Top 5 Cheap Gaming Monitors: Best Budget Picks Reviewed

Do you dream of epic gaming victories, but your wallet feels a little light? You’re not alone! Many gamers want a smooth, immersive experience without spending a fortune. Picking out a new monitor can feel like a puzzle, especially when you’re trying to find one that’s good for games but also easy on your budget.

It’s tough because you want a screen that shows games clearly and responds fast, so you don’t miss any action. But there are so many choices, and it’s hard to know which ones are actually good for gaming and which ones are just okay. You might worry about getting a monitor that looks blurry or makes your games feel slow.

But don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll guide you through finding awesome cheap monitors that won’t break the bank. You’ll learn what to look for to get the best gaming experience possible, even on a budget. Get ready to level up your setup without emptying your savings!

Our Top 5 Cheap Monitors For Gaming Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Cheap Monitors For Gaming Detailed Reviews

1. Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor

Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor, FHD 1080p, Up to 144Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, Built-in Speakers, Machine Black (E225W-FW144 Series, 2026)

Rating: 9.3/10

The Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor is a solid choice for gamers and everyday users alike. It offers a smooth visual experience with its high refresh rate and a comfortable viewing experience with its eye-care features. Plus, the integrated speakers and minimalist design make it a neat addition to any desk.

What We Like:

  • The built-in speakers are a great space-saver and deliver good sound for casual listening and gaming.
  • Blue-Light Shift technology helps reduce eye strain, making long computer sessions more comfortable.
  • The nearly bezel-free design looks sleek and is perfect for multi-monitor setups, giving you a wider view.
  • The 144Hz refresh rate provides smooth motion for gaming and fast-paced content.
  • It’s a budget-friendly option for those looking for a gaming monitor.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 22-inch screen size might be a bit small for some users who prefer larger displays for gaming or work.
  • While the speakers are convenient, audiophiles might want to use external speakers for superior sound quality.
  • The brightness and color accuracy, while decent for the price, may not satisfy professionals who need top-tier visual performance.

This Sceptre monitor is a fantastic value, especially for its features and price point. It’s an excellent option for upgrading your setup without breaking the bank.

2. YOTETION 19 inch (1440 x 900) Monitor

YOTETION 19 inch (1440 x 900) Monitor, 75Hz Refresh Rate, HDMI x1 Small Thin Monitor for laptops, Computers and desktops,LED Display, VGA/HDMI Connection.VESA:75 * 75MM

Rating: 9.1/10

The YOTETION 19-inch monitor is a great choice for your computer setup. Its screen is 1440 x 900 resolution, which is good for home and office work. It also has a 75Hz refresh rate, making things look smooth. This monitor is small and thin, so it won’t take up much space on your desk. You can connect it to your laptop, computer, or desktop using HDMI or VGA.

What We Like:

  • The 1440 x 900 resolution is perfect for everyday tasks.
  • A 75Hz refresh rate makes images appear smooth.
  • Its small and thin design saves desk space.
  • Low blue light and flicker-free technology protect your eyes.
  • A 5-millisecond response time means fast action looks clear.
  • It’s easy to use for retail, restaurants, bars, and gyms without needing drivers.
  • It comes with a one-year free replacement for quality issues.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This monitor does not have built-in speakers or support sound.
  • A VGA cable is not included in the box.

This YOTETION monitor offers a good balance of features for its price. It’s a solid option for enhancing your workspace or for commercial use.

3. 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: 9.2/10

Check out the Philips 221V8LB, a 22-inch monitor that brings your digital world to life. It’s thin, has a sharp Full HD screen, and a super-fast refresh rate that makes everything look smooth. Plus, it comes with a great warranty!

What We Like:

  • The screen is really clear. You’ll see every detail in your movies and games because it’s Full HD (1920 x 1080).
  • It’s super fast! The 100Hz refresh rate means everything moves smoothly, whether you’re watching a movie or playing a game.
  • No more jerky pictures. Adaptive-Sync makes sure games and videos play without any stuttering.
  • Colors look amazing. The VA panel makes whites bright and blacks dark, so pictures look real.
  • You can see the screen perfectly from almost anywhere. The wide viewing angle means the colors stay the same, even if you’re not sitting right in front.
  • It has a LowBlue Mode to help protect your eyes during long screen time.
  • A 4-year advance replacement warranty gives you peace of mind. If something goes wrong, they’ll send you a new one quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • It only has one HDMI port, which might not be enough if you need to connect many devices.
  • While it has Adaptive Sync, it doesn’t specify if it’s G-Sync or FreeSync compatible, which might matter for some gamers.

This Philips monitor is a solid choice for anyone wanting a clear, smooth, and colorful viewing experience. Its fast refresh rate and good color quality make it a great addition to any desk.

