If you were planning to get the best gaming monitor under $ 300, now is the right time. The offer and prices of quality monitors have never been better. While you can get a quality gaming monitor for less than $ 200, it’s worth paying a little more because you’ll generally get a better deal.
The price range between $ 200 and $ 300 is an exciting category, given the quality and features you can get. You can find great monitors with a 27-inch diagonal, 1440p resolution, speedy response, and high refresh rates.
I advise you to get acquainted with the basic terminology before buying, i.e., how to choose the right PC monitor. Still, let’s not waste any more time, and let’s take a look at which of the best gaming monitor you can find for under $ 300.
Five Best Gaming Monitors Under $ 300
Picture | Name | Spec | Price |
 Best QHD | Gigabyte M27Q |
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 Runner Up QHD | Dell S2722DGM |
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 Best Design | Alienware AW2720HF |
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 Best Value FHD | ASUS TUF VG259QM |
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 Best Value 4K | ASUS VP28UQG |
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1. 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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Build
The Gigabyte M27Q gaming monitor is simple in terms of design. It looks pretty elegant but without any wow effect. The screen frame is thin on three sides (except the bottom), only 8mm (0.3″), which is ideal if you want to put multiple monitors next to each other (multi-monitor setup).
The M27Q is made entirely of plastic, but the construction is solid and reliable. It rests on a thin, flat V stand that holds the monitor stably, so there is no wobble when you accidentally push it.
From the ergonomics, the Gigabyte gaming monitor has little to offer. It’s only possible to adjust the height to 130 mm (5.1 “) and tilt from -5 ° to +20 °. There’s no pivot rotation in portrait mode but no swivel settings for optimal side viewing and sharing content with other users without moving the monitor. So ergonomics isn’t the strong point of this monitor.
Performance
The M27Q has a large 27″ screen and a high resolution of 1440p and provides a great gaming experience. The screen is IPS anti-glare with wide viewing angles. Of course, you need to have the right graphics card to track the capabilities of this monitor to make your experience complete.
The M27Q has a high refresh rate of 170 Hz for impressively fast and smooth gaming. It supports Adaptive-Sync, i.e., it’s compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC. The refresh rate is limited to 144 Hz via HDMI, and to use G-SYNC, you must use DisplayPort.
So when it comes to gaming, the Gigabyte gaming monitor has excellent response times, low input latency, and a high refresh rate. Further, a large screen, high resolution, and affordable price make an M27Q a superb offer for the best gaming monitor under $ 300.
The only drawback may be the low contrast and black color that draws more gray, especially in darkened rooms.
Equipment and accessories
As for the connectors, M27Q comes with two HDMI, one DisplayPort, and one USB-C port.
In addition, the Gigabyte gaming monitor comes with interesting additional features such as:
- OSD Sidekick allows you to control monitor settings using the keyboard and mouse.
- Low Blue Light Mode – It’s a Blue light filter to reduce eye strain.
- PIP / PBP- (Picture-in-Picture and Picture-by-Picture) allows you to watch different video sources displayed on one screen simultaneously. For example, you can watch game guides simultaneously using just one monitor.
- Dashboard – An overlay that displays system information such as CPU temperature, usage, frame rate, etc.
- Game Assist adds a virtual cross, timer, or counter to the screen.
- Black Equalizer – This makes objects more visible in dark scenes.
- KVM allows you to control more devices with one set of mice and a keyboard.
To use the KVM option, plug the mouse and keyboard into the USB 3.0 ports on the monitor and the other device into the USB-C port. Behind the monitor is a KVM button to switch between the desired devices. USB-C is also useful for charging a smartphone. The M27Q doesn’t have integrated speakers but has one audio output for headphones.
Summary
If you want the best gaming monitor under $ 300 with a 27 “diagonal and supports 1440p resolution, the Gigabyte M27Q is a logical choice. With a high refresh rate, low input delay, and excellent response, you will have an exceptional gaming experience.
If we ignore some shortcomings in ergonomics, you will get an excellent monitor with an IPS panel and an exciting set of useful options to improve the gaming experience (PIP / PBP, Black Equalizer, KVM, Dashboard, etc.).
2. 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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Build
The Dell S2722DGM is a curved gaming monitor with a relatively conservative design that easily fits into any ambiance. The complete construction is solid plastic made, although the base is narrower and more unstable than the Gigabyte M27Q.
When you set the stand to a maximum height of 100 mm (3.9″), there may be a slight wobble but nothing terrible. Borders are thin on three sides of 8 mm (0.3″).
In terms of ergonomics, S2722DGM is similar to the Gigabyte M27Q. You can adjust height and tilt from -20 ° to 5 °. There’s no swivel and no ability to rotate in portrait mode (pivot).
Performance
The Dell 27″ gaming monitor comes with a VA panel, and high refresh rate of up to 165 Hz, and a resolution of 1440p (2560 x 1440). The monitor has an excellent response time at the maximum refresh rate, ideal for gaming action-packed game titles.
