Best 1080p Monitor Under $100 for Gaming (60hz - 75hz)
Let's face it, gaming monitors under $100 might not have all the bells and whistles, but we’ve looked long and hard to bring you options that meets the requirements for gaming and more, without breaking the bank.
For example, its pretty hard find a monitor with a 1ms or 2ms response time in this price range, or to expect anything over 60hz for a refresh rate. Both of those specs are still playable for gaming, but upping your budget gives you quite a big boost. None the less, we’re here to talk about under $100, so here’s your best bet…
Now, $100 or less isn’t a lot to spend for a monitor, let alone a gaming monitor, but if that’s what you’re working with – we’ve got you covered
Name | Panel Type | Screen Size | Resolution | Hz & ms | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
ASUS VS228H-P | IPS | 21.5” | 1920x1080 | 75Hz, 5ms | |
Acer R240HY | IPS | 23.8” | 1920 x 1080 | 60Hz, 4ms | |
Acer SB220Q | IPS | 21.5” | 1920x1080 | 75Hz, 7ms | |
AOC e2470swhe | TN | 24” | 1920x1080 | 60Hz, 5ms | |
ViewSonic VX2252MH | TN | 22” | 1920x1080p | 60hz, 2ms | |
BenQ GW2270 | VA | 21.5” | 1920 x 1080 | 60hz, 5ms | |
Dell SE2417HG | TN | 23.6” | 1080p | 60Hz, 2ms |
Best Gaming Monitors under $100 for Gaming
1. ASUS VS228H-P 1920x1080 Monitor
Some of the options in this price range have a response time of 7ms or more, but we were glad to find that this one offers up a 5ms response. It’s not perfect, once again we’d like to have found one with less, but for a gaming monitor under $100 you could do a lot worse.
This is totally playable, you’re not going to be sitting there wondering why your moves aren’t registering fast enough or why the screen is lagging behind your reflexes.
If you’re a professional gamer with insane reflexes where every tiny microscopic advantage is a plus, then you might want to look for something higher end, but even still – the monitor itself isn’t going to be enough of a game-changer that it’ll make a good player bad, or a good player bad, for that matter.
1080p resolution was a must, anything below that wouldn’t have been acceptable. We do lose out on size a bit too, it wasn’t possible to push for 24 inches without sacrificing too many other specs that are more important for gaming than size. You can sit a little bit closer to it to make up for it being a little smaller, and 1080p on a slightly smaller screen means you’ll have smaller pixels, so things may inherently be slightly more crisp (Just to look on the plus side, obviously a larger screen would be better, but we’ll take what we can get for under $100.)
This screen has a 75hz refresh rate. Many you’ll see in this price range are only 60hz, so getting that extra 15hz is a very welcome addition at this budget. It’s not the best cheap monitor out there, but it’s certainly the cheapest we’ve found for any kind of gaming monitor that’s even remotely passable, and this one is more than remotely passable – it ‘s a totally viable option.
Here’s a rundown of the key specs:
Depending on what you have for a gaming PC, and what you’re planning on playing, this monitor may or may not hold you back. If you’re building a machine from scratch, we have to suggest trying to allocate a bit more for the screen, depending on what you’re spending on everything else. If you’re going for a total budget build, this is a good option, and you won’t be disappointed.
If you have a little bit more flexibility, like some room to downgrade a bit in other areas, you’d see a bigger difference by buying a monitor that has either a higher resolution, a higher refresh rate, a lower response time, or a mixture of all of those. You don’t want the bottleneck in your rig to be the screen, so that’s just something to consider.
We’ve also featured the best gaming monitor for under $150 in another review, the best one for under $200, and so on. Either of those would be a great option. Even though it’s our top pick for a gaming display under $100, the ASUS VS228H-P is still somewhat older tech, and isn’t going to look gorgeous compared to what you can upgrade to for another $50 or so.
If you’re going for a serious budget build, this will totally do the trick in the sense that you could do a lot worse for the money if gaming is your priority, but this still isn’t a rock-solid gaming monitor either.
