By Robin Owens 15 days ago, Monitors
Cheap monitors from $100 to $400.
Not everyone needs an advanced TV for PC monitor with a wide range of functions and sophisticated design. You can always buy a good cheap computer monitor that will perfectly cope with the tasks assigned to it.
The purpose of this review is to show that even a monitor under 250 dollars can be good and of high quality.
In the low price category, you can find good deals of up to 30 inches. However, you should not count on a resolution of more than 1920 × 1080 pixels.
Most budget monitors come with a TN matrix, which attracts gamers with a very good response time. However, viewing angles and picture quality of TN monitors are not the best ones, so you shouldn't use them to upgrade your computer for graphics design.
Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 185 Hz | Response time: 3 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000 : 1 | Color support: 99% sRGB
⊕ Based on VA panel
⊕ Smoother image due to high refresh rate
⊖ Poor sound quality
Excellent brightness, high contrast and fairly good viewing angles make Scepter C325B-185RD one of the best affordable monitors on our list.
This screen will appeal to both gamers and professional web designers. The FreeSync technology eliminates all the flaws and smooths out the sharpness that often occurs in dynamic games.
You won’t see twitching or distortion on this budget PC monitor since FreeSync technology synchronizes the screen refresh rate with the frame rate of the video card.
Users can select preset picture modes: FPS for shooter mode, RTS for strategy mode. In FPS mode, brightness and contrast are adjusted so that characters look clearer at a distance, and rivals can be easily detected in the dark. In RTS mode, glare and blur are reduced and you can get a clear look at your game.
Screen size: 30-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 2560x1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 85 Hz | Response time: 1 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000: 1 | Color support: 90% sRGB
⊕ HDMI
⊕ Ultra-slim design
⊕ High-quality integrated speakers
⊖ Unsatisfactory refresh rate
C305W-2560UN is recognized as the best widescreen computer monitor in the low price category. 30 inches and the 2560x1080 resolution for inexpensive monitors is very cool.
Besides, the screen will please users with a very high refresh rate, which reaches 85 Hz. The provided image is precise and crisp as blurring and ghosting are eliminated.
The screen has a stylish frameless design. It includes two HDMI and one DisplayPort connector. The minimum response time is 1ms, which is ideal for players because it allows them to quickly respond to any action of opponents.
The screen can be tilted forward (3 degrees) and back (10 degrees).
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Response time: 5 ms | Viewing angle: 90/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 100% sRGB
⊕ Integrated speakers give excellent sound
⊕ VESA mount
⊕ Stylish modern design
⊖ Base takes up a lot of space
This model will be of interest to those who are searching for the best monitor on a budget. The LCD screen is equipped with an IPS matrix that guarantees the accurate rendition of all tones and shades.
1920 x 1080p resolution, the aspect ratio of 16:9 and wide viewing angles ensure the wonderful quality and convenient work with this model.
Other devices can be connected to Vh240a via HDMI and VGA interfaces. Also, HDCP support allows connecting laptops and other monitors.
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Response time: 4 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 100,000,000:1 | Color support: 99% sRGB
⊕ Anti-flicker technology
⊕ Comfortable tilt
⊕ Fine edging
⊖ No 4K resolution
⊖ Tilt-only stand
Acer R240HY is a good budget monitor for gamers. Ergonomic design, 24-inch diagonal, Full HD resolution makes this screen versatile for both work and entertainment.
Every day, people experience a lot of eye strain, which is caused by long working hours in front of modern monitors.
This model implements the latest development – advanced Flicker-Free technology. It reduces the flicker effect, thus protecting the eyes. Acer R240HY is equipped with an IPS matrix, which guarantees high image quality.
If we talk about the shortcomings, the monitor does not have DisplayPort inputs, and the stand can’t be properly regulated. If you are going to combine it with other monitors, it makes sense to look for the best triple monitor stand for the most convenient work. But many users appreciate the R240HY for its clear color reproduction, good gray-scale performance, and affordable cost.
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 75 Hz | Response time: 5 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 100M :1 | Color support: 100% sRGB
⊕ Frame-free design
⊕ Eyes do not get tired during long working hours
⊕ Convenient installation with VESA mount
⊖ Stand doesn’t seem reliable
If price, image and color accuracy, and viewing angles matter, then this model is the perfect solution. The diagonal of 24 inches and a resolution of 1080 pixels – this is quite enough to watch videos and play games in high quality.
The 178° wide viewing angle panel allows you to conveniently sit in front of the screen and watch videos from anywhere in the room.
