Choosing a gaming monitor: how to find a screen that suits your games and budget

Buying a gaming monitor sounds simple, until you start comparing specifications. A screen with a 1 ms response time is not automatically faster in every setting. A high refresh rate is of little use if your PC cannot deliver that frame rate. And a large screen may look less sharp than a smaller model at the same resolution.

For gamers, home workers and students in the Netherlands, these are the main pitfalls to watch out for:

• Response-time marketing: a figure such as 1 ms may refer to MPRT or apply only to a specific overdrive setting. Check whether a GtG figure is also provided.
• High hertz without the right connection: HDMI, DisplayPort and the cable being used all help determine which resolution and refresh rate are available.
• An overly large screen with Full HD: on a 27-inch gaming monitor, 1920 × 1080 is less detailed than on a 24-inch model. Text and details may therefore appear less sharp.
• Eye comfort presented as a health benefit: features such as Low Blue Light, anti-flicker and a matte coating can make use more comfortable, but they do not replace good posture, suitable lighting or regular breaks.

The key specifications explained

1. Screen size and resolution

A 24-inch gaming monitor with Full HD or 1080p is a practical choice for competitive games, smaller desks and setups where you sit close to the screen. The pixel density of a 23.8-inch Full HD display is around 93 ppi. This is generally clear and comfortable for gaming and office work.

A 27-inch gaming monitor with Full HD gives you more screen space, but has around 82 ppi. This difference is noticeable with small text, spreadsheets and detailed interfaces. For a 27-inch screen, QHD, such as 2560 × 1440, can be a logical step if your graphics card can handle it.

When choosing a monitor for PC gaming, also consider the performance of your graphics card. A 200Hz monitor will only actually display 200 frames per second when your system and game can deliver that frame rate.

2. Refresh rate and synchronisation

The refresh rate is measured in hertz:

• 100Hz to 120Hz: noticeably smoother than 60Hz and suitable for office work, casual gaming and consoles.
• 144Hz to 165Hz: a common choice for fast-paced PC games.
• 180Hz to 200Hz: interesting for esports and systems that can achieve high frame rates.

A FreeSync monitor or Adaptive-Sync monitor can match the refresh rate to the graphics card’s frame rate. According to the product information provided by the relevant brands, this is designed to reduce tearing and stuttering. However, performance depends on compatibility between the monitor, graphics card, cable and settings.

After installation, check your Windows or console settings. A screen may be set to 60Hz by default, even if the panel supports a higher refresh rate.

3. Panel, response time and connections

An IPS monitor generally offers wide viewing angles and consistent colours. This is useful if you also view photos, edit videos or use the monitor for office work. According to the stated product specifications, VA panels can offer a higher static contrast ratio, but motion performance varies from model to model.

With a monitor featuring a 1 ms response time, check the measurement method. The ASUS VG249Q3A, for example, states 1 ms, while the MSI PRO MP271A E2 lists both 1 ms MPRT and 4 ms GtG. Dell SE2425HG lists several GtG modes. These figures are therefore not directly comparable.

Also check:

• DisplayPort: often important for high refresh rates on PC.
• HDMI version: important for compatibility with PCs and consoles.
• VESA support: useful for a monitor arm or wall mount. Check the size, such as 100 × 100 mm.
• Built-in speakers: practical for basic audio, but not always necessary if you use a headset.

Recommended gaming monitors for different use profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Ochama 23.8-Inch Gaming Office Monitor

Why it suits this profile: The 23.8-inch Full HD screen combines a compact size with 100Hz. This makes it a good fit for a first gaming PC, study area or home office.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification clearly states 1080p and 100Hz, without an extremely high refresh rate that may not suit every PC.

Key benefit & highlights

23.8 inches, 1920 × 1080, 100Hz, blue-light filter and a narrow three-sided bezel.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q3A

Why it suits this profile: This 23.8-inch IPS model is designed for fast-paced PC games and offers both DisplayPort and HDMI connections.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications list IPS technology, 180Hz, 1 ms and FreeSync separately. This lets you check the relevant features rather than relying on a marketing label alone.

Key benefit & highlights

180Hz, IPS panel, FreeSync, VESA 100 × 100 mm, plus Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light features.

Suitable for: Specialist use & intensive users

MSI MAG 274F Computer Monitor

Why it suits this profile: For players with a powerful PC, a 27-inch screen with 200Hz is an appealing option, provided the graphics card can deliver enough frames at Full HD.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The monitor lists both 0.5 ms GtG and Adaptive-Sync, and uses DisplayPort and HDMI connections. However, check which port supports the setting you want.

Key benefit & highlights

27 inches, Rapid IPS, 200Hz, 0.5 ms GtG, Adaptive-Sync and VESA support.

Suitable for: Work, study and relaxed gaming

LG Monitor 27U411A-B

Why it suits this profile: This screen is designed for a combined work and entertainment setup, with a 27-inch IPS panel and 120Hz refresh rate.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The choice remains straightforward: Full HD, 120Hz, IPS and VESA are clearly specified. For small text, however, consider your viewing distance or a QHD alternative.

Key benefit & highlights

IPS, 120Hz, HDR10 according to the product specification, 99% sRGB, anti-flicker and VESA 100 mm.

Practical checklist for buying and setting up

1. Check whether your PC or console supports the desired resolution and refresh rate.
2. Check which HDMI or DisplayPort version is required and use a suitable cable.
3. Compare response times using the same measurement method, such as GtG with GtG.
4. Choose 24 inches for a more compact Full HD setup and consider QHD at 27 inches if text sharpness is important.
5. Check the VESA size, adjustability and maximum load capacity of your monitor arm.
6. Set the monitor to the highest supported refresh rate and enable FreeSync or Adaptive-Sync if your hardware is compatible.
7. Do not position the screen directly opposite a window and use a soft, dry cloth for maintenance.

Frequently asked questions about gaming monitors

Is 144Hz enough for PC gaming?

For many gamers, a 144Hz monitor offers a practical balance between smooth motion and system requirements. The difference compared with 60Hz is clear, but the benefit decreases when your game does not reach roughly 100 to 144 frames per second. For esports, 165Hz, 180Hz or 200Hz may be worthwhile if your PC can maintain that frame rate consistently.

How long does a gaming monitor last?

The lifespan depends on usage, heat, transport and power supply. A monitor does not have a fixed expiry date. Ensure stable ventilation, avoid moisture and use the supplied or a suitable power cable. In the Netherlands, many new products come with at least the statutory guarantee; check the specific terms for the product.

Does a 200Hz monitor use a lot of power?

Power consumption depends on screen size, brightness, HDR and the settings being used. Product specifications often provide separate figures for SDR and HDR. A higher refresh rate can affect consumption, but brightness and the panel also play a part. Turn the screen down or off when you are not using it, and compare the energy information before buying.