Top 5 Monitors Under 100: Your Smart Buying Guide

Ever feel like your computer screen just isn’t cutting it anymore? Maybe your current monitor is a bit blurry, or it feels too small for all your amazing projects. Finding a great monitor can be tough, especially when you’re trying to keep your wallet happy. It’s like searching for a hidden treasure, but instead of gold, you’re looking for clear pictures and smooth scrolling!

This is where our guide comes in! We know that picking out a new monitor can be confusing. There are so many different kinds, and it’s hard to know which one is best for you without spending a fortune. But don’t worry! We’ve done the hard work for you. By reading on, you’ll discover the best monitors that cost less than $100. You’ll learn what to look for, what makes a monitor good for gaming or schoolwork, and how to get the most bang for your buck.

Get ready to upgrade your viewing experience without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into the world of affordable monitors and find the perfect one to brighten up your desk!

Our Top 5 Monitors Under 100 Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Monitors Under 100 Detailed Reviews

1. Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor

Philips 221V8LB 22 inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor, 100Hz Refresh Rate, VESA, HDMI x1, VGA x1, LowBlue Mode, Adaptive Sync, 4 Year Advance Replacement Warranty

Rating: 9.5/10

The Philips 221V8LB monitor is a great choice for your computer. It’s a 22-inch screen that shows pictures in super clear Full HD. This means movies and games will look really good. It also has a fast refresh rate, so everything moves smoothly. Plus, it comes with a long warranty for your peace of mind.

What We Like:

  • The picture is very sharp and clear with Full HD resolution.
  • A 100Hz refresh rate makes fast-moving things look smooth and not blurry.
  • Adaptive-Sync technology helps games and videos play without stuttering.
  • The VA panel gives you nice bright colors and deep dark colors for realistic pictures.
  • You can see the screen clearly from almost anywhere with its wide viewing angle.
  • It has a LowBlue Mode to help reduce eye strain.
  • A 4-year advance replacement warranty is a big plus.
  • It’s easy to connect with HDMI and VGA ports.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The screen size is 21.5 inches viewable, not a full 22 inches.
  • While it has Adaptive-Sync, it might not be as advanced as some other monitors for very serious gamers.

This Philips monitor offers a fantastic viewing experience for everyday use and entertainment. It brings clear visuals and smooth action right to your desk.

2. Philips New 24 inch Frameless Full HD (1920 x 1080) 100Hz Monitor

Philips New 24 inch Frameless Full HD (1920 x 1080) 100Hz Monitor, VESA, HDMI x1, VGA Port x1, Eye Care, 4 Year Advance Replacement Warranty, 241V8LB, Black

Rating: 8.5/10

The Philips 241V8LB monitor is a great choice for anyone looking for a clear and bright display. This 24-inch screen offers Full HD visuals, making your movies and shows look amazing. Its design is sleek and modern, with a nearly borderless look on three sides. This makes the screen feel even larger and is perfect for using multiple monitors together to get more work done. It also has special features to make reading documents easier and to protect your eyes.

What We Like:

  • Crisp Full HD 1920×1080 pictures make everything look sharp and detailed.
  • VA panel technology gives you bright whites and deep blacks for true-to-life colors with 16.7 million shades.
  • Wide 178/178-degree viewing angles mean colors stay consistent no matter where you sit.
  • A frameless design on three sides makes the screen look bigger and allows for seamless multi-monitor setups.
  • EasyRead mode offers a comfortable, paper-like viewing experience for long documents.
  • Comes with a 4-year advance replacement warranty for peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it has HDMI and VGA, it lacks newer ports like DisplayPort.
  • The 100Hz refresh rate is good for general use, but might not be enough for serious gamers who need higher refresh rates.

This Philips monitor is a solid performer for both work and entertainment. Its clear display and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any desk.

3. ArcticPro 22 inch 100Hz Monitor

ArcticPro 22 inch 100Hz Monitor, Full HD (1920 x 1080p) Computer Monitor, 105% sRGB, 3000:1 Contrast, 3-Sided Frameless, Ultra Slim, VESA, LowBlue Mode, Tilt Adjust, HDMI *1, VGA*1

Rating: 9.2/10

The ArcticPro 22-inch monitor brings sharp visuals and smooth action to your desk. Its Full HD resolution makes everything look clear and colorful. The 100Hz refresh rate means fast-moving images, like in games, appear fluid. This monitor is designed for comfort too, with features to protect your eyes.

