When you’re shopping for the best budget monitors, balancing performance with affordability is key. Look for features like full HD resolution, IPS panels for wider viewing angles, and adequate connectivity options such as HDMI and DisplayPort. Common pain points include limited ergonomics and color accuracy. Testing these monitors for input lag, refresh rate, and brightness levels will help identify those that offer the best value for your money.
Our guide highlights 6 winning monitors from a pool of 196 models, backed by analysis of 319,302 reviews. We found that 71% of experts weren’t trustworthy, so we filtered out fake and low quality reviews using our proprietary Trust Score and verified product tests. The top monitors performed exceptionally well, ensuring you get reliable recommendations based on rigorous scrutiny. Additionally, we have a broader selection of the best computer monitors designed to meet diverse needs, from gaming to professional applications, regardless of price.
How Did We Rank the Best Budget Monitors?
In our pursuit of the Best Budget Monitors, we analyzed over 200 websites, focusing on rigorous testing methods and customer reviews. Our experts distilled crucial insights, determining that 2required test results and 1 must-have specifications are vital for budget monitors. Using our True Score system, we ensure our recommendations are grounded in thorough analysis and real-world performance.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Must be under $300.
? Test Criteria
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1 or higher (infinite), offering deep blacks and bright whites for an exceptional viewing experience.
- Color Accuracy: At least 90% of the sRGB color gamut, providing rich and vibrant colors.
Latest Updates
- 04/30/2024: Republished the list to include the best budget monitors based on our True Score system.
Top Budget Monitors For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell S3222DGM
Best For 32-Inch
The Dell S3222DGM is great for those on a budget. It offers deep blacks and vivid visuals with high contrast, and it is decent for casual gaming and movies.
True Score
86833Experts
935kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $80$329.99$249.99
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional contrast levels
- Good color accuracy
- Fast refresh rate
- Good reflection handling
- Decent peak brightness levels
Reasons to Avoid
- Poor viewing angles
- Limited ergonomics
- No support for HDR content
Specifications
Display Type VA HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format n/a Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 
Panel Type VA Refresh Rate 165 Hz 
Response Time 2 ms Screen size 32″ 
Sync Technology AMD FreeSync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 337 Contrast Ratio (as ratio x:1) 4,283 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 85 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 98 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 82 All Retailers
$249.99$330Save $80
$279.99$298Save $18
$319.99$430Save $110
Our Verdict
The Dell S3222DGM monitor balances performance and price, making it a reasonable choice for budget-conscious buyers. This monitor boasts an unparalleled contrast ratio of 4282.5:1, resulting in deeper blacks and more defined shadows, significantly enhancing the overall image quality. This feature makes it a standout choice for viewers who appreciate a vivid and immersive visual experience.
If crisp and blur-free content matters most to you, its response time of 5.0 ms, while not the fastest, is decent. However, it may not be the best choice for extremely fast-paced gaming due to the input lag of 18.3 ms. In terms of brightness, the Dell S3222DGM measures 337.14 nits, providing adequate visibility in most bright indoor settings, though it may not be able to handle direct sunlight. The Dell S3222DGM also offers a smooth visual experience with a refresh rate of 165 Hz.
Regarding color accuracy, the monitor has a decent DCI P3 color gamut coverage of 85.0% and an sRGB coverage of 98.10%. Although it may not be ideal for tasks requiring high color accuracy, it is quite decent for general viewing and gaming.
If you value a monitor that gives you a visually immersive experience for movies and casual gaming, the Dell S3222DGM is a reliable choice. Its superior contrast ratio transforms your viewing into an immersive experience. The compromise is the color gamut and input lag, but if you’re mainly focused on enjoying vibrant movies and engaging in gaming where immersion and depth are key, these minor drawbacks are overshadowed by the monitor’s overall performance and affordability.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
HP OMEN 27QS
Best For Macbook Pro
The HP OMEN 27QS offers exceptional value for pros and gamers. Its crisp visuals, high refresh rates, and top color accuracy make it ideal for varied tasks.
True Score
85844Experts
911kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $100$299.99$199.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good Image quality
- Low response time
- Low input lag
- High refresh rate
Reasons to Avoid
- Low contrast ratio
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 
Bluelight Filter Yes 
Built-In Speakers Yes 
Built-In Webcam No 
Curved Screen No Display Type LED 
Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 240 Hz Response Time 1 ms 
Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 390 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,014 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 94 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 86 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 All Retailers
- $199.99$300Save $100
- $329.99$430Save $100
- $418.99$429Save $10
Our Verdict
Professionals seeking a monitor for productivity tasks and gaming enthusiasts should consider the HP OMEN 27QS, which offers exceptional value. Its unmatched input lag of 8.5 ms and response time of 4.2 ms ensure crisp and blur-free content. The refresh rate of 240 Hz makes it a game-changer for competitive gamers, where frame rate is crucial.
