The 8 Best Gaming Monitors under $200 in 2023 – Reviews and Comparison

If you are on a budget and love gaming occasionally or even professionally, an excellent monitor would be ideal to enhance your experience.

While you can still access decent monitors at a favorable price, such monitors may not necessarily offer high-resolution screens or lightning refresh rates.

However, as prices reduce, monitors are now more feature-packed than before. They support gaming technologies that are newer like on-screen displays and variable refresh rates.

The key features in gaming monitors include refresh rate, TN Panels, IPS Panels, Freesync and G-Sync, resolution and screen size, response time and a variety of ports.

Some of the popular games that you can play include Mortal Kombat, Borderlands 3, Madden NFL20, NBA 2K20, Modern Warfare, Pacman, The Legend of Zelda, Metal Gear Solid, Halo, Call of Duty, and Angry Birds among others.

The leading brands that make gaming monitors are Acer, Samsung, Asus, ViewSonic, and BenQ.

The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to acquire one that will deliver top performance. Best monitors with excellent features under $200 are at your disposal.

So, how do you get to select the best gaming monitor that will meet your needs satisfactorily, from the numerous options?

Don’t you worry; we have compiled a list of the top models that’ll help you arrive at the right decision. Let’s dive right in!

Our Top Picks for Best Gaming Monitors under $200

Here are some of the best gaming monitors under $200 with their specifications. Key features to consider would be resolution, refresh rate, response time and Sync support.

1. Sceptre 24" Curved 144Hz Gaming LED Monitor

This 24” curved gaming monitor offers an almost unmatched gaming experience. Offering a 144Hz refresh rate, you are guaranteed great visibility with instantly transitioning frames and no blurry images.

Additionally, its 1800R screen curvature provides you with in-depth wrap-around experience.

Features

• 24” screen size
• Contrast ratio of 3,000:1
• AMD FreeSync technology
• A pixel response time of 3-milliseconds
• A refresh rate of up to 144Hz
• 16:9 aspect ratio
• Anti-flicker
• Max screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Audio Out Jack, HDMI, DisplayPort
• Tilt design
• 1800R screen curvature
• Brightness of 250cd/m2
• RTS and FPS custom display settings
• Blue light shift technology
• Built-in speakers

Review

The Full HD curved monitor encompasses all speed and game features that you would crave. The monitor is designed to tilt 5° forward and 15° backward providing you with several options to get optimum viewing angle and comfort.

You can enjoy a seamless and smooth video transition of fast-paced games enabled by the AMD FreeSync technology. The anti-flicker feature prevents the periodical flickering of the backlight providing you with very crisp picture quality.

For enhanced gameplay and added competitive edge, you can access custom settings and choose between the RTS (Real-Time Strategy) and FPS (First Person Shooter) game modes. The blue light shift feature protects you from strain, eye irritation, and fatigue, especially when gaming for extended episodes.

The only downside is that it does not feature a USB port – understandably, for the price.

2. Acer SB220Q bi 21.5 inches Full HD Monitor

With its slim design, Full HD resolution, AMD FreeSync technology, a refresh rate of up to 75Hz and the vibrant colors provided by the IPS panel, the Acer SB220Q is among the best gaming monitors in the market.

Features

• Weighs 5.6 pounds
• Screen size: 21.5 inches
• Contrast ratio 100,000,000:1
• Ultra-thin, zero-frame design
• 16:9 aspect ratio
• Ports: HDMI and VGA
• Radeon FreeSync technology
• 75Hz refresh rate
• Tilt angle of -5° to 15°.
• Horizontal and vertical viewing of 178°

Review

You will get maximum screen visibility and improved enjoyment with the ZeroFrame (frameless design) feature. Great visual is further enhanced by the incredible 1920 x 1080 resolution and the wide viewing angle.

The 75Hz refresh rate allows for increased smoothness in visual quality, an aspect that is beneficial to competitive gamers. Modern monitors have come to be defined by LED backlighting and the Acer SB220Q is not an exception with a brightness of 250cd/m2.

Its contrast ratio of 1000:1, normally considered as standard, is complemented by the adaptive contrast management (ACM) feature. The IPS panels of this monitor have had several improvements recently. Its display latency is about 4ms shrinking the comparative disadvantages.

It also comes with 2W speakers that will ensure you experience superb audio when playing video games. The monitor has a base tilting between 5° and 15° that provides an adjustability range to give you comfort and eliminate back strain.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly monitor with high-end features, then this would be a perfect option.

3. BenQ ZOWIE XL2411P 24 Inch 144Hz Gaming Monitor

Enjoy large-scale sweeping and fluid gameplay with the lightning-fast refresh rate of 144Hz. Grasp details in motion with much precision in games such as MOBA and FPS.

You don’t want to be caught unawares by a hidden enemy. The Black eQualizer feature allows you to spot them by increasing visibility while keeping the bright areas under-exposed.