4. AOC 22B35HM23 22″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) 120Hz LED Monitor

AOC 22B35HM23 22" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 120Hz LED Monitor, Adaptive Sync, VGA & HDMI, Flicker-Free, Low Blue Light, HDR Ready, VESA, Tilt Adjust, Eco-Friendly

Rating: 9.4/10

The AOC 22B35HM23 22″ Full HD LED Monitor delivers a fantastic viewing experience for a variety of tasks. Its crisp Full HD resolution makes everything look sharp and clear, whether you’re working on documents, watching your favorite shows, or playing games. The fast 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync technology mean you’ll enjoy smooth motion without annoying screen tearing, making it ideal for fast-paced action.

What We Like:

  • The 22-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display provides sharp and clear images for work and play.
  • A 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync offer smooth visuals, perfect for gaming and videos.
  • The quick 4ms response time helps reduce motion blur.
  • Vibrant colors are brought to life with 100.1% sRGB and 81% NTSC color gamut.
  • HDR Ready capability enhances contrast and picture quality.
  • Tilt adjustment allows you to find the most comfortable viewing angle.
  • VESA mount compliance offers flexible placement options.
  • The monitor is energy-efficient, using only 13W in eco mode.
  • Flicker-Free technology and Low Blue Light features protect your eyes during long use.
  • User-friendly software like eSaver and i-Menu makes settings adjustments simple.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it has HDMI, it lacks DisplayPort, which some users might prefer for higher refresh rates or resolutions.
  • The built-in speakers are not included, so you’ll need separate audio devices.
  • The 22-inch size might be a bit small for users who prefer a larger screen for multitasking.

This AOC monitor is a solid choice for anyone seeking a smooth and visually pleasing display without breaking the bank. It offers a great balance of performance, color accuracy, and eye comfort for everyday use.

5. Amzfast 24 Inch Gaming Monitor 200Hz FHD 1080p Fast IPS Computer Monitor

Amzfast 24 Inch Gaming Monitor 200Hz FHD 1080p Fast IPS Computer Monitor, 110% sRGB 1ms HDR Support Adaptive Sync, Eye Care VESA Mount HDMI 2.0 | Display Port 1.4 White Monitor, AMZG24X1W

Rating: 8.7/10

Get ready for an amazing gaming experience with the Amzfast 24 Inch Gaming Monitor. This monitor packs a punch with its super-fast refresh rate and sharp picture. It’s designed to make your games look incredible and feel super smooth. Plus, its sleek white design will look great on any desk.

What We Like:

  • The Fast IPS screen shows you everything clearly, even from the sides.
  • A 200Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time make games super smooth with no annoying screen tearing.
  • Colors pop with 110% sRGB and HDR support, making everything look vibrant.
  • Eye-care features like blue light reduction help protect your eyes during long gaming sessions.
  • It looks stylish in white and you can easily mount it on the wall with VESA support.
  • It connects to all your favorite gaming devices like PCs, laptops, Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it has HDR support, the 300 nits brightness might not be enough for truly impactful HDR content for some users.
  • The included stand only offers tilt adjustment, so a height-adjustable stand would be a nice addition.

This Amzfast gaming monitor offers a fantastic blend of speed, color, and comfort for gamers. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their gaming setup without breaking the bank.

Level Up Your Game Without Breaking the Bank: The Ultimate Cheap Monitor Buying Guide

So, you want a monitor for gaming, but your wallet feels a little light? Don’t worry! Getting a great gaming experience doesn’t always mean spending a fortune. We’ll show you what to look for to find a cheap monitor that still packs a punch for your favorite games.

1. Key Features to Look For: What Matters Most

When you’re hunting for a budget-friendly gaming monitor, a few things stand out.

Display Size and Resolution
  • Size: Most budget gaming monitors are around 21 to 24 inches. This size is great for most desks and doesn’t strain your eyes. Bigger isn’t always better, especially on a tight budget.
  • Resolution: Aim for 1080p (Full HD). This is the standard for many games and looks sharp on smaller screens. Higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K are awesome, but they cost more and need a powerful computer to run games smoothly.
Refresh Rate: Smoothness is Key
  • What it is: Refresh rate tells you how many times the screen updates per second. It’s measured in Hertz (Hz).
  • Why it matters: A higher refresh rate means smoother motion. For gaming, at least 75Hz is good. If you can find one at 120Hz or 144Hz on a deal, that’s even better! This makes fast-paced games look much clearer and less blurry.
Response Time: No More Ghosting
  • What it is: Response time is how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another. It’s measured in milliseconds (ms).
  • Why it matters: A low response time, like 1ms or 4ms, is ideal for gaming. It stops “ghosting” or “motion blur,” where you see trails behind moving objects. This is super important for first-person shooters and racing games.
Panel Type: The Tech Behind the Picture
  • TN (Twisted Nematic): These panels are usually the cheapest and have the fastest response times. They are great for competitive gaming. However, the colors might not be as vibrant, and the viewing angles aren’t the best.
  • VA (Vertical Alignment): VA panels offer better contrast and deeper blacks than TN panels. Colors look richer. They are a good middle ground. Their response times can be a bit slower than TN, but it’s usually fine for most gamers.
  • IPS (In-Plane Switching): IPS panels give you the best color accuracy and the widest viewing angles. This means colors look great no matter where you sit. They are usually more expensive, but sometimes you can find good deals on budget IPS monitors.

