The best 2021 monitors for gamers - what to choose?

Every self-respecting player knows that a good monitor is the basis for comfortable gaming. However, the problem arises when you need to choose the one and only model that will serve us for the next few years. What to pay attention to? Which gaming monitors are the best? We advise what to choose. The best 2021 monitors for gamers.

Whatshould  to look for when choosing a gaming monitor

• ASUS TUF VG289Q
• Philips E-line 276E8VJSB
• Samsung Odyssey G7
• MSI Optix G27C4
• Samsung LC27RG50FQUXEN
• BenQ EX2780Q
• LG UltraGear 27GP850-B

What is the thing to check of while choosing a gaming monitor

Choosing a new monitor is not an easy task. This type of equipment is not changed every year and is usually associated with a considerable expense. Considering the number of models available on the market, it is easy to get confused and the decision is additionally complicated by a multitude of technical phrases, which are not always clear and understandable. The first thing we usually pay attention to is the size of the monitor, currently no one is surprised by 32-inch or even larger screens. In this case, a lot depends on our individual preferences. However, there are elements that are worth a closer look, because more is not always better, here they are:

Resolution: Although until recently monitors with 4K resolution were on the market "as a medicine" and their prices effectively discouraged buying, now many manufacturers have launched budget 4K models that can surprise with quality. Of course, monitors with FullHD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) are still the most popular. When choosing the right model, its size may help us a bit. For 4K resolution, monitors above 28-inch (optimally 32-inch) are best. Why? The image displayed in FullHD begins to lose its quality on screens over 27-inch. It should also be remembered that in the case of PCs, the use of 4K benefits is associated with having a strong graphics card.

Screen refresh time: Screen refresh time is expressed in Hz. To put it simply, it informs about the frequency with which the content displayed on the screen is updated. Hence, how many frames per second (FPS) the monitor can display. The rule here is simple: the more - the better. This feature is extremely important for players, because it guarantees a smoother display of the image. However, it should be remembered that if you are looking for a monitor dedicated to older consoles (PS4 / Xbox One), it makes no sense to invest in equipment whose value will exceed 60 Hz. The situation is completely different in the case of PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, if you want to use the full potential of new devices, you should look for monitors that offer 120 Hz refresh.

Matrix Type: An important consideration when selecting a new gaming monitor is the matrix type. The market is currently dominated by three types: TN, IPS and VA. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages, and in fact, a lot depends on the individual preferences of the user. Overall - TN monitors guarantee the fastest response time, but often suffer from poor viewing angles. IPS matrices are a bit slower, but they can boast excellent color reproduction. Finally, VA screens are famous for their excellent contrast and black reproduction, but suffer from worse response time and weaker color reproduction compared to IPS.

Remember about the additions: G-Sync and FreeSync - almost every monitor for gamers must have a function that synchronizes the refresh rate of the monitor with the number of frames per second displayed on the screen. This is important because it prevents the so-called screen tearing effect - "tearing", which can significantly worsen the enjoyment of the game. The principle is simple: the G-Sync function works only with PCs equipped with Nvidia graphics cards, while FreeSync works with systems with AMD chips. However, it may happen (although rarely) that selected models are compatible with both solutions. In terms of quality, both technologies operate at a similar level and it's hard to pinpoint a winner.

Curved or flat? Finally, the very important question, although often overlooked when choosing a gaming monitor, is - what screen will be better, classic - flat or modern - curved. Unfortunately, in this case it is difficult to find an unambiguous answer. Theoretically, a curved monitor can make it easier to immerse yourself in the game world and improve the visibility of elements in the extreme areas of the screen. On the other hand, there are also numerous voices that suggest that it is exactly the opposite and the curvature is only unnecessarily distracting. The best advice we can give you is to go to a nearby store and find out what suits you best. And remember - don't be afraid to experiment.

ASUS TUF VG289Q

A monitor for players with 4K and HDR - perfect for starting a new generation of consoles.

The most expensive does not always mean the best. We can now find more and more interesting monitors on the market, for which you do not have to spend a fortune. One of such models is the ASUS TUF VG289Q, which may turn out to be the perfect choice for players looking for a solid, but not overly expensive equipment.

ASUS TUF VG289Q has basically everything we can expect from a monitor that is to stand next to PS5 or Xbox Series X. The manufacturer has prepared a screen for us with a diagonal of 28 inches and a resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160). The response time of the matte matrix does not differ from industry standards and is 5 ms. The "only" 60 Hz refresh rate may be a bit disappointing, but you have to remember that most of the production on the new consoles will be optimally aimed at 4K and 60 Hz quality. It has already been confirmed that these will be the maximum values ‹‹for games such as Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Cyberpunk 2077 or Marvel's Avengers. What's more, some PS5 exclusive titles, such as Demon's Souls, won't even support this.

