Top 4K Gaming Monitors for Ultimate Graphics

4K gaming monitors are revolutionizing PC gaming, offering unparalleled detail and immersion. Thanks to technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames, you no longer need an ultra-powerful PC to enjoy 4K gaming. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM stands out as my top pick, delivering stunning visuals with vibrant colors and high frame rates, all while maintaining excellent responsiveness. However, if the cost or PC requirements seem daunting, there are numerous other excellent options available to suit various budgets and preferences.

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 more displays feature this high resolution and graphics cards become capable of running it smoothly, 4K gaming is more accessible than ever. These monitors are also excellent for PS5 gaming. After testing and researching dozens of options, we've selected the top five 4K gaming monitors for you.

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 pinnacle of 4K gaming monitors for those willing to invest in top-tier performance. Its 32-inch display perfectly showcases the crisp 4K resolution, powered by a WOLED panel that delivers exceptional brightness and factory-calibrated colors, ideal for both gaming and creative work. The monitor's versatility is unmatched, offering 4K gaming at up to 240Hz, and a 480Hz mode at 1080p for enhanced clarity and responsiveness. Features like Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) significantly reduce motion blur, providing a noticeable difference even to casual gamers. Additionally, its suite of gaming features, including Sniper Mode, can give you 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 successful foray into the gaming monitor market, offering great value at an affordable price. 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 brightnessQuestionable product supportArzopa's M3RC brings high-quality 4K gaming to a broader audience at a budget-friendly price of around $300. Known for its portable monitors, Arzopa applies its expertise in balancing features with affordability to this full-size gaming monitor. It offers a native 4K resolution at a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and crisp gameplay, enhanced by AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility. The color-rich IPS panel provides surprisingly accurate colors right out of the box. While it sacrifices some brightness, rated at 350 nits, the overall value and included features like a USB Type-C video input and a two-port USB hub make it an attractive option.

3. Gigabyte M27U

Best 4K Gaming Monitor Under $500

### GigabyteM27U

0Fast, bright, and affordable, this monitor is the best in its price range, offering one of the best HDR gaming experiences 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, great-looking gaming experienceCONSNo local dimmingThe Gigabyte M27U offers a compelling package for those seeking a budget-friendly 4K monitor. It boasts a high peak brightness of around 700 nits in HDR mode, delivering vibrant colors and bright highlights for an enhanced gaming experience. The SuperSpeed IPS panel provides excellent picture quality, while features like an on-screen reticle and Shadow Boost enhance gameplay. The monitor's connectivity options, including a KVM switch for seamless switching between devices, add to its appeal. The only trade-off is choosing between local dimming zones and peak brightness, but overall, it provides a great gaming experience at a reasonable price.

4. LG UltraGear GX9 (45GX950A-B)

Best Ultrawide 4K Gaming Monitor

### LG Ultragear GX9

1Large and in-charge, this true 4K ultrawide offers a host of features. 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 a 4K ultrawide experience. Its massive 45-inch display with an 800R curvature and high native refresh rate of 165Hz creates an immersive gaming environment. For competitive gamers, an FHD mode allows for a 330Hz refresh rate, ensuring top-tier responsiveness. The OLED panel delivers infinite contrast and vivid colors, enhancing both gaming and entertainment experiences. While it requires a powerful GPU to run at its best, the trade-offs are well worth it for those looking for a premium ultrawide monitor.

5. Dell Alienware AW3225QF

Best Curved 4K Monitor

### Alienware AW3225QF

3A large 32” curved display with premium specs, offering a 4K UHD experience with 0.3ms response times and 240Hz. 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 top choice for gamers preferring a curved monitor. Its 32-inch display with a 240Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time ensures a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The quantum dot panel provides rich and accurate colors, while the gentle curve enhances immersion without distorting text. With HDR support up to 1,000 nits and Dolby Vision, it offers a stellar gaming and entertainment experience. Despite its high cost, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a premium curved 4K monitor.

What to Look for in a 4K Gaming Monitor

When choosing a 4K gaming monitor, consider the features and image quality you desire, balanced with your budget. Over recent years, 4K gaming monitors have become more accessible, with high refresh rates available in models under $400. Key factors to consider include:

Size: A 27-to-32-inch monitor is ideal for 4K gaming, providing a sweet spot for pixel density and clarity. Larger screens up to 48 inches are available for those seeking a big-screen experience, though image softness may increase with size.

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 enhanced contrast and brightness without the burn-in risk of OLEDs.

Refresh rate: A minimum of 120Hz is recommended, with 144Hz or higher preferred for gaming. Competitive gamers may benefit from 240Hz or higher to reduce input latency and motion blur.

Connectivity and supporting features: Ensure HDMI 2.1 support for console gaming at 4K 144Hz. Consider additional features like Dolby Vision, Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, built-in KVMs, USB hubs, and speakers.

4K Gaming Monitor FAQ

Are 4K gaming monitors worth it?

4K gaming monitors offer stunning visuals and are ideal for gamers with mid-range to high-end graphics cards. While they demand more from your PC, technologies like Nvidia DLSS and AMD Fluid Motion Frames make 4K gaming more accessible, allowing for good frame rates on less powerful systems.

Is 1440p better than 4K?

1440p can be preferable if you prioritize higher frame rates over resolution. It's less demanding, allowing for smoother gameplay on higher settings. However, with upscaling technologies, 4K gaming is now viable on a wider range of hardware, so consider your gaming priorities and desired frame rates.

Do you need an expensive graphics card to run a 4K gaming monitor?

Not necessarily. Thanks to upscaling technologies, mid-range GPUs like the AMD Radeon 7700 XT or Nvidia RTX 4070 can handle 4K gaming well. For native 4K at ultra settings, a top-tier GPU is still required, but upscaling makes 4K gaming more achievable for a broader range of systems.