When it comes to gaming, having the right monitor can make all the difference in your experience. Choosing a gaming monitor that matches your needs not only enhances visuals but also improves responsiveness and comfort during long sessions.
Whether you’re gifting a gamer or upgrading your own setup, understanding what makes a great gaming monitor helps you get the best value and performance. This guide highlights five top gaming monitors that stand out for their features, price, and user satisfaction, so you can make an informed choice this Halloween.
Top Picks
| Category | Product | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Best Value | Sceptre New 27-inch Gaming Monitor 100Hz 1ms | 88/100 | |
| ⚡ Best Performance | Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD 2560 x 1440 IPS Gaming Monitor | 90/100 | |
| 💡 Best Innovation | Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor – S2725QS | 87/100 | |
| 💰 Best Budget | Amazon Basics IPS Monitor 75 Hz 27 in | 85/100 | |
| 🚀 Most Advanced | MSI G273CQ 27″ Gaming Monitor 170Hz QHD | 89/100 |
How We Chose These Gaming Monitors
We focused on monitors that deliver smooth gameplay, crisp visuals, and reliable build quality. Key factors included refresh rate, resolution, response time, color accuracy, and connectivity options. We also considered user reviews to ensure these picks offer great value and performance for different budgets and gaming styles.
Sceptre 27″ Gaming Monitor
If you’re looking for a solid gaming monitor that won’t overwhelm your setup, this 27-inch Sceptre hits a nice balance. The Full HD screen offers crisp visuals with vibrant colors, and the 100Hz refresh rate keeps gameplay smooth without the need for a super high-end rig.
It’s got two HDMI ports plus a DisplayPort, so hooking up your PC and console is hassle-free. The built-in speakers are a convenient touch, even if they’re not going to replace your dedicated sound system. Plus, the eye care tech helps reduce strain during those long gaming sessions or binge-watching marathons.
Whether you want a reliable secondary screen or a main display for casual gaming, this monitor fits right in and looks good doing it.
What People Say
Gamers and casual users alike appreciate how easy it is to set up and how great the picture quality looks for the price. The monitor’s smooth refresh rate and solid color accuracy make it a favorite for both work and play.
🗣️ ionut
Screen resolution, refresh rate, and picture clarity is amazing. Sleek look on the provided stand or mounted to adjustable monitor arm. Very sturdy stand/base mount provided. Works great for home office. Easy plug and play set up. Compatible with HP g5 laptop docking station. Great quality monitor. Reliable brand.
🗣️ RevCritter
Very easy setup. Well packaged and comes with the HDMI cable! Excellent colors and many “modes” to choose from for different viewing experiences. Absolutely pleased with this monitor. Fantastic value for such a good piece of equipment. Highly recommend.
How It Fits Your Life
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Gaming on PC or console | The 100Hz refresh rate and FreeSync technology keep your gameplay smooth and free from screen tearing. |
| Working from home | Sharp Full HD resolution and eye care features help reduce fatigue during long hours at your desk. |
| Streaming movies or shows | Vibrant colors and built-in speakers provide a nice viewing experience without needing extra gear. |
| Using multiple devices | With two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort, you can easily switch between your laptop, gaming console, or other devices. |
Ease of Use
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup | Easy |
| Port selection | Simple |
| Menu navigation | User-friendly |
| Mounting options | Flexible with VESA compatibility |
Versatility
This monitor works well for gaming, streaming, and everyday computing. Its multiple input options and adjustable mounting make it adaptable to different setups.
Comfort
Eye care technology helps reduce blue light and flicker, making it easier on your eyes during extended use.
Why You’ll Like It
- Smooth 100Hz refresh rate for tear-free gaming
- Vibrant 27-inch Full HD display with 100% sRGB coverage
- Multiple ports including 2 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort for easy connectivity
- Built-in speakers save desk space without extra clutter
- Eye care technology reduces strain during long sessions
Rating: 4.5 (total: 34238+)
Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Gaming Monitor
If you want a gaming monitor that really steps up your setup, the Acer Nitro 27″ is a solid pick. The sharp WQHD resolution makes everything look crisp, whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing. The high refresh rate—up to 180Hz if you use DisplayPort—means gameplay feels buttery smooth, which is a game-changer for fast-paced titles.
