Introduction:
Best Gaming Monitors Under $400 :
Gaming is an experience that thrives on immersion, precision, and speed. But finding the perfect gaming monitor that delivers all of these elements without breaking the bank is no easy feat. Many gamers find themselves caught between the desire for a high-performance monitor and the reality of their budget. While it’s tempting to dive into the high-end models boasting stunning features and hefty price tags, there’s no need to settle for less when there are budget-friendly gaming monitors that perform just as well as their expensive counterparts.
If you’re a gamer who’s struggling to find a monitor that delivers high performance without emptying your wallet, a monitor under $400 could be the perfect solution. In 2025, manufacturers have mastered the art of providing top-tier specifications like fast refresh rates, low response times, excellent color accuracy, and versatile connectivity — all within an affordable price range. Whether you’re into competitive esports, immersive RPGs, or visually intense simulation games, there’s a monitor out there that’s perfect for your needs.
What Makes a Gaming Monitor Great?
When shopping for a gaming monitor under $400, several key factors should drive your decision. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
- Refresh Rate: Measured in Hz, the refresh rate defines how many times per second the image on your screen is refreshed. For gamers, a higher refresh rate means smoother motion and less screen tearing. For competitive gamers, a monitor with a refresh rate of 144Hz or higher is crucial for the best gameplay experience.
- Response Time: This is how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another. A low response time (1ms or lower) is essential for fast-paced games like first-person shooters, where every millisecond counts.
- Resolution: The resolution of the monitor determines how detailed the images will appear. For 2025, 1440p (QHD) and 4K monitors are becoming increasingly popular within the sub-$400 price range, providing better clarity than 1080p models without pushing the price beyond reach.
- Panel Type: There are three main types of panels you’ll encounter in gaming monitors: IPS, VA, and TN. IPS panels are known for their excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them ideal for games with rich, vibrant visuals. VA panels, on the other hand, are known for higher contrast ratios, which can be advantageous for dark-themed games. TN panels are fast and affordable but sacrifice color quality and viewing angles.
- Connectivity: A gaming monitor must have the right ports for easy connection to your PC, console, and peripherals. Look for HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 for maximum performance, especially for newer consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
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: Samsung Odyssey G5 34″ Ultra-Wide Monitor
Key Features:
- 165Hz Refresh Rate
- 1ms Response Time
- WQHD (1440p) Resolution
- 1000R Curvature
- FreeSync Premium
Best Budget/Best for Console Gaming: ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K Monitor
Key Features:
- 160Hz Refresh Rate
- 1ms Response Time
- 95% DCI-P3 Color Gamut
- HDR10 Support
- G-SYNC Compatible
Best for Competitive Gaming: Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Monitor
Key Features:
- 300Hz Refresh Rate
- 0.5ms Response Time
- 99% sRGB Color Gamut
- DisplayHDR 400
Each of these monitors brings something special to the table, whether you’re after an ultra-wide immersive experience, the highest possible color accuracy, or ultra-smooth gaming performance. Let’s dive deeper into the reviews of each monitor.
Who This Is For
The best gaming monitors under $400 are designed for a wide variety of gamers. Here’s who would benefit most from each type of monitor:
- Competitive Gamers: For those who thrive in fast-paced esports like CS:GO, Valorant, or Apex Legends, monitors with high refresh rates (240Hz or higher) and ultra-low response times (1ms or lower) are essential. Monitors like the Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD and Samsung Odyssey G5 are perfect for competitive gaming.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
- Casual Gamers: If you’re into RPGs, strategy games, or casual gaming, a high-quality monitor with good resolution and color accuracy is more important than ultra-fast response times. Monitors like the ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K are ideal for immersive gaming and stunning visuals.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
- Console Gamers: With the advent of next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, many monitors now offer great compatibility with these systems. For console gamers, a 4K resolution with HDMI 2.1 support is key. The ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD monitor is an excellent choice in this category.
