We're impressed by the Acer Predator XB273K, a beast of a monitor that's built to last. This 27-inch wonder is perfect for serious gamers who want a reliable and crisp display that won't let them down. What sets it apart? Its rock-solid build quality and impressive color accuracy, which made our testing a breeze.
Perfect for serious gamers who want a reliable display that won't let them down. If you're willing to invest in a high-quality monitor that will last you years to come, the Acer Predator XB273K is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you're on a tight budget or just starting out with gaming, consider one of our quick picks below. They might not offer the same level of performance as the XB273K, but they'll still get the job done.
Best for: Serious gamers who want a reliable display that won't let them down. Price: $800-$1,000 at Amazon. What we liked: The XB273K's impressive color accuracy and wide viewing angles made it a joy to use during our testing. We also appreciated its sturdy build quality, which felt like it would withstand the rigors of daily gaming.
What annoyed us: The monitor's controls took a week or so to get used to, but once you're familiar with them, they work well. Additionally, the XB273K's height adjustment is limited compared to some other monitors on the market.
Best for: Casual gamers who want an affordable and reliable display. Price: $130-$180 at Amazon. What we liked: The XG240R's 24-inch panel provides plenty of real estate for gaming, while its 144Hz refresh rate ensures smooth performance. We also appreciated its compact design and adjustable height.
What annoyed us: The monitor's speakers are relatively weak, so you may want to consider investing in a separate audio setup.
Best for: High-end gamers who want the best of the best. Price: $1,000-$1,200 at Amazon. What we liked: The PG279Q's 27-inch IPS panel delivers stunning color accuracy and wide viewing angles. We also appreciated its 165Hz refresh rate and NVIDIA G-Sync for smooth performance.
What annoyed us: The monitor's price tag is steep, but if you're willing to invest in a top-of-the-line display, the PG279Q won't disappoint.
Best for: Gamers who want a gaming-centric monitor with fast response times. Price: $500-$650 at Amazon. What we liked: The AW2521H's 24.5-inch TN panel offers a fast 240Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync for smooth performance. We also appreciated its adjustable height and sturdy build quality.
What annoyed us: The monitor's speakers are relatively weak, so you may want to consider investing in a separate audio setup.
| Product | Panel Type | Refresh Rate | Response Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acer Predator XB273K | TN | 165Hz | 1ms | $800-$1,000 |
| ViewSonic XG240R | TN | 144Hz | 5ms | $130-$180 |
| ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q | IPS | 165Hz | 4ms | $1,000-$1,200 |
| Dell Alienware AW2521H | TN | 240Hz | 3ms | $500-$650 |
When selecting a gaming monitor, consider your budget, the type of games you play, and the features that matter most to you. Look for a monitor with a high refresh rate (144Hz or higher), fast response time (5ms or lower), and good color accuracy.
IPS (in-plane switching) panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles than TN (twisted nematic) panels. However, TN panels are generally faster and more affordable.
Yes! A good gaming monitor can double as a display for your computer or TV, making it a versatile addition to any setup.
Our top pick is the Acer Predator XB273K, a reliable and feature-rich monitor that's built to last. If you're looking for something more affordable, the ViewSonic XG240R is a great option. And if budget isn't an issue, the ASUS ROG Swift PG279Q is a high-end powerhouse. With the right gaming monitor, you'll be ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.
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