In the realm of gaming, 1080p monitors remain a steadfast choice, balancing high performance with affordability. For those seeking to dive into intense gaming sessions or upgrade their current setup, understanding the value of a 1080p monitor is key. This guide aims to highlight the best 1080p gaming monitors, each standing out for its unique combination of features and gaming prowess.
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Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM Gaming Monitor
Best Overall 1080p Gaming Monitor
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MSI G274F Gaming Monitor
Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor
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MSI MAG2732, 27″ Gaming Monitor
Best Mid-Range 1080p Gaming Monitor
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Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor
Best High-End 1080p Gaming Monitor
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AOC C27G2Z Gaming Monitor
Best Entry-Level 1080p Gaming Monitor
Factors to Consider When Buying a Gaming Monitor
When selecting 1080p gaming monitors, consider factors like refresh rate, adaptive sync technology, and panel type.
- Refresh Rate: Look for at least a 120Hz monitor to ensure fluid gameplay.
- Adaptive Sync Technology: Monitors with G-Sync or FreeSync offer smooth, tear-free visuals.
- Panel Type: IPS panels have vibrant colors and wider viewing angles. TN panels have faster response times.
Looking to further upgrade the gaming setup? Consider adding a wireless keyboard for a complete and immersive gaming experience worthy of a new 1080p gaming monitor.
Game Rant’s Picks for the Best 1080p Gaming Monitors in 2024
Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM Gaming Monitor
Best Overall 1080p Gaming Monitor
The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM is a 27-inch IPS gaming monitor with a fast refresh rate. It displays Full HD resolution, 1920 x 1080, and can achieve a super-fast 280 Hz refresh rate. This monitor is particularly designed for professional gamers and those who require the smoothest gameplay.
The VG279QM features Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync (ELMB SYNC) technology. This technology works in conjunction with G-Sync to eliminate ghosting and tearing.
- Screen Size
- 27″
- Resolution
- 1920×1080
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 280Hz
- Response Time
- 1ms
- 280Hz refresh rate
- Vibrant color performance
- Very responsive
- Reasonable price point
- Lower pixel density than other options
The Asus TUF VG279QM looks very similar to many other 1080p gaming monitors from the outside, but once gamers start gaming with this monitor, the difference will soon be apparent. It isn’t packed to the gills with special features, but what it does have is executed nearly flawlessly. Plus, it comes in at a pretty decent price point. Gamers looking to get their hands on a high refresh rate monitor that looks excellent and doesn’t break the bank need to check out the VG279QM.
The Asus TUF VG lineup all use very similar panels that offer excellent image quality for gaming across the board. These are not the most accurate displays, but at this price point, the image quality is nothing to spit at. While the colors are not the most accurate for a task like video editing, when it comes to gaming, the VG279QM provides consistent colors that are properly saturated and stunning.
While the image quality is excellent when it comes to color performance and brightness, where the VG279QM does lack a bit is in the pixel density. The lower density in games is not as noticeable, but for gamers who like to get close to their monitor, this might present a slightly more significant problem.
MSI G274F Gaming Monitor
Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor
The MSI G274F is a gaming monitor aimed explicitly at the e-sports crowd with a 180Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time. With a max resolution of 1920×1080, this IPS panel provides bright and accurate colors, especially with its wide viewing angle of 178°.
- Screen Size
- 27″
- Resolution
- 1920×1080
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 180 Hz
- Brand
- MSI
- Response Time
- 1 ms
- 180Hz and 1 ms response time
- Incredibly easy to drive
- Easy setup process
- Bright display with wide viewing angle
- On-screen display menu is kind of confusing
MSI has a ton of budget gaming monitors in their current lineup that can easily find their way into most gamers’ setups. The MSI G274F is a perfect choice for gamers with a tighter budget who don’t want to sacrifice a high refresh rate or excellent image quality. For under $200, most gamers will have difficulty finding a better option than the G274F.
With a 1ms response time and 180Hz refresh rate, this monitor is perfect for any esports or pro gamer wanting a huge monitor to dominate the competition. In Game Rant’s full review of the MSI G274F, we found that – regardless of the game type – this monitor excelled and made the gaming experience much more immersive. While the refresh rate is not as high as the Asus TUF VG279QM, it doesn’t feel that detrimental, especially considering the lower price point.
Most budget gaming monitors stop at a high refresh rate, but the G274F also supports HDR. This extra boost to the color gamut is distracting in day-to-day tasks, but this monitor is absolutely stunning for HDR-supported games. Games like Doom are rendered with amazing colors and dynamic range, though sometimes it can become too scary.
