By Robin Owens 14 days ago, Monitors
Professional monitors under $500 for work and gaming.
We've prepared this rundown of high-quality budget monitors under $500 so that you can find a model that perfectly matches your budget and needs.
This article reviews top-rated monitors under $500 currently available on the market, with special emphasis being put on their gaming functionality. All of the models below are offered at a reasonable price while providing great speed, clarity, resolution, rich colors and smooth performance.
Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 p | Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: 96%sRGB
⊕ AMD FreeSync support
⊕ Quick refresh rate
⊕ Gaming functionality
⊖ Somewhat distorted greens
⊖ Lacks speakers
This top rated gaming monitor offers impressively low input lag, 1440p resolution and a 32-inch display that allows you to enjoy the latest games in full detail. Its overall response times are quite quick.tly offers only basic features, but that did allow the manufacturer to set a price as low as $350.
The offered 1440 resolution is backed up by a refresh rate of 144Hz, which is currently the sweet spot for gaming. tly offers only basic features, but that did allow the manufacturer to set a price as low as $350.
Moreover, the monitor is built on a high-quality VA panel, which is very popular among video game enthusiasts. tly offers only basic features, but that did allow the manufacturer to set a price as low as $350.
Lastly, the 32GK650F-B has a flat-screen that will appease gamers that prefer traditional monitor design and dislike the current curved trend.tly offers only basic features, but that did allow the manufacturer to set a price as low as $350.
The monitor doesn’t have HDR support and mostly offers only basic features, but that did allow the manufacturer to set a price as low as $350.
Screen size: 25-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080p | Brightness: 400cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1| Color support: 96%sRGB
⊕ Stylish, high-end design
⊕ Top-notch ergonomics
⊕ High peak brightness and color accuracy
⊖ High price for a 1080p model
⊖ Doesn’t have integrated speakers
The AW2518HF can be considered the best 2K gaming monitor thanks to its 25” screen, high-end design, impressive refresh rate and minimal response time. The relatively compact size and weight of this 240Hz computer monitor make it a suitable choice for e-sports competitors that prefer to travel with their gaming gear wherever they go.
If you’re looking for a stylish design, terrific performance and handy gaming functionality, this Alienware product hits all the marks. It is recommended both for video game fans and professional graphic designers.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560x1440 p | Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 98%sRGB
⊕ Accurate picture from an angle
⊕ Terrific ergonomics
⊕ Impressively small input lag
⊕ NVidia anti-tear tech
⊖ Subpar contrast ratio
⊖ Lower response time compared to similar monitors
The XB271HU is among the best 1440p gaming monitors under 500 dollars as it offers a great refresh rate, broad viewing angles and barely noticeable input lag, while its stand has top-notch ergonomics.
Even though this Acer monitor offers great specs for gaming, the response time is a bit disappointing. Additionally, the contrast ratio could have been higher as the blacks look greyish in dark workspaces, which is a common problem among IPS models.
The examination of the monitor didn’t locate any backlight bleeding or dead pixels. Overall, the XB271HU can be considered a great monitor for any purpose.
The terrific ergonomics and peak brightness make it suitable for office usage, while the minimum input lag is exactly what you need from a gaming display.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080p| Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: 98%sRGB
⊕ Great refresh rate
⊕ Adjustable dual-hinge arm
⊖ Expensive for 1080p resolution
⊖ Small FreeSync range
The CFG73 is often considered the best 2K monitor for gaming due to its solid 1080p resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate and rich colors that were achieved thanks to the quantum-dot technology.
Meanwhile, the 1ms MPRT allows you to enjoy a smooth performance with minimum delay. The monitor is built on a VA panel that reduces light leakage and offers a terrific contrast ratio (3000:1).
Aimed primarily at gamers, the included dual-hinge stand offers sturdiness and accurate controls over how exactly you place and angle the screen, which is a commonly missing feature in other monitors.
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1080p | Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 100Hz | Response time: 6ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 96%sRGB
⊕ FreeSync G-Sync compatibility
⊕ Integrated speakers
⊕ LED backlight that reduces glaring
⊕ High-quality build
⊖ Brightness can’t be adjusted
⊖ Blurry text
If you’re looking for a FreeSync monitor under $500, then this 34-inch ultra-wide curved LED model might be the best option for you. It has a resolution of 2560 by 1080 and a max refresh rate of 85Hz.
