Introduction
You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy smooth, immersive, and visually rich gaming. In 2025, the market is flooded with high-performing budget monitors for gaming that offer incredible value — from fast refresh rates to vivid colors and low input lag.
If you’re looking to upgrade your setup without blowing your wallet, this guide covers the top 7 budget monitors for gaming in 2025 that strike the right balance between performance, features, and affordability.
What Should You Look For in a Budget Gaming Monitor?
Before jumping into the list, here are a few key specs that matter most:
- Refresh Rate: Aim for at least 120Hz, ideally 144Hz or more
- Response Time: 1ms to 5ms is optimal for competitive play
- Resolution: 1080p is still king for budget-friendly builds
- Panel Type: IPS for colors, VA for contrast
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync or G-Sync compatible to eliminate tearing
Now, let’s dive into the top contenders.
AOC 24G2SP – Best All-Rounder Under Budget
- Panel: 24” IPS
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
- Price: ≈ 1800 MAD / $150
Why it stands out: Incredible color accuracy, ergonomic stand, and unbeatable specs in this price range.
ASUS VG249Q1A – Smooth and Vibrant on a Budget
- Panel: 23.8” IPS
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Features: Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB), Eye Care
- Price: ≈ 1600 MAD / $140
A trusted name with built-in eye comfort, making it ideal for long sessions.
MSI Optix G24C6 – Best Curved Display for Budget Gamers
- Panel: 23.6” VA, 1500R curve
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms MPRT
- Sync: FreeSync
Suits those who love immersion and deeper contrast, especially in racing or RPG games.
Gigabyte G24F 2 – Premium Specs, Budget Price
- Panel: 23.8” IPS
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- HDR: HDR10 support
- Response Time: 1ms MPRT
Includes a rich set of features for an esports experience without premium cost.
ViewSonic XG2431 – Motion Clarity Champion
- Panel: 24” IPS
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Certification: Blur Busters Approved
- Best For: Competitive FPS
While slightly higher in price, it’s ideal for serious gamers who prioritize visual clarity.
BenQ MOBIUZ EX240N – Color-Rich and Comfortable
- Panel: 24” VA
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz
- Extras: HDRi, built-in speakers, Eye-Care Tech
Excellent for those who want beautiful colors and comfort at an affordable price.
LG UltraGear 24GN60R – For Competitive Fast-Paced Gaming
- Panel: 24” IPS
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Price: Under $180 / 1900 MAD
No-frills, fast and reliable. Trusted for clean performance.
Comparison Table: Top 7 Budget Gaming Monitors 2025
Model | Panel | Refresh Rate | Response | Sync Type | Price (Est.) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
AOC 24G2SP | IPS | 165Hz | 1ms | FreeSync | $150 |
ASUS VG249Q1A | IPS | 144Hz | 1ms | FreeSync | $140 |
MSI G24C6 | VA | 144Hz | 1ms MPRT | FreeSync | $140 |
Gigabyte G24F 2 | IPS | 165Hz | 1ms MPRT | FreeSync | $160 |
ViewSonic XG2431 | IPS | 240Hz | 1ms | FreeSync | $180–200 |
BenQ EX240N | VA | 165Hz | 1ms | FreeSync | $150 |
LG 24GN60R | IPS | 144Hz | 1ms | FreeSync | $170 |
Why 1080p Still Makes Sense in 2025
While 1440p and 4K look amazing, they require powerful GPUs. 1080p remains the sweet spot for:
- High FPS on mid-range GPUs
- Less strain on laptop gaming setups
- Cheaper monitor prices and more options
FAQ – Budget Monitors for Gaming
Is 144Hz worth it over 60Hz?
Absolutely. The difference is night and day, especially in fast-paced games.
Which is better: IPS or VA?
IPS offers better colors and viewing angles; VA has deeper blacks and contrast.
Can I use these monitors with consoles?
Yes. Most have HDMI ports and support 1080p @ 120Hz for PS5/Xbox Series S/X.
Are curved monitors better for gaming?
Depends. They’re great for immersion in racing or sim games but not necessary for competitive FPS.
Should I buy refurbished to save more?
It can be worth it — just ensure warranty coverage and check for dead pixels.
Conclusion: Pick the Right Budget Monitor for Your Needs
Choosing the best budget monitor for gaming in 2025 depends on your style and platform. Whether you need speed for shooters or rich visuals for storytelling games, this list gives you top-performing models that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.
Still stuck? Here’s a quick pick:
- Best Overall: AOC 24G2SP
- Best for FPS: ViewSonic XG2431
- Best for Immersion: MSI G24C6
- Best Budget Pick: ASUS VG249Q1A