If you're after the best gaming monitor around, we've got you covered right here with our top picks, and spoiler alert...there's something for everyone.
When choosing which monitor to go for, there's a lot to consider. If ultra-smooth gaming is important to you then looking at refresh rates is a good place to start, as are response times and input lag.
On the other side of the coin, you may want a display that showcases your super high-end graphics card or next-gen console in all its glory, and that's where you'll likely want to look into the latest HDMI 2.1 monitors, the latest glossy gaming monitors or the latest 360hz displays.
And for PC gamers, don't forget about ultra-wide displays too, especially with more and more AAA titles than ever supporting the 21:9 ratio.
Here you'll find everything you need, plus links to more of our top picks for each category, so you can start your search and explore some of the best gaming monitors around.
And, there's more to come, as we'll get into after our list, including some epic QD-OLED displays, a slew of 1440p monitors that boast over 300hz refresh rates, and even LG's first OLED gaming monitor too!
Let's get into it.
Best Gaming Monitor 2022
- ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A
- Samsung Odyssey G7 Curved Gaming Monitor
- Alienware AW2518H Gaming Monitor
- ASUS CG32UQ, 32 Inch 4k Gaming Monitor
- LG Electronics 32UN500
- ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX 32 inch Mini LED Gaming Monitor
- BenQ Zowie XL2540K 24.5 inch 240Hz Gaming Monitor
- ASUS ROG Strix XG43UQ HDMI 2.1 Gaming Monitor
- Samsung Odyssey G9 Curved Gaming Monitor
- AOC Gaming U28G2AE 28 Inch
- Gigabyte G27Q 27 Inch Gaming Monitor
- ASUS ROG Swift PG259QNR
Best Gaming Monitor HDMI 2.1 Small - ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A
click to enlargeFor those wanting the power of HDMI 2.1 but just on a smaller panel, the ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A definitely looks to be a marvellous choice.
First and foremost, its HDMI 2.1 capabilities will allow for 4K output at 120Hz, and overall it should be silky smooth with sharp visual quality. The fact this monitor also offers up a 144Hz refresh rate anyway is a bonus and the inclusion of G-Sync and FreeSync will allow for tear-free gameplay.
A 1ms response time also allows the ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A to be a great monitor for eSports too, providing a practically zero latency connection for when you're in the heat of battle.
It's got a DisplayHDR 400 certification and can reach a solid 450nit brightness which makes it a good option for gaming in well-lit rooms and for HDR content.
See More: Best HDMI 2.1 Monitors
Best Gaming Monitor 1440p - Samsung Odyssey G7
click to enlargeThe Samsung Odyssey G7 monitor ticks practically every box when it comes to gaming and we'd even say this makes the list for one of the best 1440p gaming monitors out there too.
As far as monitors go, its design lends itself quite nicely to a gaming setup, especially with blue detailing on the back, which really makes this monitor pop.
Performance speaking, you're getting Freesync Premium Pro and G-Sync compatible technology otherwise known as VRR, to reduce any screen tear or stuttering.
Add that to 240hz and 1ms response time, and you've got a bit of a beast for fast-paced gaming too.
HDR 600, enhanced ergonomics and VESA compliant...the list goes on for this standout monitor.
See More: Best 1440p Gaming Monitors
Best Gaming Monitor For First Person Shooters - Alienware AW2518H
click to enlargeWhen it comes to first-person games, we thought this Alienware AW2518H monitor stood out from the crowd and it also looks like the hugely popular streamer Nick Mercs uses this monitor to dominate across a number of games too.
As with many monitors in the Alienware range, this is one stunningly designed display that packs a serious visual punch.
Performance speaking, you're getting a 240hz refresh rate to ensure super-smooth gameplay and arguably give you a bit of an edge when it comes to competitive play.
It's also practically the ideal screen size for competitive gaming, as you'll be able to spot opponents easily without having to move your head to see them. It may shave off mere milliseconds, but as you know, that's what counts when playing titles like Apex, Warzone, and more.
An impressive monitor if we ever saw one, we think the Alienware AW2518H is well worth checking out if you're into your first-person shooters.
See More: The Best 240hz Monitors For Gaming
Best Gaming Monitor For Console - ASUS CG32UQ
click to enlargeThe ASUS CG32UQ is a great premium choice for most people's gaming setups, if you're sticking to non-HDMI 2.1 monitors.
You're getting a quality 4K monitor here, but with some added extras, such as ambient lighting (Halo Sync), that can add an impressive touch to your gaming setup.
As for visuals, HDR and a DCI-P3 95% professional colour gamut should prove useful when it comes to bringing your favourite games to life on screen.