The 21:9 aspect ratio allows you to immerse yourself in the action. The 34” size is perfect for the contours of your eyes. Meanwhile, the 1500R design offers a nice curve for seeing more of the action without turning your head.
This Sceptre product is powered by Adaptive-Sync, which takes care of the difference between the GPU’s and the monitor’s refresh rates and prevents screen tears and stutters.
Thanks to the enhanced contrast, this display offers rich accurate colors and produces a lifelike image that will satisfy even the most demanding gamers.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080p | Brightness: 300cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: 99%sRGB
⊕ VA panel provides terrific contrast
⊕ Vibrant colors
⊕ FreeSync support
⊖ Lacks an sRGB mode and USB inputs
⊖ Poor factory-set greyscale accuracy
This 27-inch MSI monitor offers a 16:9 aspect ratio and 165Hz refresh rate. It is designed on a VA panel, making it a great choice for action-packed games. Other gaming-friendly features include a 1ms response time and FreeSync support.
The screen has a native resolution of 1920x1080. It is surrounded by slim bezels and offers a 3000:1 contrast ratio, 300cd/m2 brightness, and support of over 1 billion colors.
Connecting the monitor is simple due to the availability of HDMI, DP and USB Type-C ports.
Other than the mediocre pre-calibration, there’s no reason why this model can’t be considered for the title of the best gaming monitor under 500.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440p | Brightness: 400cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB
⊕ 10-bit color depth
⊕ Adequate speakers
⊕ Extremely versatile
⊕ Comes with a remote
⊖ Wobbly HDR on PC
⊖ Uninspired stand design
The EX2780Q offers a terrific 1440p resolution that produces a crisp and clear picture. The size of 27"" will ensure you never feel cramped. The viewing angles are solid and grey uniformity is also way above average.
Thanks to the combination of a 2560x1440 IPS build with a 144 Hz refresh rate, this model manages to offer the sweet spot that most gamers are craving for.
This BenQ product sets itself apart from any best monitor under 400 dollars with 2K resolution thanks to its rustic design.
Functionality-wise, the EX2780Q is equally well suited for gaming as it is for professional use. With high color accuracy, fast refresh speeds and powerful speakers, you’ll be able to do whatever you want on this monitor.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440p | Brightness: 300cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178| Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 97%sRGB
⊕ 144Hz screen
⊕ Curved design
⊕ Vesa mounting
⊕ Small blue light emission level
⊖ Poor material quality
This 27” model just might be the best ultrawide monitor under 500 if you're looking for curved design and a crisp, clear image.
The 1800R curvature provides a far more enjoyable experience and minimizes eye fatigue compared to traditional screens or models with a smaller curve.
The ultrawide design and high image resolution along with the 144 Hz refresh rate ensure you don’t suffer from blur and allow you to see more content on the screen without scrolling or having to move your head.
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 p| Brightness: 250cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 3ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB
⊕ 144Hz screen
⊕ Vesa mount
⊕ Curved screen
⊕ Doesn’t emit a lot of blue light
⊖ Cheap build
The C275B-144R offers everything you’d expect from the best monitor under 500 for video games. It has a 27-inch curved screen and a 144 Hz refresh rate, which provides smooth transitions and seamless gameplay without any blur.
That smoothness is further reinforced thanks to FreeSync support that is a must-have for competitive e-sports.
The anti-flickering function helps you enjoy a crisper image by minimizing backlight flickers. With fast response times and reduced ghosting and blurring – there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying a clear, accurate image.
Screen size: 24.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080p | Brightness: 400cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 99%sRGB
⊕ Impressive response time and input lag
⊕ Compatible with FreeSync and G-Sync
⊕ Many gaming functions
⊕ TN panel offers solid viewing angles
⊖ Monitor is restricted to tilt-only adjustments
The G2590FX can elevate your gaming experience to the next level with its 24.5” Full HD screen and lightning-fast response times. This monitor offers extra-slim bezels and borderless design on three sides for more immersion.
The product has a max refresh rate of 144 Hz and Adaptive-Sync support that provides extra-smooth and responsive gameplay while ensuring that all possible screen tears, stutters and input lag stay at the minimum.
The AOC flicker-free technology is another inclusion that helps ensure you experience video games the way they’re meant to be experienced. It reduces eye fatigue and helps you have long gaming sessions without feeling exhausted at the end.
