For decades, LED and LCD panels reigned supreme when talking about gaming monitors. However, with the introduction of Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) technology to the mainstream gaming market just a few years ago, the tide has shifted. Now, the market is filled with a wide range of OLED gaming monitors to choose from, but the high price tags keep most people at bay, and finding a budget-friendly option can be challenging. The good news is that there are a few options that can be considered “budget” in a sea of expensive OLED monitors for gaming.
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Before moving forward, the word “budget” should be discussed. It is a subjective measure as something that is budget-friendly to some might be too expensive for others. Fortunately, in the OLED gaming monitor space, the wide range allows for establishing a price range that can be considered budget, as pricing can go from as low as $700 to over $2000. Therefore, this guide compiles OLED gaming monitors priced under $1000.
How To Choose The Best Budget OLED Monitor for Gaming
When shopping for a great budget-friendly OLED gaming monitor, one must strongly consider certain factors.
Size and Resolution: How big should a gaming monitor be? The size is completely subjective. While some gamers prefer a smaller size to get the best pixel density, others prefer larger panels for arguably a more immersive experience. The form factor also comes into play here, be it a standard 16:9 format or an ultrawide 21:9 or even 32:9 aspect ratio. Regardless of the size, note that a gaming monitor is not something that is used at the distance of a TV, so a large monitor on a not-so-large desk might be more uncomfortable than immersive.
Now, depending on the size, the resolution can be either 1080p or up to 4K. If the display is over 29 inches, it is best to go with something higher than 1080p. As the pixel density (pixels per inch) decreases, text becomes harder to read, and visual details are lost. On the other hand, there’s nothing wrong with getting a 27-inch display with 4K resolution. It may be expensive, but it’s going to look great!
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Refresh Rate: The refresh rate of a monitor is a key component when it comes to gaming. OLED panels have great response times compared to LCD and LED monitors. Over the years, the refresh rate has gone up as well. There are OLED panels with up to 240Hz refresh rate, and they’re only going to get faster in the coming years. A higher refresh rate directly translates to how smooth the monitor feels. One drawback of a high refresh rate is that it can introduce ghosting, which is fast-moving objects in the game having trails because the surrounding pixels cannot update as quickly as they need to.
Stand and Mountability: All monitors come with stands that provide different levels of adjustment. Some allow for height, tilt, and rotation adjustments, while others have a combination of two out of the three. However, a factory stand may not be the use case for everyone. If a monitor arm is being used, the monitor needs to have VESA compatibility. The size and weight of the monitor will have to be considered when going in for a monitor arm. Regardless, if the monitor does not have these adjustments and mounting angles, users will be forced to resort to third-party solutions like monitor risers.
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Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240
The Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240, as the name suggests, is part of Corsair's Xeneon series that was popularized by the Xeneon Flex bendable gaming monitor. The 27QHD240 does not have a bendable display but offers impressive specifications such as a 2560x1440 resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, and 1000 nits peak brightness in HDR mode. It comes with ample connectivity options and has a proximity sensor near the OSD buttons.
- Screen Size
- 27
- Resolution
- 2560x1440
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 240 Hz
- Brand
- Corsair
- Response Time
- 0.03
- WEIGHT
- 9.1 kg
- 1000 nits claimed peak brightness in HDR
- High refresh rate of 240Hz
- Ergonomic stand
- Color gamut could have been wider
Those in the know may be familiar with the Xeneon brand thanks to the world’s first bendable OLED gaming monitor, the Xeneon Flex. While that 45-inch behemoth lets users pull on the screen from either side to make the flat display into a curved one, this 27-inch Xeneon 27QHD240 does not offer the same versatility, even though there are plenty of curved 27-inch monitors in the market. At 2560x1440 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, and 110 PPI pixel density, this Corsair monitor delivers a sharp visual experience.
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Being a gaming monitor, the Xeneon 27QHD240 boasts a 240 Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms (GtG) response time. It is also very color-accurate, covering 98.5% of DCI-P3 and 100% of the sRGB color gamut. Corsair advertises 450 nits brightness, but it is capable of 1000 nits peak in HDR mode, which results in an impressive HDR experience. Connectivity options on the Xeneon include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 port, one USB Type-C DP port, one USB Type-C upstream port, a four-port USB Type-A hub, and a 3.5mm audio out port.
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The chunky ergonomic stand allows for 100mm height adjustment, 30-degree swivel, -7 to +15 degrees of tilt, as well as 90-degree rotation for portrait mode. It is also VESA 100x100 compatible for wall and monitor arm mounting. Corsair has added a proximity sensor where the menu buttons are, which automatically pulls up the on-screen menu when a hand goes near the buttons. The Corsair Xeneon 27QHD240 is overall the best budget OLED monitor because of its incredible HDR experience, high refresh rate perfect for fast-paced games, and ample connectivity options.
