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| Best Gaming Monitors Under $200 |
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, having the right monitor is as crucial as owning a powerful GPU or a fast processor. For budget-conscious gamers, finding the best gaming monitors under $200 can seem like a daunting task, but we’ve conducted extensive research, benchmarking, and user testing to compile a comprehensive list of monitors that offer superb value, impressive refresh rates, low input lag, and vibrant display quality without breaking the bank.
Why Budget Gaming Monitors Matter
When the right specifications align at a competitive price, you get a smooth gaming experience without the premium price tag. Monitors under $200 today can offer 144Hz refresh rates, 1ms response times, FreeSync/G-Sync compatibility, and Full HD resolutions, making them excellent for competitive gaming, FPS shooters, MOBA games, and even immersive RPGs.
Top 10 Best Gaming Monitors Under $200 in 2025
Each monitor below has been selected based on performance, build quality, and user satisfaction. Let’s dive into our hand-picked list.
1. AOC 24G2 – Best Overall Gaming Monitor Under $200
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1920x1080 (Full HD)
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Refresh Rate: 144Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms MPRT
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Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync + NVIDIA G-Sync compatible
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Ports: HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, VGA
The AOC 24G2 is universally praised for its color accuracy, fluid performance, and superior responsiveness. The IPS panel offers wide viewing angles and vivid colors, making it ideal for both competitive and immersive gaming. The slim bezels allow for a clean dual-monitor setup, and it includes a fully adjustable stand.
2. ASUS VG248QG – Best for Competitive FPS Gaming
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1920x1080
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Refresh Rate: 165Hz (Overclocked)
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Panel Type: TN
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Response Time: 0.5ms (GTG)
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Adaptive Sync: G-Sync compatible
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Ports: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, DVI-D
Tailored for fast-paced shooters like CS:GO or Valorant, the ASUS VG248QG excels in low latency and ultra-fast response. Although it uses a TN panel, which slightly compromises color richness, it more than compensates with blazing speed and stutter-free performance.
3. Sceptre E248B-FPT168 – Best Value 165Hz Monitor
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1920x1080
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Refresh Rate: 165Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms
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Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
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Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI x2, Audio Out
Sceptre delivers an outstanding package in the E248B-FPT168 with an IPS panel, high refresh rate, and built-in speakers. It’s hard to find a 165Hz IPS gaming monitor at this price point, which makes this unit a budget juggernaut for gamers who demand value and performance.
4. ViewSonic XG2431 – Best for Motion Clarity
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1080p
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Refresh Rate: 240Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms MPRT
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Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
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Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Hub
While occasionally found slightly above $200, the XG2431 often drops into the sub-$200 range during sales. It supports Blur Busters certified backlight strobing for unmatched motion clarity. Esports gamers will benefit the most from its 240Hz smoothness.
5. Gigabyte G24F 2 – Great Color & Build Quality
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Size: 23.8 inches
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Resolution: Full HD
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Refresh Rate: 165Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms MPRT
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Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
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Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI, USB
This monitor combines beautiful color reproduction, solid build quality, and excellent gaming performance in one sleek package. It’s perfect for players who game and also require visual fidelity for content consumption or casual creation.
6. Acer Nitro VG240Y – Budget Gaming Monitor with IPS
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Size: 23.8 inches
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Resolution: 1080p
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Refresh Rate: 75Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms VRB
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Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync
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Ports: HDMI, VGA
The Acer Nitro VG240Y is an ideal pick for casual gamers who want IPS quality visuals but don’t necessarily need the high-end refresh rates. The monitor features low input lag, sharp visuals, and a modern aesthetic.
7. MSI Optix G241 – Competitive Features on a Budget
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Size: 23.8 inches
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Resolution: 1920x1080
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Refresh Rate: 144Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms
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Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
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Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort
The MSI Optix G241 is a solid all-around performer with fantastic color output, excellent viewing angles, and a quick refresh rate. It supports both gaming and media with a rich display that enhances visual immersion.
8. Dell S2421HGF – Budget G-Sync Monitor
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1080p
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Refresh Rate: 144Hz
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Panel Type: TN
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Response Time: 1ms
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Adaptive Sync: G-Sync Compatible
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Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI
For NVIDIA GPU users, the Dell S2421HGF offers native G-Sync compatibility, eliminating tearing without added input lag. Although the TN panel lacks IPS vibrancy, it delivers minimal ghosting, perfect for fast-paced action.
9. KOORUI 24E4 – Budget Pick with 165Hz Refresh Rate
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1920x1080
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Refresh Rate: 165Hz
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Panel Type: VA
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Response Time: 1ms
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Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
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Ports: HDMI x2, DisplayPort
The KOORUI 24E4 combines a VA panel’s deep blacks and 165Hz refresh rate into a sleek frame. It's a strong budget option for gamers who enjoy cinematic games and appreciate contrast-rich visuals.
10. LG UltraGear 24GN600-B – Entry-Level Esports Monitor
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Size: 24 inches
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Resolution: 1080p
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Refresh Rate: 144Hz
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Panel Type: IPS
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Response Time: 1ms
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Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
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Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort
LG's UltraGear line is designed for esports performance, and the 24GN600-B is no exception. It delivers low motion blur, high color accuracy, and a sleek red-accented design at a price accessible to nearly every gamer.
Essential Features to Consider in Gaming Monitors Under $200
High Refresh Rate (144Hz or More)
Smoothness is vital in gaming. A 144Hz or 165Hz monitor ensures reduced motion blur, giving players a distinct competitive advantage, especially in FPS and action games.
Low Response Time (1ms)
Quick pixel response is key for crisp images during motion, ensuring no ghosting or blurring during fast transitions.
Panel Type – IPS vs TN vs VA
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IPS: Superior color, wider angles – best for mixed use.
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TN: Fastest response – best for esports, but limited color.
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VA: Great contrast – best for immersive single-player games.
Adaptive Sync – FreeSync/G-Sync
Adaptive Sync ensures tear-free gaming, especially critical when frame rates fluctuate. Most budget monitors now offer FreeSync, and many are also G-Sync compatible.
Top Picks for Different Gaming Scenarios
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Best for FPS Titles: ASUS VG248QG
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Best for Visuals & Story Games: Gigabyte G24F 2
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Best for Esports & Motion Clarity: ViewSonic XG2431
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Best Budget All-Rounder: AOC 24G2
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Best for Casual Gamers: Acer Nitro VG240Y
Buying Tips for Budget Gaming Monitors
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Look for sales – many premium monitors drop below $200 during promotions.
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Check compatibility – ensure your GPU supports DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0 for max refresh rates.
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Prioritize panel type – if you care about visuals, go IPS or VA over TN.
Outstanding Gaming Performance Without Overspending
You don’t need a $500+ display to enjoy fluid gameplay, vivid graphics, and competitive edge. The best gaming monitors under $200 offer features once found only in high-end models. By carefully selecting one of the monitors listed above, gamers can achieve responsive, tear-free, and immersive gaming without financial strain.
As manufacturers continue to push boundaries, budget-friendly monitors are becoming increasingly powerful. The key is to focus on core specs like refresh rate, response time, and panel type, while balancing them against your gaming preferences and system capabilities.
Choose smart, play harder.