As with most 4K HDMI 2.0 monitors you'll be capped 60fps if you're playing on PS5 and Xbox Series X - if you want 120fps at 4K, you'll have to check out some of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors.
See More: Best Monitor for PS4
Best Gaming Monitor 4K Mid-Range - LG Electronics 32UN500
click to enlargeAnother solid choice for both PC and console gaming, this LG 32UN500 comes in typically under £400 and boasts an impressive resume for the price as you can see above.
In the looks department, if you're using a monitor for both gaming and work, then we think this one works well in both worlds.
It's minimal enough to not look out of place when using for everyday productivity, but also matches up quite well with next-gen/ current-gen consoles thanks to its white backing.
A good all-rounder that we'd say could be a great choice and a superb monitor for PS5.
See More: Best Monitor For PS5
Best Gaming Monitor 144Hz Mini LED - ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX
click to enlargeIf you're wanting a panel that's similar to some of the best TVs out there, then the ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX might just be the monitor for you.
What you'll find first and foremost is a 4K IPS panel that features Mini LED backlighting. In the real world, this should translate to a display with some rather vivid colours and incredible brightness, as it features 1400 nits of brightness courtesy of 1152 independent zones of LEDs.
Alongside this, a 144Hz refresh rate also ensures that the ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX should be quite the powerful gaming monitor in its own right, as well as support for Nvidia's G-Sync Ultimate.
There's also a clever display built into the monitor's bezels that can show useful info such as temperatures or fan speeds and it can also display any custom images, which we think is pretty cool.
See More: The Best 144hz Gaming Monitors
Best Gaming Monitor 240hz Mid-Range - BenQ Zowie XL2540K
click to enlargeOne of the best BenQ monitors around, and a brilliant choice for competitive gaming too, this BenQ Zowie XL2540K ticks practically all the boxes for a FHD, responsive display.
If you're all about fast-paced gaming you'll be in luck thanks to the whopping 240hz refresh rate and 1ms response time on offer here.
And even when playing on PS5 and Xbox Series X, you'll be able to unlock 120fps on select titles (thankfully COD Black Ops is one of them!).
The design tweak to this model is also a real winner, giving it a smaller base so as to free up that all-important desk real estate.
See More: Best 240hz Gaming Monitor
Best Gaming Monitor HDMI 2.1 - ASUS ROG Strix XG43UQ
click to enlargeNow, this ASUS ROG Strix CG43UQ is a bit of a beast on paper and demand must be sky-high for it as it is certainly tough to get a hold of.
As seemingly the start of the wave of HDMI 2.1 monitors ready to start crashing onto our shores, it's up there at over the £1000 mark, and with good reason.
This monitor allows you to unlock high framerates and high resolution, giving you that truly next-gen experience.
It even features ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync with variable refresh rate tech to ensure a super smooth gaming experience.
If you're going all-in with your gaming setup, we'd say this would be worth keeping a close eye on.
See More: Best HDMI 2.1 Monitors
Best Gaming Monitor Curved Premium - Samsung Odyssey G9
click to enlargeThe Samsung Odyssey G9 is the ultimate statement monitor and it is absolutely enormous.
As a worthy addition to our best curved monitor list, this massive display packs a punch under the hood, with a staggering 240hz refresh rate combined with a 1ms response time.
Even though its stand provides enhanced ergonomics (swivel, tilt and height-adjustable) it's also VESA compliant, so you can choose to mount this monitor if you wish.
We'd recommend checking the maximum weight of your potential monitor arm though, as this comes in at over 16kg!
It's a standout monitor, with a fairly hefty premium price tag, but worth considering if you really want to splash out on something epic.
If you want to go a step further, keep an eye out for Samsung next entries in the Odyssey world.
See More: Best Curved Monitors For Gaming
Best Gaming Monitor Mid-Range 4K 28" - AOC Gaming U28G2AE
click to enlargeThe AOC U28G2AE 4K monitor is a good call if you're looking for something mid-range and slightly on the smaller side.
Even without HDR, this monitor delivers the goods when it comes to colour and clarity. Its IPS display makes images look crisp and thanks to its brightness you'll be able to experience this in well-lit rooms too.
As far as design, there's a nice touch of red detailing on the bottom of the monitor that gives it that gaming edge but also proves inconspicuous enough to make it fit in with a productivity setup.
A good all-rounder for the price point if you're after a crisp 4K image on a monitor that won't dominate your gaming setup space.
See More: The Best Monitor Under 500
Best Gaming Monitor 1440p Under 400 - Gigabyte G27Q
click to enlargeIf you're after a cracking 1440p monitor then you may want to check out the GIGABYTE G27Q.
