8 Best VA Monitors in 2024

By Robin Owens 4 days ago, Monitors

Are VA panel monitors better than IPS?

top 3 va monitors

VA panel monitor, in other words, Vertical Alignment, is the best choice if you want to get maximum contrast and depth during gaming sessions. Although VA screens are less popular compared to the other two options, IPS and TN panel types, they are still worth considering.

VA monitors offer a high contrast ratio of over 3000: 1, so users get rich blacks and high-quality grayscale performance.

Top 8 VA Panel Monitors

  1. Acer KB272HL - Our Choice
  2. LG 32GK650F-B - Budget VA monitor for gamers
  3. GTEK 27-inch Curved - VA panel for editing
  4. Acer R240HY - 24" VA display
  5. AOC CQ32G2S - Quad HD resolution
  6. Samsung LC27F398FWNXZA - The best VA monitor for a good price
  7. Philips 328E1CA - Curved display
  8. AOC 24B1H - Budget VA ultra-slim monitor

VA panel monitors are a neutral option which will satisfy both TN type panel lovers and IPS fans. This type of panel is susceptible to side effects and picture artifacts, as the transitions from white to black take longer than IPS or TN offer.

As a rule, we recommend a VA panel gaming monitor for those who like fun games rather than those, who are interested in competitive fast gameplay. Whether you are among those who prefer RPGs like The Witcher 3 or Survivor Horror genres like Resident Evil, VA panel for gaming will bring you lots of benefits and pleasure.

1. Acer KB272HL bix 27"

Our Choice
best affordable 1080p va gaming monitor with freesync

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920 x 1080| Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: / | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB

  • ✚ Affordable
  • ✚ High-end color and grayscale performance
  • ✚ Low input lag
  • Tilt-only stand
  • Without DisplayPort input
  • No USB ports
Rating

The Acer KB272HL is a decent 27-inch VA monitor with 1080p resolution, which is an example of an affordable yet very powerful product. Still, if you are looking for a monitor for gaming or work rather than watching movies and videos, there are better variants on the market.

Today this model is the most affordable of all 27-inch displays. The monitor offers AMD FreeSync technology, a beautiful design with a slim bezel and excellent contrast.

With the Acer KB272HL, you will not experience long input lag, as it is only 10ms, which is almost unnoticeable at 75Hz. The response speed is 4ms, which is quite enough to avoid excessive delays of fast-moving objects with the specified refresh rate. It can be called the best VA panel monitor with support for FreeSync technology with a 48-75Hz Variable Frequency (VRR). If you have a compatible graphics card, you can get rid of screen tears in the specified range.

If you only need HDMI and VGA connections, the Acer KB272HL will impress you with its stylish design and picture quality.

2. LG 32GK650F-B 32"

Budget VA monitor for gamers with 144Hz
nice budget va gaming monitor with 144hz display

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440| Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle:178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB

  • ✚ AMD FreeSync
  • ✚ Fast refresh rate
  • ✚ Game-friendly options
  • A bit distorted greens
  • Without speakers
Rating

LG 32GK650F-B is a VA display that will impress you with its size. It’s a great choice if you want to follow every action without missing out on details. Thanks to the VA panel, the monitor provides great grayscale performance.

We were satisfied after testing this model, as the device belongs to the most popular category – excellent value for money. Many brands aspire to fall into this category, a favorite for many users, but few can achieve good performance at affordable prices. In our opinion, LG 32GK650F places the winner seat as the best VA monitor in this category today.

This 32-inch 1440p VA monitor has a 144Hz refresh rate, that is why it works great for modern games. Thanks to the advantages of VA technology, the monitor is very popular among gamers. For those who hate curved screens, the good news is that the model is flat.

3. GTEK 27-inch Curved

VA panel for editing
gtek 27-inch curved va monitor

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 350cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: 120% sRGB

  • ✚ High-refresh rate display
  • ✚ Flexible stand
  • ✚ Amazing color rendering
  • ✚ Compatible with the latest technologies
  • Poor brightness
  • Bad viewing angles
Rating

GTEK 27-inch Curved VA is the best VA monitor for those who are looking for a model that delivers excellent pictures and has a flexible stand. A high refresh rate and curved design are its major benefits, which deliver immersive visuals to pull a viewer into the imagined world.

AMD FreeSync Premium Technology ensures no shuttering, whereas the three-sided frameless construction is great for connecting several monitors.

Thanks to QHD resolution, this model provides superior picture quality. Moreover, it is also an excellent option for gamers who will definitely appreciate its quick 1ms response time. Amazing color rendering also makes it an appropriate monitor for photo editing.

4. Acer R240HY Abmidx 23.8"

Budget monitor with 24" VA display
best buget solution with 24

Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920×1080| Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178 degree | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB

  • ✚ Reasonably-priced
  • ✚ Amazing color and grayscale performance
  • ✚ Low input backlog
  • ✚ Energy-saving
  • Tilt-only stand
  • Without USB ports
Rating

The Acer R240HY6, which is also known as the Acer R240HY bidx, is the best VA panel monitor due to its affordable price and the features it offers. The screen delivers a high-quality picture with rich, vibrant colors. The slim monitor bezel is almost invisible, so you can easily install two or more displays for comfortable gaming or productive work.