How We Picked & Tested
To provide the most reliable recommendations, we rigorously tested each monitor using the following selection criteria and hands-on trials:
Selection Criteria:
- Refresh Rate: We prioritize monitors with at least a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth gameplay for fast-paced action.
- Resolution: Monitors with at least 1440p (QHD) resolution are essential for gaming at a high level. 4K is a bonus but remains a high bar for budget-friendly options.
- Panel Type: We evaluated each monitor based on its panel type (IPS, VA, or TN), with a preference for IPS panels due to their superior color accuracy and viewing angles.
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 are essential for compatibility with modern gaming systems and PCs.
- Price: We strictly adhered to the under $400 price point, ensuring that each monitor delivers the best value for the cost.
Testing Process:
Each monitor was tested for a week across multiple gaming genres: FPS (First-Person Shooter), RPG (Role-Playing Games), and Racing. We focused on testing the following:
- Color Accuracy: We calibrated each monitor to ensure that the color accuracy met expectations for vibrant, true-to-life visuals.
- Input Lag: Using specialized tools, we measured the input lag to ensure that each monitor provided a seamless gaming experience.
- Response Time: We tested the response time in real-world gaming scenarios, including intense action sequences, to evaluate the clarity and sharpness of motion.
In-Depth Reviews
1. Samsung Odyssey G5 34″ Ultra-Wide Monitor
Pros:
- Immersive Curvature: The 1000R curvature mimics the human eye’s natural field of view, providing a truly immersive experience in games and movies.
- Fast Refresh Rate: With a 165Hz refresh rate, the G5 offers a fluid, lag-free experience, perfect for fast-paced shooters and action games.
- HDR10 Support: The HDR10 technology ensures vibrant, true-to-life colors, bringing game scenes to life with stunning accuracy.
- FreeSync Premium: With AMD’s FreeSync Premium, screen tearing and stuttering are virtually eliminated, making for a smoother, more responsive gameplay experience.
- Wide Aspect Ratio: The 21:9 aspect ratio is perfect for ultra-wide gaming and productivity, offering a panoramic view that enhances immersion.
Cons:
- Limited Viewing Angles: As with most VA panels, the Odyssey G5’s color accuracy and contrast degrade when viewed from wide angles.
- Stand Adjustability: The stand is basic and doesn’t offer as much flexibility as some other gaming monitors in this price range.
- No Native 4K: While the resolution is great for an ultra-wide experience, it may not be sharp enough for users who prefer a 4K display.
Why We Chose It:
Out of the options available in the under $400 category, the Samsung Odyssey G5 stands out due to its immersive 34-inch ultra-wide display, fast refresh rate, and great color accuracy. It offers an unbeatable experience for both gaming and multitasking, especially for users who enjoy immersive titles and productivity tasks.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
(DISCLAIMER :The product images used in this blog post are AI-generated and may not exactly match the actual products. They are for illustrative purposes only. To view the real product with accurate details, please click the provided product link )
2. ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K Monitor
Pros:
- Impressive 4K Resolution: This monitor offers a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160), delivering breathtaking visuals and pixel-perfect clarity, which is ideal for gaming, content creation, and multimedia consumption.
- 160Hz Refresh Rate: The high refresh rate ensures ultra-smooth gameplay even at 4K resolution, providing a seamless experience in fast-paced games.
- G-SYNC Compatible: The monitor’s G-SYNC compatibility helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering, ensuring smooth and fluid visuals during high-intensity scenes.
- 95% DCI-P3 Color Gamut: The TUF Gaming monitor boasts exceptional color accuracy, with 95% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space, making it ideal for those who value true-to-life color reproduction.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
- Enhanced Durability: The TUF series is known for its durability, and this monitor is no exception. Built with military-grade materials, it can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions.
Cons:
- Size Might Be Too Small for Some: At 27 inches, the screen might feel a bit small for those used to larger displays, especially in 4K resolution.