It has a high brightness of 389.5 nits, providing vivid images even in bright environments. This feature, coupled with an unmatched DCI P3 color gamut coverage of 94.35% and superior sRGB coverage of 100.00%, ensures accurate color reproduction for both general use and creative work. A contrast ratio of 1,014:1 ensures that images and videos are displayed with clear differentiation between light and dark areas, enhancing the overall viewing experience. This contrast level is particularly suitable for everyday computing, multimedia consumption, and casual gaming, where vividness and detail are appreciated.
Its additional features, such as FreeSync for tear-free gaming, built-in speakers, a rotating screen, a blue light filter, and flicker-free technology, further enhance the user experience. Compared to the Dell S3222DGM, the HP OMEN 27QS outperforms in gaming and productivity tasks due to better color accuracy, higher brightness, smoother transitions, and minimal motion blur.
It offers remarkable value for its cost and is a solid choice for gamers and a reasonable option for mixed usage, including creative work and general computing tasks. One compromise is the 4.8% reflections, meaning it has the potential for glare, but if you appreciate the great color gamut, input lag, and response time at this price, then it’s a monitor you should consider.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell S2722DGM
Dell S2722DGM excels for gamers and general use with its bright display, swift response, and smooth 165Hz refresh, offering great value for casual use.
True Score
83813Experts
905kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $100$299.99$199.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High refresh rate
- Rapid response time
- Excellent contrast ratio
- Impressive peak brightness
- Decent reflection handling
Reasons to Avoid
- No support for HDR content
- Poor ergonomics
- Narrow viewing angles
Specifications
Display Type LED HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format n/a Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 Panel Type VA Refresh Rate 165 Hz Response Time 2 ms Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 390 Contrast Ratio (as ratio x:1) 2,948 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 75 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 80 All Retailers
- $199.99$300Save $100
- $249.99$289Save $39
Our Verdict
The Dell S2722DGM is superb for gaming or crisp, blur-free content. This monitor offers remarkable value if you want a responsive and bright display. When you need to set up your monitor in a brightly lit room, it has a brightness level of 390 nits. This is superior to many monitors in the same price range, guaranteeing vivid images and excellent visibility. It also offers an excellent contrast ratio of 2948:1, providing deep blacks and rich colors.
For gamers, where frame rate can be the deciding factor between victory and defeat, its 165 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. With an input lag of 9.2 ms, it ensures a swift and fluid experience, outperforming many monitors that struggle with input lags above 10 ms. With a decent response time of 5.2 ms, the monitor reduces motion blur and provides a smoother visual experience during general use, casual gaming, and fast-paced scenes.
However, its 75% DCI P3 color gamut coverage may not be ideal for color-critical work. However, with an sRGB coverage of 99.60%, it is adequate for general usage. However, it does lack some comfort features, like a built-in blue light filter.
Although it’s the cheapest monitor on the list, it’s an outstanding value for its price. Its strong performance in brightness, input lag, and refresh rate strikes an excellent balance between cost and functionality. While it may not be the best choice for color-critical tasks, it’s a superb option that provides excellent value for money for casual gaming, media consumption, and general productivity tasks.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell S2722QC
The Dell S2722QC is a great 4K option for crisp visuals, moderate brightness for good indoor visibility, and a contrast ratio enhancing image depth.
True Score
83813Experts
893kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $120$369.99$249.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- 4K screen resolution delivers high picture quality
- Supports Variable Refresh Rate technology
- Thin top and side frame for multi-monitor setup
- Great ergonomics
- Wide viewing angles
Reasons to Avoid
- Low 60Hz refresh rate
- No HDMI 2.1 ports
- Low contrast ratio
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 60 Hz Response Time 4 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 339 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,247 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 83 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 79 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 All Retailers
- $249.99$370Save $120
- $319.99
- $323.86$558Save $234
Our Verdict
If you prefer crisp, detailed visuals, the Dell S2722QC offers an unmatched visual experience with its impressive 4K resolution despite being the priciest monitor on our budget list. Its moderate brightness of 339.0 nits ensures suitable visibility in most indoor environments, making it an excellent choice for those seeking clarity and detail in their display. Its contrast ratio of 1,247:1 ensures that it delivers deeper blacks and brighter whites, enhancing the overall image quality with more vivid and distinguishable details.