FreeSync Premium/G-Sync Compatible ready which will make for smooth gameplay even when things get super-fast, in addition to a lightning-fast response time of 1ms.
It also boasts an impressive 92% DCI-P3 wide-gamut display, with HDR 40 support meaning you can enjoy everything from gaming, to watching movies all the way to video editing.
For consoles, we think this is a great monitor for Xbox Series S or X could also be a good way to go if you're looking for 120 fps gaming.
See More: Best Gaming Monitor Under 300
Best 360Hz Monitor - ASUS ROG Swift PG259QNR
click to enlargeIf you're a competitive gamer, the ASUS ROG Swift PG259QNR 360Hz monitor could be what you're looking for.
Not only are you getting a whopping 360Hz refresh rate here, but this monitor also features a Full HD display and 1ms response time.
And it even features advanced technology like G-Sync and NVIDIA's Reflex latency analyzer to help you achieve a fast and smooth gameplay experience.
For the serious gamers out there, we think the ASUS ROG Swift PG259QNR is definitely one to consider.
See More: Best 360Hz Monitors: Our Top Picks For Gaming
Best Gaming Monitor OLED - Gigabyte Aorus FO48U
click to enlargeIf you're looking for the ultimate immersive experience while gaming, the Gigabyte Aorus FO48U may be the choice for you.
Not only is this display huge, coming in at 47.5-inches, but it also features a stunning 4K resolution and OLED technology, which should help to deliver impressive visuals.
Plus, this monitor also features HDMI 2.1 capabilities, allowing for 4K gaming at 120Hz, which should help provide you with a fast, fluid gameplay experience.
If you like gaming on a larger screen, the Gigabyte Aorus FO48U could be the way to go.
See More: Best OLED Gaming Monitor 2022: Latest Releases, Upcoming Monitors, And More
Upcoming Gaming Monitor Releases
There are some exciting developments in the world of gaming monitors and we're here to give alert you to any displays you'll want to keep an eye out for.
360hz Monitors
click to enlargeLately, it's all about 360hz, 1440p displays, which Nvidia is pushing to be the new e-sports standard in gaming.
We've rounded up everything you need to know about the best 360hz monitors right here, including what could be heading our way this year.
Just make sure you're rig is up to the task!
HDMI 2.1 Monitors
click to enlargeIn other news, you'll want to keep your eye on movements from BenQ, as they are tipped to release a new 32", 4K, HDMI 2.1 monitor soon. The same goes for a number of other brands that have showcased large 4K gaming monitors which pack 1ms response times and 144hz refresh rates.
You can find out more in our best HDMI 2.1 monitor list.
OLED Monitors
click to enlargeYou'll also want to keep an eye out for the upcoming QD-OLED gaming monitors, which borrow some of the new technology seen in recent TV announcements at CES 2022.
QD-OLED combines quantum dot with OLED to produce incredible contrast, 'perfect' blacks and offers up possibilities for super slim profile displays. In fact, the Samsung Odyssey G8QNB comes in at just 5.9mm!
The Gigabyte AORUS FO48U is an excellent option available now and there are also more traditional OLED monitors heading our way too, from the likes of Asus and MSI
There's also a LG Ultragear 48" OLED monitor tipped for release in the second half of the year, that's well worth looking out for.
You can see some of the best upcoming OLED monitors right here.
Ultrawide Monitors
click to enlargeOf course, there are some epic ultrawide monitors heading our way too, including the Samsung Neo G8 and the upcoming Alienware AW3423DW, both of which look absolutely epic and offer (frankly) absurd levels of brightness.
Don't forget about the Samsung Odyssey G8QNB pictured above, which marks a world's first in two different categories.
Check out our best ultrawide monitor list for everything you need to know.
4K Curved Monitors
click to enlargeWe're starting to see more large scale curved displays rear their heads, and we're all for it.
Case in point, the Samsung Odyssey Ark, which boasts a 55", 1000R screen that can be rotated 90 degrees for a vertical setup too.
Interestingly, Samsung has opted for a 16:9 aspect ratio, which should ensure that games aren't stretched to fit, as is sometimes the case with even the best ultrawide monitors.
No release date apart from 2022 just yet, but we'll keep you updated as to when we hear more.
Check out our best curved gaming monitors list for more.
1440p Monitors
click to enlargeWe're seeing some exciting releases heading our way for 1440p monitors, including new models from ASUS, MSI and more.
We're seeing higher refresh rates than ever before on QHD monitors with the MSI MEG 271Q featuring a rapid 300Hz refresh rate and the ASUS PG27AQN displaying a whopping 360Hz.
Check out our best 1440p monitors list for more.
