4K gaming monitors represent the pinnacle of visual fidelity in PC gaming, offering breathtaking detail and color that transform your gaming experience. With technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you don't need an ultra-powerful PC to enjoy 4K gaming anymore. Monitors like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM lead the pack, delivering stunning images, vibrant colors, and high frame rates while maintaining excellent responsiveness. If the cost or PC requirements seem daunting, rest assured there are plenty of great gaming monitors to fit 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
### Gigabyte M27U
0See it at Amazon
### LG Ultragear GX9
1See it at Amazon
### Alienware AW3225QF
3See it at DellA 4K gaming monitor provides the ultimate visual experience for your favorite PC games, boasting four times the resolution of a 1080p monitor. As more graphics cards handle 4K well, this resolution becomes increasingly accessible. These monitors also excel for PS5 gaming. We've tested and researched numerous options to bring you the 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 spacesThe Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is the ultimate choice for those seeking the best in 4K gaming. Its 32-inch WOLED panel delivers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, perfect for both gaming and creative work. The monitor's versatility allows for 4K gaming at up to 240Hz, and a special 480Hz mode at 1080p for unmatched clarity and responsiveness. Features like Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) and a suite of gaming tools, including Sniper Mode, elevate your gameplay. This monitor sets the standard for 4K gaming excellence.
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 great 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 brightnessProduct support is questionableArzopa's M3RC offers an affordable entry into 4K gaming, priced around $300. This monitor brings crisp visuals and smooth gameplay with its 144Hz refresh rate and support for AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. Its IPS panel provides accurate colors out of the box, and features like USB Type-C and a USB hub add convenience. While it sacrifices some brightness and long-term support, it's an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers looking to upgrade to 4K.
Gigabyte M27U
Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $500
### GigabyteM27U
0Fast, bright, and affordable, this is the 4K gaming monitor to beat in this price range. With a peak brightness of around 700 nits, it offers one of the best HDR gaming experiences you can find 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 optionsReliably smooth, reliably great looking gaming experienceCONSNo local dimmingThe Gigabyte M27U stretches the budget category but offers superior picture quality and HDR experience. With a peak brightness of up to 700 nits, it provides vibrant colors and highlights, enhanced by local dimming zones. Its gaming features, including an on-screen reticle and Shadow Boost, along with easy-to-use OSD Sidekick software, make it a top pick for gamers looking for value without compromising on performance.
4. LG UltraGear GX9 (45GX950A-B)
Best Ultrawide 4K Gaming Monitor
### LG Ultragear GX9
1Large and in-charge, this is a true 4K ultrawide with features to spare.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 isn't for everyoneThe LG UltraGear GX9 is the ultimate choice for ultrawide 4K gaming. Its 45-inch display with an 800R curvature offers an immersive experience, supported by a stunning 5120x2160 resolution. It provides dual refresh rate options, reaching up to 330Hz at FHD for competitive gaming. The OLED panel delivers infinite contrast and vivid colors, enhancing both gaming and entertainment. While it demands a powerful GPU and its curvature may not suit everyone, it's a premium pick for those seeking the best ultrawide 4K monitor.
Dell Alienware AW3225QF
Best Curved 4K Monitor
### Alienware AW3225QF
3A large 32” curved display with looks and specs to match its size. 4k UHD, super-powered 0.3ms response times, and 240hz; this is what a premium gaming monitor looks like. 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 gamingCONSExpensiveThe Alienware AW3225QF is the top choice for gamers who prefer a curved monitor. Its 32-inch size and 240Hz refresh rate, combined with a 0.3ms response time, deliver an immersive and smooth gaming experience. The quantum dot OLED panel provides rich, accurate colors and exceptional HDR performance, with peak brightness reaching 1,000 nits. It supports Dolby Vision and eARC, making it a versatile choice for both PC and console gaming. Despite its high cost, it's a premium option for those who want the best curved 4K monitor.
What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor
When choosing a 4K gaming monitor, consider your desired features and budget. Recent advancements have made high-refresh-rate 4K monitors more accessible, with options available below $400 that support Nvidia G-Sync and HDR. Investing more can yield better image quality, brightness, and additional features.
Size: For most users, 27-32 inches is the optimal range for 4K, though larger screens are available for a more cinematic experience. Keep in mind that larger screens may result in a softer image.
Panel: Monitor panels vary in type and performance. IPS panels offer accurate colors and wide viewing angles but lower contrast. VA panels provide better contrast but may exhibit ghosting. OLED panels offer infinite contrast and fast response times, though they carry a risk of burn-in. Mini-LED backlights enhance contrast and brightness, reducing the risk of burn-in but may show blooming.
Refresh rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 144Hz or higher being ideal. Higher refresh rates reduce input latency and motion blur, crucial for competitive gaming.
Connectivity and supporting features: Ensure HDMI 2.1 support for console gaming at 4K 144Hz. Other features like Dolby Vision, Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, KVMs, USB hubs, and built-in speakers can enhance your gaming setup.
4K Gaming Monitor FAQ
Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?
4K gaming monitors offer stunning visuals but aren't suitable for everyone. If your PC has an entry-level GPU, 4K gaming may result in low frame rates. However, with a mid-range or high-end GPU, especially from recent generations, and the use of upscaling technologies like Nvidia DLSS or AMD Fluid Motion Frames, 4K gaming can significantly enhance your experience.
Is 1440p better than 4K?
1440p can be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over resolution. It's less demanding, allowing for smoother gameplay on higher settings. Yet, with upscaling technologies, 4K gaming is more accessible, offering a balance between visuals and performance. Consider what you value most in your gaming experience.
Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?
Not necessarily. Thanks to upscaling technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, mid-range GPUs like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070 can handle 4K gaming well. For native 4K at ultra settings, a top-tier GPU is still required, but these technologies make 4K gaming more accessible.