Plus, the HDR 10 support and wide color gamut bring your games and movies to life with vibrant colors and deeper contrast. It’s also designed to be easy on your eyes with flicker-less and low dimming tech, so those long sessions won’t wear you out. Whether you’re upgrading your own battlestation or gifting a fellow gamer, this monitor balances performance and comfort in a way that’s hard to beat.
What People Say
Gamers rave about the smooth refresh rates and vivid colors that really bring games to life. Many mention how easy it is to set up and how the sturdy design fits nicely on any desk.
🗣️ Elias
I recently purchased this monitor, and I must say that I am thoroughly impressed with its performance. The 165Hz refresh rate really smooths out gameplay, and the HDR makes colors pop in games and movies. The build feels sturdy and the design looks sleek on my desk.
🗣️ Zeljka Schwachenwald
Upgraded to the Acer Nitro and it exceeded my expectations. The 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time make fast games feel incredibly smooth. FreeSync eliminates tearing, and the adjustable stand keeps me comfortable during long sessions. Setup was straightforward too.
How It Fits Your Gaming Life
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Competitive gaming | The high refresh rate and quick response time give you an edge with smoother visuals and less input lag. |
| Watching movies or streaming | HDR 10 and wide color gamut make colors richer and scenes more immersive. |
| Long gaming sessions | Flicker-less and low dimming tech reduce eye strain so you can play comfortably for hours. |
| Multi-device setup | With 1 DisplayPort and 2 HDMI ports, switching between your PC, console, or other devices is hassle-free. |
Ease of Use
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup | Easy plug and play |
| Port selection | Multiple ports for flexible connections |
| Menu navigation | Intuitive and straightforward |
| Mounting options | VESA compatible for custom setups |
Versatility
Great for gaming, streaming, and everyday use, this monitor adapts well to different setups thanks to its multiple input options and ergonomic tilt.
Comfort
Designed with flicker-less technology and low blue light dimming to keep your eyes comfortable during long gaming or work sessions.
Why You’ll Love It
- Sharp 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS display for detailed visuals
- Smooth gameplay with up to 180Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time
- AMD FreeSync technology eliminates screen tearing and stuttering
- Vibrant colors with DCI-P3 95% coverage and HDR 10 support
- Comfortable viewing with flicker-less and low dimming features
Rating: 4.5 (total: 3027+)
Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor
This Dell 27 Plus 4K monitor is a great all-rounder if you want sharp visuals and smooth performance without fuss. Whether you’re diving into games, binge-watching your favorite shows, or just working on your projects, the 4K resolution combined with a 120Hz refresh rate makes everything look crisp and feel responsive.
The IPS panel means colors stay vibrant even if you’re not sitting dead center, and the ComfortView Plus helps reduce eye strain during those long sessions. Plus, the built-in speakers are a nice touch if you don’t want to clutter your desk with extra gear. It’s a solid pick if you want a sleek, modern monitor that handles gaming and everyday use with ease.
What People Say
Users appreciate the smoothness of the 120Hz refresh rate and the vibrant, accurate colors. Many mention how the monitor is easy to set up and comfortable for long use, with minimal eye strain.
🗣️ William Jones
After upgrading from a 60Hz 4K monitor, the 120Hz refresh rate on this Dell really makes navigating and gaming feel so much smoother. Colors are vibrant and the contrast is noticeably better. The matte screen helps with reflections, and the minimal IPS glow means it’s easy on the eyes even in darker rooms.
🗣️ Kahlil Bautista
I’m a gamer who’s also into color accuracy for work, and this monitor hits a nice balance. It’s got great color with sRGB 99%, and the 120Hz refresh rate keeps games feeling fluid. Setup was simple, and the speakers with sound profiles are surprisingly good for casual listening.
