The Ultimate Guide to 4K Gaming Monitors for 2023
In the realm of gaming, 4K monitors were once an unattainable luxury due to their high price tags. However, the landscape has dramatically changed, and now, gamers can dive into the world of 4K gaming without breaking the bank. The market is teeming with options, catering to diverse budgets and preferences. To help you navigate this sea of choices, we present to you the best 4K gaming monitors for 2023.
1. Lenovo Legion Y32P-30: The Pinnacle of 4K Gaming
Screen Size: 32-inch
Resolution: 4K
Max. Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Brand: Lenovo
Pros:
Aesthetically stunning and spacious display
Sturdy stand with extensive adjustability
Limited HDR support
Cons:
Pricier compared to some alternatives
Price: $750 at Lenovo | $1636 at Amazon
The Lenovo Legion Y32P-30 is a gaming monitor that beautifully blends essential features. This 32-inch display, boasting 4K resolution and a rapid 144Hz refresh rate, provides a captivating visual experience. Gamers will appreciate the KVM button, facilitating seamless source switching, a 75-watt USB-C port for versatile connectivity, and built-in dual speakers. With a response time of just 0.2ms, it minimizes visual artifacts and ensures precise color representation. While it might not be a top-tier 4K display, the Lenovo Legion Y32P-30 combines qualities that are truly remarkable.
2. LG 27UP850-W: Excellence on a Budget
Brand: LG
Resolution: 3840 x 2160 Pixels
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Screen Size: 27 inches
Ports: USB-Type-C
Display Technology: LCD
Response Time: 5ms (GtG at Faster)
Pros:
VESA DisplayHDR 400
AMD FreeSync
Customized game modes
Excellent color accuracy
Cons:
Non-rotating stand
Price: $397 at Amazon | $550 at LG
The LG 27UP850-W offers a plethora of features at an affordable price point. With a built-in USB port for added convenience, gamers and content creators can seamlessly transfer 4K content and charge their laptops through the USB-C connector. The 27-inch IPS panel ensures outstanding image quality, and the customizable stand allows for ergonomic adjustments. While the 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time might not suit hardcore gamers, it’s a great choice for most users.
3. Dell S2721QS: Entry-Level Brilliance
Brand: Dell
Resolution: 3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Screen Size: 27 inches
Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort 1.2, Audio line-out
Mounting Options: VESA Mounting
Pros:
Good ergonomics
Impressive resolution
AMD FreeSync for tear-free gaming
Cons:
Contrast ratio could be better
Price: $300 at Amazon | $264 at Dell
Gamers and creators seeking a budget-friendly 4K monitor with an IPS panel will find the Dell S2721QS to be a strong contender. With a 27-inch screen and an adjustable stand, it offers comfortable adjustments to suit your preferences. While it lacks some advanced features found in pricier monitors, it delivers a solid 4K experience for those on a budget.
4. LG UltraFine 32UN650W: The Ultrawide Wonder
Brand: LG
Resolution: UHD (3840 x 2160)
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Screen Size: 32 inches
Pros:
Height Adjustable Stand
AMD FreeSync Compatible
5W built-in speakers
32″ 4K display
Cons:
Average refresh rates
No USB hubs
Price: $447 at Amazon | $400 at Best Buy | $400 at LG
Gamers and users in search of a functional big-screen 4K monitor will appreciate the LG UltraFine 32UN650W. With its spacious 32-inch IPS screen, excellent color accuracy, and 3840×2160 (UHD) resolution, it’s a top choice. While it may not have the highest refresh rate, the AMD FreeSync technology compensates for that, ensuring a smooth gaming experience. However, keep in mind that it lacks USB-A and USB-C hubs.
5. ASUS ProArt PA279CV: Mid-Range Marvel
Brand: Asus
Resolution: 3840 x 2160 Pixels
Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
Screen Size: 27 inches
Ports: 1x USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 65 watts Power Delivery, 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.2, 3.5mm audio out
Pros:
Affordable price
Multiple ports including USB-C
Excellent image quality
Anti-glare features
Adjustable stand
Cons:
Inconvenient button controls
Low refresh rate
Price: $389 at Amazon | $449 at Asus | $450 at Best Buy
The ASUS 4K monitor offers excellent color accuracy and a crisp resolution, making it an ideal choice for gamers, designers, and editors. Its 4K resolution and 10-bit color rendering support a wide color gamut. With a peak brightness of around 500 nits, the image quality is top-notch. While the 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time may be limiting for some gamers, it’s a budget-friendly option with great color performance.
6. Samsung S80UA: The Best Budget W-LED 4K Monitor
Brand: Samsung
Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Screen Size: 27 inches
Ports: (HDMI, USB-C, USB, Display Port), HDR10
Mounting Options: Wall Mount
Pros:
Abundance of ports
Fully adjustable stand
W-LED backlight
3 USB Type-A ports
Cons:
No built-in speakers
Moderate HDR performance
Price: $330 at Samsung | $299 at Amazon
Samsung’s S80UA offers an impressive 27-inch IPS display with versatile connectivity and a W-LED backlight, making it an attractive budget option. The fully adjustable stand and an abundance of ports make it user-friendly. While the 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time may not cater to hardcore gamers, the 1,000:1 contrast ratio ensures a high-quality image.
How to Choose the Perfect Budget 4K Monitor for You
When selecting a budget 4K monitor for your gaming needs in 2023, it’s crucial to consider various factors beyond resolution. Here are some key tips to find the ideal 4K gaming monitor:
- Pick the Right Panel Type
4K monitors come in different panel types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. - Consider Screen Size
Select a screen size that suits your space and gaming experience. - Screen Resolution Matters
Match the screen resolution to the monitor’s size for optimal visual clarity. - Stay within Your Budget
Set a budget and explore monitors within that price range. Keep an eye on deals and discounts to save some cash. - Adjustability is Key
An adjustable stand allows you to fine-tune your viewing angles and enhance comfort during long gaming sessions. - Consider Refresh Rates
The higher the refresh rate, the smoother your gaming experience. Choose a rate that aligns with your gaming preferences. - With these tips in mind, you can confidently select the perfect budget 4K gaming monitor that caters to your specific gaming needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Are budget 4K monitors worth the investment?
A: Budget 4K monitors are convenient for users looking for a device to surf the web, watch TV shows and movies, or play games casually. However, hardcore gamers may need monitors with robust systems. - Q: What is the recommended viewing distance for 4K?
A: The recommended aspect ratio for viewing 4K and 8K TVs is 1.5 times the vertical size of the monitor, ensuring that pixels are not distinguishable to the naked eye. - Q: Which are some of the most affordable 4K monitors?
A: Some of the most affordable 4K monitors on the market include LG 27UP850-W, Dell S2721QS, LG UltraFine 32UN650W, ASUS ProArt PA279CV, Samsung S80UA, and Lenovo Legion Y32P-30.