2. Important Materials: What Your Monitor is Made Of

Most monitors have a plastic casing. This keeps costs down. The screen itself is glass or a special plastic that protects the pixels. Don’t expect fancy metal stands or super-strong frames on a budget model. Focus on the screen quality and performance features.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

  • What Improves Quality:

    • Higher Refresh Rate: Makes gameplay feel smoother.
    • Lower Response Time: Reduces blur and ghosting.
    • Good Color Reproduction: Makes games look more realistic and vibrant.
    • Adaptive Sync (FreeSync/G-Sync Compatible): These technologies help prevent screen tearing, which is when the game’s frames don’t match the monitor’s refresh rate. This is a big plus if you can find it.
  • What Reduces Quality:

    • Low Refresh Rate (60Hz): Can make fast action look choppy.
    • High Response Time (8ms+): Leads to noticeable ghosting.
    • Poor Color Accuracy: Games might look dull or washed out.
    • Bad Viewing Angles: Colors and brightness change a lot if you’re not looking directly at the screen.
    • Dead Pixels: These are tiny dots on the screen that are permanently off or stuck on one color. Check reviews for mentions of this.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

A cheap gaming monitor is perfect for:

  • Casual Gamers: If you play games now and then and don’t need the absolute best performance, a budget monitor is a smart choice.
  • New PC Builders: When you’re building a new gaming PC, you might have to save money somewhere. A good budget monitor lets you spend more on the computer itself.
  • Secondary Monitor: It can be a great second screen for browsing or watching videos while you play on a main, more expensive monitor.
  • Students: If you need a monitor for both schoolwork and some gaming, a budget option works well.

You’ll have a great time playing games with smooth motion and clear images. You can still enjoy immersive worlds and react quickly in competitive matches. Just remember to check reviews carefully for any known issues before you buy!


Cheap Gaming Monitor FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q: What is the most important feature for a cheap gaming monitor?

A: The most important features are a decent refresh rate (at least 75Hz) and a low response time (1ms or 4ms) to keep your games looking smooth and clear.

Q: Can I play fast-paced games like shooters on a cheap monitor?

A: Yes! Look for a monitor with a high refresh rate (120Hz or 144Hz if possible) and a low response time (1ms or 4ms). This will help reduce blur and make fast action easier to see.

Q: What does “Hz” mean for my monitor?

A: “Hz” stands for Hertz. It tells you how many times the screen updates each second. A higher number means smoother motion in games.

Q: Is 1080p resolution good enough for gaming on a budget monitor?

A: Yes, 1080p (Full HD) is excellent for budget gaming monitors, especially those around 21-24 inches. It offers a sharp picture without needing a super powerful computer.

Q: What is “ghosting” and how do I avoid it?

A: Ghosting is when you see blurry trails behind moving objects on the screen. You can avoid it by choosing a monitor with a low response time, usually 1ms or 4ms.

Q: TN, VA, or IPS panels – which is best for a cheap gaming monitor?

A: TN panels are often the cheapest and fastest, making them good for competitive gaming. VA panels offer better colors and contrast. IPS panels have the best colors and viewing angles, but can be more expensive. For budget, TN or VA are usually the best choices.

Q: Do I need a powerful graphics card for a cheap gaming monitor?

A: For a 1080p monitor, you don’t need the most powerful graphics card. However, a decent card will help you get higher frame rates, which will make the most of your monitor’s refresh rate.

Q: What is adaptive sync (FreeSync/G-Sync Compatible)?

A: Adaptive sync technology helps prevent screen tearing by making the monitor’s refresh rate match the graphics card’s frame rate. It makes gameplay much smoother.

Q: Should I worry about dead pixels on a cheap monitor?

A: It’s a good idea to check reviews for any mentions of dead pixels. While it can happen on any monitor, it’s more common on budget models. Many manufacturers have policies about how many dead pixels are acceptable.

Q: Where can I find good deals on cheap gaming monitors?

A: Look at major online retailers during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Amazon Prime Day. Also, check manufacturer websites and tech deal websites regularly.

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