MSI MAG2732, 27″ Gaming Monitor
Best Mid-Range 1080p Gaming Monitor
$150 $220 Save $70
The MSI Optix MAG2732, 27″ Gaming Monitor is an excellent contender for a budget monitor as it checks all the right boxes that gamers are looking for in a gaming screen in 2024. It offers 1ms response times, 165Hz refresh rates, and an IPS panel coupled with all the requisite ports users would need to hook it up to their PC or console.
- Brand
- MSI
- Resolution
- 1920 x1080
- Refresh Rate
- 165Hz
- Screen Size
- 27″
- Ports
- 1 x DP 1.2a, 2 x HDMI 2.0
- Display Technology
- IPS
- Aspect Ratio
- 16:9
- Screen Brightness
- 250 nits
- Sound
- no speakers; 1x headphone out
- Variable Refresh
- Yes, GSync compatible
- Response Time
- 1ms
- Impressive 165Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- GSync compatibility reduces screen tearing
- 1ms response time for quick image transitions
- Lacks built-in speakers for integrated audio
- Some users may prefer a larger screen size
The MSI MAG2732 redefines what a mid-range 1080p gaming monitor should be. For this reason, this monitor is a standout choice in its category and has many features that other products at this price point do not. With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, this monitor excels in fluidity and responsive visuals. Its GSync compatibility ensures that the gameplay is free from annoying screen tears, while the IPS display provides vibrant colors and crystal-clear images, enhancing every gaming session.
While this mid-range gaming monitor exceeds many expectations, there are some concerns to be aware of. The first is the absence of built-in speakers, which means an additional purchase. Next, the resolution might not meet the needs of users looking for an all-in-one multimedia solution or ultra-high-definition displays. However, gamers who prioritize high refresh rates and rapid response times over these features will find that the MSI MAG2732 remains an excellent choice. This monitor offers great value for its price and is deserving of its title as the best mid-range 1080p gaming monitor.
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor
Best High-End 1080p Gaming Monitor
$923 $936 Save $13
The 24-inch Alienware AW2524H comes with a suite of excellent features for under $1000. Buyers get a mind-blowing 480Hz refresh rate which, along with an NVIDIA G-SYNC certification, translates into tear-free gameplay and lucid visuals. The monitor also prioritizes eye care as the ComfortView Plus Low Blue Light Feature helps prevent fatigue after long periods of gaming.
- Screen Size
- 24.5 inches
- Resolution
- 1920×1080
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 500 Hz
- Brand
- Dell
- Response Time
- 0.5ms
- WEIGHT
- 9.8 lbs (without stand)
- Blistering 480Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gaming
- Ultra-fast 0.5ms response time minimizing motion blur
- Some users report flickering issues
- Price may be high for budget-conscious gamers
The Alienware AW2524H stands out as the best high-end 1080p gaming monitor. That is due, in part, to its groundbreaking 480Hz refresh rate, which is a dream come true for competitive gamers. Its 0.5ms response time and NVIDIA G-SYNC ensure that every frame is rendered with precise clarity, free from tearing and ghosting, which is essential for fast-paced games.
It features NVIDIA Reflex Latency Analyzer technology and VESA DisplayHDR 400 that allows gamers to optimize their systems to play at their highest potential while enjoying lifelike visuals. Additionally, it comes with a Premium Panel Exchange and 3-Year Advanced Exchange Service which allow gamers to enjoy a free monitor exchange during the limited hardware warranty period.
While this monitor is a powerhouse in performance, some user reviews have noted flickering issues, which could be a minor concern. Also, other users have complained about its limited video input selection and low native contrast ratio. Despite these minor issues, its compact 24.5-inch size is perfect for gamers who prefer high-resolution displays without overwhelming desk space. For those seeking a top-tier 1080p gaming experience, the Alienware AW2524H is a stellar choice for gamers who prioritize speed and clarity in their gaming sessions.
AOC C27G2Z Gaming Monitor
Best Entry-Level 1080p Gaming Monitor
The AOC C27G2Z is a 27-inch gaming monitor with a curved, frameless design. The monitor offers Full HD 1080p resolution for clear visuals. This model supports a 240 Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast response time is 0.5 ms. It also comes with FreeSync technology for smoother gameplay on supported graphics cards. The monitor has multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA.
