Gaming monitors have become increasingly popular with gamers; providing them with higher refresh rates, improved image quality and overall better performance. But if you’re on the hunt for a new gaming monitor, your first priority should be to find one that doesn’t break the bank. In this article, we’ll be discussing what makes a monitor a good option for gamers who are on a budget.
The cheapest gaming monitor that still provides good performance is typically one with low resolution of up to 1920 x 1080p. Full HD (1080p) resolution is typically considered the lowest standard for gaming monitors, with anything lower being classified as sub-par. As such, when looking for cheap options, it is best to first make sure the monitor features at least the 1080p resolution.
Assuming the resolution is good, you should then look into the panel type. In general, the cheapest gaming monitors are of TN (Twisted Nematic) panel type. TN panels are known for having the lowest response time but also the least vibrant colors, relative to other panel types. If your priority is gaming, then going with a TN panel monitor is usually a good idea if you want to stay within your allotted budget.
In addition to getting a monitor with good specs, it is also useful to look out for additional features like VESA mounting and various ports. VESA mounting enables you to attach the monitor to a wall or external bracket, so that you can set up your gaming station exactly how you want it. Also, multiple ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, USB and more ensure that you’re able to connect your gaming console and other peripherals without worrying about compatibility.
Finally, before you purchase, you should also take a look at the warranty period that comes with the monitor. Most monitors come with either a three-year or one-year warranty, so it’s important to select one that offers at least a year-long warranty in order to guarantee your purchase.
TN Panel Monitors
TN panel monitors are the cheapest gaming monitors available; and with good reason. Prices for these monitors rarely exceed 100 USD. Even though TN panels can be considered sub-par compared to other panel types due to the lack of vivid colors, their low response time makes them a great choice for competitive gamers who want to minimize input lag. Additionally, because of their low cost, TN panel monitors can be a good starting point for upgrading your overall gaming peripherals without breaking the bank.
That said, with any budget monitor, you will have to make a lot of trade-offs in terms of performance and features. TN panel monitors typically lack things like adaptive sync, highest refresh rate and even HDR. So, if you’re looking for a monitor to produce the best visuals possible, then an TN panel monitor is definitely not for you.
That’s why if you’re on a budget but do not want to compromise too much on performance, then an IPS panel monitor could be a better choice for you. IPS panels will provide better color accuracy and wider viewing angles; along with improved response times when paired with a G-SYNC compatible GPU.
Overall, if you’re looking for maximum performance at a low budget, then a TN panel monitor might be your best bet. However, if you’re willing to spend a little extra to get some of the features and performance upgrades, then an IPS panel monitor could be a great investment.
IPS Panel Monitors
IPS panel monitors are also a great choice if you’re looking to get the most out of your gaming experience without breaking the bank. Although IPS panel monitors typically cost more than TN panel monitors, they offer superior image quality and features that are suitable for both gaming and multimedia purposes.
In addition to providing better color accuracy, IPS panel monitors can also be a great choice for gamers who prefer playing games at higher refresh rates. IPS panel monitors typically feature a maximum refresh rate of up to 144 Hz (3 times more than TN panels); providing gamers with a smoother experience their gaming sessions.
Moreover, IPS panel monitors come with support for both Adaptive Sync and HDR displays. While Adaptive Sync eliminates screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the refresh rate with the graphics card’s frame rate, HDR will provide you with improved image quality due to the brighter colours and higher contrast ratio. Both of these features can provide you with a much more immersive gaming experience.
In addition to these features, IPS panel monitors also come with a more delicate construction that requires less maintenance than TN panels. This makes IPS panel monitors more durable and less prone to damage over time. All of these factors combined make IPS panel monitors a great choice for gamers who are looking for a decent gaming monitor without breaking the bank.
VA Panel Monitors
VA (Vertical Alignment) panel monitors are another great option to consider if you’re looking for a budget gaming monitor. VA panel monitors provide gamers with better color accuracy and contrast than TN panel monitors, while still maintaining a decent response time. This makes them suitable for gaming as well as recreational activities like watching movies or browsing the web.
One of the main benefits of using VA panel monitors is that they feature a wide range of refresh rates; ranging from 60 Hz up to 240 Hz. This makes them suitable for both casual gamers who game at lower refresh rates up to competitive gamers who need the highest refresh rate to gain a competitive edge. As a result, VA panel monitors are a great choice for gamers who want to experience gaming with a higher refresh rate without breaking the bank.
Moreover, VA panel monitors also come with additional features like support for DisplayPort, HDMI, High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Adaptive-Sync. These additional features provide gamers with better visuals and an improved gaming experience. All of these features combined, makes VA panel monitors an excellent choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly gaming monitor that offers decent performance and the added bonus of enhanced visuals.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best gaming monitor, it’s important to consider all the factors that can affect your gaming experience. In general, budget gaming monitors provide good performance without breaking the bank, but you will have to make some compromises in order to stay within budget. Monitors featuring TN, IPS, and VA panel technology can all be considered as good options depending on your requirements. Ultimately, it comes down to what features are most important to you, as well as how much you are willing to spend.
