The Best 4K Gaming Monitors: No Longer a Luxury
Not long ago, 4K gaming monitors felt like an expensive indulgence, but that's changed over the past couple of years. The kind of money that once bought you a solid 1440p display – think to – can now land you a genuinely great 4K gaming monitor. Upscaling tech has improved, OLED is making moves at smaller sizes, and the barrier to entry is lower than ever.
Since our last update to this buying guide, we've seen more 4K OLED panels enter the 27-inch gaming segment, and we've tested a bunch of them. We've also reviewed a wide array of other new releases, some impressive, some not so much, so it's a good time to reassess what actually delivers the best value.
There's a catch, though: pricing is a bit of a moving target at the moment. Tariffs in the US are still a mess, and monitor prices are fluctuating as old stock sells out and new shipments roll in. That makes it harder to talk about value in absolute terms, but we'll do our best to stay grounded with a wide range of options and navigate the situation to make this guide useful for people in the US and other regions around the world.
As always, our monitor recommendations focus on products we've personally reviewed and tested. We have comprehensive reviews for many of the products mentioned in this article, which provide more in-depth testing and insights. With that in mind, whether you're upgrading from 1440p or going all-in on a new build, now it's a great time to jump into 4K gaming. And with even more new panels on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year to make the leap.
Top 32-inch 4K Gaming Monitors
Choose From Your Favorite OLED: Asus, MSI, Dell, Gigabyte, Samsung
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
Right now, the best 4K gaming monitors on the market are 32-inch 4K OLEDs. While 27-inch models are also available, we find the larger 32-inch panel size more immersive for 4K gaming, and prices aren't significantly higher than for the smaller models.
But why choose OLED over LCD?
There are two key advantages of OLED panels that significantly enhance the gaming experience compared to LCDs. First, OLEDs have lightning-fast transition times, delivering elite motion clarity that surpasses LCDs running at the same refresh rate. Second, they feature individual pixel control, allowing each pixel to turn off completely to produce deep, true blacks. This also means OLEDs offer per-pixel local dimming for precise HDR control – eliminating the need for traditional backlight zones.
There are two main types of 32-inch 4K OLED panels available: a 240Hz QD-OLED and a 240Hz WOLED. Both offer the same core OLED benefits: fast response times and per-pixel control, but they differ in several ways. Initially, we leaned toward QD-OLED being better, but after extensive testing, we've found it difficult to declare a clear winner. Ultimately, your preferences will determine which panel is the better choice. Our in-depth 4K WOLED vs. 4K QD-OLED comparison dives deeper into this.
Choose a 4K QD-OLED monitor if you prefer a glossy screen coating. Currently, only QD-OLED models offer this, as all WOLED options use a matte finish. While this is a matter of personal preference, some buyers won't consider an OLED unless it's glossy. QD-OLEDs also offer the widest color gamut and highest color brightness. In some cases – though not always – they deliver higher overall brightness.
On the other hand, choose a 4K WOLED monitor if you want access to dual-mode functionality, which allows the panel to switch between 4K at 240Hz and 1080p at 480Hz. This is especially valuable for competitive gaming, offering increased motion clarity and lower input lag.
We've found the feature works seamlessly and adds versatility to the panel. WOLEDs also tend to provide a more consistent brightness experience across high and low APL content, eliminating concerns about aggressive panel dimming or toggling between HDR modes.
MSI MPG 321URX
There are many 32-inch 4K OLEDs on the market, and within the two panel families, performance is generally similar. You won't see major differences in response times, brightness, contrast, or core capabilities. Most models also have similar out-of-the-box configurations. As a result, the best monitor often comes down to manufacturer tuning and additional features.
Here are the monitors we recommend and why:
Here are the monitors I recommend and why you might consider each one:
Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM: This is possibly the best overall 4K QD-OLED currently available. It offers a robust feature set including an accurate sRGB mode with unlocked settings, excellent HDR accuracy, ELMB black frame insertion, and Dolby Vision support. While its MSRP is we're seeing regular sales bringing it down to the ~range. As of writing, there's a rebate. At that price, it's a very strong option.
