Gaming monitors keep getting better and better at the moment; however, that does mean they’re also getting pricier. These days, you can drop thousands on a display faster than a Concorde and packed with features most people don’t even need. But here’s the upside: the baseline for what makes a “good” gaming monitor has gone up, too.
Nowadays, you can find some surprisingly solid screens at budget-friendly price points like $75, $100, and $150, and this guide is here to help you find them.
What to Expect at Each Price Point
As you move from $75 to $150, you should find each price jump brings noticeable improvements in performance, build quality, and gaming features.
$75 – Entry-Level Basics
- 60Hz refresh rate (maybe 75Hz)
- 1080p resolution, TN or older VA panels
- Limited color accuracy and viewing angles
- Few or no gaming features (like FreeSync or low input lag modes)
$100 – Budget Gaming Sweet Spot
- Anywhere from 75Hz to 100Hz refresh rate is common
- Improved panel types (VA or IPS)
- Better color and contrast
- Basic adaptive sync (FreeSync support in some models)
$150 – Best Value for Competitive or Console Gaming
- 1080p or even 1440p in rare cases
- 120Hz or better refresh rate, though you won’t find anything as good as 360Hz
- IPS or high-quality VA panels
- Typically, better build quality, ergonomic stands, and gaming presets
Key Specs That Matter for Gaming
Some specs directly impact gameplay, while others are just marketing noise. Focus on the key features, like a high refresh rate, low response time, and a suitable resolution for your needs. This will give you the best experience possible.
- Refresh Rate – Higher refresh rates (120Hz or above) make motion smoother and more responsive.
- Response Time – Lower numbers (1ms or better) reduce blur and ghosting in fast-paced games.
- Resolution – 1080p is the baseline; higher resolutions look sharper but demand more GPU power.
- Panel Type – IPS usually offers better colors and viewing angles, VA has deeper contrast, and TN is often the fastest.
- Adaptive Sync (FreeSync/G-Sync) – Technologies designed to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering for smoother gameplay.
- Input Lag – Lower is better, especially for competitive gaming.
Best Gaming Monitors at $75, $100, and $150
- Good ($75) — KOORUI E2212F
- Better ($100) — AOC 24G4
- Best ($150) — Sceptre C255B-FWT240
Why we chose the KOORUI E2212F
The KOORUI E2212F is a surprisingly strong budget gaming monitor for under $75. With a 100Hz refresh rate, 5ms response time, and AdaptiveSync support, it’s capable of pretty smooth, tear-free gameplay, which is ideal for FPS and action titles.
Its VA panel is another budget-friendly highlight, offering rich contrast (3000:1) and 99% sRGB color coverage. And at 21.5 inches with Full HD resolution, it’s compact but sharp, with a tilt-adjustable stand that adds ergonomic flexibility.
For gamers on a tight budget, this monitor packs in key features usually found at higher price points, making it a great entry-level pick that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Why we chose the AOC 24G4
The AOC 24G4 takes a step up and offers standout performance at around $100, making it one of the best value gaming monitors in its class.
With a lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and Adaptive-Sync, it is set up to bring ultra-smooth, low-lag gameplay that’s relatively competitive compared to your average monitor. It has a Full HD 23.8″ display too, featuring a sleek 3-sided frameless design for immersive multi-monitor setups.
Console players also benefit from up to 120Hz support and low input lag, and the whole package is backed by AOC’s top-tier warranty, including accidental damage coverage. With this, and everything else in mind, it’s hard to argue against it being a budget monitor that punches well above its price point.
Why we chose the Sceptre C255B-FWT240
The Sceptre C255B-FWT240 is the final piece to the good, better, best puzzle. In short, it’s a powerhouse gaming monitor under $150, delivering elite-level performance with its ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It’s also a 1500R curved display that can draw you deeper into the action, while AMD FreeSync Premium ensures tear-free, low-latency gameplay.
The Full HD resolution, while standard in this price bracket, is perfectly suitable for crisp, clean visuals, and the built-in speakers add convenience for both work and gaming.
At this price point, it’s rare to find such a high refresh rate, responsive performance, and immersive design in one package, making it a standout choice for serious gamers on a budget.
Final Thoughts on Budget Gaming Monitors
At the end of the day, you don’t need to drop a fortune to game well. Whether you’ve got $75, $100, or $150 to spend, there’s a monitor out there that’ll get the job done, and do it surprisingly well.
Sure, you’re not getting OLED or 4K, but for smooth gameplay, solid visuals, and a few premium perks, these budget picks punch way above their price tags.
