PC gaming delivers an experience like no other. Modern titles let you explore worlds and pull off feats you never thought possible, drawing you into entirely new dimensions. With an exciting lineup of games arriving in 2018, now is the perfect time to invest in a top-tier gaming monitor that can truly bring these adventures to life. Why settle for an ordinary display when your favorite games deserve the best?
What sets the finest gaming monitors apart from the rest? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. The best screens offer a range of features, and which ones matter most depends on the games you play. If you're a competitive Counter Strike enthusiast, you'll prioritize low latency and a high refresh rate. On the other hand, if you prefer relaxing, story-driven titles, a 4K Ultra-HD monitor might be your ideal match.
Admittedly, the options can be overwhelming—but don't worry, the TechRadar editorial team has you covered. This list is packed with the finest gaming monitors available in 2018. As a bonus, every display here has been thoroughly tested in-house, so you can be confident your money is well spent. Whatever panel type you need, whatever games you love—and however you play them—we're sure you'll find the perfect gaming monitor here.
Top Gaming Monitors of 2018: The Ultimate 10 Screens for PC Gamers
1. Alienware AW3418DW
The fastest ultrawide yet
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Highest refresh rate in an ultrawide
Alienware design and build quality
Expensive
Takes up a lot of space
Until now, no ultrawide monitor could combine the deep immersion of a 21:9 aspect ratio with a refresh rate that rivals the best gaming screens. The Alienware AW3418DW changes that. Alienware has long been known for premium, high-end gear (with a matching price), and this model is no exception. It delivers a vivid, colorful 21:9 display that pulls you into any game, while offering a lightning-fast 4ms response time and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate—truly the best of both worlds. However, these outstanding features come at a premium cost, so if you're budget-conscious, this might not be the right pick. Nonetheless, it stands as the best gaming monitor you can buy today.
Read the full review: Alienware AW3418DW
2. AOC Agon AG352UCG
A curvy ultrawide that even has G-Sync
Screen size: 35-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 172/178 | Contrast ratio: 2,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds
Curved 21:9 screen
G-Sync compatibility
It really is very big
Pricey
The AOC Agon AG352UCG is a 21:9 AMVA panel with a stellar 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and G-Sync support, cementing its status as a top gaming monitor in 2017. When paired with an Nvidia graphics card, G-Sync eliminates screen tearing without taxing your PC hardware. Additionally, the AOC Agon offers faster response times than many rivals, reducing input lag in fast-paced titles like Overwatch or Lawbreakers. The downsides? It's quite large and a bit pricey. Weighing 26 pounds (11.8kg), make sure your desk can handle it.
Read the full review: AOC Agon AG352UCG
3. BenQ PD3200U
A large 4K screen for your desk
Screen Size: 32-inch | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response Time: 4ms | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1 | Color Support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 19 lbs
4K UHD resolution
Large Screen
Inexpensive relatively
Design is a little bland
Professional tools are niche
Takes up a lot of space
Although the BenQ PD3200U is primarily aimed at business and CAD professionals, it has plenty to offer gamers seeking a top monitor. Its focus on graphic design and business means outstanding viewing angles—no matter where you sit or where spectators gather, you'll stay immersed in the action. Unlike many 4K monitors, you won't need to tweak settings for the best picture; each unit is individually calibrated by BenQ before shipping. All this for under $800 for a 32-inch 4K display makes it one of the most affordable ways to enjoy 4K gaming without sacrificing screen real estate.
Read the full review: BenQ PD3200U
4. Asus MG248Q
A budget monitor with 144Hz and Adaptive Sync
Screen size: 23.6-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1 million:1 | Color support: SRGB 100%, Adobe RGB 72% | Weight: 16.98 pounds
144Hz refresh rate
1ms response time
TN panel
Adaptive Sync for AMD, Intel only
If you're looking for a budget gaming monitor and can accept some trade-offs (1080p resolution and a TN panel instead of IPS), the Asus MG248Q will impress. It compensates with blazing-fast response times and Adaptive Sync, making it the best budget gaming monitor of 2018. Adaptive Sync reduces screen tearing with an AMD graphics card—a clear nod to budget gamers. Even Nvidia fans will appreciate the 144Hz refresh rate. However, without the right GPU, you might want to save up for the G-Sync equivalent, the Asus ROG Swift PG248Q.
Read the full review: Asus MG248Q
- This product is only available in the US and Australia as of this writing. UK readers: check out a fine alternative in the Asus ROG Swift PG248Q
5. BenQ Zowie XL2540
A monitor tailored to the needs of professional gamers
Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: NTSC 72% | Weight: 7.5kg
High refresh rates
Easy setup
Expensive
Limited appeal beyond pro gamers
At first glance, the BenQ Zowie XL2540 may not look like much, but it's every bit a gaming monitor worthy of this list. It does its job remarkably well, trading flashy lighting for a zippy 240Hz refresh rate and near-instant 1ms response time. There's no G-Sync or FreeSync—this monitor assumes your rig can already handle screen tearing. Instead, it keeps things simple with numerous visual presets, an "S Switch" control pod for managing them, and even adjustable light screens. If you're a professional gamer, this is the best monitor for you.