This 24-inch monitor is also G-Sync compatible as long as your PC has NVidia’s latest GPU updates installed.
| Image | Name | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
LG 32GK650F-B
Our Choice |
CHECK PRICE → | |
 |
Acer Predator XB271HU
GAMING |
CHECK PRICE → | |
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Alienware AW2518Hf
PROFESSIONAL |
CHECK PRICE → |
There are 3 kinds of panels: IPS, TA and VA. IPS models are known for rich colors and superior color ranges. They also offer terrific viewing angles and top-tier color accuracy regardless if you’re sitting in front of the monitor or looking at it from an angle. That said, IPS can't match TN panels in terms of response time and refresh rate, which is crucial for providing a seamless, immersive gaming experience. Increased performance comes at a price however, as TN monitors offer the worst viewing angles and color accuracy, while the provided color ranges and vibrancy also often leave you wanting more. VA monitors offer a combination of terrific viewing angles, color accuracy and high refresh rates. But they have significantly slower response times compared to TN models.
Resolution is among the first characteristics you have to check out when picking the best monitor under 500. It’s determined by the max amount of pixels that can be displayed on a screen. The higher the amount, the more refined and high-quality picture you get to enjoy. One caveat you have to be aware of is as the resolution is increased, so are the monitor's requirements for your graphics card. It takes a lot of power to display the game's graphics on the highest resolutions. The most common resolution values include:
1920 by 1080 – Full HD
2560 by 1080 – UltraWide Full HD
2560 by 1440 – Wide Quad HD
3440 by 1440 – UltraWide Quad HD
3840 by 2160 – Ultra HD
Even though you might think that a 4K resolution is an optimal choice for gaming, its high price and high GPU requirements make it a questionable option. There are plenty of titles that can’t even run in 60 FPS on a 4K screen. That is why 1440p is generally considered superior to even the best 4K monitor under 500 for gamers.
For decades, gamers relied on traditional flat screens. However, as the size of gaming monitors began to increase, viewing content on a flat display became more inconvenient. The introduced curved design accommodates your field of vision and increases how much screen space you see without rotating your head. Curved designs range from 1000R to 1800R with the former offering a more abrupt curve and the latter a more gradual one.
Response time reflects the speed of the monitor and is described in milliseconds. The lower the response time, the better it is at minimizing ghosting. The best gaming monitor under 500 has to offer the golden balance between refresh rate and response time. While some gamers can spot ghosting easily, others don't even really notice it. Currently, a solid response time value has to be in the 7-8ms range. If a monitor offers a quicker refresh rate, then that value has to be significantly lowered to enhance the gaming experience.
When considering the ergonomics of top monitors under $500, it's essential to focus on features that enhance user comfort, productivity, and overall well-being during prolonged computer use.
Adjustable Stand. A monitor with an adjustable stand allows you to change the height, tilt, swivel, and pivot of the display. This flexibility enables you to find the most comfortable viewing position, reducing strain on your neck and eyes.
Height Adjustment. Being able to adjust the height of the monitor is crucial for maintaining proper eye level alignment with the screen. Your eyes should be level with the top of the monitor or slightly below it, with your gaze directed slightly downward.
Tilt Functionality. Tilting the monitor forward or backward allows you to customize the viewing angle to reduce glare and reflections, especially if there are windows or bright lights nearby.
Swivel Capability. Monitors with swivel functionality enable you to rotate the screen horizontally, making it convenient for sharing your screen with colleagues or switching between portrait and landscape orientation.
Pivot (Rotation) Feature. Some monitors can pivot into a portrait orientation, which is beneficial for tasks like coding, reading lengthy documents, or working with vertical content.
The Asus ROG Swift PG279Q is definitely the best option offered on the market today. It offers a 27” screen and a native resolution of 2560 by 1440, which is currently considered the perfect middle ground for high-end gaming.
HDMI 1.4 supports 144 Hz in up to 1920 by 1080 resolution. That said, not all monitors offer equally great performance, which is why a lot of models cap the refresh rate at 120 Hz when set to 1080p resolution.
75Hz is superior to a 60Hz refresh rate in every way possible. Not only does the former suffer from screen tearing a lot less, but it also allows you to enjoy a better framerate. 75 frames per second will always provide a smoother and more immersive viewing experience than 60 frames per second.
Typically, 60 Hz is considered the lowest acceptable refresh rate for enjoying smooth, high-quality footage. However, when talking about video games, the higher the refresh rate a monitor offers, the better. The best models offer up to 240Hz, which is fantastic for FPS gamers that value fast reaction times more than anyone else does.