AOC Agon Pro AG276QZD Gaming Monitor
The AOC Agon Pro AG276QZD is a 27-inch OLED gaming monitor with a 240 Hz refresh rate and a blazing fast 0.03ms response time. It has a 2560x1440 resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio with 110 PPI pixel density. The display is color-accurate with 100% coverage of sRGB, 98.3% DCI-P3, 91.9 Adobe RGB, and 92.5% NTSC color space. It also comes with two 5W speakers and a highly adjustable stand that allows for portrait mode operation.
- Brand
- AOC
- Resolution
- 2560x1440
- Refresh Rate
- 240 Hz
- Screen Size
- 27
- Ports
- 2 HDMI 2.0, 2 DisplayPort 1.4, 2 USB 3.2 (Gen 1), 1 headphone out
- Display Technology
- OLED
- Aspect Ratio
- 16:9
- Mounting Options
- VESA 100x100
- Sound
- 2x5W
- Tilt
- -4° to 21.5°
- HDR
- HDR10
- Response Time
- 0.03ms
- Weight
- 4.9 kg
- Compatible with multiple consoles
- 240Hz refresh rate and a fast response time
- Wide color gamut for great color reproduction
- Could be brighter
- No HDMI 2.1 ports
Coming in as the cheapest OLED gaming monitor offering, the Agon PRO AG276QZD by AOC is a complete package. At 27 inches, it is ideal for any desk, especially considering its 2560x1440 resolution, which leads to 110 pixels per inch (PPI). It is a sharp monitor, even though not the brightest, which brings into question the quality of HDR. The Agon PRO AG276QZD has HDR10 support, but it cannot reach the 600 nits of brightness that is required for a decent HDR experience.
What it lacks in HDR quality, it makes up for in refresh rate. The Agon PRO AG276QZD has a fast 240 Hz refresh rate and a response time of 0.01 ms. If the PC is powerful enough, the monitor is capable of delivering an ultra-fast, visually detailed gaming experience, ideal for shooters. In terms of color accuracy, the monitor boasts 100% coverage of sRGB, 98.3% DCI-P3, 91.9 Adobe RGB, and 92.5% NTSC color space. It is also G-Sync compatible and comes with Flicker Free and Low Blue Light tech.
The AOC Agon PRO AG276QZD has a flat 16:9 display with uniformly slim bezels all around. There are two 5W speakers, which is always a plus when gaming monitors have them, as they come in handy on rare occasions. The stand allows for 130mm of height adjustment, tilt, swivel, and pivot, which means it can be rotated 90 degrees and used in portrait mode. It also supports 100x100 VESA wall mounting, making it compatible with monitor arms. For connectivity, the OLED gaming monitor features two HDMI 2.0 ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, two USB 3.2 (Gen 1) ports, and a headphone out port.
Acer Predator X27U
The Acer Predator X27U is an OLED monitor for gaming that ships with some of the latest specs. Buyers get a 240Hz OLED display that projects images seamlessly without blur or stuttering. AMD FreeSync Premium ensures that players enjoy fluid gameplay along with the monitor's suite of eye care technologies that work to reduce eye strain. Built-in speakers and various height adjustment functionalities add to the Predator X27U's arsenal.
- Brand
- Acer
- Resolution
- 2560 x 1440
- Screen Size
- 27 inches
- Response Time
- 0.01 ms
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 240 Hz
- WEIGHT
- 14.27 pounds
- Great HDR for vivid details
- High refresh rate of up to 240Hzz
- Built-in KVM switch
- Stand takes up a good amount of space
- Max brightness advertised is limited to only 3% of screen in HDR
Even when there are excellent OLED displays boasting a QHD resolution, the Acer Predator X27U cannot be underestimated. It's slightly cheaper than the displays listed above, but is pretty competitive in almost all areas. A QHD resolution on a 27-inch panel with a bezel-less display is exactly what most users want for an immersive experience, and the X27U delivers it without getting too pricey. The monitor runs at a 240Hz refresh rate, comes equipped with AMD FreeSync Premium, and has a quick response time of just 0.01ms GtG to maintain its competitive nature.
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Perfect for esports players and those who love high-quality visuals in triple-A titles, the Predator X27U doesn't disappoint in color reproduction either. Featuring a color gamut of 99% DCI-E3 and an incredibly high contrast ratio, it's going to be vivid in detail. The stand it comes with is also ergonomic, but needs a big gaming desk to avoid issues with other peripherals on the table. Apart from that, it is going to be a superb choice, particularly for those who would like to have built-in speakers and modern connectivity ports that will include a Type-C port with up to 90W of power delivery.
Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDM
The ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDM is a 27-inch OLED gaming monitor that boasts a 2560x1440 resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 0.03ms response time for an incredible gaming experience. With HDR10 support and 1000 nits peak HDR brightness, the ROG Swift PG27AQDM delivers a consistent and crisp visual experience. There is an ROG logo on the back as well as an ROG projection at the bottom of the stand. On top of the stand is a 1/4-inch tripod socket for mounting accessories.
- Screen Size
- 27
- Resolution
- 2560x1440
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 240 Hz
- Brand
- Asus
- Response Time
- 0.03
- WEIGHT
- 4.2 kg
- Maximum brightness of up to 450 Nits
- 240 Hz refresh rate
- Low power consumption
- No HDMI 2.1 ports
- 1000 Nits brightness advertised is limited to 3% screen with HDR
The Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDM is a 27-inch 2560x1440p OLED gaming monitor that looks just as stunning as it performs. With its standard 16:9 aspect ratio and slim bezels all around, the monitor feels familiar yet futuristic. It boasts 99% coverage of DCI-P3 and 135% coverage of sRGB color space. With an advertised brightness of 450 nits, the ROG Swift PG27AQDM delivers an incredible visual experience that is not common on regular OLED panels.
Adding to the visual quality is the 240 Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms (GtG) response time, taking gaming to the next level. With the right hardware, all kinds of games – be it competitive shooters, RPGs, MMOs, RTS, or others – will look stunning and run smoothly on the Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDM. It also has Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology with Adaptive-Sync delivering a consistently smooth experience.
Asus has also improved on the cooling tech with the ROG Swift PG27AQDM and is using a combination of a custom heatsink, a smart internal component layout, and large air vents to keep the components cool and prevent OLED burn-in. For connectivity, the monitor comes with a DisplayPort 1.4 DSC port, two HDMI (v2.0) ports, an earphone jack, and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports. The stand offers +20 to -5 degrees of tilt, 30 degrees of swivel, pivot, and 110mm height adjustment. It is also 100x100mm VESA compatible and has lighting effects on the back, supported by Aura RGB, which lends itself well to futuristic designs. Users should note that the stand has the ROG projection and a ¼-inch tripod socket built in, which will be lost if the monitor is mounted on an arm or the wall.
KTC 42 Inch 4K OLED G42P5 Gaming Monitor
The KTC G42P5 is an attractive gaming monitor that boasts a 42" 4K OLED screen with a ton of impeccable features to boot. Gamers get to enjoy fluid gameplay thanks to offerings like G-Sync and FreeSync Premium. A refresh rate of 138Hz ensures that players will hardly suffer from input lag. Plus, the monitor features not only two HDMI 2.1 ports but also a DP 1.4 port, three USB 3.0 ports, and a type-C hub for an advanced gaming, design, and entertainment experience.
- Screen Size
- 42"
- Resolution
- 3840 x 2160
- Brand
- KTC
- Display Technology
- OLED
- Aspect Ratio
- 16:9
- Refresh Rate
- 138Hz
- Ports
- HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4, USB 3.0, USB-C
- Weight
- 47.2 pounds
- Brilliant 4K OLED visuals
- Can connect to multiple devices at once
- Features adaptive sync and 0.1ms GTG for smooth gaming
- Somewhat expensive for budget shoppers
For players who want to feel like they're gaming on a high-end TV rather than a budget monitor, this 4K OLED screen from KTC will give them that luxury. This sizable monitor offers players 42 inches of vibrant visuals on a bezel-less screen, all supported by 8.29 million self-lit pixels. The monitor takes full advantage of its impressive specs by utilizing FreeSync Premium and G-Sync alongside a high refresh rate of 138HZ and some extra features such as Blue Light Shift to protect players' eyes.
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Naturally, the monitor also comes with built-in speakers and is completely compatible with modern PCs. This monitor can even connect to two devices at once, a feature made even easier by its plethora of ports. While it is a little pricey for budget-minded gamers, considering the large size, 4K OLED picture quality, and gaming-specific visual enhancements, the price is still a great deal for those who want one of the best pictures possible.
Samsung Odyssey OLED G85SB
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G85SB is a 34-inch curved ultrawide OLED gaming monitor that boasts a 175 Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time. This monitor comes with Smart TV functionality and runs on Samsung's Tizen OS. This allows the monitor to be used as a TV with native streaming apps and wireless casting. The monitor has HDR10+ support and comes with VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification. The Odyssey OLED G85SB features a 3440x1440 panel that covers 99% of DCI color space.