How It Fits Your Day
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Console gaming | The 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium make gameplay smooth and responsive, especially with controllers. |
| Working long hours | ComfortView Plus reduces blue light, helping your eyes feel less tired after extended use. |
| Watching movies or streaming | 4K resolution and vivid colors bring your favorite shows and movies to life with sharp detail. |
| Multi-tasking or productivity | The large 27-inch screen and crisp text make it easier to manage multiple windows and work comfortably. |
Ease of Use
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup | Plug and play, very straightforward |
| Input options | Multiple HDMI ports for easy device switching |
| Menu controls | Simple joystick navigation on the back |
| Adjustability | Basic tilt adjustment, no height or swivel |
Versatility
This monitor works well for gaming, streaming, and everyday tasks, making it a versatile choice whether you’re on a console, PC, or just watching content.
Comfort
Designed with eye comfort in mind, the ComfortView Plus feature reduces blue light without messing with color accuracy, so your eyes stay relaxed during long sessions.
Why You’ll Like It
- Crisp 27-inch 4K IPS display with vibrant colors and wide viewing angles
- Smooth 120Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync Premium for tear-free gaming
- ComfortView Plus reduces harmful blue light for less eye strain
- Integrated speakers with improved sound quality for casual audio
- Sleek design with ultra-thin bezels and ash white finish
Rating: 4.4 (total: 153+)
Amazon Basics IPS Monitor 27″
If you’re looking for a solid gaming monitor that won’t overcomplicate things, this Amazon Basics 27-inch IPS display is a surprisingly good pick. The Full HD resolution keeps visuals sharp, and the 75 Hz refresh rate means gameplay feels smoother than your average 60 Hz screen. Thanks to the IPS panel, colors stay consistent even if you’re not sitting perfectly in front of it, which is great if you like to lean back or share the screen with friends. It’s got plenty of input options, so hooking up your PC, console, or even older gear is hassle-free.
Plus, the built-in speakers cover basic audio needs, so you don’t have to scramble for extra speakers right away. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing, it’s a dependable choice that fits well on most desks and even mounts on the wall if you want to save space.
What People Say
People love the bright, clear picture and the convenience of the built-in USB hub that helps keep their desk tidy. The speakers work fine for notifications and casual use, but most recommend external speakers for music lovers.
🗣️ GMB
Overall, the image quality and brightness are remarkable. The built-in USB hub keeps me from having to plug in all my peripherals separately. The speakers are good enough for basic listening intelligibility, but not what I would want to use to listen to music. The monitor is considerably brighter and clearer than my old one, and the USB hub setup makes my desk clutter-free.
🗣️ RoyBlaze
I needed a monitor with audio but didn’t want to spend a lot. It has 3 video inputs and 3 USB ports, plus audio in and out. Setup was easy, and the regular plug fits nicely on my power strip. The picture quality is great with many settings, including a gaming mode I don’t use but appreciate having.
How It Fits Your Setup
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Casual gaming | The 75 Hz refresh rate makes gameplay feel smoother than standard monitors, giving you a better experience without breaking the bank. |
| Home office or study | Wide viewing angles and sharp text make long work or study sessions easier on your eyes, plus the USB hub helps keep your workspace organized. |
| Streaming movies or videos | Full HD resolution and IPS technology deliver vibrant colors and clear images, so your favorite shows look great. |
| Limited desk space | VESA compatibility means you can mount the monitor on a wall or arm, freeing up valuable desk room. |
Ease of Use
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup | Simple plug and play with clear instructions |
| Input options | Multiple ports make connecting devices straightforward |
| Menu controls | Easy to navigate with intuitive buttons |
| Adjustability | Basic tilt adjustment for comfortable viewing angles |
Versatility
This monitor handles gaming, work, and entertainment with ease, thanks to its range of inputs and solid display quality. It’s a great all-rounder whether you’re on PC or console.
