rabbit.reviews

The Best Best Budget Monitors

Updated April 2026·Experts: RTINGS, nytimes (wirecutter), PCMag

Best Overall Budget

LG 27GL83A-B

$200-$250
$200-$250 at Amazon

Reddit recommends this one repeatedly across multiple threads, and that kind of consensus is hard to argue with. It's the monitor people actually buy and keep.

What holds up

  • 27-inch IPS panel with excellent color accuracy
  • 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time
  • AMD FreeSync support
  • Strong community consensus across multiple subreddits

What to know

  • No USB-C port
  • 1440p resolution not available at this price point
  • Stand adjustability can be limited
What people say
One of the best overall budget monitors is the LG 27GL83A-B, 27", IPS, 165 Hz 1ms with FreeSync.
Reddit user
Best $100 Pick

AOC 24G4

$90-$110
$90-$110 at Amazon

The MonitorsUnboxed Reddit community crowned this the best $100 monitor, and 65 upvotes don't lie. If you're broke but want smooth gaming, this is your move.

What holds up

  • 180Hz refresh rate at only $100
  • IPS panel for good color and viewing angles
  • 1080p resolution ideal for competitive gaming
  • Widely praised in hardware community

What to know

  • 1080p only, no 1440p option
  • 24-inch screen may feel small for productivity
  • Basic stand with limited adjustability
What people say
Best $100 Monitor - AOC 24G4 (24", 1080P, 180Hz, IPS)
Reddit user
Best Budget Gaming

LG 24GS65F-B

$130-$160
$130-$160 at Amazon

When RTINGS and Reddit agree, that's a strong signal. This monitor punches above its price class with smooth performance and a practical stand.

What holds up

  • 180Hz refresh rate for smooth gaming
  • Good value per RTINGS testing
  • Adjustable height, tilt, and swivel stand
  • 1ms response time

What to know

  • 1080p resolution limits sharpness at 27 inches
  • No USB-C port
  • Not ideal for color-critical work
What people say
If you want the best gaming monitor under $200, look into the LG 24GS65F-B. It offers good value thanks to its 180Hz refresh rate and sharp
RTINGS.com
Best Budget 1440p

MSI Pro MP275

$150-$200
$150-$200 at Amazon

If you're tired of squinting at 1080p on a 27-inch screen, the MSI Pro MP275 is the logical upgrade. Wirecutter backing plus an accessible price makes this a safe buy.

What holds up

  • 1440p resolution on a 27-inch panel for sharp image
  • Larger screen than typical budget picks
  • Affordable entry into 1440p territory
  • Wirecutter recommended

What to know

  • No USB-C connectivity
  • Less community discussion than LG/AOC alternatives
  • May not have the highest refresh rate for competitive gaming
What people say
The MSI Pro MP275 is a 27-inch, 1440p resolution monitor that's bigger than our other picks, if you're looking for a larger screen and don't need a USB-C connection.
Wirecutter
Best Budget Gaming with USB-C

BenQ GW2486TC

$150-$180
$150-$180 at Amazon

If you plug a laptop into your monitor, this is your pick, full stop. USB-C with 65W charging at a budget price is genuinely hard to find, and BenQ nails the basics.

What holds up

  • USB-C with 65W power delivery for laptop users
  • Good color accuracy per Wirecutter
  • Dual expert endorsement from Wirecutter and PCMag
  • 24-inch size ideal for desk space

What to know

  • 1080p resolution only
  • No high refresh rate for gaming
  • Slightly pricier than other 1080p budget options
What people say
The BenQ GW2486TC is a 24-inch, 1080p monitor with a USB-C port capable of 65 W of charging, making it a great budget option for those who need a basic monitor to connect to their laptop.
Wirecutter