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The Best Best Budget Monitors

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

Best Overall Budget

LG 27GL83A-B

$200-$250

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
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Best $100 Pick

AOC 24G4

$90-$110

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
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Best Budget Gaming

LG 24GS65F-B

$130-$160

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
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Best Budget 1440p

MSI Pro MP275

$150-$200

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
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Best Budget Gaming with USB-C

BenQ GW2486TC

$150-$180

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
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