Comfort
The IPS panel offers consistent colors and wide viewing angles, reducing eye strain when you’re gaming or working for hours. The adjustable tilt helps you find a comfy angle without hassle.
Why You’ll Like It
- Sharp 27-inch Full HD IPS display with wide viewing angles
- 75 Hz refresh rate for smoother gaming and video playback
- Multiple input options: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and USB ports
- Built-in speakers and audio ports for basic sound needs
- VESA compatible for flexible mounting options
Rating: 4.5 (total: 1,015+)
MSI G273CQ
If you want a gaming monitor that really pulls you into the action, the MSI G273CQ is worth checking out. Its 27-inch curved screen wraps around your view just enough to feel immersive without being overwhelming.
The QHD resolution keeps everything sharp, while the 170Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium help keep gameplay buttery smooth and free of annoying screen tearing. Colors pop thanks to the VA panel’s deep blacks and strong contrast, and it’s HDR ready for a bit of extra punch in supported games and videos.
Setup is straightforward with HDMI and DisplayPort options, and the tilt adjustment helps you find a comfy angle. Whether you’re grinding ranked matches or kicking back with a spooky Halloween stream, this monitor balances performance and style nicely.
What People Say
Gamers appreciate the sharp, vibrant picture and smooth refresh rate that really improves gameplay. The curved screen and solid build quality also get a lot of praise, making it a favorite for immersive sessions.
🗣️ Johnathan McGinley
The MSI G273CQ is an outstanding gaming monitor that checks all the boxes. The 27″ QHD resolution delivers sharp, detailed visuals, and the 170Hz refresh rate with FreeSync Premium ensures ultra-smooth gameplay with no tearing or stuttering. Colors are vibrant, the VA panel offers deep blacks and strong contrast, and it’s HDR ready, so everything looks even more dynamic. The stand is stable and offers a nice tilt adjustment for better ergonomics. Setup is easy and flexible with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs. Highly recommended!
🗣️ Sergey
Colors are great and it supports 170Hz if you enable DP overclock in the monitor settings and use their DisplayPort cable. HDMI gives 144Hz. The monitor looks solid with a heavy-duty stand and the slight curve really adds to the experience.
How It Fits Your Gaming Life
| Situation | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Competitive gaming | The 170Hz refresh rate combined with FreeSync Premium keeps your gameplay smooth and responsive, so you won’t miss a beat during fast-paced matches. |
| Watching movies or streaming | The HDR-ready VA panel delivers deep blacks and vivid colors, making your favorite spooky Halloween flicks look more atmospheric. |
| Long gaming sessions | The curved screen and tilt adjustment help reduce eye strain and keep you comfortable as you play for hours. |
| Multi-device setup | With both HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, you can easily switch between your PC and console without unplugging cables. |
Ease of Use
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup | Plug and play with straightforward connections |
| Menu navigation | Simple buttons with easy-to-understand controls |
| Adjustability | Tilt adjustment lets you find a comfy viewing angle |
| Input options | Multiple ports make switching devices hassle-free |
Versatility
This monitor isn’t just for gaming — it’s great for streaming, casual browsing, and even some creative work thanks to its sharp QHD display and solid color depth.
Comfort
The curved VA panel and tilt feature help reduce eye fatigue and neck strain, making it easier to stay focused during long gaming marathons or binge-watching sessions.
Why You’ll Like It
- Immersive 27-inch curved (1500R) VA panel for better gameplay focus
- Sharp QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution with vibrant colors and deep contrast
- Super smooth 170Hz refresh rate with FreeSync Premium to reduce tearing
- HDR ready for enhanced visuals in games and videos
- Flexible connectivity with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs plus tilt adjustment
Rating: 4.5 (total: 449+)
FAQ
What Should I Consider When Choosing a Gaming Monitor As a Halloween Gift?