MSI MPG 321URXand MSI MAG 321UPX: The MSI 321URX is the better of the two, offering more USB ports and superior factory calibration. The 321UPX is available if you're looking to save a bit more. They lack some of the premium features found on the Asus model, such as black frame insertion and Dolby Vision support, but still deliver excellent performance and strong value. MSI also offers the MPG 322URX, which is nearly identical to the 321URX but includes DisplayPort 2.1 instead of 1.4.
Dell Alienware AW3225QF: This is the go-to model if you prefer a curved screen. We personally prefer flat panels at this size and aspect ratio, but for curve enthusiasts, Dell has you covered. Performance is very similar to the Asus and MSI offerings, and it includes Dolby Vision support. In many regions, it's also among the most affordable options.
Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2Pand Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2: These are solid monitors but can be hard to recommend in some regions due to higher pricing – often several hundred dollars more than competing models. However, they offer more HDR mode customization than competitors and excellent calibration. The FO32U2P includes DisplayPort 2.1, which contributes to its higher price, but we don't think it justifies a substantial premium. We generally lean toward the FO32U2.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G80SDand OLED G8 G81SF: These QD-OLED models from Samsung offer a matte finish, which is rare among QD-OLEDs. We've tested the G81SF and found it to perform well, although calibration isn't as strong as models from other brands. The G80SD includes smart TV functionality, while the newer G81SF does not. If you find one of these on sale, it could offer excellent value, but we think the MSRP is too high.
Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP: This is our recommended 4K WOLED model. We've also tested the LG 32GS95UE, but the Asus version stands out for its superior tuning, performance, and features. Choose the PG32UCDP if you want WOLED with dual-mode functionality, better brightness in bright scenes, and a matte coating. It's an excellent display but priced a tad higher than most others.
Let pricing and the key features we just mentioned drive your decision. All of these models have strengths worth considering, and the performance differences between them aren't drastic. These 4K 240Hz QD-OLED and WOLED panels are top-tier displays, and we believe you'll be very satisfied with any of them.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G81SF
We generally recommend OLED displays for content consumption, such as gaming or video playback. There is a risk of permanent burn-in with OLEDs, especially when displaying static content like productivity apps or web pages. For mixed or work-heavy usage, it's still difficult to recommend OLED at this time.
What about 4K LCD monitors for HDR gaming?
Right now, these are hard to recommend because OLED panels are simply better. We understand some are concerned about brightness or burn-in with OLEDs, but most alternative LCD options currently on the market are underwhelming.
The Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 remains available and you can often find it for around It's a solid 32-inch 4K 165Hz VA LCD with a 1,196-zone full-array local dimming backlight. It offers fast response times, impressive HDR performance, and no risk of burn-in. This is usually our top LCD alternative, though we're still looking for a better option – ideally something with a 240Hz refresh rate and without major flaws. Until then, the Neo G7 remains our recommendation for an HDR-capable LCD gaming monitor.
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Top 27-inch 4K Monitors with HDR
Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG 27"
In numbers
Price:
While the 32-inch models we've just covered are excellent choices, they can be a bit large for some setups. That's why many gamers prefer 27-inch monitors instead. If you're one of them, there's good news: 2025 has brought the release of 27-inch 4K 240Hz QD-OLED panels. These panels come from the same product family as the 32-inch versions, offering very similar performance... essentially a a shrunk down version with a higher pixel density.
We've tested four of these displays so far in 2025, and all are strong contenders: the Asus ROG Swift PG27UCDM, Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG, the MSI MPG 272URX and the Dell Alienware AW2725Q.
Like their 32-inch counterparts, these monitors perform similarly overall, so your decision will likely come down to features and pricing in your region.
Currently, the best value on the market is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG. It's very similar to the PG27UCDM – which remains the top performer overall – but is available at a significantly lower price. Compared to the PG version, the XG model drops DisplayPort 2.1 and Dolby Vision support but retains many useful features, including the Neo Proximity Sensor, OLED Anti-Flicker, unlocked sRGB mode, KVM switch, and more. Despite its lower price, it's still one of the most feature-rich OLED monitors available.
The XG27UCDMG has a listed MSRP of though tariffs and regional variations may affect the final price. Still, it's around cheaper than the PG27UCDM for a very similar experience. We'd only recommend the PG model if you specifically want its additional features. If the price gap narrows in the future, either model could represent a solid buy.