Features

• Weighs 13.01 pounds
• Screen size: 24 inches
• Height adjustable stand
• Wall-mountable
• Blue light technology
• Anti-flicker
• Contrast ratio 1000:1
• 1 millisecond response time
• Built-in power supply
• Color vibrance and Black eQualizer technology
• 144Hz refresh rate
• HDMI, DVI-DL and D-Sub connectivity
• Tilt angle of 5° to 20°
• Swivel (left to right) of +45° to -45°

Review

The monitor comes with an adjustable option for color vibrance allowing you easy and precise tracking of distinct small targets. It is wall-mountable to improve posture and comfort.

You can easily adjust your viewing angle during extended periods of gaming with just a touch of a button. Its stand is height-adjustable helping you avoid neck or spine strains.

Your eyes will be protected by the Flicker-free and low blue-light technology if playing for longer hours. It comes with multiple configurations, meaning optimal settings can be achieved for each game.

Are you a professional gamer? Well, enjoy undistracted gaming enhanced by the thick non-reflective bezels which will keep you focused. It also has multiple connections such as the DVI-DL, HDMI and DisplayPort.

4. ViewSonic VX2252MH 22 Inch 1080P Gaming Monitor

No streaking, ghosting or blurring as this monitor has a 2ms response rate that delivers smooth images especially for gaming needs that are graphic-intense.

With just the click of a button, Game Mode allows you to stay ahead of the competition by enhancing visibility and highlighting dark scenes.

Features

• Aspect ratio 1.78:1
• Maximum display resolution 1920 x 1080
• Screen size: 22 inches
• Flexible connectivity (HDMI, DVI, VGA outputs)
• 2ms response rate
• 2 Watt built-in speakers
• VESA mount compatible
• Tilt-adjustable
• Game mode
• Flicker-free
• 50M:1 dynamic Contrast ratio
• Mercury-free LED backlighting
• Contrast ratio 1000:1
• 250cd/m2 brightness
• 170°/160° viewing angles

Review

The clarity of audio and digital picture is enhanced by the HDMI interface, giving you the ultimate gaming experience. Combined with the Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, you are guaranteed a pixel-by-pixel image performance.

Displayed images are more detailed and rich due to the 50M: 1 dynamic contrast ratio, which clearly defines the brightest and darkest colors. With the LED backlighting feature, 25% more energy is conserved as compared to the conventional displays. It also provides a great color range and detailed images.

The 2 Watt in-built speakers will give you an enhanced stereo-sound with a crystal-clear performance. You are assured of improved eye comfort with this monitor as screen flickering is eliminated by the Flicker-free feature.

You have options to place the monitor on a stand or the wall depending on your needs. Wall mounting is made possible by the convenient VESA mount provision.

If you want to enjoy an unparalleled high-definition gaming experience, the HDMI interface guarantees digital image clarity. You can also connect different HD devices like digital cameras, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players among others. The ViewSonic-VX2252MH is a monitor with flawless performance features.

5. ASUS VG275Q 27” Full HD Gaming Monitor

This monitor’s stand is ergonomically designed for extended marathon gaming sessions. It allows you to adjust the pivot, swivel, tilt, and height. This means no more back pains. It is also VESA mount compatible.

Any fast-paced gaming action will be smooth without ghosting, smearing or motion blur as the monitor provides a 75Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time.

Features

• 1ms response time
• Flexible connectivity (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA)
• Flicker-free
• Built-in 2 Watt speakers
• 75Hz refresh rate
• Tilt, pivot, swivel, height-adjustable
• FreeSync technology
• Low blue light technology
• Wall-mountable
• Full HD Resolution of 1920 x 1080
• Exclusive GamePlus and GameVisual
• Max Screen Resolution 1920 x 1080 pixels

Review

The low blue light technology offers four different filter levels to allow eye comfort. As well as the flicker-free technology that reduces the effects of potentially harmful ailments from the screen, especially during drawn-out gaming periods.

It has gamer-centric features; the exclusive GameVisual and GamePlus technology. The GameVisual technology can optimize visuals with six display modes. You can access it via the On-Screen Display menu (OSD) or a hotkey.

In case you want to improve your gaming skills, The GamePlus technology provides in-game enhancements that allow you to gain more from your game. It offers flexible connectivity with its two HDMI ports, so you don’t have to frequently plug in and out. You will not need external speakers as the in-built 2 Watt speakers provide adequate stereo sound.

Looking to have an upper hand in racing, shooting, sports, and real-time strategy titles? The AMD FreeSync technology will give you smooth gameplay and seamless visuals by eliminating choppy frame rates and screen tearing.

6. BenQ 27-Inch 1080P GL2780 Monitor

The monitor boasts a Color Weakness Mode that has cyan and magenta filters, customizing the amount of green or red color displayed. With the multiple inputs of VGA, HDMI, and DVI, you don’t have to go through the cumbersome process of changing connections.

