The gaming monitor market continues to grow, offering a wide variety of options. When shopping for a new gaming monitor, key factors like refresh rate and resolution come into play. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — it depends on the types of games you play. For instance, competitive PC gamers might prefer higher refresh rates and lower resolutions, while others might want a 4K monitor with high-bandwidth ports for richly detailed games. High-resolution, high-refresh-rate monitors are also available, but you’ll need a premium setup to get the most from them.

We tested over 345 monitors with thousands of measurements to help you find the best option. No matter what type of gamer you are, a fast response time and low input lag are important. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support also helps reduce screen tearing, and while premium monitors typically offer top-tier performance and picture quality, some budget options still perform surprisingly well.

Below are our recommendations for the best gaming monitors in 2025. You can also check out our picks for the best 4K gaming monitors, the best 240Hz monitors, and the best monitor brands. And if you’re completing your gaming setup, don’t miss our guides to the best gaming mice, keyboards, and headsets.

🥇 Best Gaming Monitor

MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED

• Size: 32″
• Pixel Type: QD-OLED
• Max Refresh Rate: 240Hz
• Native Resolution: 3840 x 2160

The MSI MPG 321URX QD-OLED stands out as the best gaming monitor we’ve tested. It combines stunning 4K resolution with a fast 240Hz refresh rate and uses a QD-OLED panel for outstanding picture quality and gaming performance. Thanks to its near-instantaneous response time, motion appears exceptionally clear, and it supports HDMI 2.1 for full compatibility with the latest consoles and graphics cards.

Its perfect black levels and vibrant colors make it ideal for dark-room gaming. However, while it handles reflections decently, its brightness might not be enough to combat strong glare. If you prefer a smaller option, check out the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM for similar premium features in a 27-inch size.

🥈 Best Upper Mid-Range Gaming Monitor

MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED

• Size: 27″
• Pixel Type: QD-OLED
• Max Refresh Rate: 360Hz
• Native Resolution: 2560 x 1440

For those who don’t need 4K resolution, the MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED is a fantastic alternative. It offers many of the same features as its higher-end sibling, including a KVM switch, USB hub, and HDMI 2.1 support.

The key difference is its 1440p resolution and higher 360Hz refresh rate, making it perfect for competitive gaming. If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, the ASUS ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG is a decent option, though its colors aren’t quite as vibrant.

🥉 Best Mid-Range Gaming Monitor

Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx

• Size: 27″
• Pixel Type: IPS
• Max Refresh Rate: 160Hz
• Native Resolution: 3840 x 2160

If you’re budget-conscious or prefer not to go OLED, the Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx offers strong value. It doesn’t match the MSI in response time or black levels, but it handles motion well and boasts a sharp 4K resolution. Its 160Hz refresh rate is sufficient for most gamers, and the Mini LED local dimming improves black levels for better HDR performance.

There are some downsides, including higher input lag at 60Hz, but gaming at higher refresh rates with VRR can avoid this issue.

🏅 Best Budget Gaming Monitor

AOC Q27G3XMN

• Size: 27″
• Pixel Type: VA
• Max Refresh Rate: 180Hz
• Native Resolution: 2560 x 1440

For gamers on a budget, the AOC Q27G3XMN is a hidden gem. It delivers strong performance with Mini LED backlighting and a high native contrast ratio for deep blacks. It’s bright enough for impactful HDR, and motion handling is generally good despite some black smearing — a common VA panel issue.

It lacks HDMI 2.1, meaning it’s less suited for newer consoles, but overall, it’s an excellent choice for value-driven gamers.