Want to buy a Gaming Monitor with a 144Hz Refresh Rate and QHD (1440p) Resolution?
Now is a good time if you have decided to get a decent gaming monitor. The prices are affordable, but the budget category monitors have become powerful enough to keep up with powerful graphics cards. However, if you have already decided to purchase quality but affordable gaming monitors, your priority should be the resolution QHD (1440p) and 144Hz or higher refresh rate.
While you can get a quality monitor for less than $ 200, you can’t expect QHD with a high refresh rate. So, you don’t buy the monitor often, which will probably last longer than your gaming configuration. Therefore, choose wisely and in the long run.
Table of Contents
What is a 144hz Monitor, and How Does it Work?
The refresh rate of the monitor is expressed in Hertz (Hz). 144Hz monitors are those that have a 144Hz refresh rate. This means they can display 144 frames per second (fps) depending on your graphics card’s power.
The monitor’s higher refresh rate contributes to a more fluid display and smoother moving images. Avoid the situation where your graphics card can display much more fps than the monitor’s refresh rate. So always look to match your monitor with the power of your graphics card.
What to Pay attention to when Buying a Monitor
When purchasing a gaming monitor, apart from price, resolution, and screen size, pay special attention to the following features;
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is significant if you mainly play competitive games, as the highest possible number is desirable in the range of 144 Hz to 360 Hz. This number indicates how many frames per second (fps) the monitor can display.
Higher numbers indicate a sharper and smoother image display compared to the standard 60Hz refresh rate. In addition to the refresh rate, pay attention to the shortest possible response time, which is essential to eliminate the appearance of ghosts in fast action scenes.
V-Sync Technology
If you have an Nvidia graphics card, choose a monitor with G-Sync. For AMD graphics cards, choose monitors that support AMD FreeSync.
LCD matrices
Monitors with a cheap TN panel and a fast response time have the fastest image display, but their disadvantage is weaker viewing angles. IPS panels are the most common today, with slightly slower response times and better viewing angles than TN panels.
If you decide on a VA panel, you will get the most accurate display of colors and excellent contrast but the slowest response time compared to TN and IPS panels. VA panels are also great for gaming in a darker environment.
As I pointed out, price is essential because you certainly don’t want to spend too much on a new monitor. Also, you want to get the best performance and quality for your money. So let’s see which would be the best gaming monitors in 1440p resolution and a higher refresh rate of 144Hz.
5 Best Gaming Monitors with 1440p and Refresh Rate of 144Hz (or more)
Picture | Name | Spec | Price |
Best Overall | SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 |
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Runner Up | Gigabyte M27Q |
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Runner Up | ViewSonic ELITE XG270QG |
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ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQ |
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Dell S2722DGM |
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1. Samsung Odyssey G7
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SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 |
Panel Type | VA |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 240 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes, Premium Pro |
Speakers | No |
I/O Ports | HDMI, DisplayPort x2, USB 3.0 x2, 3.5mm audio jack |
Build
At first glance, the Samsung Odyssey G7 will impress you with its modern curved screen design. The monitor has an excellent quality solid plastic construction in black without the appearance of flex and instability on the V-shaped stand. Samsung also implemented RGB lighting on the ring behind the monitor and the lower edges.
Ergonomics are suitable for this size due to the curvature. It’s a rarity for curved monitors to rotate in portrait mode, but the Odyssey G7 has that option (clockwise direction). You can move the monitor to a height of 120 mm (4.7″), swivel (-15 ° to 15 °), and tilt (-9 ° to 13 °).
Some gamers don’t like curved screens despite the indisputable quality of craft and modern design. In that case, see the alternatives in this list below.
Performance
The Samsung Odyssey G7 has a VA panel and a fantastic refresh rate of 240Hz. It has native support for FreeSync Premium Pro but is also G-Sync compatible, so you won’t have a problem with any variant with VRR (variable refresh rate) enabled. The refresh rate is limited to 144Hz if you use an HDMI connection. G-Sync will only work over a Display Port connection.
The Samsung Odyssey G7 has an excellent response time at a refresh rate of 240Hz. There is almost no blurring in very dynamic scenes, which usually happens with VA panels. Like all better gaming monitors, Odyssey G7 has the option of inserting a black frame (BFI) to improve the appearance of movement (reduce blur). But remember that this feature, like most gaming monitors, cannot be used with VRR turned on.
The VA panel has excellent contrast, making this monitor a perfect choice for gaming in darkened rooms. Unfortunately, the viewing angles are relatively narrow, which is a pain for all VA panels, so the image loses color fidelity and looks darker as you scroll out of the center of the screen.