In terms of color gamut, it covers 82.9% of the DCI P3 spectrum and a superior 100% of the sRGB, making it adequate for general use but not ideal for those involved in color-critical work. The addition of built-in speakers and HDR10 support enhances its multimedia capabilities, adding to its overall value. The monitor’s input lag of 9.0 ms ensures a responsive experience for everyday tasks. However, if you’re going to use it for fast-paced, competitive gaming, its slower response time of 8.3 ms might not make it the best choice.
Compared to the Dell C1422H, the Dell S2722QC offers a significantly higher resolution and better brightness for ambient light. The C1422H is more responsive, though, and thus better for fast-paced gaming and applications.
While the Dell S2722QC comes with a higher price tag, its superior resolution, moderate brightness, and multimedia features make it an excellent choice for those willing to invest in a high-quality display. However, its slower response time and adequate color gamut coverage may not cater to the needs of fast-paced gamers or color professionals.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell G2724D
The Dell G2724D excels in bright environments with its high brightness, minimal motion blur at a swift refresh rate, and solid color accuracy.
True Score
82822Experts
88126Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $81$299.99$219.00Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Great image quality
- Low Input lag
- High native refresh rate
Reasons to Avoid
- Subpar contrast ratio and HDR color gamut
- Okay response time
- No HDMI 2.1 and USB ports
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 Available Inputs DisplayPort, HDMI Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers No Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type LED Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 165 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium, G-Sync, VESA Adaptive-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 432 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,350 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 86 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 82 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 All Retailers
- $219.00$300Save $81
Our Verdict
If you need to set up your monitor in a bright room or have some ambient light, the Dell G2724D, with its unmatched brightness of 432.0 nits, is an exceptional choice. It also boasts a good response time of 4.3 ms, ensuring minimal motion blur. This feature, especially when coupled with a decent refresh rate of 165 Hz, offers a smooth visual experience. With a moderate input lag of 9.0 ms, this monitor is suitable for most gaming and general-use scenarios.
The monitor’s DCI P3 color gamut coverage of 86.35% and sRGB coverage of 100.00% are reasonable for most users but might not meet professional color grading requirements. It also supports HDR10 format, which enhances the viewing experience for compatible content. On the downside, the Dell G2724D lacks built-in speakers, which may deter users seeking an all-in-one solution.
The Dell G2724D stands out with its superior response time and brightness compared to the Dell S3222DGM. The S3222DGM has a superior contrast ratio, enhancing the visual experience by providing more defined shadows, richer details in dark scenes, and a more vivid, lifelike image.
The Dell G2724D is a fantastic choice if you prioritize high brightness and good response time. Although it lacks built-in speakers and can have some glare due to its 4.8% reflections, its other features, including HDR10 support and a decent refresh rate, make it a strong, affordable contender.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell C1422H
The Dell C1422H is ideal for on-the-go use, with its portability and responsive experience. It is best for general tasks and casual gaming.
True Score
80786Experts
86126Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $49$298.95$249.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Bright screen
- Good reflection handling
- Excellent gray uniformity
- Two USB-C ports
- Good SDR color gamut
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks HDMI interface
- Very slow 28.4 ms response time
- Low 1,275:1 contrast ratio
Specifications
Display Type LCD HDMI Inputs 1 HDR Format Yes Max Resolution 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 60 Hz Response Time 28.4 ms Screen size 14″ Sync Technology n/a All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 266 Contrast Ratio (as ratio x:1) 1,145 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 73 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 99 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 75 All Retailers
- $249.99$299Save $49
$279.95- $379.99$469Save $89
Our Verdict
Users constantly moving and needing a portable monitor should take note of the affordable Dell C1422H. Its impressive portability and low input lag of 8.6 ms ensure a responsive user experience. This feature is particularly beneficial if you plan to use it for gaming.
The Dell C1422H also offers a below-average color gamut coverage with 73.1% DCI P3, which is considered below average for applications where color accuracy and a wide color gamut are important, such as professional photo editing, video editing, and color grading work. Its 98.90% sRGB is good for general computing and media consumption. Its refresh rate of 60 Hz is adequate for general productivity tasks and browsing, but competitive gamers might find it lacking. Its brightness level of 266.075 nits will also be underwhelming in overly bright environments.
When compared to the Dell G2724D, the Dell C1422H falls a bit short in terms of brightness and response time, but these differences don’t overshadow the C1422H’s strong points, such as its portability and HDR support, which are remarkable for a monitor in its price range.
