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If you’ve wanted to improve your gaming experience, there has never been a better time to buy a 4K gaming monitor. With recent technological developments, your options are limitless, and there is a 4K monitor for everyone.
A 4K gaming monitor will offer the best user experience, high resolution, large screen size, and fluid usability. Your games will undoubtedly be sharp and realistic.
But how do you choose the best 4K gaming monitor? What are the important things you should keep in mind, and what are the best options available in the market?
You’ve come to the right place! Get ready to learn everything you need to know before choosing the best 4K monitor.
If you are a gamer who enjoys flawless visuals, a 4K gaming monitor is your answer. There are several benefits to choosing a 4K monitor over a traditional full HD screen.
4K gaming monitors consist of tightly packed pixels right next to one another. Moreover, 4K resolution monitors comprise 4 times more pixels than a normal full HD screen. Due to the higher number of pixels, your gaming experience will be much sharper than before.
Smaller details like clothing and facial expressions will be visible, and even differences in texture are noticeable.
The best 4K gaming monitors provide a large screen surface area. Compared to a traditional full HD screen, you can see more in-game objects in the corners and the sides in a 4K gaming monitor.
A wider field of view also makes your gaming experience realistic and intense since the screen is in your direct line of vision.
4K gaming monitors are suitable for all gamers, whether you prefer the PC or console systems such as the PlayStation or Xbox.
A few consoles, such as the PlayStation 4 Pro, have been developed specifically so that they can display your games in 4K. The Xbox One S also upscales a full HD image to a 4K resolution.
While buying a 4K gaming monitor is bound to elevate your gaming experience, there are certain prerequisites that you will have to keep in mind:
Your laptop or PC must support a 4K image signal if you want to make the most of your 4K gaming monitor. Ensure that you double-check the video card that your computer has before you buy the gaming monitor.
Gaming on a 4K monitor will require the right cable and a strong and reliable video card. Here are a few video cards (graphics) that you may consider:
For the complete 4K monitor gaming experience, you will need an HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, or Thunderbolt 3 connector.
VGA and DVI connectors are older variants and will not support 4K gaming monitors. HDMI 1.4 may also be sufficient but transfers images at 30Hz, making fast-moving images appear ragged and slow.
Ensure that you choose the right cable for your connector. For the best gaming experience, the cable and connector should match perfectly. For example, a Thunderbolt 3 connector with a Thunderbolt 3 cable. Signals transfer the fastest when the cable and connector match.
Buying a 4K gaming monitor may seem like an easy feat, but there are multiple factors to consider. Since this is a huge investment, you cannot make this decision lightly.
If you are unaware of what to look for, the guide is here to help you. Below are some essential factors that should be present in the best 4K monitor.
You are buying a gaming monitor because you want to get a complete gaming experience. That is why the size of a gaming monitor becomes a very crucial factor. If you choose small sizes, you would not be able to enjoy the gaming experience.
Ideally, the gaming monitor size should not be less than 24 inches. The bigger you go, the better your experience. However, it would help if you also remembered that as the size increases, so will the price.
Refresh rate decides the quality of your visual output and the number of times that the monitor will refresh a visual in one second. Most gaming monitors come in 120Hz or 144Hz since the frame rate is high without any breakage or stuttering.
When you choose monitors with these refresh rates, you need to ensure that the GPU can support the high frame rate. (https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/docs/processors/what-is-a-gpu.html)
Some monitors come with higher refresh rates, like 165Hz or even 240Hz. As the refresh rate increases, you need to be cautious that you go for a higher GPU.
Monitors come in two-panel types: IPS (in-plane switching) and TN (twisted nematic).
IPS panels are well-known for their visual quality. The picture will be more accurate in color presentation and sharpness. However, the response time is more which is not good for high-end multiplayer games.
On the other hand, the TN panel has a response time of 1ms, which is perfect for competitive gaming. Monitors having TN panels are also a more affordable choice. However, the color saturation is not great, and this could be a problem for AAA single-player games.
Response time is then taken by a single pixel to change from black to white or other shades of grey. This is measures in milliseconds or ms.
When you buy gaming monitors, it is better to choose a higher response time since it will eradicate motion blur and ghosting (https://www.onecomputerguy.com/1ms-vs-5ms). Response time between 1ms and 4ms would be good enough for single-player games.
If you are more into playing multiplayer games, it is advisable to choose a lower response time. It would probably be better if you opt for 1ms since this would ensure no pixel response delays.