What We Like:

  • Crystal-clear Full HD resolution (1920x1080p) for sharp details and vivid colors.
  • Smooth 100Hz refresh rate and fast response time offer a better gaming experience.
  • Wide 178° viewing angles ensure consistent picture quality from almost anywhere.
  • Anti-blue light technology helps reduce eye strain during long viewing sessions.
  • Ultra-slim, 3-sided frameless design looks sleek and modern.
  • VESA mountable for flexible setup options.
  • Adjustable tilt allows you to find a comfortable viewing angle.
  • Good contrast ratio (3000:1) for deeper blacks and brighter whites.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Only one HDMI port is included; more would be convenient for connecting multiple devices.
  • No built-in camera, which might be a drawback for some users who rely on video calls directly from their monitor.

For its price, the ArcticPro 22-inch monitor offers a solid package of features for both work and play. It’s a good choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly upgrade to their current setup.

4. Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor 1080p R1500 98% sRGB HDMI x2 VGA Build-in Speakers

Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor 1080p R1500 98% sRGB HDMI x2 VGA Build-in Speakers, VESA Wall Mount Machine Black (C248W-1920RN Series)

Rating: 9.0/10

Get ready for a new level of gaming and entertainment with the Sceptre Curved 24-inch Gaming Monitor. This monitor wraps around you with its 1800R curve, making games and movies feel super real. It’s great for anyone who wants a more immersive experience without spending a lot of money. Plus, it works perfectly with Windows 10 computers.

What We Like:

  • The 1800R curve makes everything feel more immersive, like you’re right there in the game.
  • It has a good refresh rate of 75Hz, which means smooth action without blurry pictures.
  • You can connect it easily with HDMI and VGA ports.
  • It’s compatible with Windows 10, so setting it up is a breeze.
  • You can also mount it on the wall if you want to save desk space.
  • The built-in speakers are a nice bonus.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The brightness is 250 cd/m2, which is good but might not be bright enough for very sunny rooms.
  • While it supports 98% sRGB, some very picky users might want even more vibrant colors.

This Sceptre monitor offers a fantastic curved viewing experience for its price. It’s a solid choice for gamers and movie lovers looking for an upgrade.

5. Philips New 27-inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) 100Hz Monitor

Philips New 27-inch Class Thin Full HD (1920 x 1080) 100Hz Monitor, VESA, HDMI x 1, VGA Port x1, Eye Care, 4 Year Advance Replacement Warranty, 271V8LB, Black

Rating: 9.0/10

The Philips 271V8LB monitor brings a big, clear picture to your desk. It’s a 27-inch screen with sharp Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, making everything look great. Whether you’re watching videos or working on projects, this monitor shows details nicely. It also has a smooth 100Hz refresh rate, which helps images move without blur. Plus, it’s built to be kind to your eyes.

What We Like:

  • Crisp Full HD visuals deliver sharp and detailed images.
  • VA panel provides excellent contrast with deep blacks and bright whites.
  • Wide 178/178 degree viewing angles ensure consistent colors from any position.
  • Nearly bezel-free design on three sides creates an immersive viewing experience and makes multi-monitor setups look seamless.
  • EasyRead mode makes reading documents feel more like reading on paper, reducing eye strain.
  • Comes with a 4-year advance replacement warranty for peace of mind.
  • Includes both HDMI and VGA ports for easy connection to different devices.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the refresh rate is good at 100Hz, some gamers might prefer even higher refresh rates.
  • The built-in speakers, if any, are usually basic and may not satisfy audiophiles.

This Philips monitor is a solid choice for anyone wanting a large, clear display that’s easy on the eyes. Its thoughtful features make it a great addition to any home or office setup.