The S2722DGM also has an implemented VRR (variable refresh rate) in the form of AMD FreeSync Premium. FreeSync works via HDMI and DisplayPort, but keep in mind that the maximum refresh rate is 144 Hz. NVIDIA G-Sync also works in compatible mode via DisplayPort.
The only drawback may be the technology of the VA panels themselves, where the transitions to darker scenes on the screen are slower than the lighter scenes. This lack means that behind your hero or other objects, which move quickly in dark scenes, a noticeable trace (black smear) can remain. It’s not that scary, but it can bother the precise gamer’s eye.
The Dell gaming monitor has a black frame insert (BFI) option to reduce blur by inserting flicker. You need to experiment with the monitor menu and adjust it according to your needs.
In terms of viewing angles, the S2722DGM, with a built-in VA panel, has good horizontal and slightly worse vertical viewing angles.
Equipment and accessories
The Dell gaming monitor comes with 2 x HDMI, one DisplayPort, and one audio headphone output. So there are no VGA or DVI ports, integrated speakers, or audio inputs. There are also no USB ports, so the monitor is relatively poor regarding the number and type of ports.
The S2722DGM has several additional functions, such as:
- Downlight – ambient blue light on the screen’s lower edge above the stand. You can turn it on or off with no other settings.
- Timer – Displays the timer on the screen.
- FPS counter – displays the current number of frames per second of your graphics card
- Dark Stabilizer – adjusts the gamut to make it easier to spot other players or enemies in the shadows.
Summary
We can say that the Dell S2722DGM is a quality 27-inch gaming monitor with good gaming features. Excellent colors, great contrast, and thanks to it, much deeper black. It has a great response time, slightly delayed input inputs, and support for AMD FreeSync Premium. It also supports NVIDIA G-SYNC compatible mode via DisplayPort.
The lack of VA panels is reflected in blurred movements behind fast-moving objects and somewhat narrower viewing angles, especially vertically. The S2722DGM has a black frame insertion option in the menu that reduces motion blur, but then you have to turn off VRR (FreeSync).
Despite some minor flaws, Dell S2722DGM is a great curved gaming monitor for under $ 300. The VA panel is perfect for gaming in a darker environment.
3. Alienware AW2720HF
Alienware AW2720HF | |
Panel Size (inch) | 27 |
Panel Type | IPS |
Resolution | 1920x1080 |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 240 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | No |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1, USB 3.1 x4 |
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Build
The Dell Alienware AW2720HF is a superbly modern designed gaming monitor. It’s made entirely of plastic, and the construction seems very solid. If you accidentally push the monitor or the desk, a minimal wobble is noticeable.
Unlike the other two 27-inch monitors, it’s excellent in ergonomics. It’s possible to move the monitor in height 125mm (4.9″), swivel (-30° to 30°), and tilt (-20° to 5°). You can also set the AW2720WF in portrait mode (pivot).
The stand is also made of solid plastic and holds the monitor’s weight stably. You can also notice the RGB lighting on the back of the stand. The Alienware logo on the back makes the monitor very effective.
Performance
The Alienware gaming monitor has an IPS panel with a fantastic refresh rate of 240 Hz but unfortunately only at 1080p. In addition, it comes with native support for AMD FreeSync but is also G-SYNC compatible.
The 27-inch monitor will give you a great gaming experience, but the 1080p resolution is still low for this screen size. The only advantage is that your graphics card will exert less effort to achieve as many frames per second. If you think the 27-inch screen is too big for this resolution, see Gigabyte M27Q or Dell S2722DGM.
Due to the poorer contrast and uneven black color, AW2720HF isn’t ideal for darker rooms, but the performance is fantastic.
Equipment and accessories
Alienware gaming monitor has a solid amount of various inputs. There are 2 x HDMI and one DisplayPort, one audio output for headphones, and one USB 3.1 HUB.
The AW2720HF, like the Dell S2722DGM, has several similar features:
- Timer – Displays the timer on the screen.
- FPS counter – displays the overlay with the current number of frames per second of your graphics card
- LED bias lighting: RGB lighting on the back of the monitor (logo) and on the stand that you can adjust via AlienFX software
- Dark Stabilizer – adjusts the gamut to make it easier to spot other players or enemies in the shadows.
Summary
If you want a modern and attractive gaming monitor with a low input delay, speedy response time, and a high refresh rate, consider the Alienware AW2720HF.
With support for FreeSync and G-Sync, it will provide you with a high-speed and smooth gaming experience. If, for your criteria, 1080p is the low resolution for this screen, look in the direction of other monitor models from the list.
Also, don’t plan this monitor for darker rooms due to poorer contrast and uneven black color. In this case, choose a monitor with a VA panel, such as a Dell S2722DGM.
4. ASUS TUF VG259QM
ASUS TUF VG259QM | |
Panel Size (inch) | 24.5 |
Panel Type | IPS |
Resolution | 1920x1080 |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 280 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | Yes(2W x2) |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1 |
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Build
The TUF VG259QM is a modern and attractive gaming monitor from the TUF (The Ulitmate Force) series of components based on quality and durability. Although all made of plastic, the Asus gaming monitor looks very well done with solid construction. It has skinny frames on three sides with only 8mm (0.3 “) thick, which is ideal for a multi-monitor setup.