Equipment and Accessories
Samsung Odyssey 7 comes with the following inputs:
- 2x Display Port 1.4
- HDMI 2.0
- 2x USB 3.0
- 3.5 mm audio jack
There are no VGA or DVI ports, but fortunately, the monitor has two Display Ports 1.4. A joystick below the screen’s front edge can display and navigate the OSD menu. The same controller is also used to turn the monitor on/off. The Odyssey G7 has several useful features for gamers, which you can adjust via the OSD menu, such as:
- Use the PIP (Picture-in-Picture) and PBP (Picture-by-Picture) options to connect two or more sources to one monitor
- Black Stabilizer adjusts the gamut to see details (opponents) better in dark scenes
- Frame Rate Counter displays the current frame rate (FPS) of your graphics card
- Crosshair shows a virtual cross that is useful to you in FPS games
- Customizable RGB lighting
Summary
The Samsung Odyssey G7 is a great gaming monitor. It has a fantastic refresh rate of 240Hz and 1440p resolution and comes with native support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. The monitor is also compatible with NVIDIA G-Sync. It is ideal for gaming in a darker room, and the only drawback may be the narrow viewing angles.
Overall, the Samsung Odyssey G7 is a great built-in curved-screen monitor that not everyone will like. In that case, look for alternatives on this list.
2. Gigabyte M27Q
Gigabyte M27Q | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 |
Panel Type | SS IPS |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) |
Response Time | 0.5 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 170 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | No |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort, USB Type-C, USB 3.0 x2, 3.5 mm audio jack |
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Gigabyte M27Q is an excellent 27-inch, 1440p monitor, which I already wrote about in the article on the best gaming monitors under $ 300.
3. View Sonic Elite XG270QG
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ViewSonic ELITE XG270QG | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 |
Panel Type | IPS |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 165 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | Yes (2 x 2W) |
I/O Ports | HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3.0 x3, 3.5mm audio jack |
Build
The Elite XG270QG looks attractive and in line with modern design trends and build quality. The entire monitor is matte black and has RGB lighting at the back. As I can see, there are no obvious shortcomings. The construction seems solid and stable. The stand is slightly tilted, but there will be no problems with instability.
The edges are thin on three sides, only 0.2 “(5 mm), making this model ideal for a multi-monitor setup. Ergonomics are also excellent. It’s possible to move the monitor in height 120 mm (4.7”), swivel (-30 ° to 30 °), and tilt (-15 ° to 2.5 °). You can also set portrait mode (pivot).
Performance
The XG270QG comes with an IPS panel and a native refresh rate of 144Hz that you can overclock to 165Hz. The monitor supports NVIDIA G-Sync but, of course, over a Display Port connection. Via Adaptive Sync, all newer monitors with G-Sync are compatible with AMD’s FreeSync via Display Port. The refresh rate is limited to 60Hz Via HDMI, but the VRR does not work either.
The contrast is average, the black looks gray in the dark, but this is similar to all IPS panels. VA panels like Dell’s S2722DGM have the best contrast, so take it without thinking if you spend most of your time in a darker room. Viewing angles are standard with most IPS panels so you won’t have a problem.
The XG270QG has the option of a black frame insert to improve motion appearance (reduce blur) like other gaming monitors. You cannot use this function when G-Sync is on. You should note that the monitor has a short input delay time when the VRR is on.
Also, the response time is extremely low at the maximum refresh rate. All other advanced gaming functions are easily accessible via the OSD menu.
Equipment and Accessories
View Sonic XG27AQ comes with the following inputs:
- HDMI 1.4
- Display Port 1.2
- 3.5 mm audio jack
- 3 x USB 3.0
There are no VGA or DVI ports, but unfortunately, the monitor only comes with one HDMI 1.4 and one Display Port 2.0 input. Below the front edge of the screen is two buttons—one for accessing the OSD menu and the other for the on/off. You can navigate the OSD menu options via a small joystick between the buttons.
Additional features include the following:
- Crosshair places a cross on the screen for shooting games
- Blue light filter to suppress blue light to reduce eye strain
- RGB lighting for hexagonal shape on the back
Summary
4. Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ
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ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQ | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 |
Panel Type | IPS |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 170 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | Yes (2 x 2W) |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 x2, 3.5 mm audio jack |
Build
ASUS XG27AQ is gamer-designed, has a solid construction, and, thanks to its weight, it relies stably on a quality stand. The monitor looks well made, and I don’t notice any flaws in the craft. The ROG logo with RGB lighting on the back follows Asus’ orientation towards gamers.