Other non-gaming features
Aside from just strictly gaming, the ASUS VS228H-P has Kensington Lock Security for those LAN parties in sketchy neighborhoods. Also, it’s got the standard VESA mount so you can mount it to your wall or a variety of different stands. Along with a gaming mode, it also has modes for scenery, night, and theater.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that this monitor has been declining in price for years now, and sometimes it dips below $100, other times you might find it for just over. In any case, it was still the best option we came across in this price range, so if it’s a few dollars above $100, the recommendation still stands.
This monitor has been around for a while, and amassed thousands upon thousands of 5-star reviews from people who love it. It’s amazing for the price, and it’s great that gamers have an option on the lower end of the pricing spectrum
This monitor is perfectly suited for lower to medium tier gaming setups, if you’re looking for something higher end, or spending a truckload of cash on your rig, you’ll definitely want to opt for something with higher specs, but if you’re looking in the lower end of the budget spectrum, we believe this is your absolute best option. What you get for the money is incredible value from this gaming monitor. We won’t pretend it’s anywhere near the top of the line, it isn’t, but it does its job very well and gives you an opportunity to have something good in the meantime while you save up for your dream rig.
2. Acer SB220Q bi 21.5-Inch IPS Full HD Gaming Monitor – Stylish Ultrathin IPS
While the monitor is a new release, this stylish ultrathin baby has hit the ground running and we foresee a bright future. For a small budget of a 100 bucks, it will be an excellent investment for your beloved gaming room.
It’s never that easy to land a ridiculously affordable gaming monitor with an elegant slim, borderless design as Acer SB220Q bi. Measuring a mere 0.24 inches thin, the monitor’s narrow bezel help maximize the viewing space.
Without compromising on the style, the monitor also features a sturdy stand that guarantees optimum stability and durability.
SB220Q bi is a 21.5” 1920x1080 resolution monitor and the tight budget, it might help to be a little flexible regarding the screen size. You’ll get a better sitting closer to the screen. Fortunately, the resolution is standard meaning you’ll still stand a chance to enjoy fine and crisp motion images.
For ardent gamers, nothing is as relaxing as a smooth immersive gaming experience. Equipped with AMD Radeon FreeSync Technology, SB220Q bi gaming monitor delivers flawless visuals without the annoying effects of screen tearing or stuttering however extreme the game gets.
Although not so fast, a 4ms response rate is still above average for a monitor at this budget. The quick response time translates to fast refresh and seamless gaming experiences.
IPS panel monitors are superior to the likes of TN and VA panels. Such a small budget will land you this IPS monitor which means you can expect wide viewing angles and eye-popping color performance.
SB220Q bi also comes with several inputs that include HDMI and VGA, through which you can hook your multimedia devices.
Keys Specs at a Glance
- 21.5-inch LED Full HD 1080p
- IPS Panel
- 4ms Response Time
- 75Hz Refresh Rate
As a gamer, SB220Q bi will not disappoint in design, function, and performance. And being an IPS, the visual quality should be superb for a gaming monitor on a tight budget.
3. Acer R240HY 23.8" bidx IPS Full HD Gaming Monitor 1920 x 1080
Perhaps you want an Acer gaming monitor but with a bigger screen size than Acer SB220Q bi. Acer R240HY bidx 23.8-Inch IPS display is a perfect alternative and aside from the screen size, you can expect a couple more specs.
Let’s start with the visually obvious – the Zero Frame Design. R240HY bidx employs a thin frameless design. The borderless design guarantees excellent visuals, from edge to edge.
Besides, the monitor comes with a brushed hairline finish -5°-15° adjustable stand designed to match pretty much any environment. Pivot, tilt or rotate the stand as you prefer for the perfect comfortable viewing angle.
Like SB220Q bi, Acer R240HY bidx comes with superior IPS panel that promises exemplary motion image color regardless of the viewing angle. It offers 178° viewing angles and delivers images in 17.6M colors guaranteeing colorful, rich and crisp motion images. Factor in the 1920x1080 screen resolution and say hello to stunning visuals for your games and multimedia entertainment.
Acer R240HY bidx offers flexible connectivity several signal inputs that include HDMI, DVI, and VGA. Hook your multimedia devices and make the best out of this IPS display.