Another significant feature is the Adaptive-Sync one, which completely eliminates such defects as frame jitter and picture tearing. The refresh rate for this model is quite high – 75 Hz. This improves the quality of sharp dynamic scenes in games, so no wonder many users claim this is the best FPS gaming monitor out there.
The base is adjustable, allowing you to change the tilt at a convenient angle. With the VESA mount, you can fix the screen on the wall. The set of connectors includes HDMI, D-Sub, and DVI-D ports.
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16: 9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 75 Hz | Response time: 5 ms | Viewing angle: 178 / 178 | Contrast ratio: 1000: 1 | Color support: 99% sRGB
⊕ High image quality IPS matrix
⊕ AMD FreeSync completely eliminates defects
⊖ Unable to adjust the height
Based on the IPS matrix, LG 24MK430H-B is the best cheap monitor for those who prefer to perceive static and dynamic images in high quality.
An increased viewing angle is another advantage of this screen, as it allows you to enjoy your favorite movies from anywhere in the room.
Another feature of LG 24MK430H-B is the presence of a special black stabilization option. You can enable it if you want to view details clearly on a dark background.
You will also like the stylish, modern design with a slim and elegant body. The D-SUB port supports graphics cards with the analog VGA plug-in of the previous generation and the relatively new DVI-I standard using the DVI-I- > D-Sub adapter.
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Response time: 8 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 99% sRGB
⊕ Ultra-slim frame design
⊕ DisplayPort connector
⊕ Low input delay
⊕ Good response time
⊖ No FreeSync technology support
⊖ Tilt-only design
BenQ GW2480 is the best budget computer monitor with a resolution of 1080 pixels. It captivates users with its stylish design and ultra-thin frames.
The screen is equipped with a special stand that allows you to completely hide the cables. The technology of automatic brightness adjustment according to the ambient lighting has been implemented.
Users can switch between the modes of preset settings: Game, Movie, Photo, sRGB, Eco, Standard, and User. The developers have included not only digital interfaces but also the old analog one. In our opinion, this is not the right decision, since the latter has long been irrelevant.
Screen size: 23.8-inch | Aspect ratio: 16: 9| Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60 Hz | Response time: ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000: 1 | Color support: 99% sRGB
⊕ Slim frame design
⊕ Many adjustable options
⊕ Different ports
⊖ No speakers
The model’s panel with a brightness of 250 nits allows you to observe the image in high quality in any light. The contrast ratio is 1000:1, which is a very good value that makes colors vibrant but natural.
A resolution of 1080 pixels is excellent for a matrix of this size. A full set of connectors, namely HDMI and DisplayPort ones, a VGA port, and four USB ports, allow you to connect other monitors and devices.
The USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports are conveniently located on the side and in the back.
Dell SE2419Hx is equipped with PowerNap technology, thanks to which you can lower the brightness of the monitor and put it into sleep mode.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 75 Hz | Response time: 8 ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000: 1 | Color support: 99 % sRGB
⊕ Accurate color reproduction
⊕ Stylish curved design
⊕ Reasonable price
⊖ Too low
Speaking of the best budget computer monitors, we can’t help but mention Scepter C275W-1920RN. It is lightweight, has the 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels), and is equipped with a full set of functions necessary for comfortable work.
Thanks to stylish design, the screen will look great on any desk. The curved IPS panel provides an incredibly realistic image and gives users a sense of presence in the game or film. You can sit right in front of the monitor, enjoying the bright and natural color.
The monitor is framed with a reliable metal body that provides protection and an attractive appearance. Of course, for a 27-inch diagonal, many would like to have higher resolution than traditional FHD (1920 x 1080 pixels).
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Screen size: 27 inches | Ratio: 16:9 | solution: 3440x2160 | Panel Type: IPS | Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 5ms | Inputs: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort
⊕ Great price-quality ratio
⊕ Perfect resolution and size for multitasking
⊕ Many functions, including FreeSync via HDMI
⊖ Lacks HDR productivity
⊖ No built-in speakers
LG 27UK650-W is a great 27 inch IPS LCD monitor with HDR support. It offers a quick matrix response for games and good peak brightness. It has a great picture quality, wide view angles, and good resolution, which reflects every little detail. Although the monitor supports HDR technology, its performance is not very useful in this mode.
It is more suitable for medium-illuminated places since it perfectly copes with reflections and flares, which look gray in dark rooms. LG 27UK650 is the best budget 4K monitor featuring HDR technology. It is a great option for gamers and movie lovers.