The Dell Alienware AW2725Q is also worthy of strong consideration, typically being the most affordable option in most places. It may not offer as many premium features as the Asus, but its performance is excellent.
With a current price of around it represents fantastic value. For instance, in Australia, it retails for about compared to for the PG27UCDM and for the MSI MPG 272URX – making Dell's model by far the better value. In Europe, a sub-1,000 euro price tag puts it in direct competition with the XG27UCDMG, and these two are clearly the front-runners right now.
The MSI MPG 272URX is not a bad monitor by any means, but it lacks the feature set of the Asus variants and is often priced closer to the PG27UCDM. In our view, it should be priced closer to the Dell model. We'd only recommend the MSI display if it's available at a comparable price to the Dell.
There are several other 27-inch 4K QD-OLED monitors hitting the market right now using the same panel. These should offer similar performance to the displays we've tested. For example, we'd expect the 27-inch Samsung Odyssey G81SF to perform similarly to its 32-inch counterpart. Depending on pricing, these may also be worth considering.
Later this year, we expect to see 27-inch 4K WOLED panels arrive, but for now, QD-OLED is the only option in this size category.
As for LCD alternatives... unfortunately, we're still searching for a standout alternative. The 4K LCDs we've tested so far have been underwhelming. We don't want to recommend anything without proper testing, especially since mini-LED LCDs can sometimes display unusual performance characteristics. Recommending something subpar just to fill the space would be a disservice. If you're interested in a 27-inch 4K HDR LCD, we suggest checking back throughout the year as we continue to test more options.
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Best 4K SDR Monitors in the 27-inch Range
LG 27GR93U or Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
If you're looking for a more affordable 4K gaming monitor, the best bet would be a 27-inch 4K mid-refresh SDR display. Pricing in this segment is quite attractive, with many solid options available for under There's no reason to spend more than that on a 4K 144Hz monitor in 2024, as our testing has shown that most of these displays deliver similar performance due to the widespread use of fast IPS panels.
One of our favorites in this range is the LG 27GR93U, a 27-inch 4K 144Hz IPS LCD with well-tuned performance. It delivers fast response times in line with other modern IPS panels and offers a single overdrive mode for a straightforward user experience.
Factory calibration is solid, brightness is excellent, and LG includes hardware calibration support – a feature not often found in this segment. It's a well-rounded product, suitable for both gaming and desktop productivity. You can find the 27GR93U for around While not the absolute cheapest 27-inch 4K option, it still represents good value, and discounts occasionally push the price lower.
A strong alternative is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS, which features a 27-inch 4K IPS panel with a slightly higher 160Hz refresh rate. Motion clarity is comparable to the 27GR93U, and factory calibration is slightly better in the sRGB mode. Otherwise, the two monitors are closely matched. Pricing is also similar between the two in both Europe and the US, while in Australia, the Asus model tends to be a bit cheaper.
Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS
Another option worth mentioning is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCG, a dual-mode version of this display that can also operate at 1080p 320Hz. This mode provides better clarity and lower input lag for multiplayer gamers at the cost of resolution. In terms of performance, it's similar to the XG27UCS, with comparable response times and color accuracy. The UCG typically costs a bit more, which makes sense given the added dual-mode functionality. However, if you find both models priced similarly, we'd lean toward the UCG – it's the more feature-rich of the two.
Gigabyte also offers solid 27-inch 4K options, including the M27U, M27UA and M28U. The M27U and M27UA are essentially the same product, featuring a 27-inch 4K 160Hz IPS LCD panel. The M27UA is the newer model and includes tuning improvements that slightly boost performance, offering faster response times and more accurate colors. These Gigabyte displays are closely matched with the Asus and LG monitors mentioned above. There's no definitive winner – each offers a well-balanced experience at a comparable price.
The Gigabyte M28U is also still in the mix despite being an older product, and in fact in the United States it's one of the cheapest 4K monitors on the market. It's pretty similar to the M27U family in performance and color accuracy, but it doesn't get as bright, consumes more power and has a somewhat lower DCI-P3 gamut coverage.
Finally, if you're seeking a higher refresh rate, the LG 27G850A features a 27-inch 4K 240Hz IPS LCD panel. It performs well, but at around it's nearly double the price of the 144Hz to 160Hz models. Additionally, you're still only getting an SDR experience, as its HDR functionality relies on basic edge-lit dimming.
