Great gaming monitors under 300 dollar

Whether you are a total novice gamer just getting into it or an avid pro gramer used to the highest quality in gaming materials (see our comparison of the rtx 3080 vs 3090). Subsequently, it’s not a shock that your monitor is an important part of your gaming experience.

You want… no you NEED a good one to compete. But it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg. You want something affordable that provides you with the necessary features to compete in the latest and greatest games: you want the best gaming monitor under 300 dollars! Well, or just slightly above… as you know that prices can fluctuate a bit in the realms of gaming.

So in this article we will review four of the best gaming monitors under 300 available right now detailing specs, features and including frequently asked questions to help you find the best monitor under 300.

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What to look for in a gaming monitor ?

In order to find the best gaming monitor under 300, there are a few factors to consider such as screen size, resolution, panel type, and refresh rate.

Here is a list some of the most important factors:

Screen Resolution (Full HD vs. QHD vs. 4k)

The screen resolution of a monitor is the part that television salesmen have been hooking you on for years, you have your:

• Full HD 1080p (1920×1080 pixel)
• QHD 1440p (2560×1440 pixel)
• UHD / 4k (3840×2160 pixel)

Realistically, the higher the resolution, the more pixels on the screen, resulting in clearer and smoother gameplay. While the resolution is still an important factor of a monitor, it is not the only factor.

1080p (1920×1080) resolution has been the standard for most competitive gamers (e.g. counterstrike, overwatch, valorant, etc.) for quite a long time. However, with next-gen titles on the horizon and even a lot of upcoming consoles running with 4k enabled, future-proofing your monitor could be an option.

Personally we think that while 2160p (3840×2160) offers superior visuals, not all GPUs will be able to handle this resolution at high refresh rates, so the 1440p (2560×1440) resoultion provides the best balance between visuals and performance.

Panel Type: TN or IPS?

There are many different types of monitors be it shape, size, refresh rate, display quality, or countless other factors, but the majority of them share one main thing in common, their LCD panel. Having said that, the main ones for gaming are TN (Twisted-Nematic), and IPS (In-plane Switching).

IPS panels have the users viewing experience as their priority, whereas TN prioritizes their speed.

An IPS panel may be better for clear color and image and they typically offer better viewing angles in comparison to TN panel. However, they can be quite expensive and most competitive models will run you $500+.

A TN panel, is typically cheaper overall with lower latency and cheaper support for high refresh rates. Although they tend to have worse color reproduction and narrower viewing angles.

As an example, your display time typically corresponds to your response time. Generally, most gaming monitors have a relatively good response time between 1-5ms, but the majority of the TN panels are able to speed that response up to 1-3ms. So the better the response time, the better the gameplay experience.

What is the best refresh rate (Hz) ?

The refresh rate of a monitor is the number of times that the image displayed to you is refreshed and is important when looking for the best gaming monitor under 300.

The higher the Hz, the more images are displayed per second, leading to a ‘smoother’ overall image quality, that some argue outweighs the difference felt in making the transition. A high refresh rate is imperative for focused gamers for smooth graphics and clear images which help for quicker response time.

If you’re looking for a silky smooth transition, the best 144Hz gaming monitor under 300 we have featured may be the way to go. However, there are models that run even higher at 165hz or even 240hz. These are mostly just interesting for competitive shooters like counterstrike or Valorant where you can actually hit those frames per second.

The tech chap did an incredible video on the difference between those rates, go check it out:

 

Display Type / Quality?

When looking for the best gaming monitor under 300, the display quality on your monitor is imperative. Most of the time, monitors range from LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) to LED (Light-emitting Diode), with the occasional plasma screen still popping up from time to time. Conversations about which is best for the job are long over, with LED winning the fight,

However with major advancements in IPS and TN panels, LCD monitors are far from outdated and prove often to be a cheaper, yet just as practical, alternative. The IPS or TN panel on an LCD monitor is the driving technology behind the color quality and viewing angles on your flat displays.

Regardless of what bulb type your monitor uses, it is important to also remember that there are other tradeoffs. The cost-effective among us usually opt for energy-efficient monitors, however for gaming setups, colors and their differences are important and it may be more advisable to opt for a monitor that uses a little more electricity.

Some of the PC’s advised on this thread will have different energy settings, that allow for differing RGB settings, allowing you to pick and choose between a full-on color display or something more energy efficient.

Adaptive Sync, Freesync or G-Sync?