A 4K gaming monitor’s color accuracy looks into the system’s ability to provide the necessary hue level without making any rough calculations.
A 4K gaming monitor needs to have color accuracy on the higher end of the spectrum. Most monitors follow a standard RGB pattern to enable color adjustments. But these days, sRGB is quickly becoming the best way to ensure full coverage with perfect color delivery.
The best 4K gaming monitors provide a wide color gamut based on sRGB patterns of color delivery. If the color deviates, the system will present you with an error message represented as a Delta E figure (https://www.viewsonic.com/library/creative-work/what-is-delta-e-and-why-is-it-important-for-color-accuracy/). Most experts generally consider a Delta E figure of 1.0 to be the best.
A gaming monitor will have ports for input and output. You should try to ensure that the monitor has these connectors – DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 1.4/2.0, or 3.5mm audio out.
Some brands offer you other types of connectors in their monitors. However, these are the ports or connectors that are the most important. If you need to plug USB devices directly into the monitor, check for USB ports to help you do so.
Now that you know what to look for while choosing a 4K gaming monitor, we can jump right into some of the best options available in the market right now!
The following overviews will provide you with some details about the unique features of each of these gaming monitors and their general specifications.
| Screen Size and Aspect Ratio | 27 inches, 16:9 |
| Panel Type | Nano IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 144 Hz |
| Response Time (GTG) | 1ms |
| Adaptive-Sync | G-Sync Compatible, FreeSync |
Whether your priority is image quality, speed, high contrast, or accurate color, the LG 27GN950-B has it all. This would be our top recommendation since the 27GN950-B has the best input lag scores available on a 144Hz monitor.
A refresh rate of 144Hz is extremely impressive, and with the right graphics card, you will be able to make the most of this gaming monitor. However, it does have some heavy bandwidth requirements, so make sure you check your graphics card before choosing the 27GN950-B.
It also has an unmatched image quality. With additional features such as an edge array backlight with a local dimming feature, the 27GN950-B offers an impressive contrast ratio.
Adding to this list of benefits, the LG 27GN950-B is fast, responsive, and has a wide color gamut. The Nano IPS aid this color gamut and provides 95% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space.
The only disadvantage that you might face is that the colors may seem oversaturated, depending on your preferences.
The LG 27GN950-B is bound to make your gaming experience worthwhile and enjoyable.
Overall, we would highly recommend the LG 27GN950-B for all types of gamers. It has unbeatable image clarity, an impressive response rate, and a wide monitor size. It also has a response time of 1ms, which effectively eradicates motion blurring.
If you are ready to invest a little more money in your 4K monitor, the LG 27GN950-B is the perfect choice for you.
| Screen Size and Aspect Ratio | 28 inches, 16:9 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz |
| Response Time (GTG) | 5ms |
| Adaptive-Sync | FreeSync |
Despite the range of plus points offered by most 4K gaming monitors, they are usually quite expensive. However, the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q is not just affordable, but it is also a great monitor with many key features that are at the top of the line.
At just $349, it offers great overall performance and visuals. The colors are accurate, and it also has a strong build quality. Refresh rate limits itself to 60Hz, but this functions well for casual gamers who can make do with sufficient detail. Hardcore gamers will probably want more Hz.
There is no doubt that a few sacrifices had to be made along the way as you will see that it has average contrast. However, for the price that the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q is currently selling at, it has some undeniable benefits for all except hardcore gamers.
If you are looking for a satisfactory 4K gaming monitor for a very affordable price, the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q is your perfect model. While you will definitely find other monitors with better refresh rates and response times, the VG289Q is a good start for new gamers.
Despite being much cheaper than most other 4K monitors, most of its features are still top of the line and will give you a good gaming experience.
| Screen Size and Aspect Ratio | 48 inches, 16:9 |
| Panel Type | OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 40Hz – 120 Hz |
| Response Time (GTG) | 1ms |
| Adaptive-Sync | FreeSync |
Although the LG OLED48CXPUB is technically a TV, the input lag is low enough to be suitable for PC gaming. The OLED panel makes it ideal for gaming in a dark room as you can turn off individual pixels to produce the perfect effects.
The wide viewing angles allow the images to retain their accuracy at the sides no matter how close to the screen you choose to sit. Response time is also near-instantaneous. You will observe unhindered movement in fast-paced scenes.
The Black Frame Insertion feature improves overall quality, and the HDMI 2.1 inputs will allow you to play 4K with 120Hz for a seamless experience.
The only concern with the LG OLED48CXPUB is the risk of permanent burn-in (https://www.rtings.com/tv/tests/picture-quality/image-retention-burn-in). This normally occurs when static elements such as the game interface remain on the screen for a longer duration. However, you can undertake steps to mitigate the risk.
The LG OLED48CXPUB is the best choice for you if you prefer gaming in the dark. You have the freedom to turn off individual pixels, and this will produce perfect effects. With a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz, your gaming experience will be seamless and enjoyable.
You may face the risk of permanent burn-in; however, this is a resolvable issue.
| Screen Size and Aspect Ratio | 27 inches, 16:9 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Response Time (GTG) | 4ms |
| Adaptive-Sync | G-Sync Ultimate |
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ provides immersive lighting due to its Aura Sync technology. It also supports synchronization with Aura-enabled components.
For perfect synchronization, connect your ROG Swift PG27UQ to other peripherals after installing the Aura Sync software on your desktop or laptop. This will provide a stylish backdrop to your game and also syncs the lighting with the music or gaming effects.
It doesn’t get better than the 144Hz refresh rate, and this 4K gaming monitor will guarantee the smoothest gameplay. Combined with a 27-inch IPS display and a DCI-P3 color gamut, your gaming experience will be realistic with lifelike contrast.
An interesting feature of the Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ is the built-in light sensor. Your screen will automatically adjust its brightness settings according to your environmental conditions.
The ROG Swift PG27UQ also comes with ultra-low blue light technology. This will ensure maximum protection for your eyes, no matter how long you are in front of the screen. All you, as the gamer, have to do is choose from four filter settings available to you via the on-screen menu.
However, the ROG Swift PG27UQ does not have Dolby Vision or motion blur reduction. This may hinder your gaming experience.
The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ provides strong competition for the LG 27GN950-B, with its lightning-fast response rate and wide color gamut. It is the perfect 4K monitor for HDR and will provide a fantastic gaming experience for you.
The only area where it falls short next to the 27GN950-B is that it does not have any features for motion blur reduction. However, if this is an element that you believe will not hinder your gaming, the Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ is a strong contender that you can consider.
| Screen Size and Aspect Ratio | 27 inches, 16:9 |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Response Time (GTG) | 1ms |
| Adaptive-Sync | FreeSync |
The Asus ROG Strix XG27UQ is the fastest 4K monitor out of all the options we have provided you in this review and is also much cheaper than what you would expect. Prices may range anywhere from $800 to $1000.
Even though this model does not have a premium FALD backlight for a stunning HDR display, the HDR performance is still quite satisfactory and fairly impressive. This is because of the screen’s dynamic dimming feature and the efficient edge-array backlight.
In terms of response time, the Asus ROG XG27UQ outperforms most other 4K gaming monitors, including strong competitors such as the Acer Predator X27.
Despite outperforming Acer’s model, the Asus ROG Strix XG27UQ is cheaper. While the Acer model stands at around $2000, the ROG Strix XG27UQ hovers around $1000.
Along with FreeSync, initial tests suggest that the XG27UQ can also run G-Sync successfully, making it versatile. The monitor also has an extremely low input lag due to the Display Stream Compression (DSC) that supports the fastest possible frame rates.
The Asus ROG XG27UQ provides a surprisingly seamless gaming experience at a very reasonable price. It has all the requirements, including a fast refresh rate and response time, along with a wide monitor size.
Except for the lack of FALD backlighting, there really is no reason for you not to buy the Asus ROG XG27UQ.
The models that we have suggested for you here will guarantee a smooth, immersive, and enjoyable gaming experience. Even though all of them are viable contenders, we would definitely recommend the LG 27GN950-B over the others.
The refresh rate is unbeatable, standing at 144Hz. Combined with a response time of 1ms, the LG 27GN950-B has it all.
Although the Asus ROG Strix XC27UQ provides a similar response time and refresh rate, it has been formally tested only for FreeSync compatibility. It has not yet been listed under G-Sync.
With a monitor size of 27 inches, the LG 27GN950-B offers a wide view, along with perfectly timed visuals. The color accuracy is unmatched, and the contrast ratio is also high.
While it may be a little expensive, all the features and benefits it offers are worth the money you would be paying for this 4K gaming monitor.
This review and buyer’s guide strives to help you out in your purchasing endeavors, and we hope that it did! Do you have any questions? Or do you think there is something important that we may have missed? Let us know in the comments below! We would love to hear from you!
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