For people that really want a 27-inch 4K 240Hz LCD we don't think the price or its lack of true HDR support should be a dealbreaker, especially as it has some other neat benefits like its "IPS Black" technology that produces a much better than usual contrast ratio for an IPS. It also supports dual mode, giving multiplayer gamers access to a 1080p 480Hz configuration. However, we don't think it offers great value compared to the other options we've discussed.
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Best 32" 4K Monitors without HDR
LG 32GR93U or Gigabyte M32UP
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
There are no changes to our recommendations for a 32-inch 4K SDR gaming monitor. There are two strong contenders in this category, but the leading option is the LG 32GR93U, a 32-inch 4K 144Hz IPS LCD. Over the last six months, prices have remained relatively stable, typically ranging between and Ideally, you'd want to find it closer to the mark, so it's worth waiting for a discount as it follows a predictable pricing cycle.
The 32GR93U performs well across a range of areas. It delivers solid response times, and LG has tuned it to provide a single overdrive mode experience. While it's not the absolute fastest 144Hz monitor, it's optimized to avoid inverse ghosting artifacts.
Among 32-inch LCDs, this is one of the best we've seen in terms of motion handling – especially important, as older models from a few years ago were quite underwhelming in that regard. This is complemented by great factory color tuning, an excellent sRGB mode, hardware calibration support, wide DCI-P3 color space coverage, and solid brightness levels.
It offers great versatility for users who want a monitor suitable for both gaming and productivity, thanks to its large 32-inch 4K panel. It's an excellent dual-purpose display. The main drawback is the lack of HDR capabilities, but that's acceptable at this price point.
Another solid choice in this price range is the Gigabyte M32UP, along with the older M32U. The M32UP is the more recent model and goes head-to-head with the 32GR93U in both performance and pricing.
The LG display is slightly better tuned for response times and motion clarity, and it also offers higher SDR brightness. On the other hand, the Gigabyte model has slightly better factory calibration and includes a few extra features such as a KVM switch and a USB-C port.
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#best #gaming #monitors #longer #luxuryThe Best 4K Gaming Monitors: No Longer a Luxury
Not long ago, 4K gaming monitors felt like an expensive indulgence, but that's changed over the past couple of years. The kind of money that once bought you a solid 1440p display – think to – can now land you a genuinely great 4K gaming monitor. Upscaling tech has improved, OLED is making moves at smaller sizes, and the barrier to entry is lower than ever.
Since our last update to this buying guide, we've seen more 4K OLED panels enter the 27-inch gaming segment, and we've tested a bunch of them. We've also reviewed a wide array of other new releases, some impressive, some not so much, so it's a good time to reassess what actually delivers the best value.
There's a catch, though: pricing is a bit of a moving target at the moment. Tariffs in the US are still a mess, and monitor prices are fluctuating as old stock sells out and new shipments roll in. That makes it harder to talk about value in absolute terms, but we'll do our best to stay grounded with a wide range of options and navigate the situation to make this guide useful for people in the US and other regions around the world.
As always, our monitor recommendations focus on products we've personally reviewed and tested. We have comprehensive reviews for many of the products mentioned in this article, which provide more in-depth testing and insights. With that in mind, whether you're upgrading from 1440p or going all-in on a new build, now it's a great time to jump into 4K gaming. And with even more new panels on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be an excellent year to make the leap.
Top 32-inch 4K Gaming Monitors
Choose From Your Favorite OLED: Asus, MSI, Dell, Gigabyte, Samsung
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
Right now, the best 4K gaming monitors on the market are 32-inch 4K OLEDs. While 27-inch models are also available, we find the larger 32-inch panel size more immersive for 4K gaming, and prices aren't significantly higher than for the smaller models.
But why choose OLED over LCD?
There are two key advantages of OLED panels that significantly enhance the gaming experience compared to LCDs. First, OLEDs have lightning-fast transition times, delivering elite motion clarity that surpasses LCDs running at the same refresh rate. Second, they feature individual pixel control, allowing each pixel to turn off completely to produce deep, true blacks. This also means OLEDs offer per-pixel local dimming for precise HDR control – eliminating the need for traditional backlight zones.
