4k monitors can deliver display resolutions of 3840 x 2160 pixels as default. This is one of the highest resolutions available on PCs or laptops and is also known as UHD.
4K resolutions can substantially increase your gaming experience and enable you to enjoy better graphics with each frame.
Although 4K gaming monitors are more expensive, the graphics outputs are noticeably better. Because of the higher resolutions, you may find most 4K gaming monitors available as curved displays.
Also, 4k monitors are mostly IPS or VA panels. But such high resolutions will demand more graphics rendering power.
Therefore, you will need a high-end graphics card for 4k gaming to deliver both the extreme resolutions as well as gaming performance requirements.
Is a 4K Monitor Good For Gaming?
For a PC or console gamer, the prospect of having the best 4k gaming monitor is a pricey one. But there are certain advantages linked with a 4k gaming monitor more than just the display resolution.
4k monitors produce sharp images on a larger screen and hugely reduce aliasing, allowing you to view smaller details better. With a 4k gaming monitor, you get to finally enjoy the depth of the graphics, giving you better in-game visuals.
But there are some downsides to it. You cannot expect high refresh rates in gaming, vital for online or competitive gaming.
Such high refresh rates at these extreme resolutions will require above-par graphics acceleration and rendering. Even with the best graphics card, you will not find a monitor that can deliver both 4k resolutions and 240 Hz.
So, with a 4k gaming monitor, you are essentially curtailing refresh rates for resolution and graphics details.
But know that, even with recent gaming titles like Ghost of Tsushima, fps and refresh rates averaging around 70-80 are sufficient for an enjoyable gaming experience.
If you are into online gaming or esports, you may require high refresh rates around 144 Hz or more. Worth mentioning, that if your competition has better refresh rates, you are at a disadvantage despite the 4k resolutions.
So, a 4k monitor is best for gaming if you are more inclined towards offline or casual online gaming. If you still need high refresh rates, you may need to pay up a premium.
Can You Tell the Difference Between 1080p and 4k?
There is no denying the fact that 4k UHD resolution displays 4x more pixels compared to 1080p Full HD resolution. But the question is whether the human eye can distinguish the pixels.
The answer depends on the screen size and the distance between the monitor and its user. From a distance, it is not possible for someone to notice the difference in pixel quality on a small screen.
But if the screen is big enough, you may notice apparent differences immediately.
Apart from screen size and distance factors, the difference between 4k and 1080p monitors also depends largely on the user’s eyesight quality.
For a user with 20/20 vision quality, you may notice the difference even if you sit farther away from the 4k screen compared to those with a lower visual quality.
Best 4K Gaming Monitor List
1. LG 27UL500-W
The LG 27UL500-W gaming monitor offers a wide chassis paired with a silver stand making this one of the best-looking displays around. The sleek design looks fragile and the bow-shaped stand takes very little space, providing excellent stability.
This LG gaming monitor sports a 4k 27-inch IPS technology with a 60Hz refresh rate, 5ms response time, and a contrast ratio of 1000:1 like most IPS variants. It covers 98% RGB as promised which is ideal for intense gaming. The cool temperature adds a bluish touch to the display screen.
With a 10% brightness deviation, the panel uniformity is quite impressive on the sides. A light leak may appear on the bottom left corner which worsens the brightness deviation to 17%.
There may be slight ghosting and blurring because of the 60Hz refresh rate. The LG gaming monitor offers FreeSync and a low input lag of 9.5ms. So, professional gamers do not feel de-synced or experience delayed instances when they play.
In short, LG 27UL500-W is a great monitor for gaming purposes trickled down from their UltraGear range of gaming hardware priced at around $350.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 4.6 kg | Dimensions: 24.50 x 8.20 x 18.10 inches | Screen Size: 27 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: White
Pros
- Vibrant and accurate colors
- Quick response time and low input lag
- Includes many gaming features like AMD FreeSync
- Value for money
Cons
- Tilt-only stand
- No integrated speakers
2. AOC CU32V3
If you are looking for a curved 4k gaming monitor, AOC CU32V3 is a great choice. With a 32-inch Ultra HD resolution, the monitor is 1500R curved with a typical VA panel, 4ms response times, and 60Hz refresh rates.
The model has a 121% sRGB and 90% Adobe RGB coverage which is why you get to view accurate colors. The large viewing angles on the curved monitor is ideal for an immersive gaming experience.