The Asus monitor will also provide us with support for the following technologies: HDR, AMD FreeSync, Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light. Thanks to this, we not only have a clear and smooth image, but also healthier and less tired eyes.

The choice of ASUS TUF VG289Q also speaks for the price, which will not ruin our budget, and will allow you to enjoy the new generation of games.

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 28
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Matrix type: LED (IPS)
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 5 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x headphone input, 1 x DisplayPort
• Speakers: 2 x 2W
• HDR technology, AMD FreeSync

The Asus monitor will also provide us with support for the following technologies: HDR, AMD FreeSync, Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light. Thanks to this, we not only have a clear and smooth image, but also healthier and less tired eyes.

The choice of ASUS TUF VG289Q also speaks for the price, which will not ruin our budget, and will allow you to enjoy the new

Philips E-line 276E8VJSB

The cheapest 4K monitor on the market.

The portfolio of the Philips brand includes many interesting devices, in particular TV sets and monitors, which the Dutch brand is famous for. If you want to reduce expenses on the new generation (after all, consoles themselves cost a lot), you should consider buying the Philips E-line 276E8VJSB monitor. It is one of the cheapest devices in its class offering 4K resolution. So where's the catch? There is no - the manufacturer resigned from numerous additional "features" and decided to create a simple and solid monitor.

Philips E-line 276E8VJSB can boast a 27-inch ISP matrix with 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels). The image refresh rate is 60 Hz, and the matrix response time is 5 ms. The monitor also has wide viewing angles of 178 degrees. In addition, the manufacturer took care of full support for technologies that protect our eyes, such as: reduction of image flicker or reduction of blue light emission.

A very interesting solution is also the MultiView function, which allows you to connect two devices and display the image from each of them at the same time. This makes the Philips E-line 276E8VJSB an ideal device not only for fun, but also for work.

The specification of the Philips monitor is complemented by a rich set of connectors with two HDMI ports, audio output and DisplayPort at the fore.

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 27
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Matrix type: IPS (WLED)
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 5 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x headphone input, 1 x DisplayPort
• Speakers: none

Samsung Odyssey G7

Premium monitor with a refresh rate of 240 Hz.

Samsung has been working intensively on the gaming market for years. The fruit of these activities is, among others a series of unique monitors for players - Odyssey. The G7 model is the perfect companion for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X consoles.

Samsung Odyssey G7 is equipped with a 31.5-inch display with a VA matrix with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. In order to provide the users with the greatest possible comfort, the manufacturer decided to use a curved screen (1000R). Also the rest of the monitor specification clearly shows that we are dealing with a premium product. The matrix response time is only 1 ms, while the refresh rate is as much as 240 Hz. This means you can easily run games at 120 frames per second on PS5 and Xbox Series X.

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It is worth emphasizing, however, that in the case of the Sony console, the maximum supported resolution on the Odyssey G7 is FullHD (1920 x 1080) pixels. In the case of the Xbox Series X and Series S, you will be able to play at 2560 x 1440 pixels without any problems. Why? Unfortunately, but PS5 does not officially support WQHD resolution (1440p), only FullHD or 4K quality is possible. It is possible, however, that through a PS5 system software update, this will change in the future.

What else can buyers of the Samsung Odyssey G7 model count on? First of all, to support technologies responsible for improving the quality of the displayed image, such as.egFreeSync, G-Sync and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), the latter is, for now, only supported on Microsoft consoles. Of course, there were also functions supporting the health of our eyes, such as blue light reduction or HDR10.

The only thing that can stop you from buying a Samsung Odyssey G7 monitor is its price, which is not the lowest.

The most important features:

• Screen diagonal: 31.5
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 240 Hz
• Matrix type: VA (QLED)
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 1 ms
• Connectivity: 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x headphone input, 2 x DisplayPort, 3 x USB
• Speakers: none
• HDR10, FreeSync, G-Sync, VRR

MSI Optix G27C4

Top specification at a low price.King in terms of the relationship - quality / price.

The MSI brand is most recognizable for its components for PCs. The Taiwanese manufacturer, however, has much more interesting devices in its portfolio. Among them is the MSI Optix G27C4 gaming monitor. What distinguishes it from the competition? Attractive design, strong specification and low price.

The monitor is equipped with a 27-inch curved screen (1500R) with FullHD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels). Which in combination with a VA matrix with a response time of 1 ms and a refresh rate of 165 Hz makes it difficult to imagine a hardware with a better configuration for games. The design with extremely narrow frames (excluding the bottom one) is also noteworthy, which makes it easier to use two monitors at the same time.