The Acer is not inferior to similar models in terms of design. The panel fits in a frameless glossy-block plastic body (thin enough, about 0.25 inches).

The frame is lifted thanks to the ring-shaped stand that allows the panel to tilt up to 20 degrees. Tilt is the only possible manipulation, as the stand goes without height adjustment or swivels. Thus you get a tilt angle range of -5 to 15 degrees.

5. AOC CQ32G2S

QHD resolution
aoc cq32g2s va monitor

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560x1440 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 165Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 80,000,000:1 | Color support: 120% sRGB

  • ✚ Works great for gaming
  • ✚ HDMI port
  • ✚ Value for money
  • ✚ Rather responsive
  • Poor color reproduction
Rating

This widescreen option features 2K QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution. Its VA panel brings amazing image reproduction thanks to wide angles, consistent color temperature, and great contrast. The incredible color gamut makes this monitor a perfect option for both entertainment and graphic work challenges.

Since this monitor uses Flicker-free technology, your eyes won’t get tired. Moreover, LowBlue Mode provides easy on-the-eyes performance. Your eyes will get less stress because the light has a reduced amount of harmful blues. With HDMI ports, you can easily connect this monitor to other devices.

6. Samsung C27F398 27"

Best VA monitor for a good price
great va monitor for a very reasonable price

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920×1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178 degree| Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB

  • ✚ Classy design
  • ✚ Comfortable curve
  • ✚ Vivid and dynamic colors
  • Non-adjustable height
  • No integrated speakers
Rating

The Samsung C27F398 is a budget 27-inch VA panel monitor. It features a curved design and some high-end options. It has a glossy black front with the matte rear and stylish bezels on the front.

The bezels mask the edges of the panel and make it look more elegant. These few details help this Samsung VA monitor look similar to the premium models.

The C27F398 is a classy and reasonably-priced option that works for users who are looking for an immersive full HD display. When it comes to features, the C27F398 is similar to budget monitors. Still, thanks to a curved VA panel, the screen looks extraordinary, if you compare it to other options at this price range. It is perfectly suitable both for casual use and work-related tasks.

This 27-inch curved display is the right choice if you want to get an immersive watching experience. This great VA panel gaming monitor delivers vibrant colors. After making some adjustments, you will get a high-quality image.

I recommend this option to anyone who wants to purchase a monitor that comes at an affordable price and offers advanced functionality. The Samsung C27F398 won’t make you regret your choice.

7. Philips 328E1CA

Best VA monitor with a curved display
philips 328e1ca va monitor

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 75Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178 | Contrast ratio: 2500:1 | Color support: 120% sRGB and 97.8% NTSC

  • ✚ Impressive curved 4K UHD monitor
  • ✚ Nice color gamut
  • ✚ Supports adaptive-sync technology
  • Some users noticed flickering when viewing dark photos
Rating

This Philips monitor provides an incredible viewing experience due to its 4K UHD image quality. It delivers the most realistic colors including blues, greens, and rich reds. Thanks to Ultra WideColor Technology, you can enjoy the bright, natural-looking colors of your visual content.

This monitor is based on Adaptive-Sync technology to ensure effortlessly smooth action. Besides, it includes a Smart Contrast feature which delivers rich black details. With its perfect design and top quality, this model is a good choice for both home and office needs.

8. AOC 24B1H 24"

Best budget VA ultra-slim monitor
best budget 1080p va ultra-slim monitor

Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1920x1080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: 8ms | Viewing angle: 178 degree| Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB

  • ✚ Tiltable display
  • ✚ Perfect for a dual monitor setup
  • ✚ High contrast and great black levels
  • ✚ No built-in speakers
  • Lacks height adjustment option
Rating

The AOC 27B1H is the best VA monitor with a slim design that comes at a reasonable price. If you would like to get this model or can’t choose between several 21-inch monitors of this kind, pay attention to their specs. While it is stated on the product webpage that its response time is 7ms, manufacturers indicated in the product datasheet that this monitor has a 9ms response time.

While it’s significantly lower than 5ms that the IPS monitors usually have, you will hardly notice any sign of ghosting in fast-paced games. The monitor offers a refresh rate of just 60Hz.

The AOC 27B1H comes with a non-flicker backlight and a built-in filter to minimize blue light emissions. Thanks to these features, you won’t experience headaches or eye strain during extended gaming sessions.

The AOC 24B1H is the best VA panel monitor for office or home usage. Besides being well-designed, this model combines style and practicality. Thanks to the thin bezels, this 24-inch screen can be used as a part of a multiple-monitor setup.

The MVA panel offers the full sRGB color space and deep black levels. It has a tiltable screen, which is perfect when you need to find the most comfortable position.