As for the LowBlue mode, you can control the high blue-light radiation that could harm your eyes.
Coming to the VA panel, you can enjoy gaming scenes with flicker-free backlighting. The monitor offers 2 HDMI 2.0 outputs, an HDMI cable, an Earphone Out port, and a DisplayPort 1.2 for better connectivity.
The curved monitor also comes with VESA compatibility with 100 x 100 mm flexible mounting options. However, the product does not offer any built-in speakers but you can connect external speakers or laptop speakers.
So, considering the above gaming features of the AOC CU32V3, you can opt for this 3-sided thin-bezel 4k gaming monitor at under $390.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 10.66 kg | Dimensions: 27.9 x 20.65 x 8.1 inches | Screen Size: 32 inches | Display Type: LCD | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Black
Pros
- Anti-flicker and LowBlue tech add-ons
- Flexible mounting options
- Brilliant color accuracy
- Minimum bezel
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- May experience some ghosting
- No FreeSync or G Sync
3. Samsung UR590C
Considered a popular brand, Samsung UR590C has introduced a narrow-bezel 32-inch 4k gaming monitor with a curvature of 1500R, ideal for an immersive gaming experience.
The metallic Y-stand looks simple and modern. The vertical alignment of the panel allows you to enjoy 178-degree wide viewing angles which are possible both vertically and horizontally. For both beginners and professional gamers, the 4ms response times should be enough and the 60Hz refresh rates are reasonable.
Coming to the drawbacks of this display, you get neither FreeSync nor G-Sync. But you get the basic features of Samsung monitors like dual-screen functionality among others. These features are ideal for gamers who use dual-monitors for gaming, with a PC or a console.
All in all, the Samsung gaming monitor looks quite basic but offers substantial gaming performance with an adjustable stand and the best viewing angles that come at under $500.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 5.58 kg | Dimensions: 3.3 x 28 x 16.5 inches | Screen Size: 31.5 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Dark Blue Grey
Pros
- Stunning graphics outputs
- Solid and quality build
- Effective curvature
Cons
- Lacks USB ports
- Lack FreeSync or G Sync features
- Requires calibration
4. Asus VP28UQG
The Asus VP28UQG gaming monitor offers plenty of gamer-friendly features with a 4k UHD screen. What makes this gaming monitor unique is the Adaptive-Sync feature that provides a crisp and immersive gaming experience.
For a competitive gamer, the 10ms input lag and 1ms response time come in very handy, especially when you are playing AA or AAA game titles.
As for the eye care features, the flicker-free technology reduces eye strain and the blue light filter controls the blue light emission.
The glossy aluminum stand affects the monitor’s ergonomics to a certain extent since you can only tilt the monitor front and back but cannot pivot it or adjust the height of the stand.
Though TN panels can not offer as much as IPS displays, it still offers comfortable viewing angles and provides distortion-free images. You can navigate the OSD menu with the 5-way joystick controller on the monitor’s back.
In short, if you are looking for a solid 4k monitor that provides the essential gaming features at a decent price of $250, the Asus VP28UQG is quite reliable and impressive for a fluid gaming experience.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 4.6 kg | Dimensions: 26 x 2.5 x 15 inches | Screen Size: 28 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Black
Pros
- Gamer-friendly features
- Crisp and sharp image quality
- FreeSync enabled
- Excellent gaming performance
Cons
- Lacks speakers and USB port
- Tilt-only stand
5. LG 27UK850-W
The sleek LG 27UK850-W gaming monitor offers a silver stand with a sturdy half-circle base. The stand can be tilted 5 degrees forward, 20 degrees backward, and can be pivoted 90 degrees from landscape to portrait mode.
The monitor uses IPS technology with wide viewing angles and impressive color accuracy. Compared to a TN panel, the 5ms response rate is quite slow but you can adjust the response time.
With 4k resolution, the monitor offers High Dynamic Range (HDR) which accepts HDR10 signals. It is bundled with some serious gaming features such as the Black Stabilizers.
For quick optimization, activate the stabilizer that reveals superior details even in dark scenes. The product also features FreeSync and Dynamic Action Sync that reduce screen stuttering and tearing and ensure smooth gaming action.