There are two main types of 32-inch 4K OLED panels available: a 240Hz QD-OLED and a 240Hz WOLED. Both offer the same core OLED benefits: fast response times and per-pixel control, but they differ in several ways. Initially, we leaned toward QD-OLED being better, but after extensive testing, we've found it difficult to declare a clear winner. Ultimately, your preferences will determine which panel is the better choice. Our in-depth 4K WOLED vs. 4K QD-OLED comparison dives deeper into this.
Choose a 4K QD-OLED monitor if you prefer a glossy screen coating. Currently, only QD-OLED models offer this, as all WOLED options use a matte finish. While this is a matter of personal preference, some buyers won't consider an OLED unless it's glossy. QD-OLEDs also offer the widest color gamut and highest color brightness. In some cases – though not always – they deliver higher overall brightness.
On the other hand, choose a 4K WOLED monitor if you want access to dual-mode functionality, which allows the panel to switch between 4K at 240Hz and 1080p at 480Hz. This is especially valuable for competitive gaming, offering increased motion clarity and lower input lag.
We've found the feature works seamlessly and adds versatility to the panel. WOLEDs also tend to provide a more consistent brightness experience across high and low APL content, eliminating concerns about aggressive panel dimming or toggling between HDR modes.
MSI MPG 321URX
There are many 32-inch 4K OLEDs on the market, and within the two panel families, performance is generally similar. You won't see major differences in response times, brightness, contrast, or core capabilities. Most models also have similar out-of-the-box configurations. As a result, the best monitor often comes down to manufacturer tuning and additional features.
Here are the monitors we recommend and why:
Here are the monitors I recommend and why you might consider each one:
Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM: This is possibly the best overall 4K QD-OLED currently available. It offers a robust feature set including an accurate sRGB mode with unlocked settings, excellent HDR accuracy, ELMB black frame insertion, and Dolby Vision support. While its MSRP is we're seeing regular sales bringing it down to the ~range. As of writing, there's a rebate. At that price, it's a very strong option.
MSI MPG 321URXand MSI MAG 321UPX: The MSI 321URX is the better of the two, offering more USB ports and superior factory calibration. The 321UPX is available if you're looking to save a bit more. They lack some of the premium features found on the Asus model, such as black frame insertion and Dolby Vision support, but still deliver excellent performance and strong value. MSI also offers the MPG 322URX, which is nearly identical to the 321URX but includes DisplayPort 2.1 instead of 1.4.
Dell Alienware AW3225QF: This is the go-to model if you prefer a curved screen. We personally prefer flat panels at this size and aspect ratio, but for curve enthusiasts, Dell has you covered. Performance is very similar to the Asus and MSI offerings, and it includes Dolby Vision support. In many regions, it's also among the most affordable options.
Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2Pand Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2: These are solid monitors but can be hard to recommend in some regions due to higher pricing – often several hundred dollars more than competing models. However, they offer more HDR mode customization than competitors and excellent calibration. The FO32U2P includes DisplayPort 2.1, which contributes to its higher price, but we don't think it justifies a substantial premium. We generally lean toward the FO32U2.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G80SDand OLED G8 G81SF: These QD-OLED models from Samsung offer a matte finish, which is rare among QD-OLEDs. We've tested the G81SF and found it to perform well, although calibration isn't as strong as models from other brands. The G80SD includes smart TV functionality, while the newer G81SF does not. If you find one of these on sale, it could offer excellent value, but we think the MSRP is too high.
Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP: This is our recommended 4K WOLED model. We've also tested the LG 32GS95UE, but the Asus version stands out for its superior tuning, performance, and features. Choose the PG32UCDP if you want WOLED with dual-mode functionality, better brightness in bright scenes, and a matte coating. It's an excellent display but priced a tad higher than most others.
Let pricing and the key features we just mentioned drive your decision. All of these models have strengths worth considering, and the performance differences between them aren't drastic. These 4K 240Hz QD-OLED and WOLED panels are top-tier displays, and we believe you'll be very satisfied with any of them.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 G81SF
We generally recommend OLED displays for content consumption, such as gaming or video playback. There is a risk of permanent burn-in with OLEDs, especially when displaying static content like productivity apps or web pages. For mixed or work-heavy usage, it's still difficult to recommend OLED at this time.