Some gamers may be familiar with the term “screen tearing”. This refers to when your PCs graphics processor (GPU) becomes out of sync with your visual display and can cause distortion with your images on the screen.

One way to avoid this is to consider an Adaptive Sync for your monitor, the more commonly known being FreeSync or G-Sync monitor. An Adaptive Sync essentially eradicates all tearing, stuttering, and judders. Please note that a lot of modern monitors may include Adaptive Sync pre-installed and some may require payment so you will need to consider that before you make your decision.

Can you GPU handle the screen?

While the monitor is obviously essential in the image quality and display reviews, one big factor to remember when looking at the best gaming monitors is that you need to have an adequate GPU (graphics processing unit). This is located at the core of your PC’s graphics card and is responsible for following instructions sent, in turn this passes the information to your computer’s CPU (central processing unit) telling it to display the images on the screen. While the GPU is not part of your monitor, it will sure make a big difference to your gameplay footage; and to play the latest games with the highest graphic textures you’ll likely need a top of the range GPU.

What is the difference between gaming monitor and regular monitor?

The main difference is that where a regular monitor, like a regular, run-of-the-mill television, will refresh the screen 60 times per second (60Hz), a gaming monitor refreshes the screen at a rate of 144hz-240hz giving it a smoother appearance. Superfast reaction time is also essential for gamers. In order to respond to events quickly, gamers need to receive the game information quickly which is why fast response time is imperative.

What size monitor is best for gaming?

Everyone is different and may require or prefer different sized screens for different reasons, but there are certain elements to factor in when finding the best gaming monitor under 300. Typically, sizes between 24” and 27” are recommended for gamers (we will include our choice for the best 27” gaming monitor under 300). For a user who typically plays the fast-paced, first-person shooter games, users normally sit around 3 feet> away from the screen, a 24” monitor is recommended with the suggested screen resolution of 1080p.

Here, we will review a selection of four of the best gaming monitors under 300; ranging from the best 27” monitor to the best curved gaming monitor, the best 144hz monitor under 300, and even the best 240Hz gaming monitor, to help decide which is the best gaming monitor under 300 for you.

 

Overall: Best 27” gaming monitor under 300: Asus VG278QR

Our pick of THE best gaming monitor under 300 $ with 27’’ goes to the ASUS VG278QR*, which is one of their entry-level gaming monitors. Note: Due to demand, the price can vary a bit and go up to 330-350$. But it’s still very affordable.

For the best 27” monitor under 300, Asus are one of the huge players and the values of their products continue to be shown with this model we think is the best 27” gaming monitor under 300. While not the latest on the market, this monitor boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time (GTG), which is one of the best at its price range, and alongside its 1080p full HD display with a matte finish to minimize glare, it proves to be a brilliant choice for any gamer and should be considered when looking for the best monitor under 300.

Features

• 27 inch, Full HD (1920×1080) display with 165Hz refresh rate (supports 144Hz) and 0.5ms response time for a tear-free experience
• G-SYNC compatible technology supported through DisplayPort and HDMI ports
• Extreme low motion blur (ELMB) technology reduces ghosting and motion blur to create a more visually fluid gamer experience
• ASUS Eye Care technology to minimize eye fatigue and an ergonomic stand with full height/tilt/swivel/pivot adjustments to accommodate any desk
• Flexible connectivity options with DisplayPort 1 2 HDMI 1 4 Dual-link DVI-D
• Stereo 2W speakers provide for a full sound while eliminating the need for external speakers

Images

We’ve picked this for our best monitor under 300 because it has been specially designed for PC gaming with a Full High Definition display, super-fast 0.5ms response time, and an incredible 165Hz refresh rate, ensuring smoother gameplay and sharper images.

Asus also offer a separate additional ROG Bezel-free kit. If you’re a gamer with multiple monitors, this is a huge benefit as the feature enables customers with additional monitors to eliminate gaps and creating perfect viewing angles for your games with an almost seamless wraparound screen for improved viewing experiences making it our pick for the best 27” gaming monitor under 300. The incredible 1ms response speed time creates instantaneous pixel color transition which helps to eliminate any trailing, ghosting, or motion blur that the typically fast-paced FPS type games can sometimes struggle with.

Connectivity

Display and audio options include DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, Dual-Link DVI-D, a headphones jack, and two 2W built-in speakers making it a great monitor for gaming and our pick for the best 27” monitor under 300.