Though the LG 27UK850-W is not as ideal for gaming as it should be, it is still a cost-effective option that offers special gaming features like FreeSync, Black Stabilizer, and two 5-Watt MaxxAudio built-in speakers that make this monitor a good buy for most gamers.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 6.08 kg | Dimensions: 24.10 x 9.20 x 22 inches | Screen Size: 27 inches | Display Type: LCD | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: White
Pros
- HDR10 support
- Excellent clarity and accurate colors
- FreeSync via HDMI
- 24p cadence support
Cons
- No swivel options
- Low contrast ratio
- Slow response rate
6. Samsung UJ59
Another Samsung made it to the list, the UJ59 is a top-selling entry-grade 4k display well suited for first-time buyers.
The most enjoyable feature of this monitor is the display quality on offer. The screen is a fantastic OLED even though it only covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut. But 4k resolutions outputs are crisp, sharp, and well-detailed as with all Samsung monitors.
For an LED screen, the performance outputs are commendable as well. 10ms input lag at 60 Hz refresh rates is easily satisfactory, especially considering the entry-level price tag. With this monitor, you will surely enjoy a samurai spree on the Ghosts of Tsushima.
However, response times are below-par and there is some ghosting even with AMD FreeSync on. But these issues are limited only in dark contrasts or graphics atmospheres and no more.
Design-wise, Samsung keeps it simple and minimalistic without undermining quality. You will instantly like the thin bezels and overall slim build.
Multiple connectivity options including dual HDMI ports make this a highly compatible monitor for gameplay. Priced around the $400 bracket, this is one of the best budget gaming monitors with 4K.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 8.5 kg | Dimensions: 28.72 x 9.90 x 21.04 inches | Screen Size: 32 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Silver/Black
Pros
- Thin bezels
- Superb 4k quality
- Budget buy
Cons
- Ghosting at low contrast frames
- Limited refresh rates even with FreeSync
7. BenQ EL2870U
With a minimalist design, the BenQ EL2870U 4k gaming monitor offers great value for money and performance. The inclined L-shaped stand comes with a glossy black neck and dark grey metal base.
The stand has a functional limitation; it can only tilt the screen 15 degrees upward and 5 degrees downward. You can not adjust the height nor swivel the monitor. However, you get a VESA 100 x 100mm compatibility for wall mounting.
What makes BenQ an ideal monitor for gaming enthusiasts is the excellent 1ms Grey-to-Grey response time and the FreeSync support for a smoother visual experience. Enjoy high-octane gaming action and dramatic transitions without any ghosting or lags.
The monitor uses TN panel technology with a peak brightness of 300 nits. Unlike the IPS panel, the panel technology offers a weak color gamut and relatively narrow viewing angles.
To sum up, the BenQ EL2780U is a great option for gamers at around $300, with better colors and more details for beautiful gradients and crisp visuals.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 5.7 kg | Dimensions: 19 x 3 x 26 inches | Screen Size: 28 inches | Display Type: LCD | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Metallic Grey
Pros
- Low response time and input lag
- FreeSync support
- Great color accuracy
- Excellent color reproduction
Cons
- Below-par viewing angles
- Poor sound quality
- Low contrast and brightness
8. Acer Predator XB271HK bmiprz
If you want a sharp-looking 4k UHD monitor, go for Acer Predator. The 27-inch monitor with an IPS panel is matte-coated and has a zero-bezel frame with a Predator logo on the bottom trim.
The stand has an aggressive appearance with a black and red colored V-shaped base. The monitor can be tilted front and backward with 30-degree swivel adjustability and you can also pivot the monitor to change the mode from landscape to portrait viewing.
Coming to the performance, this NVIDIA G-Sync monitor provides a 60Hz refresh rate that eliminates screen stuttering and tearing. The 4ms response time delivers anti-blur and smooth gaming scenes minimizing the input lag.
Overall, the Acer Predator is a good gamer-friendly monitor for just under $580, which has a Game Mode feature that provides 3 Aim Point for FPS or first-person-shooter games.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 7 kg | Dimensions: 24.2 x 10.6 x 21.7 inches | Screen Size: 27 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 1.78:1 | Color: Black
Pros
- Attractive bezel less design
- G Sync
- Wide viewing angles
- Solid built quality
Cons
- Only 2 video inputs
9. Samsung UE570
The Samsung UE570 is an excellent, entry-level 4k monitor with a 28-inch high-resolution display screen. Unlike VA and IPS panels, the TN panel of this monitor provides narrow viewing angles but the UHD resolution makes up for it by ensuring crisp and sharp image quality other than high-end gaming performance.