Glossy Gaming Monitors
click to enlargeWe're also seeing a new type of panel emerge into the world of gaming monitors with glossy panels entering the fold to bring crisper colours with better depth than the usual anti-reflective displays out there.
Check out what's new with the best glossy gaming monitors right here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to finding the best monitor for gaming, it's all about personal taste, budget, and what you're primarily using it for, and these are just some of what we think are some of the standout monitors on the market today.
But there are a few 'rules of thumb' you can follow which can help decide which monitor is best for your primary usage.
Are gaming monitors worth it?
We'd say yes, absolutely. Much like gaming laptops, gaming monitors are built for performance so they can handle both gaming and productivity easily.
Read More: Here's why gaming monitors are worth the money
What brand is best for gaming monitors?
There are loads of great brands that deliver quality gaming monitors, so it's not so much about which is best, but perhaps which is best aligned to your needs.
LG for instance has brilliant gaming monitors that are slightly more minimally designed, making them good for doubling up as workstations too.
Brands like Gigabyte have a strong gaming aesthetic and are quite affordable also, while Samsung tends to be quite expensive but very impressive across the board.
What monitor do professionals use?
There's no one monitor that really stands out, but seeing monitors from BenQ, Alienware, and LG are quite common in more competitive scenes.
BenQ is a solid brand for both price and performance, making it popular among those who want to up their game.
What is the best refresh rate for a gaming monitor?
Generally speaking, for fast-paced gaming you'll want to go 144hz and above. More frames per second can give you the edge, although 360hz is quite hard to distinguish between 240hz.
For slower more cinematic experiences, we'd say go for a larger screen with HDR, especially for consoles.
A great mid-ground is 144hz at 1440p if you want smooth gameplay without losing too much detail.
Should you get an HDMI 2.1 Monitor?
They're very new to the scene and expensive, so it's really about your chosen budget, but they are practically future proof and can give you low response times, high fps, and 4K all at the same time.
That being said, there are some outstanding 120hz HDMI 2.1 TVs that could be worth considering if you want something more multi-use.
What is the best monitor size for gaming?
There is some debate as to what is the best monitor size for gaming, but really it depends on your usage.
Smaller is better with lower resolution as it doesn't look as blurry. For instance, we wouldn't recommend a 32-inch 1080p monitor for picture clarity, but with 4K it'll look fantastic.
Playing competitively also requires smaller screens so you can see what's going on with minimal head/ eye movement.
If you're going for a solid 1440p monitor, then 27" is a good call and often exactly what's needed for most people's rigs, although be careful buying one for PS5 as the console doesn't support native 1440p just yet.
All in all, we'd say 24" for 1080p, 27" for 1440p, and 32" - 43" for 4K would be our picks for 'optimal' screen sizes...but again, it's a personal preference.
Is an IPS screen essential when buying a monitor?
When it comes to finding the best display type for your gaming monitor, we'd say IPS screens deliver wider viewing angles and generally very good colour, so we'd say go for one if possible, especially if you think you'll have an audience watching you game.
VA panels are also very good.
Should you get a curved monitor?
Some debate exists over whether curved monitors are better for gaming than their more standard-looking counterparts.
On the one hand, having a curved monitor does allow for increased immersion first and foremost as they look to fill your entire field of vision with their vast screen real estate. This is especially true for displays like the Samsung Odyssey G9 with its 49-inch panel.
However, if you are looking to play competitively, going for a smaller, non-curved panel is probably the way to go, but if immersion and the added power of a curved monitor is of paramount importance, then we'd say they're worth a pickup.
Read More: Why Are Monitors Curved? Here's Everything You Need To Know
Do I need HDR in a gaming monitor?
Many of the monitors we've got listed here offer up a form of what's known as HDR, or high-dynamic range.
Having HDR is primarily useful on larger-screen monitors (i.e. 32-inches or above) as it will be easier to notice the higher quality of visual output. This can work well if the monitor is also 4K and you're going to be using it for console gaming.
If you are solely focused on smaller-panel PC gaming and if higher refresh rates are of paramount importance over everything else, then having HDR capabilities like HDR10 isn't as vital.
You can find out more about HDR and whether you need it right here.
Do I need 4K in a gaming monitor?
Some of the very best gaming monitors out there, like a few of our selections above, offer up a 4K UHD panel with a resolution of 3840x2160.
If you're going to be playing on either a large screen or you value cinematic power above higher refresh rates for instance, then a 4K monitor would be a worthwhile purchase.
However, if you're wanting more raw performance, then going for a 1440p monitor with a higher refresh rate would arguably be a better option.
We'll be updating this list regularly with new additions, so be sure to stop by again soon.