Frequently asked questions

Q – Is this monitor Vesa compatible?

A – Yes, this product is VESA compatible and may be mounted.

Q – Is this monitor compatible with PlayStation4 and Xbox like the previous model?

A – Yes, this 27” gaming monitor is compatible with PS4 and Xbox via the HDMI cable. However, as the consoles themselves do not usually operate above 60Hz, it is an impact or response rate.

Q – Is this monitor MAC compatible?

A – Yes, this monitor is compatible with Apple MAC

 

Best 24” gaming monitor under 300: Asus VG248QG

For the best 144Hz gaming monitor under 300 with a 24” screen, we have picked the Asus VG248QG*. As said above Asus is a known brand name in households globally and THE huge player in the gaming world. Their 24″ full HD 1080p gaming monitor shines with an overclockable refresh rate of up to 165hz, G-SYNC and 0.5ms response time (GTG). Also because of the design of this gaming monitor, users are able to build a seamless, side-by-side screen display with other monitors creating an immersive gaming experience making it our choice for best 144hz monitor under 300.

Features

• 24″ inch 1080p
• G-SYNC
• Fast Response Time: 0.5ms GTG
• Refresh Rate: 165hz (144hz supported)
• Ports: 1 x Display Port & 2 x HDMI 2.0

Images

This is the best 144Hz gaming monitor under 300 because the full HD 1080p resolution of this monitor creates vibrant, high-quality images with excellent detail. Their 24″ model comes with thei flicker free technology to reduce flickering while gaming and the absolute stunning G-sync tech to reduce screen tearing.

The only downside is that the monitor has a TN panel, but the viewing angles and the gaming experience is still outstanding. TN panels aren’t always worse than their IPS complement.

Connectivity

Display and audio options include DisplayPort, Dual Link DVI-D, HDMI and Asus SonicMaster 2W Stereo speakers, though we recommend to use an external sound source.

Frequently asked questions

Q – Can this monitor be mounted onto a wall bracket?

A – Yes, this monitor is VESA compatible

Q – Does this monitor include built-in speakers?

A – No, this monitor does not feature speakers.

Q – Does this monitor require a desktop?

A – No, this model should work with anything that supports and external display and uses either HDMI or DisplayPort.

 

Best curved gaming monitor under 300: Sceptre 24 Curved 144hz Monitor (under $200!)

Our choice for best curved gaming monitor under 300 has to be the Sceptre 24 curved 144hz monitor, specifcally the C248B-144RN*.

First of all, why would you choose the Sceptre 24 curved 144ht monitor? The idea of the curved screen is to purposefully direct the color and light from all angles towards the user’s eye. Because of this, optical exertion such as eye strain and fatigue are eliminated. The sceptre c248b-144rn curved gaming monitor has a phenomenal 144Hz rapid refresh rate (via displayport) and offers their own FPS-RTS feature which gives games the seamless frame transition and super smooth image and gameplay.

Features of the Sceptre 24 Curved 144hz Monitor

• 144hz Refresh Rate with 3ms response time (GTG) and 1800R screen curvature
• AMD Free Sync With Free Sync means smooth video and seamless on-the-spot movement. Free Sync is an AMD technology that nearly eliminates tearing and stuttering due to differences between a graphics card’s frame rate and a monitor’s refresh rate.
• FPS-RTS FPS and RTS are Scepter’s custom set display settings built for an enhanced gaming experience. FPS (First Person Shooter), RTS (Real-Time Strategy).
• Anti Flicker technology provides the backlight on the sceptre c248b from flickering during gaming sessions
• VESA Wall Mount Pattern Using the VESA wall mount pattern, easily mount your Scepter curved monitor on the wall in a manner that is both aesthetically pleasing and conveniently practical.
• The 24″ sceptre gaming monitor has incredibly thin bezels, perfect for our aesthetic geeks out there.
• Tiltable – the monitor can be tilted 15″ backwards and 5″ forward giving you the option to find your perfect viewing angles.

Images

We have picked the Sceptre C248b 144r as the best curved gaming monitor as it was designed to mimic the contours of the human eye, creating an incredibly visually immersive gaming experience. The Sceptre 24 curved 144hz monitor features a 90% sRGB which gives the display outstanding vibrance and more defined colors in every shade, dubbing it our best curved gaming monitor under 300.