- Screen Size
- 27″
- Resolution
- 1920×1080
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 240Hz
- Brand
- AOC
- Response Time
- 0.5ms MPRT
- Accurate and saturated color
- Excellent contrast
- Very responsive gaming performance
- Solid value
- No HDR support
- Overdrive is unreliable
Stepping into the world of PC gaming can be quite intimidating, especially when it comes to monitors. Luckily, AOC has the C27G2Z, which is perfect for entry-level gamers. Packed with features that will make any gamer happy, stunning image quality, and a price that makes it very approachable, the C27G2Z is easily one of the best gaming monitors for first-time gamers.
With a sub-$200 price point, this monitor does not feel entry-level when it’s in use. The colors are vibrant and, for the most part, accurate out of the box, and the 240Hz refresh rate makes any task buttery smooth. While 240Hz is not the fastest refresh rate for 1080p gaming monitors, most gamers, especially entry-level gamers, will not notice a difference between this monitor and one that supports 360Hz. Depending on the game, entry-level gaming PCs have a much easier time maintaining a frame rate of 240 fps instead of 360 fps.
The C27G2Z doesn’t have HDR support like the MSI G274F, but with the SDR color performance that users can get out of this monitor, it’s not much of a dealbreaker. This monitor is accurate and well-saturated out of the box. It only covers 88% of the sRGB color space, so it’s not super great for tasks like design work, but for gaming and watching content, it performs just fantastically. Game Rant would recommend avoiding HDR emulation modes for the best results.
CRUA 27″ Curved Gaming Monitor
Best Curved 1080p Gaming Monitor
$160 $250 Save $90
The CRUA 27″ curved gaming monitor is a 1920 x 1080 resolution display designed to enhance the gaming experience. With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1 ms (GTG) response time, it provides smooth visuals. Its modern design features an 1800R curvature for reduced head movement, ultra-thin bezels on three sides, and a stable V-shaped base.
The display supports a 99% sRGB color gamut and includes Flicker-free technology and a blue light filter for comfortable all-day viewing.
- Screen Size
- 27″
- Resolution
- FHD(1920*1080P)
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 180
- 27″ FHD display with 1800R curvature for immersive visuals
- 99% sRGB color gamut for vivid and accurate colors
- Flicker-free technology and blue light filter for eye comfort
- Ultra-thin bezels may require careful handling
- Curvature may not be suited for all types of content
As the best curved 1080p gaming monitor, the CRUA 27″ brings a unique blend of smooth performance and immersive visuals. Its 180Hz refresh rate and 1800R curvature offer gamers an engaging experience, perfect for fast-paced titles. Alongside these already awesome features, the 99% sRGB color gamut and flicker-free technology showcase its ability to provide both stunning visuals and eye comfort, making it a top pick for prolonged gaming sessions.
While the monitor excels in many areas, it’s important to consider its FHD resolution, which may not meet the demands of gamers seeking higher resolutions. Some users have also reported occasional screen issues, though these instances are infrequent. Despite these considerations, the CRUA 27″ Curved Gaming Monitor remains a standout choice for gamers looking for a blend of high refresh rate, immersive curvature, and color accuracy, reinforcing its status as a top curved 1080p option.
How to Choose the Perfect 1080p Gaming Monitor
Let’s review some key features to look for in a 1080p gaming monitor. These can significantly enhance the gaming experience. Here are the essential aspects to consider.
Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate is crucial for a fluid gaming experience. Monitors with at least 120Hz refresh rates provide smoother motion and less blur during fast-paced games, making every second count.
Adaptive Sync Technology
Adaptive Sync technology, like G-Sync or FreeSync, ensures a tear-free and smooth visual experience. This technology is essential for preventing screen tearing and stuttering, keeping gameplay seamless. These features are vital for those who like esports games where milliseconds count. While FreeSync is just fine, it’s best to use G-Sync with Nvidia C for excellent gaming performance.
Panel Type
The choice of panel type impacts color accuracy and response time. IPS panels offer vibrant colors and wide viewing angles that are perfect for immersive gaming. TN panels provide faster response times, which is a huge plus for competitive gaming.
The Best Gaming Monitors for PS5 in 2024
The PlayStation 5 can push 120FPS at resolutions up to 4K, but it takes some capable monitors to make good use of all that power under the hood!
FAQ
Q: Is a 1080p monitor good for gaming?
Certainly, 1080p monitors are often used by gamers due to their high refresh rates and quick response times, essential for competitive gaming.
Q: Are 1080p monitors suitable for multi-monitor gaming setups?
Absolutely, their affordability and consistent quality across various models make 1080p monitors ideal for creating expansive and immersive multi-monitor setups.
Q: Are 1080p monitors compatible with all gaming consoles?
Yes, 1080p monitors work well with a variety of gaming consoles, providing versatility and ensuring a great gaming experience across different platforms.
