Top 5 1080p Gaming Monitors of 2025

In the PC gaming community, the debate often centers around 1440p and 4K monitors, yet Steam's Hardware Survey reveals that the majority of gamers still prefer 1080p. This preference is largely driven by cost-effectiveness and performance ease. Navigating the market for a new monitor can be overwhelming, given the plethora of options available. However, I'm here to help you cut through the clutter and find the best 1080p gaming monitors for 2025, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your games and less time shopping.

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 comes with several advantages. They are more affordable than their 1440p and 4K counterparts, capable of delivering high refresh rates up to 500Hz, and often support technologies like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. 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 gamers looking to achieve a high-quality gaming experience without breaking the bank. However, they may appear less sharp at sizes larger than 27 inches. For those seeking higher resolution, be sure to explore 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

2A 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 stands out as the best 1080p gaming monitor for most users. Priced under $300, it offers a fast, vibrant screen that can run at an impressive 280Hz. This monitor provides low input lag, variable refresh rate support, and a high peak brightness to ensure your games look their best. Its 27-inch size is ideal for 1080p resolution, providing a spacious yet sharp image. With a brightness of 400 nits, it's suitable for use in well-lit environments, enhancing color vibrancy and dynamic range. Although it's DisplayHDR 400 certified, it's important to set realistic expectations for HDR performance. Overall, the VG279QM offers a compelling mix of price, features, and performance, making it a top choice for 2025.

2. Samsung Odyssey G30D

Best Budget 1080p Monitor

### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1This 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 an excellent choice. Priced around $120, this 24-inch monitor from a reputable brand offers vibrant colors and a gaming-grade 1ms response time. With a high 180Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, it ensures smooth gameplay without screen tearing. While it only features one HDMI and one DisplayPort, this isn't a significant drawback for single-computer setups. Its peak brightness of 250 nits may limit its use in very bright environments, but it performs well in typical room lighting. The assurance of purchasing from a well-known brand, coupled with a one-year warranty, adds significant value to this budget-friendly option.

3. AOC Gaming C27G2Z

Best Curved 1080p Monitor

### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

21080p 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 an immersive 1500R curved display with a 240Hz refresh rate and a rapid 0.5ms response time. Its VA panel delivers rich colors and a high 3000:1 contrast ratio, enhancing the visual experience. The 1500R curve strikes a perfect balance, providing a sense of depth without distorting text. While the out-of-the-box settings may need some adjustment for optimal picture quality, the monitor's responsiveness and value make it an excellent choice for gamers seeking a curved 1080p monitor.

4. Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

Best Ultrawide 1080p Monitor

### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2At 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 a standout ultrawide 1080p monitor, offering a spacious 30-inch screen with a 21:9 aspect ratio. Its VA panel provides excellent color and contrast, and its 200Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. The 1500R curve adds immersion without compromising text readability, making it suitable for both single-player adventures and competitive gaming. With versatile connectivity options and a strong warranty from a trusted brand, the Acer Nitro ED6 is an exceptional choice for gamers seeking an ultrawide experience.

5. BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Best 1080p Monitor for Esports

### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0This 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 esports players, the BenQ Zowie XL2586X+ is unmatched. With a staggering 600Hz refresh rate, it delivers unparalleled motion clarity and responsiveness. Its TN panel, while not ideal for color accuracy or viewing angles, is the fastest available, making it a top choice for professional gamers. Additional features like DyAc 2 technology and a color-enhancing film help mitigate some of the typical TN panel drawbacks. At $999, this monitor is a significant investment, but for those seeking the ultimate competitive edge, it's a worthwhile choice.

How to Choose a 1080p Monitor

When selecting a 1080p monitor, consider the following key factors to ensure you find the best fit for your needs:

Size: Opt for a monitor size that fits your space and gaming requirements. For 1080p, I recommend staying at or below 27 inches to avoid visible pixels and maintain image sharpness.

Panel Type: The main choices are IPS and VA panels. IPS panels offer superior color accuracy and viewing angles, while VA panels provide better contrast and deeper blacks. TN panels, while fast, generally have poorer color reproduction and viewing angles, making them less suitable for most gamers unless you're focused on esports.

Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate enhances gaming smoothness. Most 1080p monitors offer at least 120Hz, with 144Hz being a sweet spot for many gamers. For competitive play, look for monitors with refresh rates of 200Hz or higher.

Brightness: A monitor's brightness is crucial for visibility. Aim for monitors with at least 300 nits for use in typical room lighting, with 400 nits or higher being ideal for brighter environments.

Additional Features: Look for features like variable refresh rate support (FreeSync or G-Sync), on-screen reticles, and software support to enhance your gaming experience.

1080p Gaming Monitor FAQ

Is a 1080p monitor worse than 1440p?

A 1080p monitor, with a resolution of 1920x1080, has fewer pixels than a 1440p monitor (2560x1440), resulting in a less sharp image. However, the difference may not be noticeable on smaller screens, and 1080p monitors are easier to run, requiring less powerful graphics cards. This makes them a cost-effective choice for many gamers.

What is the best size for a 1080p monitor?

For optimal clarity and space, I recommend a 1080p monitor size of around 25 inches. Larger sizes can lead to 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, capabilities, and features. However, you can find excellent gaming monitors for under $200. New PC gamers should target this price range but be open to spending a bit more for specific features that meet their needs.