This Samsung monitor has an ultra-fast response time of just 1ms as well as FreeSync to eliminate trailing, motion-blur, and ghosting in fast-moving games. The product offers good input lag performance that amounts to 9ms.
The monitor also features PIP and PBP along with Game Mode which increases visibility by changing the gamma curvature. However, FreeSync functions only over DisplayPort and not over HDMI.
Other features of the Samsung monitor include the flicker-free technology and the Eye Saver mode that lets you control the blue lights of the screen.
So, if you are looking for a 4k gaming monitor under $360 with Game Mode and FreeSync features, the Samsung UE570 must be on your list.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 5.28 kg | Dimensions: 7.36 x 26.01 x 18.44 inches | Screen Size: 28 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Black
Pros
- Brilliant calibrated performance
- Value for money
- Low response time
- MagicAngle offers off-axis viewing
Cons
- Tilt-only design
- Narrow viewing angles
- No VESA mount
10. Acer CB282K smiiprx
This 27” 4k gaming monitor is based on an IPS panel with UHD. The Acer CB282K is perhaps the best option for most gamers. The contrast ratio is reasonable. Excellent wide viewing angles other than above-par picture quality allow for immersive multi-user gaming.
The AMD FreeSync technology reduces ghosting and screen stuttering but you will require an NVIDIA or AMD compatible graphics card. The FreeSync can run over both DisplayPort and HDMI ports. Besides this, the monitor also offers a 4ms response rate that eliminates screen tearing.
The monitor sports an ergonomically designed height-adjustable stand that can be tilted and swiveled but cannot be pivoted. The quick-release design of the monitor allows you to separate it from its stand so that you can mount it on the wall with a VESA-compatible mount.
The Acer Flickerless and BlueLightShield technologies reduce eye fatigue and glare so you can play for longer hours with Acer’s Low Dimming and ComfyView features.
All in all, the Acer CB282K comprises several gaming features with impressive clarity and pixel density, priced under $350, which makes it an excellent option for gamers.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 3.39 kg | Dimensions: 25.08 x 10.59 x 20 inches | Screen Size: 28 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Black
Pros
- Decent built-in speakers
- Price-to-performance
- Sharp picture quality
Cons
- Narrow viewing angles
- No swivel options
- Weird positioning of Menu buttons
11. Philips 328E1CA
With a minimalist and homely look, the Phillips 328E1CA is overall an excellent option for gaming purposes. The square-shaped ring base and the silver-colored, powder-coated metal stand look quite stylish and sleek. The monitor has a thin panel bezel around the anti-glaring screen surface.
The gaming monitor sports a 32-inch 4k UHD customized VA technology panel with a 4ms response time and a 60Hz refresh rate. This allows you to enjoy a fluid, artifact-free performance with Adaptive-Sync technology.
The screen has a 1500R curvature that improves the immersive gaming scenes on the display. The pixels are not too overly sharp or tightly bound. However, the default color temperature is not quite impressive since it is too bluish or cool which may hurt your eyes from prolonged gaming sessions.
Tech Specifications
Weight: 5 kg | Dimensions: 27.9 x 20.6 x 11.1 inches | Screen Size: 32 inches | Display Type: LED | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Color: Silver/Black
Pros
- Attractive design
- Thin bezels
- Superb 4k quality
- Low input lag
Cons
- Blurry images
- May experience backlight bleeding
FAQs
What Graphics Card Do I Need For 4K 144hz?
Is 60 Hz Enough For a 4K Gaming Monitor?
Do I Need a 4K Monitor To Play 4K Games?
How Much RAM Do I Need For a 4K Gaming Monitor?
Which Is The Best 4k Gaming Monitor To Buy In 2022?
For an amateur gamer, if you are looking for the best 4k gaming monitor for $300, with a 28-inch screen and low input lag, and 1ms response time, choose between Asus VP28UQG and BenQ EL2780U.
But, in case, you are looking for a professional 4k gaming monitor under $600, with a 4ms response time and ultra-low input lag, choose either Acer Predator or Samsung UR590C.
Make sure that you go through the specifications and the compatibility of each model before buying.