Finding Your Perfect Monitor Under $100

Looking for a new monitor without breaking the bank? You’ve come to the right place! Finding a good monitor for under $100 might seem tricky, but with a little knowledge, you can snag a great deal. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you can make a smart purchase.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re shopping for a monitor under $100, focus on these important features:

  • Screen Size: Most monitors in this price range will be around 20 to 24 inches. This is a good size for everyday tasks like browsing the web, writing papers, or watching videos.
  • Resolution: Look for a monitor with a resolution of at least 1920 x 1080 pixels. This is also called Full HD. It means the screen has a lot of tiny dots (pixels) that make up the picture. More pixels mean a clearer, sharper image.
  • Refresh Rate: This tells you how many times the screen updates its image each second. A higher refresh rate (like 60Hz or 75Hz) makes motion look smoother. For basic use, 60Hz is fine.
  • Response Time: This is how quickly a pixel can change color. A lower response time (like 5ms or less) is better for fast-moving images, like in video games or action movies.
  • Connectivity: Check what ports the monitor has. Most will have an HDMI port, which is standard for connecting to computers and other devices. Some might also have a VGA port.

Important Materials and Build Quality

Monitors under $100 are usually made with plastic. This is normal for budget electronics. The important thing is that the plastic feels sturdy and not flimsy. A good monitor will have a stable stand that keeps it from wobbling.

Pay attention to the screen itself. You want a screen that doesn’t have any dead pixels (dots that are always off) or stuck pixels (dots that are always one color). Most manufacturers will have a policy about how many dead or stuck pixels are acceptable before they’ll replace the monitor.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things can make a monitor’s quality better or worse:

  • Panel Type: Most budget monitors use TN (Twisted Nematic) panels. They are fast and affordable but don’t always have the best colors or viewing angles. IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels offer better colors and wider viewing angles, but they are less common in this price range. If you can find an IPS panel under $100, it’s a great find!
  • Brightness and Contrast: Higher brightness (measured in nits) means the screen can be seen better in bright rooms. Good contrast ratios make whites whiter and blacks blacker, leading to a more vibrant picture.
  • Color Accuracy: This refers to how true-to-life the colors on the screen look. Budget monitors might not have the most accurate colors, but for general use, they are usually good enough.
  • Viewing Angles: This is how far you can look at the screen from the side before the image starts to look distorted or the colors change. IPS panels are much better for viewing angles than TN panels.

User Experience and Use Cases

Monitors under $100 are perfect for a variety of everyday tasks. They are excellent for:

  • General Computer Use: Browsing the internet, checking emails, and using office software like Word or Excel.
  • Schoolwork: Writing essays, doing research, and attending online classes.
  • Casual Media Consumption: Watching YouTube videos, streaming movies, and looking at photos.
  • Basic Gaming: For less demanding games or if you’re not a hardcore gamer, these monitors can still provide a good experience.

If you need a monitor for professional photo editing, high-end gaming, or graphic design, you might need to spend a bit more for better color accuracy and features. However, for most people, a monitor under $100 offers great value and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best screen size for a monitor under $100?

A: For monitors under $100, a screen size between 20 and 24 inches is usually the best. This size is good for most common computer tasks.

Q: Is Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) common in this price range?

A: Yes, Full HD resolution is quite common and recommended for monitors under $100. It provides a clear and sharp picture.

Q: What does refresh rate mean, and what’s good for a budget monitor?

A: Refresh rate is how many times the screen updates per second. For budget monitors, 60Hz or 75Hz is good. It makes motion look smoother.

Q: How important is response time for a general-use monitor?

A: Response time is how fast pixels change color. For everyday use, a response time of 5ms or less is perfectly fine.

Q: What are the most common connection ports on monitors under $100?

A: The most common port is HDMI. Some older monitors might also have a VGA port.

Q: What is the difference between TN and IPS panels?

A: TN panels are faster and cheaper but have less vibrant colors and poorer viewing angles. IPS panels offer better colors and wider viewing angles but are less common in budget monitors.

Q: Can I play video games on a monitor under $100?

A: Yes, you can play video games. However, it’s best for casual gaming or less demanding titles. Fast-paced games might look better on monitors with higher refresh rates and lower response times.

Q: What does “dead pixel” mean?

A: A dead pixel is a tiny dot on the screen that is permanently off and appears black.

Q: Are monitors under $100 good for watching movies?

A: Yes, they are good for watching movies and other videos. The Full HD resolution will make your viewing experience enjoyable.

Q: Where can I find good deals on monitors under $100?

A: Look at online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg. Also, check for sales and refurbished options to get the best value.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Leave a Comment