4K gaming monitors are the future of PC gaming, offering an immersive experience with stunning detail and vibrant colors. Thanks to advancements 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 stand out with their ability to deliver detailed images, incredible color accuracy, and high frame rates while maintaining excellent responsiveness. If the price or PC requirements seem too high, there are plenty of other excellent gaming monitors available that offer great value and performance.
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 I've reviewed more displays featuring this high resolution, I've found that more graphics cards can handle it well, making 4K gaming more accessible. These monitors also enhance the gaming experience on PS5. After testing and researching dozens of options, we've narrowed it down to 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 spacesThe Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is the top choice for those seeking the best 4K gaming monitor and are willing to invest in premium quality. With a 32-inch screen, it's perfectly sized to showcase the crispness of 4K resolution. Its WOLED panel, featuring white OLED technology, delivers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, ideal for both gaming and creative work. The monitor's energy efficiency and longevity make it a standout choice.
What sets this monitor apart is its versatility. It can run games at 4K resolution with up to 240Hz for detailed visuals, and also offers a 480Hz mode at 1080p for unmatched clarity and responsiveness. The Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) feature further enhances motion clarity, making it noticeable even to casual gamers. Its extensive suite of gaming features, including the controversial Sniper Mode, provides a competitive edge.
2. Arzopa M3RC - 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor
Best Budget 4K Gaming Monitor
### Arzopa 32" 4K 144Hz Gaming Monitor
2This display is Arzopa's attempt to establish itself in the gaming monitor space and succeeds. It's a 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 questionableThe Arzopa M3RC brings affordable 4K gaming to the masses with a price around $300. Known for their portable monitors, Arzopa applies the same balance of features and affordability to this full-size gaming monitor. With a native 4K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, it delivers crisp, smooth gameplay enhanced by AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. Its color-rich IPS panel offers surprisingly accurate colors out of the box.
While budget monitors often cut corners, the Arzopa M3RC includes a USB Type-C video input and a two-port USB hub, features often omitted in this price range. However, it compromises on brightness, rated at 350 nits, and its long-term support may be uncertain as Arzopa establishes itself in the market. Despite these trade-offs, it's a compelling choice for those looking to enter the 4K gaming world without breaking the bank.
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 offers a premium 4K gaming experience without breaking the bank. With a peak brightness of around 700 nits, it provides one of the best HDR experiences under $500. The SuperSpeed IPS panel delivers excellent picture quality, with SDR brightness around 400 nits and HDR boosting it to nearly 700 nits. This results in vibrant colors and bright highlights, enhancing the gaming experience.
The monitor includes a range of gaming features like an on-screen reticle, Shadow Boost, and more, accessible through Gigabyte's user-friendly OSD Sidekick software. It's also ideal for multi-system use, with a built-in KVM for seamless switching between devices. The only trade-off is choosing between local dimming zones and peak brightness, but either way, you're guaranteed a 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 everyoneThe LG UltraGear GX9 is the ultimate choice for gamers seeking an ultrawide 4K experience. With a massive 45-inch screen and an 800R curvature, it draws you into the game, enhancing immersion. Its 5120x2160 resolution and 165Hz refresh rate provide fluid gameplay, and a toggleable FHD mode can boost the refresh rate to 330Hz for competitive gaming.
The OLED panel offers infinite contrast, vibrant colors, and a wide dynamic range, making it perfect for gaming and entertainment. However, it requires a powerful GPU to run at its full potential due to its high resolution. The deep curve might not appeal to everyone, but for those who crave an ultrawide 4K gaming experience, the LG UltraGear GX9 is a top-tier option.
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 go-to choice for gamers who prefer a curved display. Its 32-inch size and 240Hz refresh rate ensure a smooth, immersive gaming experience. The quantum dot OLED panel delivers rich, accurate colors, and its gentle curve enhances immersion without distorting text.
With a 0.3ms response time, it's perfect for competitive gaming, offering no ghosting in tests or real-world games. Its HDR performance is outstanding, with SDR brightness at 250 nits and HDR peaks at 1,000 nits. It also supports Dolby Vision and eARC for enhanced entertainment experiences. The Alienware AW3225QF is an excellent choice for both PC and console gamers seeking a premium curved 4K monitor.
What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor
When shopping for a 4K gaming monitor, consider the features and image quality you want within your budget. 4K gaming monitors have become more accessible, with options under $400 offering high refresh rates and gaming features like Nvidia G-Sync and HDR support. Higher-priced models provide better image quality, brightness, and advanced features.
Size: A screen size between 27 and 32 inches is ideal for enjoying 4K resolution. Smaller sizes may not fully benefit from 4K's pixel density, while larger screens can soften the image.
Panel: Choose between IPS panels for accurate colors and wide viewing angles, VA panels for better contrast, or OLED panels for infinite contrast and fast response times. Mini-LED backlights offer improved contrast and brightness, though they may exhibit blooming.
Refresh rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended for gaming, with 144Hz or higher preferred for competitive play. Higher refresh rates reduce input latency and motion blur.
Connectivity and supporting features: Ensure the monitor supports HDMI 2.1 for console gaming at 4K 144Hz. Look for additional features like Dolby Vision, Nvidia G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, built-in KVMs, USB hubs, and gaming-specific enhancements.
4K Gaming Monitor FAQ
Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?
4K gaming monitors offer stunning visuals but may not be suitable for everyone. If your PC has an entry-level graphics card, you might struggle with low frame rates at 4K. However, with a mid-range GPU from the current generation or a high-end GPU from the last, you can enjoy a significant improvement in gaming experience. Technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames make 4K gaming more accessible, allowing even mid-range hardware to achieve good frame rates.
Is 1440p better than 4K?
1440p can be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over visual clarity. It's less demanding, allowing for higher settings and frame rates. However, with upscaling technologies, 4K gaming is now achievable on a broader range of hardware. Consider what you value most—visuals or performance—when choosing between the two.
Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?
Not necessarily. Thanks to Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you can enjoy 4K gaming without a top-tier graphics card. For native 4K gaming at ultra settings, a high-end GPU is still necessary. However, mid-range GPUs like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070 can provide excellent visuals and frame rates with the help of upscaling technologies.