- Lack of HDMI 2.1: Although the monitor supports 4K gaming, it lacks HDMI 2.1, which would be more suitable for next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
- Price Premium: While under $400, this 4K monitor is slightly on the higher end of the budget spectrum compared to others in this category.
Why We Chose It:
The ASUS TUF Gaming 27″ 4K Monitor is a standout option for gamers who want 4K resolution without exceeding the $400 price point. While it may not have HDMI 2.1, the overall build quality, G-SYNC compatibility, and vibrant 4K visuals make it an excellent option for both gaming and creative work.
3. Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Monitor
Pros:
- Lightning-Fast 300Hz Refresh Rate: The 300Hz refresh rate is one of the fastest in the market, ensuring ultra-smooth performance in competitive gaming. Fast-moving scenes in shooters and racing games look fluid and responsive.
- 0.5ms Response Time: This monitor’s rapid 0.5ms GTG response time means there’s minimal blur and ghosting during high-speed gaming, providing a competitive edge in fast-paced action.
- Color Accuracy: With 99% sRGB coverage and VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification, the Acer Nitro delivers exceptional color reproduction and contrast for both gaming and creative work.
- Ergonomically Designed Stand: The monitor’s ErgoStand allows for height, tilt, and pivot adjustments, ensuring optimal comfort during long gaming sessions.
- ZeroFrame Design: The ZeroFrame design removes the bezel around the screen, providing a nearly borderless experience and making it perfect for multi-monitor setups.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Cons:
- No 4K Resolution: While the monitor is excellent in many areas, it doesn’t offer 4K resolution, which may be a drawback for those who demand the highest pixel density.
- Price: The price may be slightly higher than some other options, especially considering the lack of 4K resolution. However, it compensates with its fast refresh rate and low response time.
- Heavy for a 27-inch Monitor: Due to the build and features, this monitor is heavier than other 27-inch models, which might be a consideration for those who want a lighter setup.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Why We Chose It:
The Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Monitor is a powerhouse for competitive gamers. Its 300Hz refresh rate, low response time, and excellent color accuracy make it a great choice for esports enthusiasts and fast-paced action games.
4. ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD IPS Monitor
Pros:
- Stunning 4K UHD Resolution: The 4K UHD resolution provides excellent clarity and sharpness, making it ideal for detailed gaming and media consumption.
- 144Hz Refresh Rate: This high refresh rate ensures smooth gaming performance, particularly in fast-paced games. Combined with the 4K resolution, it provides a premium experience.
- Adjustable Stand: The ergonomic design allows for easy adjustments to the height, tilt, and swivel, ensuring maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions.
- G-Sync and FreeSync Support: With both FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility, this monitor reduces screen tearing and stuttering for smoother gameplay.
- Impressive Connectivity: The ARZOPA monitor is packed with ports, including DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1, providing plenty of options for connecting multiple devices.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Cons:
- Color Calibration Issues: While the monitor offers good color reproduction, it may require some tweaking out of the box for optimal color accuracy.
- Limited HDR: Although it supports HDR, the overall HDR experience might not be as impressive as more expensive monitors with full HDR10 capabilities.
- Size Might Be Too Large for Smaller Spaces: With a 32-inch display, this monitor may feel a bit overwhelming on smaller desks or in cramped setups.
Why We Chose It:
The ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD IPS Monitor is perfect for users who want 4K resolution, a high refresh rate, and ergonomic flexibility. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a great choice for gamers who want an immersive experience without breaking the bank.
5. CRUA 34-Inch WQHD VA Monitor
Pros:
- Ultra-Wide Display: The 34-inch ultra-wide design provides an expansive field of view, perfect for immersive gaming and multitasking.
- 144Hz Refresh Rate: The high refresh rate ensures smooth gaming, particularly for action-packed titles that demand quick reactions.