What about 4K LCD monitors for HDR gaming?
Right now, these are hard to recommend because OLED panels are simply better. We understand some are concerned about brightness or burn-in with OLEDs, but most alternative LCD options currently on the market are underwhelming.
The Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 remains available and you can often find it for around It's a solid 32-inch 4K 165Hz VA LCD with a 1,196-zone full-array local dimming backlight. It offers fast response times, impressive HDR performance, and no risk of burn-in. This is usually our top LCD alternative, though we're still looking for a better option – ideally something with a 240Hz refresh rate and without major flaws. Until then, the Neo G7 remains our recommendation for an HDR-capable LCD gaming monitor.
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Top 27-inch 4K Monitors with HDR
Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG 27"
In numbers
Price:
While the 32-inch models we've just covered are excellent choices, they can be a bit large for some setups. That's why many gamers prefer 27-inch monitors instead. If you're one of them, there's good news: 2025 has brought the release of 27-inch 4K 240Hz QD-OLED panels. These panels come from the same product family as the 32-inch versions, offering very similar performance... essentially a a shrunk down version with a higher pixel density.
We've tested four of these displays so far in 2025, and all are strong contenders: the Asus ROG Swift PG27UCDM, Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG, the MSI MPG 272URX and the Dell Alienware AW2725Q.
Like their 32-inch counterparts, these monitors perform similarly overall, so your decision will likely come down to features and pricing in your region.
Currently, the best value on the market is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG. It's very similar to the PG27UCDM – which remains the top performer overall – but is available at a significantly lower price. Compared to the PG version, the XG model drops DisplayPort 2.1 and Dolby Vision support but retains many useful features, including the Neo Proximity Sensor, OLED Anti-Flicker, unlocked sRGB mode, KVM switch, and more. Despite its lower price, it's still one of the most feature-rich OLED monitors available.
The XG27UCDMG has a listed MSRP of though tariffs and regional variations may affect the final price. Still, it's around cheaper than the PG27UCDM for a very similar experience. We'd only recommend the PG model if you specifically want its additional features. If the price gap narrows in the future, either model could represent a solid buy.
The Dell Alienware AW2725Q is also worthy of strong consideration, typically being the most affordable option in most places. It may not offer as many premium features as the Asus, but its performance is excellent.
With a current price of around it represents fantastic value. For instance, in Australia, it retails for about compared to for the PG27UCDM and for the MSI MPG 272URX – making Dell's model by far the better value. In Europe, a sub-1,000 euro price tag puts it in direct competition with the XG27UCDMG, and these two are clearly the front-runners right now.
The MSI MPG 272URX is not a bad monitor by any means, but it lacks the feature set of the Asus variants and is often priced closer to the PG27UCDM. In our view, it should be priced closer to the Dell model. We'd only recommend the MSI display if it's available at a comparable price to the Dell.
There are several other 27-inch 4K QD-OLED monitors hitting the market right now using the same panel. These should offer similar performance to the displays we've tested. For example, we'd expect the 27-inch Samsung Odyssey G81SF to perform similarly to its 32-inch counterpart. Depending on pricing, these may also be worth considering.
Later this year, we expect to see 27-inch 4K WOLED panels arrive, but for now, QD-OLED is the only option in this size category.
As for LCD alternatives... unfortunately, we're still searching for a standout alternative. The 4K LCDs we've tested so far have been underwhelming. We don't want to recommend anything without proper testing, especially since mini-LED LCDs can sometimes display unusual performance characteristics. Recommending something subpar just to fill the space would be a disservice. If you're interested in a 27-inch 4K HDR LCD, we suggest checking back throughout the year as we continue to test more options.
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Best 4K SDR Monitors in the 27-inch Range
LG 27GR93U or Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
If you're looking for a more affordable 4K gaming monitor, the best bet would be a 27-inch 4K mid-refresh SDR display. Pricing in this segment is quite attractive, with many solid options available for under There's no reason to spend more than that on a 4K 144Hz monitor in 2024, as our testing has shown that most of these displays deliver similar performance due to the widespread use of fast IPS panels.
One of our favorites in this range is the LG 27GR93U, a 27-inch 4K 144Hz IPS LCD with well-tuned performance. It delivers fast response times in line with other modern IPS panels and offers a single overdrive mode for a straightforward user experience.
