Joybuy Insights

Choosing a gaming monitor: how to compare refresh rates, resolution and picture quality

Buying a gaming monitor seems straightforward until you start comparing specifications. A screen with “1 ms”, HDR and a high refresh rate sounds appealing, but those terms don’t always tell the whole story. For smooth PC gaming, a great console experience or productivity, it’s the combination of features that matters most.

Also look out for hidden limitations. A high refresh rate is of little use if your graphics card or console can’t deliver that frame rate. A QHD gaming monitor needs more graphics processing power than a Full HD gaming monitor. And a monitor with an impressive HDR claim may perform differently in practice when it comes to brightness and contrast.

Common pitfalls when choosing a gaming monitor

1. “1 ms” without checking the measurement method

A monitor with a 1 ms response time sounds like a clear choice, but manufacturers use different measurements, including GTG and MPRT. GTG measures the transition between shades of grey. MPRT is more closely linked to motion clarity and may be associated with a backlight or strobing mode.

So always check:

  • Whether the quoted figure is GTG or MPRT.
  • Which overdrive setting the figure applies to.
  • Whether an ultra-fast mode could cause visible overshoot or slight image artefacts.

A “monitor with a 1 ms response time” isn’t automatically just as fast or clear at every setting.

2. Looking only at Hz

A 240Hz or 180Hz gaming monitor can display motion more smoothly than a 60Hz screen, but the difference depends on the frame rate. If your PC only manages 100 frames per second in a game, you won’t make full use of a 240Hz panel.

Also consider:

  • Your graphics card and the games you play.
  • The resolution you want to game at.
  • The connections and their maximum resolution and Hz support.
  • Adaptive Sync, such as AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible.

For consoles, the maximum refresh rate also depends on the system and the connection you use.

3. Treating HDR as a quality label

HDR10 or DisplayHDR means a screen can process HDR signals. It doesn’t, on its own, tell you how bright the panel gets or how much contrast you’ll see in dark scenes. So check the stated brightness, panel type and HDR certification.

Some product listings may mention different HDR levels in the marketing copy and technical table. For example, if the specifications list HDR400 but the description refers to a higher HDR level, check which version and certification you’ll actually receive before buying.

The key specifications explained

Resolution and screen size

A Full HD gaming monitor with 1920 × 1080 pixels places relatively little demand on your graphics card. This makes Full HD a practical choice for esports, entry-level PCs and high frame rates. At 24 or 24.5 inches, the pixel density is generally well suited to gaming.

A QHD gaming monitor with 2560 × 1440 pixels offers more detail and room to work. At 27 inches, QHD is a practical choice for gaming, streaming and office work. At 32 inches, you get a larger picture, but bear in mind your viewing distance and pixel density.

An ultrawide such as the Alienware AW3425DWM uses 3440 × 1440 pixels and a 21:9 aspect ratio. It’s a good option for simulators, RPGs, films and multitasking, but not every game supports ultrawide without adjustments.

Panel technology

  • IPS gaming monitor: wide viewing angles and generally consistent colour reproduction. Suitable for gaming, content creation and everyday work.
  • VA panel: often offers higher static contrast, which can make dark scenes look more striking. Motion handling and viewing angles vary by model.
  • OLED gaming monitor: individual pixels can switch off, producing very deep blacks. Follow the user instructions and guidance on brightness settings and any features designed to prevent image retention.

A curved gaming monitor can make the picture wrap further around your field of view. A 1500R curve works particularly well with larger screens or a short viewing distance. For productivity involving straight lines, a flat panel may be simpler to work with.

Refresh rate, synchronisation and connections

A monitor with a high refresh rate is especially useful for fast-paced shooters, racing games and esports. 180Hz, 200Hz, 240Hz and 320Hz are all worth considering, but always check that DisplayPort or HDMI supports the setting you want.

FreeSync monitors synchronise the refresh rate with compatible AMD hardware. A G-SYNC monitor or G-SYNC Compatible model is designed for NVIDIA systems. Check official compatibility: a product that hasn’t been officially tested as G-SYNC Compatible may work, but this isn’t guaranteed.

Also check:

  • DisplayPort version and HDMI version.
  • The number of video inputs.
  • USB hub, audio output and VESA mounting.
  • Height adjustment, swivel and tilt.
  • Energy class and stated power consumption.

Recommended models for different user profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Lenovo LOQ 24-10 23.8-inch Full HD gaming monitor

Lenovo LOQ 24-10 23.8" Full HD Gaming Monitor

Why it suits this profile: The combination of a 23.8-inch screen, Full HD and 200Hz is well suited to a compact PC or console setup. The stated support for PS5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch makes this a versatile option.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details list both 0.5 ms MPRT and 1 ms GTG, making the measurement method clearer than a standalone “1 ms” claim.

Key benefit & highlights

23.8 inches, Full HD, 200Hz, Fast IPS, FreeSync Premium and two HDMI 2.1 ports, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Alienware AW2725D QHD QD-OLED gaming monitor

Alienware AW2725D flat PC monitor 27" QHD QD-OLED

Why it suits this profile: This model is aimed at gamers and creators looking for QHD detail, OLED contrast and high speed in a single 27-inch screen.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The table lists QD-OLED, 0.03 ms, HDR10 and 280Hz separately, so you can assess the panel type, speed and HDR independently.

Key benefit & highlights

2560 × 1440 pixels, 280Hz, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB hub and support for FreeSync Premium Pro and G-SYNC Compatible.

Suitable for: Specialist use & demanding users
Alienware AW3425DWM 34-inch ultrawide curved gaming monitor

Alienware AW3425DWM 34" ultrawide curved gaming monitor

Why it suits this profile: The 21:9 aspect ratio and 1500R curve are a good match for sim racing, RPGs, films and multitasking across multiple windows.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The resolution, aspect ratio, connections and refresh rate are listed separately. However, the product information contains different HDR references, so check these before buying.

Key benefit & highlights

34 inches, 3440 × 1440 pixels, VA panel, 180Hz, two HDMI ports, DisplayPort 1.4 and 110 mm height adjustment.

Suitable for: Esports players
Alienware AW2525HM 24.5-inch Full HD 320Hz gaming monitor

Alienware AW2525HM 24.5" Full HD LCD gaming monitor

Why it suits this profile: The compact Full HD size and 320Hz refresh rate are aimed at players who prioritise high frame rates and rapid on-screen action.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details quote both 0.5 ms and 1 ms, with different GTG labels. HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 are also listed for the high refresh rate.

Key benefit & highlights

24.5 inches, Full HD, 320Hz, IPS panel, 400 cd/m² brightness and compatibility with FreeSync Premium and G-SYNC Compatible, according to the specifications.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about gaming monitors

Is 180Hz enough for gaming?

For most PC gamers, 180Hz is a generous refresh rate, particularly for shooters and racing games. The screen can display up to 180 updates per second, but your PC also needs to deliver a similar frame rate. If you play esports at very high frame rates, 240Hz or 320Hz may be worth considering.

Which gaming monitor is right for a console?

First, check your console’s maximum resolution and refresh rate. Then look at the HDMI version, VRR support, HDR and the screen size you want. A model with HDMI 2.1 can be a practical choice for modern consoles, but always check your console’s exact output settings.

How long does a gaming monitor last?

Lifespan depends on use, heat, settings and build quality. Place the screen on a stable surface, keep the ventilation openings clear and use suitable cables. For OLED models, it’s a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for image retention. Also keep your proof of purchase and warranty details; in the Netherlands, statutory consumer rights apply alongside any manufacturer’s warranty.