-Sync, but its 24-inch size and lower resolution of 1080p couldn’t compete with larger, higher-resolution monitors like the Samsung Odyssey G5 or the ARZOPA 32″ 4K monitor, which provide a more immersive experience.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
3. LG 27GL83A-B:
   The LG monitor is excellent for everyday use, but its 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time couldn’t match the ultra-fast refresh rates offered by the Acer Nitro or the Samsung Odyssey G5 for hardcore gamers. Its lack of a 4K resolution also limited its appeal for those looking for cutting-edge visuals.

Comparison Table: Best Gaming Monitors for Under $400

Monitor	Screen Size	Resolution	Refresh Rate	Response Time	Panel Type	G-SYNC/FreeSync	Color Gamut	Key Feature
Samsung Odyssey G5 34″ Ultra-Wide	34 inches	1440p (WQHD)	165Hz	1ms	VA	FreeSync Premium	HDR10, 100% sRGB	Ultra-wide, Curved, Immersive Design
ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K	27 inches	4K (2160p)	160Hz	1ms	IPS	G-SYNC Compatible	95% DCI-P3	4K, HDR, Color Accuracy
Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD	27 inches	1440p (WQHD)	300Hz	0.5ms	IPS	FreeSync Premium	99% sRGB	300Hz Refresh, Perfect for eSports
ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD IPS	32 inches	4K (2160p)	144Hz	1ms	IPS	FreeSync & G-SYNC	120% sRGB	Adjustable Stand, 4K at Affordable Price
CRUA 34-Inch WQHD VA	34 inches	1440p (WQHD)	144Hz	1ms	VA	FreeSync	120% sRGB	Ultra-wide, Great for Multi-tasking
CRUA 32″ 4K IPS	32 inches	4K (2160p)	144Hz	1ms	IPS	FreeSync & G-SYNC	120% sRGB	Great for Gaming & Content Creation
Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD	27 inches	1440p (WQHD)	300Hz	0.5ms	IPS	FreeSync Premium	99% sRGB	High Refresh Rate, Ultra-fast Response
Samsung Odyssey G4 25″	25 inches	1080p (FHD)	240Hz	1ms	IPS	G-SYNC Compatible	N/A	Ultra-fast Refresh Rate, 240Hz
LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor 32″	32 inches	1440p (QHD)	165Hz	1ms	IPS	FreeSync	95% sRGB	Large Screen, Good Color Accuracy
KTC 32-Inch 240Hz Curved	32 inches	1440p (QHD)	240Hz	N/A	VA	FreeSync & G-SYNC	99% sRGB	Curved Display, High Refresh Rate

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What’s the best monitor size for gaming under $400?
The best size largely depends on your preferences. For immersive gaming, a 32-inch or 34-inch monitor is ideal, especially for ultra-wide or 4K displays. However, a 27-inch monitor like the ASUS TUF or Acer Nitro strikes a great balance between size and performance.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)

2. How important is refresh rate for gaming?
Refresh rate is crucial for smooth gameplay, especially in fast-paced games like FPS or racing. A higher refresh rate (144Hz or 240Hz) ensures smoother motion and reduces motion blur, which can be a significant advantage in competitive gaming.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)

3. What’s the difference between FreeSync and G-SYNC?
Both FreeSync and G-SYNC are technologies that synchronize the frame rate between your monitor and GPU to reduce screen tearing. FreeSync is used for AMD GPUs, while G-SYNC is for NVIDIA GPUs. Some monitors support both technologies for broader compatibility.

4. Do I need a 4K monitor for gaming?
While 4K offers the sharpest visuals, it may not be necessary for all types of gaming. 1440p (WQHD) offers a great balance of sharpness and performance, especially in the under $400 range. If you’re playing competitive games, a 144Hz or 240Hz 1440p monitor might be a better fit for you.

5. Can I use these monitors with next-gen consoles?
Yes, many of the monitors in this list, especially those with HDMI 2.1, support next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Look for a monitor with at least 4K resolution and HDMI 2.1 if you’re gaming on a next-gen console.

Final Advice

When selecting a gaming monitor under $400, it’s essential to consider both your gaming needs and the type of games you play. With so many options available, there’s no single “best” choice — instead, the right monitor for you will depend on your preferences in terms of performance, aesthetics, and functionality. Here’s a breakdown of what to keep in mind when making your decision:

Final Considerations

Ultimately, the decision between these monitors should hinge on your specific gaming needs. Competitive gamers will value speed and low latency above all else, while casual gamers and content creators will prioritize high resolution and color accuracy. For those seeking immersion, ultra-wide monitors like the Samsung Odyssey G5 offer a more cinematic feel. Regardless of your choice, all these monitors offer excellent value under $400, with top-tier performance and features that cater to both gaming and multitasking.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)

To summarize, carefully assess your gaming preferences, your desk space, and your need for specific features like high refresh rates, resolution, or immersive visuals. With the right monitor, you’ll enhance your gaming experience without exceeding your budget.