The future of PC gaming is undoubtedly 4K, and thanks to innovations like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you don't need an ultra-powerful PC to enjoy it. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM stands out as my top choice, offering stunningly detailed images, vibrant colors, and high frame rates while maintaining excellent responsiveness. If the price or PC requirements seem daunting, don't worry—there are plenty of other great 4K gaming monitors available to suit various budgets and needs.
TL;DR – These Are the Best 4K Gaming Monitors:
Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP
4See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy
### Arzopa 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor
2See it at Amazon
### GigabyteM27U
0See it at Amazon
### LG Ultragear GX9
1See it at Amazon
### Alienware AW3225QF
3See it at DellA 4K gaming monitor is the ultimate way to experience your favorite PC games, providing incredible sharpness with four times the resolution of a 1080p gaming monitor. As I've reviewed more displays featuring this high resolution, I've noticed that more graphics cards are capable of running them well, making 4K gaming more accessible than ever. These monitors also serve as excellent options for PS5 gaming. To help you find the perfect monitor, we've tested and researched dozens of options, bringing you our top five 4K gaming monitors.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham and Matthew S. Smith.
1. Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP
Best 4K Gaming Monitor
Our top pick### Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP
4WOLED gaming monitor with 480Hz refresh rate and 4K@240HzSee it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsScreen Size32"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160 / 1920x1080Panel typeOLED HDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400 True Black Brightness1,300 cd/m2Refresh rate240Hz / 480HzResponse time0.03ms Inputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x USB-C (DisplayPort mode), 3 x USB-A, 1 x USB-BPROSBeautiful OLED displayFast refresh rate with great motion clarityUp to 480Hz refresh ratePlentiful gaming featuresCONSMay be too large for some gaming spacesIf you're seeking the pinnacle of gaming monitors and are willing to invest, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is the ideal choice. Its 32-inch size perfectly showcases the crispness of its 4K resolution. The WOLED panel, which stands for white OLED, not to be confused with QD-OLED, offers exceptional brightness and factory-calibrated colors, making it suitable for both creative work and top-tier gaming. Its dedicated white LED enhances power efficiency and longevity compared to competing QD-OLED monitors.
In my review of this Asus ROG Swift monitor, its versatility truly stands out. You can enjoy 4K gaming at up to 240Hz for exquisite detail, or switch to a special 480Hz mode for unparalleled clarity and responsiveness at 1080p. This mode allows more graphics cards to achieve high frame rates. The monitor also features Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) for further improved motion clarity, making it one of the few monitors where you can immediately notice a difference, even as a casual gamer. As a longtime Battlefield player, the improvement was immediately apparent to me.
Additionally, it comes with a comprehensive suite of gaming features, some of which, like the Sniper Mode with its reticle and zoomed-in window, might push ethical boundaries. However, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP remains the best 4K monitor available today.
2. Arzopa M3RC - 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor
Best Budget 4K Gaming Monitor
### Arzopa 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor
2This display marks Arzopa's successful entry into the gaming monitor market, offering fantastic value. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size32” Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160Panel typeAMD FreeSync, G-Sync compatible Brightness350 cd/m2Refresh rate144HzResponse time1ms Inputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB Type-C, 2x USB 2.0, 1x audio outPROS144Hz refresh rateIPS panel with good color calibrationBuilt in USB hubGreat valueCONSLow peak brightnessQuestionable product supportGone are the days when 4K high refresh rate monitors were prohibitively expensive. The Arzopa M3RC, priced around $300, brings this gaming experience to the masses. Arzopa, known for its quality portable monitors, applies the same principles of balancing features with affordability to its full-size gaming monitor.
This monitor boasts a native 4K resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring crisp and smooth gameplay. It supports AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and its color-rich IPS panel offers surprisingly accurate colors right out of the box—a rarity for budget monitors.
While monitors challenging conventional pricing often cut corners, the Arzopa M3RC offers more than expected. It includes a USB Type-C video input and a two-port USB hub, features typically omitted in budget models.
The trade-offs include moderate brightness at 350 nits and potential concerns about long-term support from a smaller brand. However, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty, and early adopters seem to love it, making it a compelling option at its price point.
Gigabyte M27U
Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $500
### GigabyteM27U
0Fast, bright, and affordable, this monitor sets the standard in its price range. With a peak brightness of around 700 nits, it offers one of the best HDR gaming experiences under $500. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen Size27"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160 Panel typeSuperSpeed IPSHDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400 True Black Brightness400 cd/m2 (~700 cd/m2 peak)Refresh rate160HzResponse time1msInputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB Type-C, 3x USB 3.2 Downstream ports, 1x USB 3.2 Upstream port, 1x Earphone JackPROSHigh peak brightnessPlentiful connectivity optionsSmooth and visually appealing gaming experienceCONSNo local dimmingThe Gigabyte M27U stretches the definition of "budget" but offers superior picture quality and HDR experience thanks to its high peak brightness and edge-lit local dimming.
For a 4K gaming monitor, picture quality is paramount, and the Gigabyte M27U excels at this price point. In SDR, it reaches around 400 nits, but with HDR enabled, it jumps to nearly 700 nits, enhancing highlights and colors for a more immersive gaming experience. It also features local dimming zones to improve contrast beyond typical IPS panels.
The monitor includes a range of gaming features, such as an on-screen reticle and Shadow Boost, easily accessible through Gigabyte's OSD Sidekick software. It's also ideal for multi-system use, with a built-in KVM for seamless input switching and mouse/keyboard sharing.