Features

• Incredible 12M:1 dynamic contrast ratio
• ZeroFlicker technology
• Low blue light technology
• 2ms response time
• Multiple connectivities (DVI/D-Sub/headphone jack/HDMI)
• 60/75Hz refresh rate
• 27 inches screen size
• Max Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Brightness: 300cd/m2
• VESA mount compatible
• LED backlight
• Viewing angle: 170°/160°
• Tilt design
• Brightness Intelligence (B.I.Tech)
• ePaper mode

Review

The low blue light technology helps to filter any harmful light reducing eye irritation and fatigue. The ePaper Mode will give you a perfect reading experience by providing a clear white and black reading layout.

For content optimization, the monitor uses the Brightness Intelligence Technology (B.I.Tech) to enhance dark scenes while maintaining clear visibility. It also adjusts screen brightness to suit your comfort and eliminate eye discomfort.

It features a sculpted base premium etching texture giving it a clean, sophisticated and stylish appearance. You can enjoy an immersive gaming experience with flawless transitioning without ghosting or lagging, empowered by the 60/75Hz refresh rate and the fast 1ms response time.

7. Sceptre 24" Curved LED Full HD Monitor

With a curvature of 1800R and an edgeless design, this monitor provides you with a revolutionary and immersive visual experience.

Features

• Blue light shift mode
• Friendly curvature
• Anti-flicker
• Edgeless
• 75Hz refresh rate
• Analog and multi-digital ports
• Brightness 220cd/m2
• Compatible with Windows 10
• Lamp life: 30,000+ hours
• VESA wall mount compatible

Review

Anti-flicker technology prevents the flickering of the backlight periodically. Fast response time and 75Hz refresh rate, images, and fast-action games transition seamlessly without blurring or ghosting giving you precision and clarity while playing.

It comes with a tilt angle of 5° forward and 15° backward, providing you with optimal angles of viewing and enhanced performance. Your eye comfort is ensured by the blue light shift mode feature that filters any harmful screen light.

Multiple analog and digital ports offer great convenience while the HDMI gives you the ultimate visual high-definition experience. Although it has no ergonomic adjustments, the Sceptre offers great value for money for its features, stylish design, and grayscale performance.

8. Acer GN246HL Bbid 24-Inch Full HD Gaming Monitor

Multiple connectivity provisions make it easier for you to power and use it with a smartphone or tablet, rendering it a great buy. The 1920 x 1080 resolution combined with the 24-inch display makes it perfect for widescreen multimedia, HD gaming, and productivity.

Features

• Screen size: 24 inches
• Max Screen Resolution 1920 x 1080
• LED display
• Wall mountable
• 144Hz refresh rate
• 1ms response time
• NVIDIA 3D Lightboost
• Pixel pitch: 0.276mm
• NVIDIA 3D Vision Ready
• HDMI, VGA, DVI ports
• Acer EcoDisplay
• 350cd/m2 brightness
• Tilt (-5° to 15°)
• 170° horizontal/160° vertical viewing angles
• 16:9 aspect ratio
• 100M:1 contrast ratio

Review

EcoDisplay technologies by Acer ensure power saving of up to 68%, reducing costs and conserving energy in the process. Its packaging material is recyclable, making it safe for you and the environment.

The NVIDIA 3D Lightboost feature is bound to give you an unmatched Acer 3D experience with its advanced 3D technology. Several people can simultaneously use 3D glasses for shared enjoyment.

The incredible response time of 1ms allows for high-quality images in motion that guarantees you of immersive gaming experience. Crystal-clear images and content are further enhanced by the 100M:1 contrast ratio.

Conclusion

Whether you are a professional gamer or a casual one, or you just want to enjoy watching movies; the monitors we have listed are embedded with great modern features at a pocket-friendly rate.

However, there are certain critical features that you need to consider before making a purchase. These are:

1. Refresh Rate

This is the number of times an image is refreshed by a monitor. The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image. Most monitors come with 60 Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz or 240Hz.

The larger the refresh rate, the better and smoother images.

2. Panel Type – IPS or TN?

IPS panels provide better viewing while TN panels prioritize speed and budget.

IPS Panels

Pros

• Better viewing angles
• Better color reproduction

Cons

• High latency
• Quite expensive

TN Panels

Pros

• Lower latency and supports high refresh rates
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Narrow viewing angles
• Bad color reproduction
3. Resolution and Screen Size

A larger screen doesn’t necessarily mean that it is better. You must be in a position to see everything at once, especially for competitive gaming. Sizes ranging between 24” and 27” are considered best. Resolution is one of the main features to look out for when considering a gaming monitor.

A higher resolution translates to more pixels, hence, better quality images. A resolution of 1080p with a 24” monitor is used by most gamers. If you need a resolution of 1440p, you may need to get a larger screen.

4. FreeSync and G-sync

This technology helps to avoid screen tearing. They are provided by AMG and Nvidia. The main difference between them is that FreeSync can function without any specialized hardware while G-Sync cannot.

5. Response Time

The shorter the response time, the better the pixel transition from black to white. Most monitors have a response time of 5ms and below, while the fastest monitor has 0.5ms.

Additional factors to consider are aspect ratio, variety of ports (HDMI, VGA, DVI) and blue light technology.

We believe you are now equipped to select the best gaming monitor that will suit your needs without much trouble.

See you on the other side of an unparalleled gaming experience!