- Screen Size
- 34
- Resolution
- 3440x1440
- Max. Refresh Rate
- 175 Hz
- Brand
- Samsung
- Response Time
- 0.03ms
- WEIGHT
- 5.5
- Curved ultra-wide display for immersive experience
- Smart TV functionality
- Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Lackluster HDR
- Contrast could be higher
A lot of gamers and professionals prefer ultrawide monitors for their expansive screen real estate, akin to two monitors side by side. The Samsung Odyssey OLED G85SB offers that at 34 inches with a 21:9 aspect ratio. This curved OLED gaming monitor has an 1800R curvature which brings the edges of the display closer to the user. Boasting a resolution of 3440x1440, a refresh rate of 175 Hz, and 0.03ms (GtG) response time, the Odyssey OLED G85SB can deliver an incredibly immersive gaming experience, so long as the PC can support it.
The gaming monitor has an advertised brightness of 250 nits and support for HDR10+. Samsung says this monitor is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified. In terms of color accuracy, it comes with 99 percent coverage of DCI-P3 color space, 99% sRGB, and 94% Adobe RGB coverage. It is not Nvidia G-Sync compatible but supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. It runs Samsung’s Tizen OS, giving users access to the Gaming Hub where they can experience cloud gaming. Media consumption is also easier as Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and other streaming services are available natively.
In terms of connectivity, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G85SB does not have full-size DisplayPort or HDMI ports. There is one Mini DisplayPort, one Micro HDMI 2.1 port, two USB Type-C ports, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.2. Wireless connectivity options enable wireless display functionality, allowing for casting from a phone or tablet. And it comes with a remote, just like its older brother, the Odyssey OLED G95SC.
The stand that comes with the Samsung Odyssey OLED G85SB has 120mm of height adjustment, -2 to 20 degrees of tilt, and -3 to 3 degrees of pivot, but no swivel. It can also be mounted on a wall or an arm with VESA 100x100 compatibility. There is RGB lighting on the back of the monitor which reflects off the wall depending on how far it is.
ViewSonic VX1655 4K OLED 15.6 Inch Portable OLED Monitor
This 15.6-inch 4K UHD (3840x2160p) OLED portable monitor with a 60Hz refresh rate and protective screen cover is perfect for gamers on the go, or anyone who travels for work and needs a second monitor. With a weight of 1.5 lbs and a thickness of 0.6 in, this portable monitor slips easily into backpacks and even purses. The USB-C connectivity provides super-fast data, audio and video transfer, and 60W charging over one cable, making it easy to attach to just about any PC. This monitor also comes with a durable screen cover and a built-in stand for orientation in both portrait and landscape modes, again adding convenience to workers in hotel rooms or cramped convention halls. Plus, the monitor comes with a 3-year coverage!
- Brand
- ViewSonic
- Screen Size
- 15.6"
- Display Technology
- OLED
- Resolution
- 3840 x 2160 Pixels
- Refresh Rate
- 60 Hz
- Ports
- mini hdmi, usb-c, 3.5mm
- Weight
- 1.5 pounds
- Ultra-portable design can fit into almost any bag
- Provides 2 way powered 60W USB C port
- UHD resolution for sharper details
- Built-in speakers are dull
- Just 60Hz refresh rate
- No VRR support
Once a second monitor is in play, it's impossible to go back, which presents a serious problem for people who travel often. However, ViewSonic's portable 4K OLED monitor is the perfect way to get an efficient PC setup on the road. Featuring two USB-C ports, one mini-HDMI port, and a 3.5mm port, it's easy to connect this monitor to portable PCs, laptops, and even full-blown consoles like the Xbox Series X or the Nintendo Switch. Although some users report intermittent issues with connecting their smartphones, most modern devices should be compatible with this portable monitor.
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The overall design of the VX1655 monitor lends itself well to travel, with it allowing both horizontal and vertical orientations while in use. Additionally, the monitor comes with a stand to help prop it up and can be mounted either on a tripod or a wall, if necessary. Players can extend their screens with ease from anywhere with ViewSonic's portable monitor. Plus, with it being a 4K OLED screen, the stunning visuals are supported by more than 8 million pixels!
FAQ
Q: Are OLED monitors best for gaming?
OLED monitors offer much faster response times compared to traditional LCD and LED panels. In the current market, there are OLED monitors that go up to 240 Hz which makes them an ideal candidate for gaming.
Q: Are there 1440p OLED monitors?
Yes, there are several 2K or 1440p OLED monitors as they come in three main resolutions: 2560x1440, 3440x1440, and 3840x2160 (4K).
Q: Is OLED burn-in still a problem?
Most modern-day OLED gaming monitors have some form of burn-in protection built in – screensavers, Pixel refresh, or Pixel shift technology. This prevents pixels from staying stagnant on the monitor for long durations, thus avoiding burn-in.