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Screen size: 23 inches | Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920х1080 | Panel Type: IPS | Refresh Rate: 60Hz| Response Time: 7ms | Inputs: 1 х HDMI, 1 х VGA
⊕ No screen frame
⊕ Suitable for games that require 1080 resolution
⊕ Good price with a 3-year warranty
⊖ Rather slow response
⊖ Slightly blurred image
This portable monitor belongs to cheap computer monitors group and may be used as a gaming one. It has a display with IPS-panel for brighter colors. ViewSonic monitor response is equal to 5 ms, but it is fine for IPS monitors. ViewSonic is also suitable for games with 1080 resolution.
Thanks to flexible connectivity features, it may be easily connected to a laptop, PC, PS4, and Xbox One. If you are a gamer with a small budget, it the best cheap gaming monitor for you.
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Screen size: 24.5 inches | Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 | Panel Type: TN | Refresh Rate: 75Hz | Response Time: 1ms | Inputs: 2 x HDMI, 1 x VGA
⊕ Good build quality
⊕ Great contrast
⊕ AMD FreeSync Technology 144Hz
⊖ Inaccurate color gamut
⊖ Poor viewing angles
Acer XF251Q is a reliable monitor with 1080p TN resolution featuring great game functions. It provides fast response, low input delay and supports AMD FreeSync technology. It has a great stand which may be adjusted for the perfect viewing spot. Unfortunately, it has a bad view angle that is why the picture quality leaves much to be desired while looking at the monitor at an angle. This budget monitor is suitable for a modest gaming workstation.
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Screen size: 24.5 inch | Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920х1080 | Panel Type: TN | Refresh Rate: 240Hz | Response Time: 1ms | Inputs: 1 x Display Port, 2 x HDMI
⊕ Beautiful design
⊕ High frame frequency equal to 240Hz
⊕ Many ports
⊖ Small diagonal
⊖ No G-sync
Alienware is a popular name among game lovers. AW2518HF features fast response and update frequency. The response has an impressive frequency of 240 Hz which makes it one of the best budget monitors for gamers. TN panel that does not support G-sync technology belongs to its drawbacks. See more G-Sync monitors, if you need this technology. See more G-Sync monitors, if you need this technology. It also has a height-adjustable stand, tilt and swing functions. It is even equipped with an AlienFX RGB LED-based lighting, which may be synchronized with any image on the screen and other AlienWare equipment.
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Screen size: 27 inches | Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560х1440 | Panel Type: IPS | Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 14ms | Inputs: 2 х HDMI, 1 х DisplayPort, 1 х mini-DisplayPort, 1 х DisppalyPort-Out
⊕ Top-quality build
⊕ Accurate color rendition
⊕ Ready hardware color calibration
⊖ The absence of USB-C
⊖ Slow response
ViewSonic VP2768 is another representative of the best budget monitors created for professional designers. It has a good reputation. IPS panel offers true color depth. The monitor has a ready hardware color calibration. The 14-bit scheme creates an amazing palette of 4.39 trillion colors for amazingly accurate reproduction of images, which is extremely important for professional apps. ViewSonic VP2768 is the best choice for mid-level monitors. It has four USB 3.0 ports and audio output.
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Screen size: 34 inches | Ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Panel Type: VA | Refresh Rate: 100Hz | Response Time: 8ms | Inputs: 1 х HDMI, 1 х Display Port, 1 х DVI
⊕ Good quality for a reasonable price
⊕ High contrast
⊕ FreeSync up to 100 Hz
⊖ Lack of USB ports
⊖ Dark pixels are blurred in dynamic games
MSI Optix is a good model for fulfilling ordinary tasks on a daily basis. It is also quite suitable for working in Photoshop but you shouldn’t expect very accurate colors. The image is very clear without artifacts from the anti-reflective layer. VA panel provides users with good contrast. You can play either with or without FreeSync.
It is the best budget computer monitor which offers gamers everything they really need: reliable video editing, impressive contrast, high resolution and quick response. Despite some problems with accurate color reproduction, it provides good performance at a low price.