When picking a gaming monitor to gift, you want to think about the recipient’s gaming setup and preferences. Screen size around 27 inches is popular for immersive gameplay without overwhelming desk space.
Resolution matters too — Full HD (1080p) is great for casual gaming, but if they’re into sharper visuals, a 1440p (QHD) or even 4K monitor will impress. Refresh rate and response time are key for smooth, lag-free gaming; look for at least 75Hz and 1ms response time if possible.
Also, features like AMD FreeSync or G-Sync compatibility help reduce screen tearing. Don’t forget practical things like connectivity options (HDMI, DisplayPort), built-in speakers if they don’t have external ones, and ergonomic adjustments for comfort during long sessions.
Will A Budget Monitor Like The Sceptre 27-inch Be Good Enough For Gaming?
Absolutely! Budget monitors like the Sceptre 27-inch with 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time offer solid performance for most gamers, especially if they’re not chasing ultra-high frame rates or professional-level color accuracy.
It’s perfect as a secondary screen or for casual gaming on consoles or mid-range PCs. Just keep in mind it’s a 1080p display, so it won’t have the sharpness of 1440p or 4K monitors, and the built-in speakers tend to be basic.
If your giftee mainly streams or plays popular titles without ultra settings, this monitor delivers great value and a smooth experience.
How Important Are Features Like HDR and Refresh Rate For Gaming Monitors?
HDR can really enhance your gaming visuals by providing richer colors and better contrast, making games look more vibrant and immersive. Monitors like the Acer Nitro or MSI G273CQ support HDR and higher refresh rates, which means smoother motion and less blur during fast-paced action. Refresh rate is crucial if you want fluid gameplay — the higher, the better, especially if your graphics card can push high frame rates. For competitive gaming, 144Hz or above is ideal, but even 75Hz is a noticeable upgrade from standard 60Hz.
So, if your giftee is serious about gaming, these features will make a big difference in their experience.
Wrapping Up
In summary, selecting the right gaming monitor can elevate your gaming or streaming setup significantly. From the affordable yet capable Sceptre 27-inch monitor to the high-end MSI G273CQ with its 170Hz refresh rate, there’s something here for every gamer.
The Acer Nitro stands out for performance, while the Dell 27 Plus offers stunning 4K visuals with eye comfort features. If you’re on a budget, the Amazon Basics monitor provides solid functionality without breaking the bank.
Consider your gaming needs and budget to pick the best option, and you’ll enjoy a more immersive and responsive gaming experience this Halloween season.
| Product | Image | Rating | Highlights | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sceptre New 27-Inch Gaming Monitor | | 4.5/5 (1000+ reviews) | 27″ FHD 1080p, 100Hz, 1ms response time, AMD FreeSync, built-in speakers. | Great picture clarity, sleek design, sturdy base, easy setup. | Limited purchase options not disclosed. |
| Acer Nitro 27″ WQHD Gaming Monitor | | 4.5/5 (3027 ratings) | 27″ WQHD (2560 x 1440), up to 180Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync, HDR 10 support. | High refresh rate, excellent HDR performance, sturdy build. | Power button requires long press, limited ports. |
| Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor – S2725QS |  | 4.4/5 (153 ratings) | 27″ 4K (3840 x 2160), 120Hz, IPS panel, AMD FreeSync Premium. | Excellent resolution, good color accuracy, integrated speakers. | Slight ghosting in fast-paced games. |
| Amazon Basics IPS Monitor 75 Hz |  | 4.5/5 (1015 ratings) | 27″ FHD 1080p, 75Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, built-in speakers. | Great value, good image quality, multiple inputs. | Speakers are basic, not suitable for music. |
| MSI G273CQ Gaming Monitor |  | 4.5/5 (449 ratings) | 27″ QHD (2560 x 1440), 170Hz, FreeSync Premium, HDR Ready. | Vibrant colors, excellent build quality, great for gaming. | Limited ergonomic adjustments. |
This Article is reader-supported. When you click through links we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.