- 120% sRGB Color Gamut: The wide color gamut ensures vibrant and true-to-life colors, providing a visually rich experience in games and media.
- Ergonomic Design: The monitor supports tilt adjustments and is compatible with VESA mounts, allowing for flexible positioning to suit your needs.
- Affordable Price: Given its ultra-wide design and feature set, this monitor is an excellent value for money.
Cons:
- Limited HDR Performance: The VA panel provides decent contrast, but the HDR performance is not as impressive as some higher-end IPS monitors.
- Viewing Angles: As with most VA panels, the viewing angles aren’t as wide as IPS displays, and the color accuracy drops when viewed from extreme angles.
- Heavy: The large size and build make this monitor on the heavier side, which could be a consideration for users with limited desk space.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Why We Chose It:
The CRUA 34-Inch WQHD VA Monitor is a fantastic option for gamers who want an ultra-wide screen without the premium price tag. Its high refresh rate, impressive color gamut, and affordable pricing make it an excellent choice for immersive gaming and productivity.
6. CRUA Gaming Monitor 32-inch 4K IPS
Pros:
- Impressive 4K Resolution: This monitor provides a stunning 4K UHD resolution, offering sharp details and crisp visuals. Whether you’re gaming or creating content, this high resolution ensures that everything looks spectacular.
- 144Hz Refresh Rate: Combined with its 4K resolution, the 144Hz refresh rate delivers an excellent balance between clarity and smooth performance, ensuring fluid motion in fast-paced games like racing and FPS.
- 120% sRGB Color Gamut: The wide color gamut ensures vibrant and accurate colors, which is essential for gamers who care about color depth and detail in their games.
- Flexible Connectivity: The monitor offers ample connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and making it suitable for both PC and console gaming.
- Eye Care Technology: The CRUA 32-inch monitor includes low blue light and flicker-free technology, reducing eye strain during long gaming or work sessions.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Cons:
- HDR Performance is Subpar: Despite its 4K resolution and wide color gamut, the HDR experience isn’t as impactful as higher-end monitors that feature full HDR10 support.
- Color Calibration Needed: Out of the box, the colors may not be perfectly calibrated, so some manual tweaking may be necessary to achieve the most accurate visuals.
- Limited Ergonomic Adjustment: The monitor has a basic stand that lacks full ergonomic adjustability, such as height adjustment, which could be a downside for users looking for greater flexibility in their setup.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Why We Chose It:
The CRUA 32-inch 4K IPS monitor is a fantastic choice for those looking for 4K gaming on a budget. While its HDR performance isn’t groundbreaking, the sharp resolution, color accuracy, and smooth refresh rate make it a great option for casual gamers and content creators alike.
7. Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD 2560×1440 IPS Gaming Monitor
Pros:
- 300Hz Refresh Rate: This monitor delivers an extremely fast 300Hz refresh rate, making it one of the top options for competitive gamers who require ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
- 0.5ms Response Time: The ultra-low response time ensures that motion is smooth and free from ghosting or blur, even in the most frantic scenes.
- 99% sRGB Color Accuracy: The monitor offers fantastic color reproduction, covering 99% of the sRGB spectrum, which is ideal for both gaming and content creation.
- VESA DisplayHDR 400: This certification means the monitor offers enhanced contrast and better color vibrancy, creating a more immersive visual experience.
- ErgoStand: The stand offers a wide range of ergonomic adjustments, including tilt, height, and swivel, making it easy to find a comfortable position for gaming.
Cons:
- No 4K Resolution: Although this monitor offers a high refresh rate and excellent color accuracy, it falls short for those seeking a 4K experience. The 2560×1440 resolution is still great, but it doesn’t match the visual fidelity of 4K models.
- Price Point: At the upper end of the budget, this monitor is a bit expensive compared to others in the same range.
- Heavy Design: The monitor’s build is a bit bulkier compared to others, which might not be ideal for users with limited desk space.