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Screen size: 34 inches | Ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3440x1440 | Panel Type: IPS | Refresh Rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 5ms | Inputs: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Mini DisplayPort, 1 x MHL
⊕ A wide viewing angle
⊕ Excellent contrast and brightness
⊕ Great image quality
⊖ Modest color selection
⊖ Presence of the flare spots
U3415W is a nice 34-inch 21:9 curved display with a cinematic resolution of WQHD (3440x1440). This model can show images from two devices at the same time, using functions (picture in picture) due to the presence of several ports. Owners can control everything that happens on the screen easily due to its curved design. Moreover, it has two speakers (9 W each), which make daily watching of videos and playing games funnier. Overall, a given model is one of the best ultra wide monitors these days. It is suitable for photographers, gamers, video editors or any professionals who look for more space to work.
| Image | Name | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Sceptre C325B-185RD
Our Choice |
CHECK PRICE → | |
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Sceptre C305W-2560UN
Ultrawide |
CHECK PRICE → | |
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HP VH240a
For Home |
CHECK PRICE → |
The widescreen is the dream of every user. However, in the low cost monitor category, you can buy a model with diagonal of only up to 30 inches. Many users decide on 21-inch monitors.
Support for VESA mount automatically increases the cost of the monitor. Therefore, if you have prepared a place for your future monitor on the desktop, you shouldn’t purchase a model with a VESA mount and pay extra money. It`s different if a wall or ceiling installation is planned. Then VESA-mount compatibility is mandatory.
Liquid crystal monitors are produced with different types of matrices that directly affect cost. If you want a standard low-cost entertainment screen, you should look at TN monitors. But in budget class, you can often find IPS and VA models. Our review of inexpensive monitors proves this.
Besides the low cost, TN monitors under 400 dollars are valued for their fast response time. This is why they are so popular among gamers. But the contrast and color levels here are lower than in IPS. Viewing angles in TN monitors are also not the best ones.
Professional designers and photographers prefer IPS 30-inch monitors. Such models transmit all colors and shades in an excellent way, please users with high clarity in detail, and have wide viewing angles. The prices of such monitors are higher than their TN counterparts.
VA monitors boast a high refresh rate, excellent contrast, depth, color rendering and viewing angles, especially in comparison with TN ones. But VA panels don’t have such great sharpness as IPS ones and produce color shifting.
Before you buy your monitor, think about the extra devices you’d like to connect. It could be a camera, phone, laptop, or other monitors. For universal use, like watching TV, editing photos, and playing games, you need a complete set of ports. You can also see the monitor with multiple USB ports, which makes it easy to connect game controllers, memory cards, smartphones and other devices.
If you are working with graphics and require great accuracy and image contrast, we recommend you pay attention to inexpensive monitors with IPS and VA technologies.
HP Vh240a, Sceptre C305W-2560UN, Acer R240HY.
Inexpensive monitors have a smaller diagonal and maximum 1080p resolutions. This is not enough for some users.
ASUS VA24EHE, Sceptre C275W-1920RN, Sceptre C325B-185RD, Acer R240HY.
Undoubtedly, the image quality of the Full HD (1080p) monitors is higher than that of the HD (720p). HDTV standards define “HD” as 720i, 720p, 1080i, or 1080p video (1080i and 1080p are also sometimes called “Full HD”).
Yes, there are several budget monitors available in the market that support HDR technology, allowing for a wider range of colors and improved contrast. Some popular options include models from brands like BenQ, ASUS, and LG, offering affordable HDR displays without compromising on quality.
Yes, budget-friendly monitors can indeed be capable of multitasking. Many affordable monitors offer features like split-screen functionality or Picture-by-Picture mode, allowing users to view multiple applications or inputs simultaneously, enhancing productivity and multitasking capabilities without breaking the bank.
Upgrading a cheap monitor is generally limited compared to more expensive high-end monitors. However, there are a few potential upgrade options. For example, you may be able to connect external devices like a soundbar or speakers for better audio quality or use a monitor calibration device to enhance color accuracy. Some budget monitors also offer limited upgradability through adjustable stands or VESA mount compatibility, allowing you to customize the positioning or mounting options.
While budget monitors may not match the image quality and color accuracy of high-end monitors, they can still deliver decent performance for everyday use. However, for tasks that require precise color representation, such as professional photo editing or graphic design, investing in a higher-quality monitor would be advisable.
The screen size is an important consideration when choosing a budget monitor as it directly impacts the viewing experience and productivity. A larger screen size can provide a more immersive experience and additional screen real estate, but it's essential to find a balance between your needs, available space, and budget.
While some budget monitors may offer adjustable stands or VESA mount compatibility, it is not a universal feature in this price range. It's important to carefully check the specifications of each budget monitor to determine if it includes these options, as they can vary depending on the brand and model.