The trade-off is choosing between local dimming and peak brightness. With local dimming enabled, full-screen brightness is reduced, but turning it off unlocks higher brightness across the screen. It's a fair compromise for a great gaming experience.
4. LG UltraGear GX9 (45GX950A-B)
Best Ultrawide 4K Gaming Monitor
### LG Ultragear GX9
1This true 4K ultrawide monitor offers a wealth of features. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsScreen size44.5"Resolution5120x2160Panel typeOLED, G-Sync Compatible, AMD FreeSync Premium ProBrightness1,300 cd/m2 Refresh rate165Hz/330HzResponse time0.03msInputs2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 2.1, 2 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB Type-CPROSDual resolution and refresh rate optionsHigh peak brightness with per-pixel local dimming (OLED)DisplayPort 2.1 supportCONSRequires a powerful GPUDeep curvature may not suit everyoneFor those who crave an ultrawide gaming monitor with the highest resolution, the LG UltraGear GX9 is unmatched. Its 45-inch display with an 800R curvature and dual resolution/refresh rate options allows you to tailor your gaming experience.
The 5120x2160 resolution and 45-inch width create an immersive experience, drawing you into the screen. Its 165Hz native refresh rate ensures fluid gameplay, but for competitive esports, you can switch to an FHD mode with a 330Hz refresh rate for top-tier responsiveness and motion clarity.
OLED technology offers infinite contrast, vivid colors, and a wider dynamic range, enhancing both gaming and entertainment content. However, running games at this resolution requires a powerful GPU, and its deep curve may not appeal to everyone.
Despite these considerations, the LG UltraGear GX9 is an excellent choice for a premium 4K ultrawide monitor with a high refresh rate.
Dell Alienware AW3225QF
Best Curved 4K Monitor
### Alienware AW3225QF
3This 32-inch curved display combines impressive specs with a premium look. With 4K UHD, 0.3ms response times, and 240Hz, it epitomizes a high-end gaming monitor. See it at DellProduct SpecificationsScreen size32"Aspect ratio16:9Resolution3840x2160Panel typeQD-OLED, Adaptive-Sync, G-Sync CompatibleHDR compatibilityDisplayHDR 400, HDR10, Dolby VisionBrightness250 cd/m2 (1,000 cd/m2 peak)Refresh rate240Hz Response time0.3msInputs2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 PROSReliably excellent gaming experienceFantastic HDR240Hz refresh rate for competitive gamingCONSExpensiveWhile flat panels have been popular, the Alienware AW3225QF is the top choice for gamers who prefer a curved display. Its 32-inch size and 240Hz refresh rate deliver an immersive and smooth gaming experience. The quantum dot panel ensures rich and accurate colors, and its gentle curve enhances immersion without distorting text.
With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time, it's ideal for competitive gaming, showing no ghosting in both synthetic tests and real-world games. Its wide VRR support ensures smooth, tear-free gameplay.
The AW3225QF stands out with its HDR capabilities, reaching up to 1,000 nits in HDR mode. It also supports Dolby Vision for streaming and eARC for soundbar connectivity, making it a versatile choice for both PC and console gamers.
What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor
When shopping for a 4K gaming monitor, consider the features and image quality you desire, balanced against your budget. Over the past few years, 4K gaming monitors have become more accessible, with high refresh rate options available below $400, often including Nvidia G-Sync and HDR support. While all decent 4K monitors offer crisp images, investing more can yield better image quality, brightness, and additional features.
Size: For most users, anything below 27 inches may not fully benefit from 4K resolution. While smaller sizes offer higher pixel densities, the benefits become less noticeable beyond a certain point. The sweet spot for Ultra HD is typically 27 to 32 inches, though larger options up to 48 inches are available for a "big screen" experience. Keep in mind that larger screens may result in a softer image.
Panel: The type of panel is crucial. IPS panels are known for accurate colors and wide viewing angles but have lower contrast. VA panels offer better contrast but may show ghosting if not fast enough. OLED panels, increasingly popular, provide infinite contrast and fast response times but carry a risk of burn-in. Mini-LED backlights, often referred to as "Mini-LED monitors," offer improved contrast and brightness but may exhibit blooming around light objects on dark backgrounds.
Refresh rate: For gaming, a minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with 144Hz or higher preferred. Higher refresh rates reduce input latency and motion blur, crucial for competitive gaming. For shooters, 240Hz monitors are ideal, with some options going even higher.
Connectivity and supporting features: If you plan to use a console, ensure the monitor supports HDMI 2.1 for full 4K 144Hz resolution. Other features to consider include Dolby Vision support, Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, built-in KVMs, USB hubs, speakers, and gaming-specific features.
4K Gaming Monitor FAQ
Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?
4K gaming monitors offer stunning visuals and are a great choice for many gamers, but they're not ideal for everyone. If your PC has an entry-level graphics card, running games at 4K may result in low frame rates. However, with a mid-range GPU from the current generation or a high-end GPU from the last generation, upgrading to 4K can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames make it easier to achieve good frame rates at 4K.
Is 1440p better than 4K?
1440p can be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over visual sharpness. It's less demanding, allowing for higher frame rates on higher settings. However, with upscaling technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can enjoy 4K gaming without a powerhouse PC. These technologies can also boost 1440p frame rates, so consider what you value most and your desired frame rate.
Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?
Not necessarily. Thanks to Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can play games at 4K without a top-of-the-line graphics card. For native 4K gaming on ultra settings, a top-tier GPU is still required. However, with these upscaling technologies, you can achieve good visuals and frame rates with a midrange GPU like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070.