Factory calibration is solid, brightness is excellent, and LG includes hardware calibration support – a feature not often found in this segment. It's a well-rounded product, suitable for both gaming and desktop productivity. You can find the 27GR93U for around While not the absolute cheapest 27-inch 4K option, it still represents good value, and discounts occasionally push the price lower.
A strong alternative is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS, which features a 27-inch 4K IPS panel with a slightly higher 160Hz refresh rate. Motion clarity is comparable to the 27GR93U, and factory calibration is slightly better in the sRGB mode. Otherwise, the two monitors are closely matched. Pricing is also similar between the two in both Europe and the US, while in Australia, the Asus model tends to be a bit cheaper.
Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS
Another option worth mentioning is the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCG, a dual-mode version of this display that can also operate at 1080p 320Hz. This mode provides better clarity and lower input lag for multiplayer gamers at the cost of resolution. In terms of performance, it's similar to the XG27UCS, with comparable response times and color accuracy. The UCG typically costs a bit more, which makes sense given the added dual-mode functionality. However, if you find both models priced similarly, we'd lean toward the UCG – it's the more feature-rich of the two.
Gigabyte also offers solid 27-inch 4K options, including the M27U, M27UA and M28U. The M27U and M27UA are essentially the same product, featuring a 27-inch 4K 160Hz IPS LCD panel. The M27UA is the newer model and includes tuning improvements that slightly boost performance, offering faster response times and more accurate colors. These Gigabyte displays are closely matched with the Asus and LG monitors mentioned above. There's no definitive winner – each offers a well-balanced experience at a comparable price.
The Gigabyte M28U is also still in the mix despite being an older product, and in fact in the United States it's one of the cheapest 4K monitors on the market. It's pretty similar to the M27U family in performance and color accuracy, but it doesn't get as bright, consumes more power and has a somewhat lower DCI-P3 gamut coverage.
Finally, if you're seeking a higher refresh rate, the LG 27G850A features a 27-inch 4K 240Hz IPS LCD panel. It performs well, but at around it's nearly double the price of the 144Hz to 160Hz models. Additionally, you're still only getting an SDR experience, as its HDR functionality relies on basic edge-lit dimming.
For people that really want a 27-inch 4K 240Hz LCD we don't think the price or its lack of true HDR support should be a dealbreaker, especially as it has some other neat benefits like its "IPS Black" technology that produces a much better than usual contrast ratio for an IPS. It also supports dual mode, giving multiplayer gamers access to a 1080p 480Hz configuration. However, we don't think it offers great value compared to the other options we've discussed.
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Best 32" 4K Monitors without HDR
LG 32GR93U or Gigabyte M32UP
In numbers
Price:
on Amazon
There are no changes to our recommendations for a 32-inch 4K SDR gaming monitor. There are two strong contenders in this category, but the leading option is the LG 32GR93U, a 32-inch 4K 144Hz IPS LCD. Over the last six months, prices have remained relatively stable, typically ranging between and Ideally, you'd want to find it closer to the mark, so it's worth waiting for a discount as it follows a predictable pricing cycle.
The 32GR93U performs well across a range of areas. It delivers solid response times, and LG has tuned it to provide a single overdrive mode experience. While it's not the absolute fastest 144Hz monitor, it's optimized to avoid inverse ghosting artifacts.
Among 32-inch LCDs, this is one of the best we've seen in terms of motion handling – especially important, as older models from a few years ago were quite underwhelming in that regard. This is complemented by great factory color tuning, an excellent sRGB mode, hardware calibration support, wide DCI-P3 color space coverage, and solid brightness levels.
It offers great versatility for users who want a monitor suitable for both gaming and productivity, thanks to its large 32-inch 4K panel. It's an excellent dual-purpose display. The main drawback is the lack of HDR capabilities, but that's acceptable at this price point.
Another solid choice in this price range is the Gigabyte M32UP, along with the older M32U. The M32UP is the more recent model and goes head-to-head with the 32GR93U in both performance and pricing.
The LG display is slightly better tuned for response times and motion clarity, and it also offers higher SDR brightness. On the other hand, the Gigabyte model has slightly better factory calibration and includes a few extra features such as a KVM switch and a USB-C port.
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