Joybuy Insights

Choosing a gaming monitor: how to find a screen that suits your setup

Buying a gaming monitor seems straightforward until you start comparing refresh rates, resolution, panel type and connectivity. A high number on the box doesn’t tell the whole story. A 240Hz gaming monitor can offer little benefit if your PC can’t achieve a high frame rate in your favourite games. And a 4K gaming monitor demands more from your graphics card than a Full HD screen.

With this practical guide, you can avoid the most common buying mistakes and compare models based on verifiable specifications.

Three pitfalls when buying a gaming monitor

1. Only looking at the highest refresh rate

A 180Hz gaming monitor or 240Hz gaming monitor can display motion more smoothly than a 60Hz screen. The difference is especially noticeable in fast-paced shooters, racing games and esports. However, your PC also needs to produce enough frames per second. With a less powerful computer, a QHD screen with 180Hz can be a more logical choice than a 4K screen with a high refresh rate.

Also pay attention to the connection you use. Check the product specifications to see which HDMI and DisplayPort versions are available, and which resolution and refresh rate they actually support.

2. Taking a low response time at face value without context

Brands often list response times as MPRT, GtG or a special overdrive mode. These measurement methods are not directly equivalent. A value of 0.5ms MPRT is therefore not directly comparable to 1ms GtG.

Alongside response time, consider the panel type, user reviews and overdrive settings. An overly aggressive overdrive can cause visible image artefacts. A low stated value is useful as an indication, but not a reason in itself to choose a monitor.

3. Treating HDR as a synonym for a cinematic picture

The label HDR, HDR10 or DisplayHDR tells you that a screen can process HDR signals. The actual experience also depends on brightness, contrast, local dimming and the content you use. An OLED gaming monitor has per-pixel light control that differs from an IPS or VA monitor, so black levels and contrast can vary.

Also check whether HDR is well supported in your games, streaming service or console. Don’t automatically enable HDR for all desktop applications; image quality can vary depending on the source.

The key specifications explained

Resolution and screen size

A 27 inch gaming monitor with Full HD is often affordable and less demanding on your graphics card. At this size, however, text and images may look less sharp than on QHD. A QHD gaming monitor with 2560 × 1440 pixels offers a practical balance between detail and the graphics power required.

For larger screens, resolution becomes even more important. A 34 inch ultrawide monitor typically uses 3440 × 1440 pixels and has a 21:9 aspect ratio. This gives you more room for simulation games, RPGs and multitasking, but also requires a desk with enough depth and width.

IPS, VA or OLED

  • IPS gaming monitor: generally offers wide viewing angles and consistent colours. Suitable for gaming, work and creative applications.
  • VA gaming monitor: typically delivers higher static contrast, which can be pleasing in dark scenes. Motion handling and viewing behaviour vary by model.
  • OLED gaming monitor: pixels can be switched off individually. This can deliver deep black levels and an extremely short response time. With long-term static elements, it’s wise to follow the built-in panel protection and usage advice.

Adaptive Sync and connectivity

A FreeSync monitor synchronises the refresh rate with a compatible AMD graphics card. Some models are also labelled as G-SYNC Compatible monitor. Always check the official product listing; “may work with G-SYNC” is not the same as official compatibility.

For a PC gaming monitor, DisplayPort, enough HDMI ports and possibly a USB hub are practical. For a gaming monitor for PS5 and Xbox, check the resolution, refresh rate via HDMI and the desired 120Hz support. HDMI 2.1 can be relevant here, but look at the full combination of console, cable and monitor.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Lenovo LOQ 27-10 27 inch Full HD gaming monitor

Lenovo LOQ 27-10 27" Full HD Gaming Monitor

Why this fits the profile: The combination of 27 inches, Full HD and 200Hz is straightforward for a first gaming PC or console setup.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification clearly states 1920 × 1080, 200Hz and AMD FreeSync Premium. So you’re not paying for an unknown combination of modes.

Key benefits & highlights

Fast IPS panel, HDR10, two HDMI 2.1 ports and compatibility with PS5 and Xbox Series X/S according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking top quality
LG UltraGear 27GX704A-B OLED QHD gaming monitor

LG UltraGear 27GX704A-B 27" OLED QHD

Why this fits the profile: For gamers who want QHD detail, OLED contrast and a high refresh rate in one 27-inch screen.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing specifies QHD, 240Hz, OLED and DisplayHDR 400 True Black separately. Do bear in mind OLED usage with fixed interface elements.

Key benefits & highlights

2560 × 1440 pixels, 240Hz, stated response time of 0.03ms and support for G-SYNC Compatible and FreeSync Premium Pro.

Suitable for: Specific use & intensive users
Alienware AW3425DWM 34 inch ultrawide monitor

Alienware AW3425DWM 34" ultrawide gaming monitor

Why this fits the profile: The 21:9 ratio is ideal for simulation games, RPGs, films and users who want to place multiple windows side by side.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing mentions not only 180Hz but also the resolution of 3440 × 1440, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 and the fixed 1500R curvature.

Key benefits & highlights

VA panel, 180Hz, HDR support, USB hub and height adjustment. G-SYNC functionality is not officially certified according to the listing.

Suitable for: Competitive PC gamers
MSI MAG 275CQDF X24 27 inch curved gaming monitor

MSI MAG 275CQDF X24 27" WQHD curved gaming monitor

Why this fits the profile: This model is designed for fast PC games with QHD resolution, a curved screen and 240Hz.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The key values are listed together: 2560 × 1440, 240Hz, Rapid VA, 1500R and 0.5ms GtG (min.).

Key benefits & highlights

AMD FreeSync Premium, Adaptive Sync, HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4a and VESA 100 × 100 mm.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about gaming monitors

Is 27 inches suitable for QHD gaming?

Yes. A 27 inch gaming monitor with 2560 × 1440 pixels generally offers a useful balance between sharpness, viewing distance and performance. Do check whether your graphics card can drive QHD at the desired refresh rate.

Can I use a gaming monitor with PS5 or Xbox?

Yes, but check the HDMI version, resolution and refresh rate beforehand. A monitor may have multiple connections, but not every combination of console, cable and settings delivers the same performance. Look specifically for support for the resolution and 120Hz mode you want to use.

Does a gaming monitor consume a lot of power?

Power consumption varies by panel, brightness, HDR mode and usage time. Check the energy label and the stated values for SDR and HDR. Higher brightness and active HDR can increase consumption. Turn off the monitor rather than just shutting down your PC if you want to reduce unnecessary standby usage.