What to Look For in a 1080p Gaming Monitor in 2024
When shopping for a 1080p gaming monitor in 2024, there are certain key features you should consider to ensure you’re getting the best gaming experience. One crucial factor to look out for is the monitor’s refresh rate. Since 1080p monitors are relatively affordable, it’s recommended to go for high-refresh-rate options. A 240Hz refresh rate is a great choice for most gamers, but if you have the budget and are into competitive gaming, you can also consider a 360Hz offering.
In addition to the refresh rate, it’s important to ensure that the monitor supports variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync. These technologies prevent screen tearing and provide a smoother gaming experience. If you have an Intel GPU, make sure the monitor supports DisplayPort Adaptive-Sync. Most good gaming monitors already support these VRR technologies, but it’s always good to double-check.
Another aspect to consider is the monitor’s input lag and response time. A low input lag and fast response time are important for a responsive and lag-free gaming experience. Additionally, if you prioritize image quality, look for monitors with IPS panels, as they typically offer good color accuracy. Checking the sRGB coverage is also helpful, and getting a monitor with 100% or wider coverage is desirable.
Lastly, consider the size of the monitor. It’s generally recommended to avoid monitors larger than 27 inches for 1080p resolution, as a larger screen size can result in reduced pixel density and affect picture quality. For more guidance on choosing a gaming monitor, you can refer to our comprehensive guide on what to look for in a gaming monitor.
Best 1080p Gaming Monitor Overall: ViewSonic OMNI XG2431
The ViewSonic OMNI XG2431 is an excellent choice for a 1080p gaming monitor overall. With a 240Hz refresh rate, it allows for smooth and fluid gameplay, even with more demanding games. The 24-inch screen size strikes a good balance between immersion and clarity, ensuring you don’t compromise on pixel density.
One of the standout features of the OMNI XG2431 is its superior motion handling. It is tuned and certified by Blur Busters, ensuring minimal motion artifacts and a more enjoyable gaming experience. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, making it compatible with a wide range of GPUs and reducing screen tearing.
In terms of build quality, the OMNI XG2431 is solid and comes with an ergonomic stand that offers height adjustment and swivel capabilities. However, its HDR performance is not outstanding, and the IPS panel’s contrast ratio is only average. Nonetheless, you can expect good color accuracy from an IPS display.
Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.0 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4. There is no USB-C port, but you do get two USB Type-A ports for peripheral and storage device connections.
Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM
If you’re on a budget but still want a high-quality 1080p gaming monitor, the ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM is a fantastic choice. It offers a 280Hz refresh rate, allowing for smooth and responsive gameplay. The monitor also has exceptional motion handling and a fast response time, minimizing blur and ghosting.
With an IPS panel, the VG279QM provides good color accuracy and wide viewing angles. It supports both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, ensuring tear-free gaming regardless of your GPU. However, it’s worth noting that the VG279QM is not officially certified for FreeSync, but it still offers VRR compatibility.
The stand included with the VG279QM is ergonomic and supports height adjustment, tilt, and swivel. Additionally, the monitor has HDR10 support, but its limited color gamut prevents it from delivering an immersive HDR experience. Input lag is low in most cases, but it is relatively high at a 60Hz refresh rate, which may affect certain gaming scenarios.
In terms of connectivity, the VG279QM offers a DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports. It lacks USB-C connectivity, but it does include a USB Type-A port for firmware updates.
Best 1080p Ultra-High Refresh Rate Monitor: Dell Alienware AW2523HF
For gamers seeking an ultra-high refresh rate, the Dell Alienware AW2523HF is an excellent option. With a blazing-fast 360Hz refresh rate, this monitor allows for incredibly smooth gameplay and enhances the overall responsiveness and fluidity of the gaming experience.
The AW2523HF features a fast IPS panel, ensuring excellent response times and color accuracy. It also supports both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, providing tear-free gaming for users with various GPUs. While the monitor is not officially certified for FreeSync, it still offers VRR compatibility.
In terms of design, the AW2523HF has a gamer-centric aesthetic and comes with a high-quality build and an ergonomic stand. It offers a DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 ports for connectivity. However, it does not include a USB-C port. The monitor’s contrast ratio is mediocre due to its IPS panel, and its HDR performance is not exceptional.
Best 1080p Monitor for E-Sports: BenQ Zowie XL2566K
E-sports players and gaming enthusiasts looking for a monitor specifically tailored for competitive gaming should consider the BenQ Zowie XL2566K. With its 360Hz refresh rate and low input lag, this monitor offers an optimal gaming experience, allowing for faster reaction times and a competitive edge.
The XL2566K utilizes a TN panel, known for its quick response time, further reducing motion blur in fast-paced games. It also provides customizable overdrive settings, enabling users to fine-tune the monitor’s response time for different games and scenarios. The monitor offers good color accuracy and wide viewing angles for a TN panel, though it does have a mediocre contrast ratio.
In terms of features, the XL2566K includes an S-Switch for easy monitor options and settings access. Connectivity options consist of one DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports. The monitor lacks USB-C connectivity and does not support HDR.
Best 1080p Gaming Monitor with Extra Features: SAMSUNG Odyssey G4 Series
The Odyssey G4 Series from Samsung offers an entry-level gaming monitor with additional features that enhance the gaming experience. With a 240Hz refresh rate, the G4 Series delivers smooth gaming performance, while the IPS display ensures wide viewing angles and good color accuracy.
The G4 Series includes gamer-centric features such as the ability to add a virtual crosshair and Ultrawide Game View Mode. It also supports VRR for tear-free gaming with both AMD and NVIDIA GPUs. While the monitor lacks USB-C connectivity, it offers a DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports.
The build quality of the Odyssey G4 Series is solid, and the monitor comes with an ergonomic stand for adjustable positioning. However, it does not provide an exceptional HDR experience due to limited color gamut. Additionally, HDR10 support is present, but it may not meet the expectations of users seeking high-quality HDR performance.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The article provides a comprehensive guide on what to look for in a 1080p gaming monitor in 2024 and also highlights some of the best options available in different categories.
As an analyst, the market for 1080p gaming monitors is expected to grow as more gamers seek high-quality monitors for their gaming experience. The demand for monitors with high refresh rates, low input lag, variable refresh rate technologies, and good color accuracy is likely to increase. The market will be driven by competitive gamers as well as casual gamers looking for an immersive gaming experience.
