Joybuy Insights

Buying a gaming monitor: how to choose the right monitor for your PC

Choosing a gaming monitor seems simple: look at the refresh rate, response time and screen size. In practice, the most important differences often come down to the details. A high refresh rate is of little value if your PC can’t keep up. A large screen can look less sharp at a low resolution. And a label such as HDR10 doesn’t automatically mean that dark and bright scenes will look impressive.

Use this buying guide to compare gaming monitors on the things that matter in practice. You’ll find a screen for PC gaming, esports, entertainment, working from home or content creation without relying on marketing terms alone.

Common pitfalls when buying a gaming monitor

1. Looking only at the refresh rate

A 144Hz gaming monitor refreshes the image more often than a 60Hz model. A 240Hz gaming monitor can make movement look even smoother, but only if your computer can produce enough frames per second. If you have a less powerful PC, a QHD screen at 144Hz may make more sense than a 240Hz model that rarely reaches its maximum refresh rate.

So check:

  • which graphics card you use;
  • the resolution you play at;
  • how many fps your PC achieves in your favourite games;
  • whether the right HDMI or DisplayPort connection is available.

2. Comparing response times without context

A quoted response time of 0.5 or 1 ms may be based on different measurement methods, such as GtG or MPRT. These figures aren’t directly comparable. MPRT is often linked to motion clarity settings, while GtG describes the transition between shades of grey.

Also check the overdrive settings. An aggressive setting may lower the response time according to the manufacturer, but can sometimes cause visible artefacts. So consider the panel type, refresh rate and Adaptive Sync together.

3. Confusing HDR10 with strong HDR performance

HDR10 is a supported HDR format, not a complete indicator of picture quality. Check the brightness, contrast and type of backlighting too. A VA panel generally has a higher quoted contrast ratio than an IPS panel. OLED uses self-lit pixels, which can produce very deep blacks, but it’s worth paying attention to the settings and prolonged display of static images.

The key specifications explained

Size and resolution

A 27-inch gaming monitor is a practical mid-sized option for a desk. QHD, or 2560 × 1440 pixels, offers more workspace and detail than Full HD at this size. A Full HD gaming monitor is still a good choice for competitive players who want high fps with an affordable graphics card.

A 32-inch gaming monitor gives you more screen space, but Full HD can look less refined at this size. QHD is usually a better fit for a 32-inch screen. With an ultrawide screen, check whether your game supports the aspect ratio.

Panel type

  • IPS gaming monitor: wide viewing angles and generally consistent colours. Suitable for gaming, photo editing and everyday use.
  • VA gaming monitor: often offers higher contrast and deep, dark scenes. Check the quoted motion performance for fast-paced games.
  • OLED gaming monitor: self-lit pixels, high contrast and fast pixel response. Bear in mind that some models use more energy, and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

No panel type is right for everyone. IPS is often a practical choice for a combined work and gaming setup. VA or OLED may be appealing for films and darker games.

Adaptive Sync and connections

A monitor with Adaptive Sync matches its refresh rate to the graphics card’s output. According to the product information, this can help reduce tearing and stuttering when the monitor and graphics card are compatible. Check whether the screen supports FreeSync, G-SYNC Compatible or another variant.

Also check:

  • the number of HDMI and DisplayPort connections;
  • the maximum resolution and refresh rate for each connection;
  • whether there’s a headphone socket;
  • USB-C with power delivery, especially for laptops;
  • VESA compatibility for a monitor arm.

An adjustable stand with height, swivel and tilt functions is useful for long work and gaming sessions. A screen that only tilts offers less flexibility.

Our recommendations for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
KTC 24-inch 144Hz 1080P FHD gaming monitor

KTC 24-inch Gaming Monitor 144Hz 1080P FHD

Why it suits this profile: This compact Full HD screen combines a 24-inch display, 144Hz refresh rate and IPS panel for a tidy PC setup that doesn’t demand a particularly high resolution.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Full HD at 144Hz is easier to match with an entry-level PC than a more demanding QHD or ultrawide setup. Do check which refresh rate your cable and computer can deliver.

Key benefits and features

IPS panel, 144Hz, Adaptive Sync, HDMI and DisplayPort. According to the product specifications, the stand tilts from -5° to 15°.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Alienware AW2725DM 27-inch QHD gaming monitor

Alienware AW2725DM 27-inch QHD

Why it suits this profile: This 27-inch QHD screen is designed for gamers who want to combine detail, a high refresh rate and an adjustable setup.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list not just 180Hz, but also QHD resolution, IPS technology and DisplayHDR 600. Make sure these specifications match your graphics card’s capabilities.

Key benefits and features

2560 × 1440 pixels, IPS panel, 180Hz, HDR according to the product specifications, and support for NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.

Suitable for: Specialist use and demanding users
LG UltraGear 45GX900A-B OLED gaming monitor

LG UltraGear 45GX900A-B 44.5-inch OLED

Why it suits this profile: This ultrawide OLED screen is designed for users who want to combine gaming, entertainment and multitasking on one wide display.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The aspect ratio, resolution and connections are clearly listed. Check in advance that your desk is wide enough and that your PC can drive 3440 × 1440 at 240Hz.

Key benefits and features

3440 × 1440 pixels, 240Hz, OLED panel, 800R curvature, USB-C with up to 65W Power Delivery and support for Adaptive Sync technologies.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Check these points before you order

Use this quick checklist:

  1. Resolution and size: is Full HD, QHD or ultrawide right for your screen size and graphics card?
  2. Refresh rate: can your computer make proper use of 144Hz, 180Hz, 240Hz or more?
  3. Connection: check the HDMI and DisplayPort versions, cable type and maximum output.
  4. Panel type: choose IPS for wide viewing angles, VA for contrast or OLED for self-lit pixels.
  5. Ergonomics: check the height adjustment, tilt, swivel and VESA size.
  6. Energy use: compare the energy label rating and quoted consumption in SDR and HDR.

Frequently asked questions about gaming monitors

Is 144Hz enough for PC gaming?

144Hz is a practical choice for many gamers. The picture can look noticeably smoother than at 60Hz, while putting less demand on your graphics card than 240Hz. For competitive esports games, a higher refresh rate may be worth considering if your system can achieve high fps.

Is a 27-inch gaming monitor suitable for Full HD?

It can be, but the pixel density is lower than QHD at the same screen size. If you mainly play fast-paced games and want to achieve high frame rates, Full HD may be preferable. For text, design work and detailed images, a 27-inch QHD gaming monitor is often more practical.

Does a gaming monitor use a lot of electricity?

Power consumption varies by panel, brightness, size and HDR settings. A large ultrawide or OLED screen may use more energy than a compact Full HD model. So check the energy label and quoted consumption per 1,000 hours before making your choice.