Primary Feature Highlights
- 23.8-Inch Full HD 1080p
- Zero Frame Design
- IPS Panel
- 178° Viewing Angles
- Adjustable Stand
Gaming is more immersive with a larger screen. Acer 23.8 R240HY bidx isn’t badly off. Being IPS, you can expect wider edge to edge viewing angles.
4. AOC e2470swhe 24-Inch VESA Gaming Monitor - 1920 x 1080 @60hz
Bigger is better and that’s particularly so in the gaming world. Let no one convince you otherwise because your $100 budget can get you a 24-inch monitor for games and entertainment. AOC e2470swhe is an excellent contender offering a larger screen size for gaming.
AOC e2470swhe employs a sleek slim design with an extra thin bezel making it an excellent investment for your entertainment space.
This 24 inches display has 1920x1080 resolution which offers outstanding image quality.
It’s ultra-high 20M:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio coupled with the 5ms response time help the monitor deliver rich and colorful motion images in 16.7M colors irrespective of the scene for your movies and games.
What’s more, AOC e2470swhe provides flexible connectivity. It comes fully integrated with VGA, HDMI, audio In/Out making it possible to hook in a wide array of multimedia devices including gaming consoles, TV, PCs and more.
The monitor also comes equipped with user-friendly features – AOC’s eSaver and iMenu – for easy configuration as well as navigation. AOC e2470swhe is VESA Wall Mountable, too.
Features at a Glance
- 24-Inch 1080p
- Sleek Slim Design – Thin Bezel
- 5ms Response Time
- 20M:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio
- VGA, HDMI & Audio Input/Output Ports
- VESA Wall Mountable
AOC e2470swhe is a yet another excellent gaming monitor that won't disappoint. The high contrast ratio, flexible connectivity, and user-friendly features will definitely help advance your gaming and entertainment.
5. BenQ GW2270 21.5-Inch Full HD VESA Gaming Monitor 1920 x 1080 @60hz
If you’re looking for a budget monitor perfect for your everyday use not limited to gaming, then BenQ GW2270 makes an excellent choice. Right from the onset, the monitor minds your eye’s health.
Sure, the 21.5 inches screen size doesn’t provide the much wide view premium monitors would, but BenQ GW2270 is budget model meaning you ought to compromise a little on that front.
Fortunately, the 1920x1080 resolution promises crystal-clear visuals with stunning details perfect for gaming.
Long hours of gaming or computer use demand a machine with eye care technology and BenQ GW2270 wins here. Irrespective of the brightness levels, the Zeroflicker feature helps eliminate flickers effectively reducing eye strain/fatigue for maximum comfort.
Besides, Low Blue Light Technology helps to filter out the harmful blue light thereby diminishing eye fatigue. Make better use of the OSD hotkey to tune to any of the 4 low blue light modes (web-surfing, multimedia, office, and reading).
Owing to Its 8-bit color display property, BenQ GW2270 can render motion images in 16.7 million shades at once. The 5ms response time, and the ultra-high 20M:1 dynamic constant ratio help the monitor render fast, smooth, colorful and vibrant visual transitions with no input lag.
The monitor also comes equipped with inbuilt speakers perfect for amplifying your games, music, and videos for immersion. It's also VESA mountable and comes integrated with VGA and DVI-D inputs for connectivity.
Key Feature Highlights
- 21.5-Inch 1920x1080
- Superior Eye Care Technology
- 20M;1 Dynamic Constant Ratio
- VESA Mountable
- Built-In Speakers
BenQ GW2270 is an excellent gaming monitor for those who attach great value to Eye Care Technology. Enjoy colorful and vibrant visuals with this budget monitor.
6. ViewSonic VX2252MH 22" Full HD Gaming Monitor -1080p 60Hz
The contrast ratio, resolution, screen size, refresh rate, and response time and flexible connectivity all define a gaming monitor. And yes, your $100 budget or thereabout can get you a monitor like ViewSonic VX2252MH packing excellent specs.
Featuring a glossy finish 22-inch display, ViewSonic VX2252mh promises excellent visuals perfect for gaming and entertainment.