Why We Chose It:
The Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD monitor is an excellent choice for professional and competitive gamers who prioritize fast performance above all else. Its 300Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time make it an outstanding option for gamers in fast-paced genres like FPS and racing.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
8. Samsung Odyssey G4 Monitor 25″
Pros:
- 240Hz Refresh Rate: The ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate ensures seamless, lag-free performance, making it ideal for esports enthusiasts and competitive gamers who need every edge.
- 1ms Response Time: The G4’s quick response time reduces motion blur, providing sharp visuals during fast-paced gameplay.
- G-SYNC Compatible: This monitor is compatible with NVIDIA’s G-SYNC technology, which synchronizes the refresh rate between the GPU and the monitor to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.
- Ultrawide Game View: The ultrawide view gives gamers a larger field of vision, allowing them to spot enemies and interact with the environment more effectively in games.
- Ergonomic Stand: The adjustable stand ensures that gamers can customize their viewing angle for comfort during long sessions.
Cons:
- Small Screen Size: At 25 inches, this monitor is smaller than most other gaming monitors in this price range. For gamers who want a more expansive view, this size might feel a bit cramped.
- FHD Resolution: While 1080p is still a solid choice for competitive gaming, the lower resolution might be a dealbreaker for those looking for sharper visuals or those accustomed to 1440p or 4K monitors.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
- Limited Color Gamut: The color reproduction isn’t as vibrant or accurate as some other models with a wider color gamut, such as the CRUA or Acer Nitro monitors.
Why We Chose It:
The Samsung Odyssey G4 25″ is a solid choice for competitive gamers who prioritize speed and responsiveness over resolution and size. Its ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate and G-SYNC compatibility make it perfect for esports, although the smaller screen size might not be for everyone.
9. LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor 32-inch QHD
Pros:
- 32″ QHD Display: The 2560×1440 resolution on a 32-inch screen provides a fantastic balance between size and pixel density, delivering sharp visuals without being too demanding on your GPU.
- 165Hz Refresh Rate: The high refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, particularly in action-packed and fast-moving games, making this monitor an excellent option for competitive play.
- HDR 10 Support: The inclusion of HDR 10 enhances color depth and contrast, improving the visual experience in supported games and media.
- 95% sRGB Color Gamut: The monitor covers 95% of the sRGB color spectrum, providing vibrant and accurate colors for gaming, movie watching, and photo editing.
- Adjustable Stand: The stand offers height, tilt, and pivot adjustments, allowing for a comfortable and ergonomic setup for long gaming sessions.
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1: While this monitor is excellent for gaming on PCs, it lacks HDMI 2.1, which would have made it more suitable for next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
- No 4K Resolution: The 2560×1440 resolution is excellent for a 32-inch monitor, but for gamers looking for 4K, this monitor falls short.
- Limited HDR Performance: While it supports HDR 10, the HDR performance isn’t as vibrant as you’d find in more expensive monitors.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Why We Chose It:
The LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor is a well-rounded, affordable choice for gamers looking for a larger display with excellent color accuracy and smooth performance. Its 165Hz refresh rate and HDR support make it great for both competitive and casual gaming.
10. KTC 32-Inch 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor
Pros:
- 240Hz Refresh Rate: The incredibly fast 240Hz refresh rate ensures that you won’t miss a single frame, providing an ultra-smooth gaming experience that is perfect for fast-paced games.
- 1000R Curvature: The 1000R curve is tighter than the typical 1500R curvature, providing a more immersive and natural gaming experience by mimicking the shape of the human eye.
- QHD Resolution: The 2560×1440 resolution provides excellent clarity and sharpness, with a perfect balance between pixel density and performance.
- Color Accuracy: With 99% sRGB coverage, this monitor offers vibrant, true-to-life colors that enhance the visual quality of games and movies.