Of course, there was also support for such solutions as: AMD FreeSync (synchronizes the work of the GPU with the refresh rate of the monitor and removes the problem of "image tearing", Anti-Flicker (technology that eliminates image flickering) or Less Blue Light (reduces blue light that is harmful to the eyes) .

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 27
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 165 Hz
• Matrix type: VA
• Matrix response time: 1 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x DisplayPort

Samsung LC27RG50FQUXEN

A monitor for enthusiasts of ultra-smooth gameplay.

One of the most popular manufacturers of monitors in the world - Samsung, also could not let go of such a popular segment as equipment for players. The LC27RG50FQUXEN model has been designed with the most demanding users in mind - the 27-inch screen boasts a FullHD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) and an extremely high refresh rate of up to 240 Hz. Combined with the matrix response time of 4 ms and Nvidia G-Sync technology, it will ensure smooth gameplay without the so-called "Tearing the image".

The Samsung LC27RG50FQUXEN also boasts an unusual design with a curved screen (1500R), making it easier to plunge into the world of the game. Even more importantly, the curvature is tuned to the optimal human field of view, allowing the user to view the entire screen without having to shift their eyesight. The health of our eyes is also supervised by: Flicker Free technology - eliminating screen flickering and Eye Saver Mode that reduces the emission of harmful blue light.

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 27
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 240 Hz
• Matrix type: VA
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 4 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x headphone jack

BenQ EX2780Q

A gaming monitor for everyone.

The BenQ EX2780Q monitor is the perfect partner for almost any gamer. Its specification will satisfy both PC and console owners (both older - PS4 / Xbox One and newer - PS5 / Xbox Series X). It offers a LED screen (IPS) with a diagonal of 27 inches and a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels. Noteworthy is also the matte matrix coating with a response time of 5 ms and a refresh rate of 144 Hz, which will translate into an extremely smooth gameplay.

BenQ EX2780Q, as befits a monitor for players, will also offer us a whole range of solutions dedicated to games. Flicker-Free technology reduces image flickering, which will positively affect our eyesight. Low Blue Light works in a similar way, limiting the negative influence of blue light on our eyes. There was also support for HDR technology and the AMD FreeSync function, which synchronizes the refresh rate of the monitor with the number of frames per second displayed on the screen. The BenQ monitor is equipped with a set of 2W speakers, which is certainly a nice and unexpected addition.

The price, which is very attractive for this class of equipment, also speaks in favor of buying the BenQ EX2780Q.

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 27
• Resolution: 2560 x 1140 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 144 Hz
• Matrix type: LED (IPS)
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 5 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x USB 3.1, 1 x headphone input, 1 x DisplayPort
• Speakers: 2 x 2W
• HDR technology, AMD FreeSync

LG UltraGear 27GP850-B

Monitor adapted to new generation players.

LG has an extremely rich portfolio when it comes to monitors and TV sets dedicated to electronic entertainment. Models from the UltraGear series are the Korean manufacturer's response to the requirements of a modern gamer.

LG UltraGear 27GP850-B offers us basically everything that we could expect from top gaming equipment. This monitor is equipped with a screen with a diagonal of 27 inches and a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels (WQHD). In addition, we can count on a refresh rate of 165 Hz (and even 180 Hz in OC mode) and a matrix response time of 1 ms. The manufacturer used the new Nano IPS technology in his monitor, which consists in creating precisely arranged nano-particles in the LED diode illuminating the screen. Thanks to this, we can count on more vivid and better saturated colors.

As if that was not enough, the manufacturer also took care of support for such functions as: FreeSync Premium, G-Sync, Dynamic Action Sync or Black Stabilizer. The first two are responsible for synchronizing the refresh rate of the monitor with the rendering speed of the graphics card. Thanks to that the gameplay is extremely smooth and there is no so-called "Tearingu" or "tearing the screen". Dynamic Action Sync, in turn, is LG's proprietary solution, which additionally reduces the input delay. Black Stabilizer improves the quality of blacks (and dark areas) in games.

LG UltraGear 27GP850-B also has several predefined setting modes (eg Gamer, FPS or RTS) that will allow you to easily and quickly adjust the displayed image to a given genre or game. As befits modern gaming equipment, the LG UltraGear 27GP850-B also offers a rich set of connectors and ports, which include: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x audio output, 2 x USB 3.1 Gen. 1, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen. 1 Type-B and power input.

The most important features:

• Diagonal screen size: 27
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
• Proportion: 16: 9
• Image refresh rate: 165 Hz (180 Hz OC)
• Matrix type: Nano IPS
• Matrix coating: matte
• Response time: 1 ms
• Connectivity: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x USB 3.1, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen. 1 Type-B, 1 x Audio Out, 1 x DisplayPort
• AMD FreeSync Premium, G-Sync, Dynamic Action Sync, Black Stabilizer