It comes equipped with the Clearmotiv II technology which helps deliver an ultra-fast 2ms response time. With such an impressive response rate, the monitor can handle extreme gaming with zero image blurring, streaking or ghosting.
What’s more, the display boasts of a high 50M:1 Mega Contrast Ratio that allows it deliver color-rich and crisp images. Use the Game Mode to achieve enhanced visibility and details in the darkest scenes.
ViewSonic VX2252MH provides flexible connectivity. It comes integrated with HDMI, D-Sub and DVI inputs through which you can hook multiple high definition devices such as gaming consoles, TVs, and digital camera. And thanks to the inbuilt 2W stereo speakers, you can amplify the audio and effects for more engaging gaming and entertainment experiences.
Feature Highlights
- 22-Inch 1080p display
- Flexible connectivity (HDMI, D-sub, DVI ports)
- 50M:1 Mega Contrast Ratio
- Ultra-Fast 2ms Response Time Courtesy of Clearmotiv II Technology
- Dual Integrated 2W Speakers
- Game Mode
If your budget is 100 dollars, ViewSonic VX2252MH qualifies in all respects except for the screen size. Fortunately, it compliments for the smaller display with a ultra-high response time and mega contrast ratio.
7. Dell SE2417HG 23.5-Inch Full HD Gaming Monitor
Even Dell is not left behind. Dell SE2417HG packs a couple of impressive features that will help you game more conveniently. Let’s get cracking.
The first impression is everything and Dell SE2417HG has made sure it matters. SE2417HG gaming monitor features a sleek design with glossy thin bezels, matte display complete with a robust base.
What's more, this TN panel monitor bears an ultra-fast 2ms response time, which is incredible for a budget monitor. It then means you're a step away from enjoying smooth and highly responsive games with zero input lag.
Combined with standard 1080 resolution, the Full HD monitor delivers visuals with outstanding vibrancy and clarity. The matte screen has 1000:1 contrast ratio and it significantly reduces reflection from the indoor lighting for the best view.
Dell SE2417HG offers convenience at its best. Use the HDMI, VGA and Audio-Line Out ports to hook to your laptops, gaming consoles and other multimedia devices for the perfect gaming, and entertainment experiences.
Main Features
- 23.5-Inch 1080p Matte Display
- Ultra-Fast 2ms Response Time
- 1000:1 Contrast Ratio
- HDMI, VGA & Audio Line Out Signal Inputs
Overall, the major selling point for Dell SE2417HG gaming monitor is the ultra-fast 2ms response time, which is a major qualifier for extreme gaming. The stylishly design matte display with glossy bezels is also something to look forward to.
One of the really cool things about PC gaming is that it’s really accessible for gamers. There’s this weird misconception that console gaming is a lot cheaper, and you have to pay a huge premium to be a PC gamer, and it’s just not true.
Granted, in the past, PC parts used to cost a lot more so this may have been more true in the past. These days, you don’t have to spend much at all, especially if you’ve got certain parts already (A license for Windows, an old case, a keyboard or a mouse…)
But even if you need to get all of the parts from top to bottom, you’d be surprised what you can put together and the types of gaming performance that are achievable these days without spending a lot of money.
We’ve weighed the pros and cons of all of the different options, to find the one that hits the most important aspects that you need from a gaming monitor, without having to sacrifice too much in other areas.
What Matters Most When Buying a Gaming Display?
One of the biggest problems with monitors that aren’t designed for gaming is that their refresh rates and response times won’t be fast enough. Fast reflexes will only take you so far, if there’s too much of a delay between when the monitor even refreshes to show you the latest action in your game.
We found one monitor that rose above the rest in the price range, but if you’re able to push your budget even a little bit higher, it unlocks some much better possibilities. Still, this is a good option, it’ll treat you well, especially if you don’t have the most modern and high-end gaming PC to pair it up with. The big thing is that you’re going to have a bottleneck somewhere along the way, whether it’s your GPU, your processor, your RAM, or even your monitor.
Understanding this helps ensure that you aren’t over-spending in areas that aren’t going to make a difference, and on that same note it also helps you optimize and create a synergy for the parts of your PC that re going to make the biggest difference.