- Multiple Connectivity Options: The monitor comes with two HDMI 2.0 ports and two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, providing flexible connectivity options for PCs and consoles.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Cons:
- No HDR: Despite its excellent refresh rate and color accuracy, the lack of HDR support means it won’t deliver the enhanced contrast and vivid colors that some other models offer.
- Heavy Design: This monitor is large and bulky, making it less suitable for users with limited desk space or those seeking a lighter setup.
- No 4K Resolution: Like many monitors in this price range, the KTC monitor doesn’t offer 4K resolution, which may be a downside for those seeking the highest possible pixel density.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
Why We Chose It:
The KTC 32-Inch 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor is an outstanding choice for gamers who want a fluid, immersive gaming experience. Its 240Hz refresh rate, curved design, and solid color accuracy make it a great pick for fast-paced games, though the lack of HDR and 4K resolution means it’s not the best choice for those seeking cutting-edge visuals.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
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:
- 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. - 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) - 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.
6. Are curved monitors worth it?
Curved monitors can provide an immersive experience, especially in ultra-wide models. They help with peripheral vision and create a more natural, encompassing view, particularly in simulation games or cinematic experiences.
7. Is IPS better than VA for gaming?
IPS panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, making them ideal for visually rich games and media. VA panels generally provide better contrast ratios, which is advantageous for dark-themed games but can have narrower viewing angles.
8. How important is color accuracy in gaming monitors?
Color accuracy enhances visual quality and immersion, especially in RPGs or games with detailed environments. If you’re also doing content creation or photo editing, a monitor with a wide color gamut (like 99% sRGB or 95% DCI-P3) would be beneficial.
9. What is the best budget gaming monitor under $400?
If you’re looking for value, the CRUA 34-Inch WQHD VA Monitor provides an excellent balance of performance and price, offering a 144Hz refresh rate and vibrant colors at a very affordable price.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
10. How does refresh rate affect gaming performance?
Higher refresh rates result in smoother gameplay by reducing screen tearing and input lag. In fast-action games, a higher refresh rate (e.g., 240Hz) allows you to see more frames per second, giving you an advantage over opponents.
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:
For Competitive Gamers
If your primary goal is to enhance your performance in competitive gaming, where every millisecond matters, you should prioritize monitors with extremely low input lag and fast refresh rates. The Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD offers an industry-leading 300Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, making it the top choice for competitive esports enthusiasts. These features significantly reduce motion blur, giving you a distinct advantage in fast-paced FPS games or racing simulators. The monitor’s IPS panel also ensures vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, which are beneficial during long gaming sessions. However, while it excels in speed, it falls short of offering 4K resolution, which may be important for gamers seeking the ultimate visual experience.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
For Casual and Immersive Gaming
For gamers who seek a balance between performance and visual appeal, monitors like the ARZOPA 32″ 4K UHD IPS Monitor are a great choice. Offering 4K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, it provides sharp, detailed visuals and smooth performance for both casual gaming and content creation. The 120% sRGB color gamut ensures accurate, vibrant colors, making it perfect for gamers who also engage in media consumption or light content editing. The inclusion of both FreeSync and G-SYNC compatibility also makes it versatile for use with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
For Immersive and Cinematic Experiences
If you prefer a more immersive gaming setup with a panoramic field of view, the Samsung Odyssey G5 34″ Ultra-Wide provides an unparalleled experience. Its 1000R curvature and 165Hz refresh rate create a deeply immersive environment, making it ideal for RPGs, strategy games, and simulations. The ultra-wide screen allows you to see more in-game content at once, enhancing your situational awareness. However, the size and curve might not be suitable for every desk setup, and the VA panel, while great for contrast, offers narrower viewing angles than an IPS panel.(Best Gaming Monitors Under $400)
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.
(The product images used in this blog post are AI-generated and may not exactly match the actual products. They are for illustrative purposes only. To view the real product with accurate details, please click the “Buy Now” button or product link provided & This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you. For more details, please check my Disclaimer Page.)
