Best Gaming Monitors for Under $300

Finding a gaming monitor that balances performance, features, and price can be challenging. However, in 2025, several monitors under $300 have emerged as top contenders for gamers seeking high-quality displays without breaking the bank. Whether you're into fast-paced shooters or immersive RPGs, these monitors offer features like high refresh rates, low response times, and vibrant color accuracy.

ASUS TUF VG27AQ

The ASUS TUF VG27AQ is a 27-inch WQHD monitor that impressed me with its crisp 1440p resolution and smooth 165Hz refresh rate. The IPS panel delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for both gaming and content creation. During my testing, I noticed minimal motion blur, thanks to its 1ms MPRT response time.

Digital Trends

Pros:

High refresh rate for smooth gameplay

Excellent color accuracy

Adaptive Sync support

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Cons:

Slightly higher price point

Stand lacks height adjustment

Best for:

Gamers seeking a balance between performance and visual fidelity.

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Samsung Odyssey G55C

The Samsung Odyssey G55C is a 27-inch curved monitor that offers an immersive gaming experience. Its VA panel provides deep blacks and high contrast ratios, enhancing the visual experience in dark scenes. The 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time ensure smooth and responsive gameplay.

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PC Gamer

Pros:

Curved design for immersive gaming

High contrast ratio

Affordable price Reddit+1

Cons:

Color accuracy not as high as IPS panels

Limited ergonomic adjustments

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Best for:

Gamers who enjoy immersive experiences and have a budget under $200.

MSI Optix G24C4 E2

The MSI Optix G24C4 E2 is a compact 23.6-inch monitor that doesn't compromise on performance. Its 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time make it ideal for fast-paced competitive gaming. The VA panel provides decent color reproduction and contrast, though not as vibrant as IPS panels.

Pros:

Extremely high refresh rate

Compact size suitable for smaller setups

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Cons:

Lower resolution (1080p)

Limited color accuracy

Best for:

Competitive gamers looking for a high-refresh-rate monitor on a tight budget.

FAQs

Q: What's the difference between IPS and VA panels?

A: IPS panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, while VA panels provide higher contrast ratios and deeper blacks.

Q: Is a higher refresh rate always better?

A: A higher refresh rate can lead to smoother gameplay, but the difference becomes less noticeable beyond 144Hz for most gamers.

Q: Do I need a 1440p monitor for gaming?

A: While 1440p monitors offer sharper images, 1080p monitors can still provide excellent gaming experiences, especially on smaller screens.

Buying Guide

When choosing a gaming monitor under $300, consider the following factors:

Resolution: Higher resolutions provide sharper images but may require more powerful hardware.

Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate leads to smoother gameplay, especially in fast-paced games.

Panel Type: IPS panels offer better color accuracy, while VA panels provide deeper blacks.

Size: Choose a size that fits your desk and provides an immersive experience without overwhelming your field of view.

In my experience, the ASUS TUF VG27AQ offers a balanced combination of performance and visual quality, making it a top choice for most gamers. However, if you're on a tighter budget, the MSI Optix G24C4 E2 provides excellent value without compromising on essential features.

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This article is for informational purposes only. Prices, specs, and availability may change; always verify details before making a purchase.