The stand’s legs are pretty wide at the front, made of metal, and give the impression of stability, which means that you will not swing or sway even under significant vibrations on the table. The edges are thin on three sides, only 0.3 “(8 mm), suitable for a multi-monitor setup.
In terms of ergonomics, ASUS XG27AQ is excellent. It’s possible to move the monitor in height 120 mm (4.7″), swivel (-25 ° to 25 °), and tilt (-20 ° to 5 °). You can also set portrait mode (pivot).
Performance
ASUS XG27AQ has an IPS panel and a native refresh rate of 144Hz that you can overclock from 155Hz to 170Hz. The monitor also has an implemented VRR (variable refresh rate) in AMD FreeSync. FreeSync works via HDMI and DisplayPort, but keep in mind that the maximum refresh rate, in that case, is 144Hz. NVIDIA G-Sync also works in compatible mode via DisplayPort.
ASUS XG27AQ has excellent viewing angles horizontally and vertically (178°/178°). The picture is terrific, even when viewed from an angle. Monitor uses the BFI (Black Frame Insertion) feature to reduce motion blur by flashing the backlight between frames. Asus calls this feature ELMB Sync. The screen has a great response time that competitive gamers will especially appreciate.
Equipment and Accessories
ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQ comes with the following inputs:
- 2 x HDMI 2.0
- DisplayPort 1.2
- 3.5 mm audio jack
- USB 2.0
- 2 x USB 3.0
So, there are no VGA or DVI ports. The controls are on the back of the monitor and include a joystick (red) and four buttons to navigate the on-screen display.
The ASUS XG27AQ has several additional functions, such as:
- GamePlus option in the OSD menu lets you set a timer, FPS counter, and various variants for crosshair overlay.
- Shadow boost for better visibility of objects in darker scenes.
- Ultra-Low Blue Light removes blue light to help reduce eye strain.
- GameVisual has seven pre-set picture modes.
- Adjustable RGB lighting.
Summary
The ROG series is for passionate gamers, so the Asus XG27AQ is no exception. You get a great 27-inch gaming monitor in QHD resolution, a fast response time, and you can overclock the refresh rate to 170Hz. It has excellent viewing angles but isn’t for darker rooms due to the average contrast.
5. Dell S2722DGM
Dell S2722DGM | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 Curved |
Panel Type | VA |
Resolution | 2560 x 1440 (QHD) |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 165 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | No |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort, 3.5 mm audio jack |
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Dell S2722DGM is a gaming curved 27-inch, 1440p monitor, which I already wrote about in the article on the best gaming monitors under $ 300.
FAQ
1. Are 144Hz Monitors the Best for Gaming?
Suppose you are an esports gamer who plays Fortnite, PUBG, Warzone, Valorant, etc. In that case, monitors with a high refresh rate of 144Hz or higher with a low response time are best because they will give you a competitive advantage over a monitor with a lower refresh rate (60Hz or 75Hz).
Monitors with a high refresh rate in cooperation with a powerful GPU give you more frames per second (fps), with considerable improvement in display quality due to high refresh rates, lower input lag, better motion resolution, and protection against screen tearing.
2. Is 144Hz Monitors Useful for anything other than Gaming?
Of course, but if you are not a gamer, it will be quite enough to get a monitor with 60Hz and reduce the cost of acquiring a new monitor. We only recommend 144Hz and higher for competitive gaming.
3. How Much Should you Spend on a 144Hz Monitor?
If you consider yourself an aspiring competitive gamer, getting a good 144Hz monitor is a must-have on your priority list. A good gaming monitor can be found in the price range of $300 to $600, depending on the brand name, screen size, resolution, and options available.
4. Is a 144Hz Monitor Worth it?
A 144Hz gaming monitor pays off if you play competitive games as it provides a more comfortable gaming experience than standard 60Hz refresh rate monitors.
Conclusion
In the rich offer of 1440p monitors, we have selected the five best to be your favorite in the long run. We didn’t limit ourselves to a refresh rate of 144Hz because leaving reserves for the future is always reasonable. In addition, a higher refresh rate means smoother gaming (provided your graphics card can keep up.)
Also, the best monitor size for 1440p is 27 inches due to the space it takes up, the weight, and the user’s distance from the screen. Move far enough away to cover the entire screen without moving your head to see all the content.
So, if you want to buy a new gaming monitor with a high refresh rate, choose a resolution of 1440p and a screen size of 27 inches. Also, some refresh rates will be higher than 144Hz, which will undoubtedly positively affect a better gaming experience.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to comment if you have additional questions or suggestions.