Top 5 1080p Gaming Monitors of 2025

In the vibrant world of PC gaming, discussions often revolve around high-resolution 1440p and 4K monitors. Yet, according to Steam's Hardware Survey, the majority of gamers still prefer the reliable 1080p resolution. This preference is driven by factors like cost-effectiveness and performance ease. When shopping for a new monitor, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the plethora of options available, making it challenging to choose the best one.

Fear not, as I'm here to guide you through the maze of choices. With years of experience covering gaming monitors, I know what it takes for a monitor to transition from acceptable to legendary. My top pick for 2025, the Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM, stands out as a testament to this. If you're eager to cut down on shopping time and maximize your gaming experience, you've come to the right place. Here are the best 1080p gaming monitors of 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 compelling advantages. These monitors are typically more affordable than their 1440p and 4K counterparts, yet they can boast high refresh rates up to 500Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay. They also support technologies like AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, enhancing your gaming experience. Importantly, 1080p monitors are easier to power, requiring less demanding graphics cards due to their lower pixel count, making them ideal for those with entry-level GPUs.

However, they may appear less sharp, especially on larger screens over 27 inches. If you're seeking higher resolutions, consider exploring 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 seamless gameplay. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size27"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeIPS, FreeSync, G-Sync compatibleBrightness400cd/m2 Refresh rate240Hz, 280Hz (OC) Response time1 ms (GTG) Inputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2PROSGreat value for moneyFreeSync support and G-Sync compatibilityCONSNo local dimming

The Asus TUF Gaming VG279QM is the top choice for most gamers. Priced under $300, it delivers a fast, vibrant screen that can hit an impressive 280Hz. With low input lag, variable refresh rate support, and a high peak brightness, this monitor ensures your games look their best with crisp motion clarity. Although I didn't personally review it, our reviewer praised its balanced feature set, making it suitable for both AMD and Nvidia GPUs thanks to FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility. Its 27-inch size strikes the perfect balance for 1080p resolution, while its 400 nits brightness is ideal for well-lit environments. It's DisplayHDR 400 certified, but for true HDR, you'll need monitors with higher brightness levels. Overall, the VG279QM excels in price, features, and performance, making it a standout choice for 2025.

2. Samsung Odyssey G30D

Best Budget 1080p Monitor

### Samsung Odyssey G30D

1A compact yet powerful monitor offering excellent picture quality and performance at a budget-friendly price. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy Product SpecificationsScreen size24"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeIPS, FreeSync, G-Sync CompatibleBrightness250cd/m2 Refresh rate180HzResponse time1msInputs 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPortPROSColor-rich screen1ms response time High refresh rateCONSMiddling peak brightness

Finding a gaming monitor on a budget can be daunting, with many unfamiliar brands making bold claims. I recommend the Samsung Odyssey G30D, a 24-inch monitor from a trusted brand, priced around $120. It features an IPS panel with vibrant colors and a 1ms response time, alongside a high 180Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay. With FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility, it ensures tear-free gaming even at lower frame rates. While it offers only one HDMI and one DisplayPort, this is manageable for single-computer setups. Its peak brightness of 250 nits may limit its use in bright environments, but it's adequate for typical room lighting. The assurance of buying from a reputable brand, complete with a one-year warranty, adds significant value. For gamers on a tight budget, the Odyssey G30D offers a compelling package.

3. AOC Gaming C27G2Z

Best Curved 1080p Monitor

### AOC Gaming C27F2Z

2This monitor's immersive curve, spacious screen, and fast refresh rate make it a favorite among 1080p gamers. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size27" 1500R Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeVA, FreeSyncBrightness300cd/m2 Refresh rate240HzResponse time0.5msInputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPortPROSLow input latencyRapid response timeVibrant colors and good contrastCONSMay require calibration and OSD adjustments to bring it to taste

Priced around $150, the AOC Gaming C27G2Z offers exceptional value with its 1500R curved, 240Hz gaming monitor. Featuring a VA panel with a 300cd/m² brightness, 0.5ms response time, and a 240Hz refresh rate, this monitor ensures your games look great and feel responsive. Its 1500R curve strikes a perfect balance, enhancing immersion without distorting text. While the VA panel offers rich colors and a 3000:1 contrast ratio, it might require some initial calibration for optimal picture quality. For competitive gaming, its low response time and high refresh rate make it an excellent choice. Despite needing some adjustments out of the box, the AOC C27G2Z is a strong contender for anyone seeking a curved 1080p gaming monitor at a reasonable price.

4. Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

Best Ultrawide 1080p Monitor

### Acer Nitro ED6 (ED306C Xbmiippx)

2This curved gaming monitor delivers a stunning picture, fast refresh rate, solid color coverage, and an immersive viewing experience for under $200. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size29.5"Aspect ratio21:9Resolution2,560x1,080Panel typeVA, AMD FreeSync Premium, Nvidia G-Sync compatibleBrightness350cd/m2Refresh rate200Hz Response time1msInputs2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort 1.2PROSGood color coverage and deep contrastImmersive 1500R curve2x HDMI and DisplayPort jacksCONSOut of the box color accuracy

The Acer Nitro ED6 stands out as a top pick for ultrawide 1080p gaming. With a 30-inch screen and a 21:9 aspect ratio, its VA panel offers excellent colors and contrast. The 200Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, perfect for both single-player and competitive scenarios. Its size is ideal for its resolution, providing a seamless experience without visible pixels. The high-quality VA panel boasts a 3000:1 contrast ratio and good color reproduction. The 1500R curve adds to the immersion, making it suitable for various gaming genres. Acer's dedication to quality and performance, combined with reliable warranty support, makes the Nitro ED6 an excellent choice for gamers seeking an ultrawide 1080p experience.

5. BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

Best 1080p Monitor for Esports

### BenQ Zowie XL2586X+

0Featuring a 600Hz refresh rate and additional features, this monitor is designed for esports enthusiasts seeking peak performance. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size24.1"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution1,920 x 1,080Panel typeTNBrightness320cd/m2Refresh rate600HzInputs3 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5mm audio jackPROSInsanely fastDyAc 2 for improved motion clarityColor enhancing filmTrusted esports brand commonly found in professional tournamentsCONSVery expensiveTN colors and viewing angles aren't great

In the realm of competitive gaming, the BenQ Zowie XL2586X+ is the ultimate choice. Priced at $999, this monitor boasts a staggering 600Hz refresh rate, offering unparalleled speed and minimal motion blur. Its TN panel, while not ideal for color accuracy, is perfect for esports due to its responsiveness. BenQ has enhanced the panel with a special VividFilm layer for better color reproduction and DyAc2 technology for improved motion clarity, making it a top pick for professional gamers. Despite its high cost and TN panel limitations, the XL2586X+ is the go-to monitor for those serious about competitive esports.

How to Choose a 1080p Monitor

When shopping for a 1080p monitor, consider these key factors: size, panel type, refresh rate, brightness, and additional features.

**Size:** Select a monitor that fits your space. For 1080p, I recommend no more than 27 inches to avoid visible pixels.

**Panel Type:** Choose between IPS and VA panels. IPS offers superior color and viewing angles, while VA provides better contrast. TN panels, though fast, are less suitable for most due to color and viewing angle limitations but excel in esports.

**Refresh Rate:** Look for a refresh rate of at least 120Hz for smoother gameplay. 144Hz is considered optimal, with rates above 200Hz ideal for competitive gaming.

**Brightness:** Aim for monitors with at least 300 nits for a vibrant picture. 400 nits or higher is even better, especially in well-lit environments.

**Additional Features:** Consider monitors with variable refresh rate support like FreeSync or G-Sync, along with other gaming-specific features like on-screen reticles 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, resulting in a sharper image. However, the difference may be less noticeable on smaller screens. 1080p monitors are easier to run and more affordable, making them ideal for gamers with less powerful GPUs.

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 reveal individual pixels and soften the image.

How much should I pay for a 1080p monitor?

Prices vary based on size, features, and performance. You can find excellent 1080p gaming monitors for under $200, making them a cost-effective choice for new PC gamers.