The stand is smaller but holds the monitor stably without significant wobble. The red ring on the stand symbolizes the gaming feature of the Asus monitor.
The VG259QM is also good in ergonomics as it has a wide range of customization. The height adjustment is 130mm (5.1”), the swivel is -90 ° to 90 °, and the tilt is -30 ° to 5 °. In addition, you can adjust the monitor to the portrait position (pivot).
Performance
The Asus TUF 25″ gaming monitor comes with a 1080p resolution and IPS panel with a fantastic refresh rate of up to 280 Hz (Overclock). Horizontal and vertical viewing angles are solid, as with most IPS monitors. The colors are as good as the contrast, and if you play in a darkened room, the black color will draw you more to the gray shade.
VG259QM supports AMD FreeSync but is also compatible with NVIDIA G-SYNC (via DisplayPort).
The refresh rate is 240 Hz via HDMI and can be set to 280 Hz via the OSD menu (Overclock option) and will only work via a DisplayPort connection. At the same time, the ASUS gaming monitor has an exceptional response time, which results in minimal blurring of fast movements in games.
Equipment and accessories
As for the inputs, VG259QM comes with two HDMI and one DisplayPort. Also, it has one audio output for headphones and one USB 3.0 port (only used for firmware updates). A helpful addition is the built-in speakers that you can use if you don’t have headphones or external speakers.
Among other valuable options ASUS TUF Gaming monitor, similar to the competition on this sheet, has:
- Timer,
- FPS counter,
- Crosshair,
- Blue light filter,
- Zoom,
- Shadow boost (for better visibility of objects in darker scenes).
Summary
5. ASUS VP28UQG 4K Monitor
ASUS VP28UQG | |
Panel Size (inch) | 28 |
Panel Type | TN |
Resolution | 3840x2160 (4K) |
Response Time | 1 ms |
Refresh Rate (Max) | 60 Hz |
G-SYNC Compatible | Yes |
FreeSync | Yes |
Speakers | No |
I/O Ports | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1 |
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Build
The ASUS VP28UQG is a 28″ gaming monitor with a TN panel and a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 (4K). The build quality is average but solid. The only problem you can have with the stand. It seems a bit shaky, considering the size of the monitor.
You can’t raise the screen vertically, but you can control the horizontal tilt from -5 ° to 20 °. I wish the screen frame were thinner, and the monitor had better ergonomics, but it shouldn’t be too strict given the price.
Performance
Due to the lower price, Asus opted for the TN panel, which has significantly narrower viewing angles than IPS or VA panels. But given the size of the screen, you’ll hardly look from the side rather than sit in front while gaming or watching movies.
The TN panel is also good because of the fast response of 1ms, so it’s suitable for FPS games. There are no noticeable ghosts or blurring during fast action. Thanks to the 4K resolution, the image is sharp and clear.
The screen is flicker-free and has an integrated blue light filter for reduced eye strain. VP28UQG also supports AMD FreeSync but is compatible with NVIDIA G-Sync through Adaptive-Sync.
Equipment and accessories
As for the connectors, Asus 4K gaming monitor has two HDMI and one DisplayPort, enough for most users. The monitor has no built-in speakers and has one audio output for headphones.
The OSD menu is quite simple and easy to navigate, thanks to the 5-way joystick located on the back of the monitor (red). You can select eight pre-calibrated profiles in the menu, depending on what you are currently doing on your computer (gaming, theater, reading, etc.). Consider using calibrated profiles if you find it challenging to go through the settings and calibrate the best mode for everyday use.
There’s also a GamePlus option in the OSD menu through which you can set a timer, FPS counter, and various variants for crosshair overlay.
Summary
The VP28UQG is a good choice if you are looking for an affordable 4K gaming monitor that will offer you good performance, excellent pictures, and valuable features. Of the disadvantages, I should say that the ergonomics are poor. The screen doesn’t have a high refresh rate and is based on an older TN panel.
Also, the monitor doesn’t have integrated speakers. If these are the shortcomings that you can’t get over despite the 4K resolution, consider the alternatives on this list.
Conclusion
So, as you can read, for under $ 300, you can get a great gaming monitor.
My recommendation is the Gigabyte and Dell gaming monitors, which are very similar in ergonomics and features. As far as games are concerned, the Dell S2721DGF has a slightly faster response time and a 5 Hz lower refresh rate than the Gigabyte M27Q. On the other hand, the Gigabyte gaming monitor has several functions: USB-C, KVM switch, and picture-in-picture.
The Alienware gaming monitor is the best 27-inch monitor in 1080p resolution, with an attractive design and excellent performance. The only problem may be that the price varies and is over $ 300.
I recommend the Asus TUF VG259QM gaming monitor as the best value you can currently find under $ 300 as you get one great 1080p monitor. If you insist on a 4K resolution, you can get it with the Asus VP28UQG. The exceptional price and 4K can appeal to you if you get over some disadvantages. If your budget is a lot thinner than $ 300, look at which gaming monitor you can find under $ 200.
However, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to leave a comment.