Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
BenQ GW2486TC
Best Budget Gaming with USB-CLG 27GL83A-B
Best Overall BudgetPrice
$150-$180
$200-$250
Summary
24-inch 1080p monitor with USB-C and 65W power delivery — a rare combo at a budget price that makes it ideal for laptop users. Picked by both Wirecutter and PCMag as the top low-cost option.
27-inch IPS panel with 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time — consistently the top community recommendation for budget monitors. FreeSync support makes it a versatile pick for both gaming and everyday use.
Pros
- 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
- 27-inch IPS panel with excellent color accuracy
- 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync support
- Strong community consensus across multiple subreddits
Cons
- 1080p resolution only
- No high refresh rate for gaming
- Slightly pricier than other 1080p budget options
- No USB-C port
- 1440p resolution not available at this price point
- Stand adjustability can be limited
Our take
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.
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.
Buy
