Are you looking for a top-notch display to conquer your rivals without breaking the bank? Fret not. These days, there are plenty of budget gaming monitors that you can get for under $100. That said, with so many options, it can be tough to find the best from the lot. We at Guiding Tech, having tested plenty of monitors ourselves, are here to make your job easier.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what factors to consider when looking for a budget gaming monitor. We’ll also list some of the best gaming monitors that are cheap and affordable, yet offer enough features to satisfy most gamers. Whether you’re new to the gaming market or have just spent all your money on your graphics card and need a new monitor, this list has you covered.
But first, you might want to check out the following:
- Do you have slightly deeper pockets? Check out these gaming monitors.
- Make use of the wider FOV with these ultrawide gaming monitors.
- Add one of these affordable gaming mice to your gaming setup.
What to Expect From a Budget Gaming Monitor Under $100
Targeting budget-conscious gamers, sub-$100 monitors prioritize core functionality over cutting-edge features. As a consumer, you can expect Full HD resolution for decent visuals, with refresh rates ranging from 75Hz to 180Hz. Aiding that, there should be a 1ms response time or lower which minimizes in-game blurring. As for the panel choice, the ideal choice is VA, with some brands also offering IPS panels.
However, you’ll mostly find 24-inch gaming monitors under $100. Understandably, features like HDR or built-in speakers are also scarce at this price point. That said, while lacking the bells and whistles of high-end models, these monitors cater well to casual gamers or those seeking a secondary display without breaking the bank.
Now that you have a clear understanding of what to expect, let’s take a look at some of our recommendations for the best budget gaming monitors in the sub-$100 price bracket.
1. ViewSonic OMNI VX2418-P-MHD
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Panel Type: VA
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Ports: 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
The monitor’s standout feature, a 165Hz refresh rate, is a game-changer, especially in fast-paced titles where every millisecond counts. This high refresh rate ensures fluid movement and a significant edge in competitive gaming scenarios. There’s added support for AMD FreeSync Premium technology as well to ensure fluid and tear-free gameplay.
In terms of connectivity, the monitor houses dual HDMI 1.4 ports coupled with a single DisplayPort connector. It’s worth noting that the HDMI ports are capped at 144Hz, and you would have to use the DisplayPort to achieve a full 165Hz refresh rate. Other than that, the OMNI VX2418-P-MHD also has a gaming mode hotkey for pre-calibrated color settings suited for various games.
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2. Sceptre Curved C248W-1920RN
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Panel Type: VA
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz
- Ports: 2x HDMI, 1x VGA
The 1800R curved design of the C248W-1920RN wraps around your field of vision, creating an immersive experience that pulls you right into the game. With a 75Hz refresh rate and built-in speakers, it offers convenience and performance in a single package. This monitor proves that immersive gaming isn’t exclusive to high-end setups.
The monitor also comes equipped with dual HDMI ports along with a VGA port for connecting older devices. As most customer reviews highlight, this is one of the best budget gaming monitors for your kids. The 8ms response time can be a bit steep, but considering the 75Hz refresh rate, you won’t be playing eSports titles on this anyway. For retro titles and single-player games, the Sceptre Curved C248W-1920RN is a decent choice.
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3. Acer SH242Y Ebmihx
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Panel Type: IPS
- Refresh Rate: 100Hz
- Ports: 1x HDMI, 1x VGA
The IPS panel offers excellent viewing angles and color reproduction, with Acer claiming up to 72% NTSC color gamut coverage. Couple that with the 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time and the monitor is not only great for gaming but for content creation as well. There’s also support for AMD FreeSync Technology to avoid screen tearing while gaming.
For a clutter-free setup, the monitor boasts a zero-frame height design, while also being equipped with dual 1W speakers. That’s not a lot, but it’s better than having no sound at all, especially when you’re shopping on a budget. If you prefer shopping from a reliable brand while still getting most boxes checked, the Acer SH242Y is a great cheap gaming monitor.
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4. Acer SB272 EBI
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Panel Type: IPS
- Refresh Rate: 100Hz
- Ports: 1x HDMI, 1x VGA
This 27-inch monitor provides ample screen real estate, coupled with an IPS panel that delivers superior color accuracy and viewing angles. And similar to Acer SH242Y, the SB272 also comes with AMD FreeSync technology to ensure tear-free gameplay.
That said, it does miss out on the dual speakers offered by the 24-inch model. Nonetheless, the monitor still offers excellent value for money. It also comes with an adjustable stand, along with added VESA 75×75 compatibility. Acer also includes its VisionCare technology to ensure a comfortable viewing experience for those extended gaming sessions.
Alternatively, you can also check out the AOC 27B2H2. It’s pretty much the same monitor, though depending on your location, you might get better customer service from AOC. There’s also the AOC LowBlue Light mode which, as the name suggests, protects your eyes from harmful blue lights while maintaining color composition..
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5. AOC 24G15N
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Panel Type: VA
- Refresh Rate: 180Hz
- Ports: 1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort
For gamers, the AOC 24G15N’s lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate allows you to witness unparalleled smoothness. Coupled with Adaptive-Sync and low input lag, the monitor gives you a decisive edge in fast-paced games. As for consoles, the monitor also supports native 120Hz for seamless compatibility.
But that’s not all. The AOC 24G15N comes with a 116% sRGB wide color gamut panel and is also rated HDR-ready. Apart from entertainment needs, this allows you to experience games in stunning detail with compatible content. The monitor also comes with AOC’s best-in-class warranty program, offering up to three years of replacement warranty.
Alternatively, you can also check out the Acer Nitro KG241Y Sbiip. It’s priced similar to the AOC 24G15N but offers dual HDMI ports alongside a DisplayPort. This enables you to have both your PC and console plugged into the monitor, with room for another port. That said, its refresh rate is capped at 165Hz, so keep that in mind.
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6. Sceptre Curved C255B-FWT240
- Screen Size: 24.5 inches
- Panel Type: VA
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Ports: 2x HDMI, 2x DisplayPort
The Sceptre Curved C255B-FWT240 comes with an 1800R curvature that engulfs your field of view. It essentially creates a more engaging and immersive gaming environment that flat monitors simply cannot match. What truly sets this monitor apart, however, is its staggering 240Hz refresh rate. This high refresh rate coupled with the 1ms response time is a boon for competitive gamers and enthusiasts alike.
The monitor also comes with a plethora of connectivity options, including dual HDMI as well as dual DisplayPort options. There are also dual 2W speakers, with support for 120Hz for consoles, for a clutter-free gaming setup.
As for content creators, the 99% sRGB color gamut enables you to use this gaming monitor for creative purposes too. If you don’t mind spending a little bit extra, the Sceptre Curved C255B-FWT240 is one of the best options out there for casual as well as serious gamers on a budget.
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Outro
Well, that was our list of the best budget gaming monitors on the market right now that can be yours for under $100. Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a casual player, or somewhere in between, there’s a monitor under $100 that’s perfect for you. Just consider your requirements, and finalize on one of these affordable gaming monitors.
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Last updated on 18 March, 2024
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