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
best affordable 1080p va monitor with freesync
Acer KB272HL
Gaming
  • Screen size: 27"
  • Resolution: 1920x1080
  • Brightness: 300cd/m2
  • Viewing angle: 178 degrees
CHECK PRICE
best budget va monitor for gamers with 144hz
LG 32GK650F-B
Budget
  • Screen size: 32"
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Brightness: 350cd/m2
  • Viewing angle: 178 degrees
CHECK PRICE
gtek 27-inch curved va monitor
GTEK 27-inch Curved
FOR EDITING
  • Screen size: 27’’
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Brightness: 350cd/m2
  • Viewing angle: 178 degrees
CHECK PRICE

TN vs IPS vs VA Monitors

best va monitor

Imaging Technology

It’s difficult to define which option is the best, as they are quite different. Below, I have listed the key differences between IPS, TN and VA monitors under $400 to help you choose the one that suits your needs best. Let’s discuss the main advantages of each option.

Response Time

TN TVs for PC monitors feature fast response times. If you use this type of monitor with a response time ranging from 1ms to 5ms, you will be satisfied with the results when playing competitive games.

It takes a bit too long for IPS monitors to process images. Manufacturers release IPS monitors with the response time ranging between 5ms to 8ms.

Still, VA monitors are the slowest, which is why they take third place.

Viewing Angles

IPS monitors for photo editing have better viewing angles compared to TN ones. You’ll see distorted colors when looking at a TN monitor from extreme angles.

IPS monitors deliver accurate colors regardless of an angle you are looking at them from. While VA panel monitors have better viewing angles than TN monitors, IPS monitors offer the widest viewing angles. If you look at a VA monitor from different angles, you’ll notice colors change. However, to make your monitor more adjustable and somehow improve viewing angles, you can use a desk monitor riser.

Gaming

best va monitor

TN monitors quickly display images, which significantly enhances your gaming experience. If you are looking for a monitor to play games, TN screens are what you need.

IPS screens provide high-quality images but offer worse response times compared to TN ones.

You don’t need to choose a monitor from the most popular models only. It’s important to select an option that suits your preferences.

TN monitors are suitable for hardcore gamers, as they give you a cutting edge in competitive gaming. If you are fond of fast-paced and competitive games, make sure to consider this option.

In case you need to buy a monitor to create content, edit photos or work on design projects, IPS monitors come in handy.

Moreover, if you like playing games, but graphics quality is crucial, I recommend choosing an IPS glossy monitor.

The 5ms isn’t noticeable for everyday use. However, for E-sport gamers, it will be better to choose a monitor with better response times.

FAQ

  • • Is a VA panel good enough for gaming?

A VA panel is suitable for gaming as it offers wide viewing angles and great color reproduction. Thanks to high color accuracy, VA monitors with a triple monitor setup are ideal for design tasks, as well as for gamers who want to play games with amazing image quality. However, there might be some signs of blur when you play games.

  • • What is the best Hz for a screen?

A worthy monitor should come with at least 60Hz. The level of the refresh rate matters considerably for games. A high refresh rate accounts for better gaming experience. Plus, it keeps details accurate and reaction time high. Modern monitors feature a 240Hz refresh rate.

  • • Why is a VA panel a bad choice?

VA panels aren’t all that bad. Most high-priced LCD TVs come with VA panels. Each of the panel types has its weaknesses, for instance, IPS and TN panels offer a poor contrast ratio. gt; gt;As a rule, VA panels for TVs have higher quality than those used in monitors. While TVs have an 8000:1 contrast ratio, some VA monitors have only 2000:1.

  • • Do all VA monitors have ghosting?

A VA monitor is something of a compromise between TN and IPS. It is less expensive than IPS, while offers better color accuracy and wider viewing angles than TN.

  • • Why are VA monitors so expensive?

VA (Vertical Alignment) monitors tend to be more expensive due to their superior image quality compared to other panel types. VA panels offer excellent contrast ratios, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles, making them ideal for tasks such as gaming, multimedia, and graphic design.

The manufacturing process and the use of high-quality materials necessary to achieve these features contribute to the higher cost of VA monitors.

  • • What brands make the best VA monitors?

When it comes to VA monitors, some of the top brands known for producing high-quality options include Samsung, LG, and BenQ. Samsung is renowned for its impressive picture quality, color accuracy, and contrast ratios.

LG offers a diverse range of models with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles. BenQ is praised for its excellent color reproduction, gaming-specific features, and ergonomic designs.

  • • Are there any potential drawbacks or limitations associated with VA monitors?

One common limitation is the slower response time compared to TN (Twisted Nematic) panels, resulting in potential motion blur or ghosting in fast-paced gaming or action scenes. Additionally, VA panels may have narrower viewing angles, leading to color and contrast shifts when viewing the screen from off-center angles.

Lastly, some VA monitors may exhibit a phenomenon called "VA glow," which can appear as a slight haze or uniformity issue in dark scenes, although this can vary between different monitor models.

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