Top 5 1080p Gaming Monitors of 2025

In the world of PC gaming, discussions often revolve around high-resolution 1440p and 4K monitors. However, according to Steam's Hardware Survey, the majority of gamers still prefer 1080p monitors due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of performance. With an abundance of options flooding the market, choosing the best 1080p gaming monitor can be daunting. That's where I come in—I've been reviewing gaming monitors for years and have pinpointed the top performers for 2025.

TL;DR – These Are the Best 1080p Gaming Monitors:

Our Top Pick### Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

2See it at Amazon### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy ### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

2See it at Amazon### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2See it at Amazon### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0See it at Amazon

Opting for a 1080p gaming monitor offers several advantages. They are generally more affordable than 1440p and 4K monitors and can support high refresh rates up to 500Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay. Additionally, these monitors are easier to run, requiring less powerful and less expensive graphics cards due to their lower pixel count. This makes them ideal for achieving a great gaming experience even with entry-level GPUs. However, at sizes above 27 inches, the image quality may appear less sharp. For higher resolution options, consider checking out our list of the best gaming monitors of 2025.

1. Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

Best 1080p Gaming Monitor

Our Top Pick### Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM

2

A 27-inch Full HD display with an overclockable 240Hz refresh rate, low input lag, and adaptive sync for smooth action. See it at Amazon

**Product Specifications**

- **Screen size**: 27" - **Aspect ratio**: 16:9 - **Resolution**: 1,920 x 1,080 - **Panel type**: IPS, FreeSync, G-Sync compatible - **Brightness**: 400cd/m² - **Refresh rate**: 240Hz, 280Hz (OC) - **Response time**: 1 ms (GTG) - **Inputs**: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2

**PROS**

- Great value for money - FreeSync support and G-Sync compatibility

**CONS**

- No local dimming

The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM is the top choice for most 1080p gamers. Priced under $300, it delivers a fast and vibrant screen capable of running at an impressive 280Hz. It features low input lag, variable refresh rate support, and a high peak brightness to ensure games look their best. Its 27-inch size is ideal for 1080p, providing a spacious yet sharp image. The monitor's brightness of 400 nits allows for use in well-lit environments, enhancing color vibrancy and dynamic range. While it is DisplayHDR 400 certified, it doesn't meet the standards for true HDR, which typically requires 1,000 nits. Overall, its combination of price, features, and performance makes it the leading 1080p gaming monitor of 2025.

2. Samsung Odyssey G30D

Best Budget 1080p Monitor

### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1

This gaming monitor is small but mighty, offering a solid picture and great gaming performance at a low price. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

**Product Specifications**

- **Screen size**: 24" - **Aspect ratio**: 16:9 - **Resolution**: 1,920 x 1,080 - **Panel type**: IPS, FreeSync, G-Sync Compatible - **Brightness**: 250cd/m² - **Refresh rate**: 180Hz - **Response time**: 1ms - **Inputs**: 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort

**PROS**

- Color-rich screen - 1ms response time - High refresh rate

**CONS**

- Middling peak brightness

For budget-conscious gamers, the Samsung Odyssey G30D is a reliable choice. Priced at about $120, it features a 24-inch IPS panel that delivers vibrant colors and a gaming-grade 1ms response time. With a 180Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, it ensures smooth and tear-free gameplay, even at lower frame rates. While its peak brightness of 250 nits may limit its use in direct sunlight, it performs well in typical room lighting. The monitor's single HDMI and DisplayPort inputs are sufficient for most users, and the assurance of buying from a well-known brand adds value with a one-year warranty. Overall, it offers excellent performance for the price, making it an ideal choice for budget gamers.

3. AOC Gaming C27G2Z

Best Curved 1080p Monitor

### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

2

1080p gamers will love this monitor's balance of an immersive curve, spacious screen, and fast refresh rate. See it at Amazon

**Product Specifications**

- **Screen size**: 27" 1500R - **Aspect ratio**: 16:9 - **Resolution**: 1,920 x 1,080 - **Panel type**: VA, FreeSync - **Brightness**: 300cd/m² - **Refresh rate**: 240Hz - **Response time**: 0.5ms - **Inputs**: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort

**PROS**

- Low input latency - Rapid response time - Vibrant colors and good contrast

**CONS**

- May require calibration and OSD adjustments to bring it to taste

Priced around $150, the AOC Gaming C27G2Z offers great value with its 240Hz refresh rate and a 1500R curve that enhances immersion without distorting text. Its VA panel delivers rich colors and a high contrast ratio of 3000:1, improving the depth and quality of images. With a 0.5ms response time and variable refresh rate support, it provides an edge in competitive gaming. While it may need some calibration to optimize picture quality, its performance and price make it a compelling option for those seeking a curved 1080p monitor.

4. Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

Best Ultrawide 1080p Monitor

### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2

At less than $200, this curved gaming monitor offers a great picture, fast refresh rate, solid color coverage, and an immersive curve. See it at Amazon

**Product Specifications**

- **Screen size**: 29.5" - **Aspect ratio**: 21:9 - **Resolution**: 2,560x1,080 - **Panel type**: VA, AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync compatible - **Brightness**: 350cd/m² - **Refresh rate**: 200Hz - **Response time**: 1ms - **Inputs**: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort 1.2

**PROS**

- Good color coverage and deep contrast - Immersive 1500R curve - 2x HDMI and DisplayPort jacks

**CONS**

- Out of the box color accuracy

The Acer Nitro ED6 is an excellent choice for those seeking an ultrawide 1080p monitor. With a 29.5-inch screen and a 21:9 aspect ratio, it provides a wide field of view without sacrificing image quality. Its VA panel offers great colors and contrast, and its 200Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. The 1500R curve adds to the immersive experience, making it suitable for both single-player and competitive gaming. Despite its out-of-the-box color accuracy needing some adjustment, its performance, design, and price make it a top pick for ultrawide enthusiasts.

5. BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Best 1080p Monitor for Esports

### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0

This monitor is as fast as they come with its 600Hz refresh rate but also includes additional features to offer an engaging picture and a competitive edge. See it at Amazon

**Product Specifications**

- **Screen size**: 24.1" - **Aspect ratio**: 16:9 - **Resolution**: 1,920 x 1,080 - **Panel type**: TN - **Brightness**: 320cd/m² - **Refresh rate**: 600Hz - **Inputs**: 3 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack

**PROS**

- Insanely fast - DyAc 2 for improved motion clarity - Color enhancing film - Trusted esports brand commonly found in professional tournaments

**CONS**

- Very expensive - TN colors and viewing angles aren't great

For competitive gamers, the BenQ Zowie XL2586X+ is the ultimate choice. With an unprecedented 600Hz refresh rate, it eliminates motion blur and offers the lowest possible input latency. Its TN panel, while not ideal for color accuracy or viewing angles, is the fastest available and is enhanced by Zowie's VividFilm layer for better color reproduction. The DyAc2 technology further improves motion clarity, making it a favorite in esports tournaments. At $999, it's a premium investment, but for those who demand the best in competitive gaming, it's unparalleled.

How to Choose a 1080p Monitor

When shopping for a 1080p monitor, consider the following key factors:

• Size: Opt for a monitor that fits your space. To avoid visible pixels, limit the size to no more than 27 inches.
• Panel Type: Choose between in-plane switching (IPS) for better colors and viewing angles, or vertical alignment (VA) for improved contrast. Avoid twisted nematic (TN) panels unless you're focused on high-level esports.
• Refresh Rate: Aim for a refresh rate of 120Hz or higher for smoother gameplay. A 144Hz refresh rate is often considered the sweet spot for most gamers.
• Brightness: Look for monitors with at least 300 nits for good visibility in typical room lighting, and 400 nits or higher for brighter environments.
• Additional Features: Variable refresh rate support (FreeSync or G-Sync) is crucial for eliminating screen tearing. Other useful features include on-screen reticles, timers, software support, and hotkeys.

1080p Gaming Monitor FAQ

Is a 1080p monitor worse than 1440p?

A 1080p monitor has a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, while a 1440p monitor has 2560x1440 pixels, offering a crisper image. However, the difference may not be noticeable on smaller screens, and 1080p monitors are easier to run, making them a cost-effective choice for many gamers. With an entry-level GPU like the Nvidia RTX 4050, you can achieve high frame rates at 1080p, which may not be possible at 1440p without a more powerful and expensive graphics card.

What is the best size for a 1080p monitor?

For optimal clarity and space, I recommend a 1080p monitor size of 27 inches or less. Larger sizes may result in visible pixels and a softer image.

How much should I pay for a 1080p monitor?

The price of a 1080p monitor varies based on size, features, and performance. You can find excellent options under $200, making it a great starting point for new PC gamers looking to balance cost and quality.