The Dell C1422H is a good choice for users seeking a mix of portability and performance, although its brightness and color gamut coverage could improve. If you’re not planning to use it in bright environments, competitive gaming, or color-sensitive tasks, it’s a great portable monitor to consider if you’re on a budget.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best Budget Monitors?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these computer monitors and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase the best budget monitor.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contrast Ratio | >1000:1 | Yes | The difference in brightness between the whites (lit sections) and blacks (dim or unlit sections) of a monitor panel. |
| Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) | > 90% | Yes | How much of the sRGB color gamut is covered by the monitor, which helps indicate color accuracy for web content and games. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 110+ computer monitor reviewers and found that 33 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for computer monitors.
- Samuel Breton – Rtings, MuckRack
- Chris Eberle – Tom’s Hardware, LinkedIn
- Tony Hoffman – PC Mag, MuckRack
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every computer monitor review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Computer Monitor Test Data & Results
1. Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) Test Results
Contrast Ratio
> 1000:1
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How bright the monitor will get, usually under specific testing conditions, like 10% windows (which means 10% of the screen is a white box.)
Units of Measurement: Ratio
Tools to Measure: Luminance meter or photometer or colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
Contrast ratio is how dynamic images are given detail and dramatic effect, with very dark areas appearing truly dark, while bright areas are bright and pop.
Contrast ratio is responsible for making images appear “dynamic” and “dramatic.” By having a good contrast ratio, a monitor is able to recreate dramatic differences between light and dark spots in scenes, images and games accurately.
At a minimum, we recommend a contrast ratio of 1000:1, as this will do a good enough job at allow for detail in dark scenes and images. If contrast ratio gets too low, the picture quality suffers, and the monitor performs worse across the board, no matter the lighting condition. By getting a monitor with a sufficiently high contrast ratio, you can ensure the picture quality doesn’t suffer, and dramatic scenes with stark shifts in lighting, whether they be in games or videos, are created as accurately as possible.
Contrast Ratio (higher is better)
2. Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xY) Test Results
Since color gamut comes in a variety of different types, there’s bound to be some confusion as to which is meant for what. sRGB is an extremely common gamut that is used for the vast majority of web content, including how YouTube videos display, and is the primary gamut used for video games.
If you’re looking for accurate colors while web browsing, watching videos or playing games, you’re going to want a coverage of at least 90%. Higher is always better and hitting 100% means that if you correctly calibrate your monitor, you should be seeing content exactly as it was intended. Higher than 100% means that more than just the standard gamut has been covered, which can create more saturated and vivid colors. Coming in under 100% means the colors are less accurate, though this doesn’t become a major issue until you start to fall under 90%.
Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy)
> 90%
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The amount of the sRGB gamut that the monitor covers.
Units of Measurement: %
Tools to Measure: Colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
The sRGB color gamut is the most commonly used gamut for most colors when browsing the web, watching videos on the web on sites like YouTube, and when playing video games.
Color Gamut SRGB (in %; higher is better)
Best Budget Monitors: Mistakes To Avoid
- Sacrificing Quality for Price: While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest monitor available, be cautious of sacrificing quality. Look for a balance between price and features, ensuring the monitor meets your minimum requirements for resolution, display size, refresh rate, and color accuracy. For top-tier visuals, consider the top 4K monitors, or, for gamers, the best 4K gaming monitor, which offers unparalleled detail and vibrancy, enhancing your gaming experience significantly.
- Ignoring Display Specifications: Don’t overlook essential display specifications such as resolution, refresh rate, panel type (e.g., IPS, TN, VA), and response time. Consider your intended use case (e.g., gaming, multimedia, productivity) and choose a monitor with suitable specifications to avoid disappointment in performance.
- Not Considering Connectivity Options: Ensure the monitor offers the necessary connectivity options to connect to your devices. Check for HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, or USB ports, depending on your requirements. Additionally, consider future compatibility with devices you may upgrade to.
- Neglecting Ergonomics: Consider the ergonomic features of the monitor, such as tilt, swivel, height adjustment, and VESA mount compatibility. Adjustable stands and ergonomic design can enhance comfort and usability, especially for extended periods of use. For those considering wall or desk mounting options, learning how to mount a monitor is important as proper mounting can further optimize viewing angles and save valuable desk space, making your setup more efficient and comfortable.
The Best Budget Monitors Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Brightness
|
Contrast Ratio
|
Color Gamut (DCI P3)
|
Color Gamut (sRGB)
|
Input Lag
|
Response Time (ms)
|
Reflections %
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 86 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|  $249.99 $330 $80 |
| 85 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|  $199.99 $300 $100 |
| 83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $199.99 $300 $100 |
| 83 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $249.99 $370 $120 |
| 82 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $219.00 $300 $81 |
| 80 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $249.99 $299 $49 |