Connectivity

The Sceptre 24 curved 144hz monitor comes with DisplayPort and HDMI ports. The displayport cable is included in the package.

Frequently asked questions

Q – Does this monitor only support an HDMI connection?

A – The sceptre 144hz monitor includes 2x HDMI inputs and 1x DisplayPort (DP) connection which supports the 144 refresh rate, so if your PC does support a DisplayPort, this is a good option.

Q – Is this monitor compatible with a GForce graphics card?

A – Yes, the sceptre gaming monitor is compatible with all Nvidia and AMD cards.

Q – Are Sceptre monitors good?

A – Yes, of course. While they are not the biggest name in the game, Sceptre has been in the business for 30+ years and has outshined some of their higher priced competitors time and time again. So is sceptre a good brand? Yes, they definitely are.

Best 240hz gaming monitor (slightly above 300): LG 27GN750-B

Let’s start by saying that it will be really hard to find a 240hz monitor with an IPS panel for under 300. But the cheapest AND best 240Hz gaming monitor we discovered is the LG 27GN750-B* which provides the crispest images and sharpest clarity with an incredible 1-millisecond response rate. The 240Hz refresh rate of this monitor gives users crystal clear, vivid, sharp images reducing any blur or eye strain or time-lapse and it is perfect for ANY pro gamer that want that competitive edge. This monitor also features an IPS screen with a 99% sRGB which gives crystal clear color definition and perfect viewing angles. Exactly what you want for competitive gaming.

Features

• 27” Full High Definition (1920×1080) IPS Display giving sublime graphics and vivid colours
• IPS 1ms Response Time brilliant for fast-paced, first-person shooter games and can eliminate dimming or flickering screens
• NVIDIA-tested and officially verified G-SYNC Compatible monitor which eliminates stuttering and screen tearing
• 240Hz Refresh Rate, one of the best refresh rates for PC gamers
• HDR 10 enables crystal clear visuals
• 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design utilizing full-screen size for extra image detail

Images

The LG Electronics UltraGear 27GN750 supports HDR10 enabling users to experience a completely immersive visual gameplay with rich colors that pop. LG has also enabled this monitor to be totally ergonomic with the ability to tilt forward and backwards, increase or decrease the stand height and even pivot 90 degrees so users can perfectly place this screen at any angle.

You probably won’t be able to find a monitor with these specs under 300. The LG 27GN750-B is probably the best monitors for competitive gamers under that runs you roughly 350-400$. All other monitors with similar specs with run you a few hundred bucks more. For instance the LG 27GL850-B which is in our opinion THE gaming monitor you can buy right now, but the price tag is $500.).

Connectivity

The LG 27GN750-B has two HDMI and one Displayport at the back. Keep in mind, that it only supports 2560 x 1440 @ 144Hz over DisplayPort, not HDMI.

Frequently asked questions

Q – Is this monitor HDR10 compatible?

A – Yes, the LG 27GL850 27” UltraGear™ Nano IPS 1ms Gaming Monitor supports HDR10

Q – Is this monitor compatible with a 4K Amazon Fire Stick?

A – Yes, the LG UltraGear is equipped with 2x HDMI ports and is compatible for use with an Amazon Fire Stick

Q – What DisplayPort standard does this monitor use, 1.2 or 1.4?

A – This monitor supports DisplayPorts 1.1, 1.2 and 1.4, although a 1.4 cable is recommended to get the most out of your LG Ultragear

Conclusion

So, with our reviews of the best monitors under 300, it just goes to show that you can get a great quality screen that shows high resolution, crystal clear images with rapid response time, all within your price range. The future of gaming monitors is constantly changing and improving, with features like HDR* and even 8K resolution screens being developed as we speak. We’ve gone from the best 144hz gaming monitor under 300, to the best 27” gaming monitor under 300, to the best curved gaming monitor under 300 and given you ideas on what to look out for.

But whether you are looking for faster response time, clearer images, or just want a bigger screen size, there are endless options out there for your new monitor, and now you know exactly what to look out for when finding the best monitor under 300. And remember, you also need to consider your graphics chip when picking your monitor as you will want a compatible resolution for the image and data information.

Whatever you do end up purchasing as you brand new monitor, you need to ensure that it working with the capabilities of your PC hardware as, often, monitor upgrades eventually end up needing a more powerful computer to support it. In which case, you may even want to think about building your own PC so as to make it to your own specifications and abilities.

Here are all monitors again for your reference: