Top 4K Gaming Monitors for Ultimate Graphics

When it comes to PC gaming, 4K resolution represents the pinnacle of visual fidelity, and thanks to technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you no longer need an ultra-powerful PC to enjoy it. Monitors like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM, my top recommendation, deliver stunningly detailed images, vibrant colors, and high frame rates while maintaining excellent responsiveness. If the price or PC requirements seem daunting, don't worry—there are plenty of other great 4K gaming monitors available to suit 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### GigabyteM27U

0See it at Amazon### LG Ultragear GX9

1See it at Amazon### Alienware AW3225QF

3See it at DellA 4K gaming monitor is the ultimate way to experience your favorite PC games, providing incredible sharpness with four times the resolution of a 1080p gaming monitor. As more graphics cards become capable of handling this high resolution, 4K gaming is becoming more accessible than ever. These monitors also serve as excellent options for PS5 gaming. To help you find the perfect monitor, we've tested and researched dozens of options to bring you our 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 spacesIf you're seeking the best of the best and are willing to invest, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is the monitor for you. At 32 inches, it's the perfect size to appreciate the crisp details of its 4K resolution. Its WOLED panel, which stands for white OLED, is exceptionally bright and offers stunning colors that are factory calibrated, making it ideal for both creative work and top-tier gaming. Its dedicated white LED enhances power efficiency and longevity compared to competing QD-OLED monitors.

As highlighted in my review of this Asus ROG Swift monitor, its versatility is what truly sets it apart. You can game in 4K at up to 240Hz for exquisite detail, or switch to a special 480Hz mode for unparalleled clarity and responsiveness at 1080p. This mode allows more graphics cards to achieve that frame rate, benefiting from its enhanced performance. It also features Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) for further improved motion clarity, making it one of the few monitors on this list that offers a noticeable improvement in motion blur and clarity, even for casual gamers. As a longtime Battlefield player, I found the difference immediately noticeable, enhancing my gaming experience without needing to be a pro.

The monitor also comes with a comprehensive suite of gaming features that can provide a competitive edge. Some features, like the Sniper Mode, which offers a reticle and a zoomed-in window, might push ethical boundaries. However, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP remains the best 4K monitor available today.

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 fantastic 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 questionableGone are the days when 4K high refresh rate monitors were prohibitively expensive. With the Arzopa M3RC priced around $300, this display brings high-quality gaming to a broader audience.

Arzopa, known for its quality portable monitors, is now making waves in the full-size gaming monitor market by balancing features with affordability. This monitor boasts a native 4K resolution with a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring crisp visuals and smooth gameplay, enhanced by AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. Its color-rich IPS panel offers surprisingly accurate colors right out of the box, a rarity among budget monitors.

While monitors that challenge conventional pricing often cut corners, the Arzopa M3RC offers more than expected. It includes a USB Type-C video input and a two-port USB hub, features typically omitted in budget models.

The trade-offs for this accessible pricing include moderate brightness, rated at 350 nits, and potential concerns about long-term product support from a smaller brand. However, with a 1-year limited warranty and positive feedback from early adopters, it's a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers.

3. 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 definition of "budget" but offers exceptional value. It delivers a superior picture and HDR experience thanks to its high peak brightness and edge-lit local dimming.

For a 4K gaming monitor, picture quality is paramount, and the Gigabyte M27U excels at this price point. In SDR, it reaches around 400 nits, but with HDR enabled, it jumps to nearly 700 nits, resulting in brighter highlights and more vibrant colors for an immersive gaming experience. Its local dimming zones enhance contrast beyond typical IPS panels.

The monitor also features a range of gaming enhancements, such as an on-screen reticle for games without one and Shadow Boost for better visibility in dark areas. These features are easily accessible through Gigabyte's OSD Sidekick software, making adjustments straightforward. It's also an excellent choice for multi-system use, with a built-in KVM allowing seamless switching between devices.

The only trade-off is choosing between local dimming zones and peak brightness. With local dimming enabled, full-screen brightness is reduced, but turning it off unlocks higher brightness across the entire screen. It's a fair compromise for a consistently great gaming experience.

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 everyoneFor those who crave an ultrawide gaming monitor with the highest resolution available in a 21:9 aspect ratio, the LG UltraGear GX9 is the ultimate choice. This massive 45-inch display with an 800R curvature offers stunning visuals and dual resolutions and refresh rates, allowing you to customize your gaming experience.

The 5120x2160 resolution and 45-inch diagonal width create an immersive experience, drawing you into the center of the action. Its native 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay, but for competitive esports players, LG offers an FHD mode that boosts the refresh rate to 330Hz, providing top-tier responsiveness and motion clarity.

If you're new to OLED gaming monitors, you're in for a treat. Each pixel can be independently controlled for brightness, offering infinite contrast and vivid colors even without HDR. When HDR is enabled, the experience is even more spectacular, enhancing movies and other content as well.

However, using a monitor of this caliber requires a powerful GPU to maintain high frame rates, as 4K ultrawide resolution is significantly more demanding than standard 4K. Its deep curve may also not suit everyone, potentially causing distractions outside of gaming. Despite these considerations, the LG UltraGear GX9 is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium 4K ultrawide monitor with a high refresh rate.

5. 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 gamingCONSExpensiveWhile flat panels have been popular, the Alienware AW3225QF stands out as the best choice for gamers who prefer a curved display. Its 32-inch size and 240Hz refresh rate deliver an immersive and smooth gaming experience. The quantum dot panel ensures rich, accurate colors, and its gentle curve enhances immersion without distorting text.

With a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time, this monitor is ideal for competitive gamers. During testing, I found no ghosting, ensuring smooth gameplay and a tear-free experience thanks to its wide VRR support.

The AW3225QF's HDR performance is exceptional. In SDR, brightness typically hovers around 250 nits, but HDR highlights can reach up to 1,000 nits. It also supports Dolby Vision for streaming and eARC for connecting a soundbar, making it a versatile choice for both PC and console gamers.

What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor

When shopping for a 4K gaming monitor, consider the features and image quality you desire, balanced against your budget. Over the past few years, 4K gaming monitors have become more accessible, with high refresh rate options available well below $400, often including features like Nvidia G-Sync and HDR support. While all decent 4K gaming monitors offer crisp images, investing more can yield better image quality, brightness, and additional features. It's worth taking the time to save a bit longer to find the best monitor for your specific needs.

Size: For most users, anything below 27 inches may not fully benefit from 4K resolution. While smaller sizes offer higher pixel densities, the benefits of 4K become less noticeable beyond a certain point. The sweet spot for Ultra HD is typically between 27 and 32 inches, though larger options up to 48 inches are available for those seeking a "big screen" experience. Keep in mind that larger screens may result in a softer image.

Panel: The type of panel used in the display is crucial. Many 4K monitors use IPS panels, known for their accurate colors and wide viewing angles but lower contrast. VA panels offer better contrast but may show ghosting if not fast enough. OLED panels are increasingly popular, offering infinite contrast and fast response times, though they carry a risk of burn-in. Mini-LED backlights, often referred to as "Mini-LED monitors," provide better contrast and brightness than traditional backlights, with less risk of burn-in compared to OLED.

Refresh rate: For gaming, a minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with 144Hz or higher being ideal. Higher refresh rates reduce input latency and motion blur, which is crucial for competitive gaming. For shooters, 240Hz monitors are a good choice, with some options offering even higher rates.

Connectivity and supporting features: If you plan to use the monitor with a console, ensure it supports HDMI 2.1 for full 4K 144Hz resolution. Other features to consider include Dolby Vision support, Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, built-in KVMs, USB hubs, speakers, and gaming-specific features.

4K Gaming Monitor FAQ

Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?

4K gaming monitors offer stunning visuals and are a great choice for many gamers, but they're not ideal for everyone. If your PC has an entry-level graphics card, running games at 4K may result in low frame rates. However, if you have a mid-range GPU from the current generation or a high-end GPU from the previous generation, upgrading to 4K can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Upscaling technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames have made 4K gaming more accessible, allowing a wider range of hardware to achieve smooth frame rates.

Is 1440p better than 4K?

1440p can be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over visual sharpness. It's less demanding, allowing for higher frame rates on higher settings than 4K. However, with upscaling technologies, you can enjoy 4K gaming without a powerhouse PC. Consider what you value most—frame rate or visual clarity—when making your decision.

Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?

Not necessarily. Thanks to advanced upscaling features like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can play games at 4K without a top-of-the-line graphics card. For native 4K gaming on ultra settings, a high-end GPU is still required. However, with upscaling, midrange GPUs like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070 can deliver great visuals and frame rates at 4K.