Read the full review:
6. Samsung CHG90 QLED
Screen Size: 49-inch | Aspect Ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 1080 | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 3,000:1 | Color Support: N/A | Weight: 33 lbs
Flawless image quality
Impressive Color reproduction
Smooth 144Hz refresh rate
Expensive
Only 1080p vertically
Samsung brings QLED to gaming monitors in a big way with this display, offering the widest ultra-wide monitor on the market. At 49.5 inches, this behemoth will dominate your desk—likely spilling over the edges—but its 3,840 x 1080 resolution and HDR deliver breathtaking image quality. Even if you don't game at this resolution (it demands a powerful rig), the extra screen real estate lets you run a browser or movie alongside your game. The only real drawback is the monstrous price tag. But for a premium display like this, it may well be worth it.
Read the full review: Samsung CHG90 QLED
7. Alienware 25
FreeSync, G-Sync and everything in between
Screen size: 24.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: SRGB 119% | Weight: 11.7kg
Great design
High refresh rate
Expensive
Only 1080p
The Alienware 25 gaming monitor stands out because it doesn't discriminate against your PC. While most monitors support either Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, the Alienware 25 can be configured for either, eliminating screen tearing regardless of your GPU. That flexibility comes in handy, even though the Nvidia model costs more. But the Alienware 25 isn't just about function—it boasts a strikingly exotic design with AlienFX RGB lighting, as expected from the Dell subsidiary. And with a buttery smooth 240Hz refresh rate, it will push any stout rig to its limits.
Read the full review:
8. Asus ROG Swift PG248Q
Faster than you can say G-Sync
Screen size: 24-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Colour support: Adobe RGB 74% | Weight: 9.5kg
Cheapest G-Sync display on the market
Amazing 180Hz refresh rate
Just two display inputs
Only 24 inches
If frame rate matters more to you than graphics or resolution, this monitor is for you. With an impressive 180Hz refresh rate, the Asus ROG Swift PG248Q triples the 60fps standard—provided your rig can handle the extra load. While you won't likely run Forza Horizon 3 at 180fps on Ultra settings due to its demands, a higher refresh rate is a huge advantage in fast-paced competitive games that don't require heavy resources. Plus, as one of the most affordable G-Sync displays available, you can rely on it to prevent screen tearing too.
Read the full review: Asus ROG Swift PG248Q
9. LG 34UC79G-B
A reasonable entryway to ultra wide and FreeSync
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,080 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Response time: 10.3ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 92.1% | Weight: 8.6kg
Curved 21:9 screen design
AMD FreeSync
Lesser resolution than rivals
Ineffective gaming modes
If you use AMD- or Intel-based graphics and want an ultra-wide display without breaking the bank, this is the monitor to watch. At 34 inches diagonally, the LG 34UC79G-B features AMD FreeSync for tear-free gaming and a 21:9 aspect ratio ideal for games and movies. While its resolution is lower than many other widescreen displays, it still delivers a crisp image with stunning color accuracy. Plus, you can adjust the height—something even some pricier 4K monitors can't offer.
Read the full review: LG 34UC79G-B
10. Lenovo Y27G Curved Monitor
A lovely-designed curved monitor
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 1,920 x 1,080 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Response time: 7ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Weight: 6.75kg
Large screen
High resolution
No DVI
Lack of extra features
The Lenovo Y27G is a gaming monitor with a curved screen in a standard 16:9 ratio, adding immersion while you play. The 1080p resolution is on the lower side, but that means less strain on your graphics card—making it an excellent choice for gamers who can't afford the latest GPUs. It also allows your GPU to focus on high frame rates, with the monitor supporting a 144Hz refresh rate and available with either Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync anti-tearing technology.
Read the full review:
- This product is only available in the US and UK at the time of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the LG 34UC79G-B
How to buy the best gaming monitor in 2018
When shopping for the best gaming monitor 2018 has to offer, there are several factors to consider before choosing the display for your desk.
Understanding these terms and specifications will help you pick the perfect monitor for your needs—and avoid paying extra for features you won't use.
Screen size: One of the most important considerations is screen size. Larger displays can create a more immersive gaming experience by filling more of your field of vision, but you need enough desk space. Naturally, bigger monitors usually cost more.
Aspect ratio: This determines the width and height of the screen. Most widescreen monitors use a 16:9 ratio, while older models had a squarer 4:3—likely looking outdated in 2018. Ultra-wide monitors with 21:9 ratios are becoming more popular, offering a broad view of your games, and many have made our list of the best gaming monitors of 2018.
Resolution: Higher resolution means a sharper picture. However, you'll need a more powerful graphics card for anything above full HD (1,920 x 1,080). Many gaming monitors offer resolutions up to 2,560 x 1,400 (WQHD) and 3,840 x 2,160 (4K).
Refresh rate: This is especially important if you primarily play Counter-Strike or similar shooters. A higher refresh rate supports more frames per second (fps), resulting in smoother motion on high-refresh-rate displays. The standard is 60Hz, but rates can go up to 144Hz or even 200Hz.
Response time: The best gaming monitors have low response times for fast, fluid action with minimal input lag. TN monitors can achieve 1ms, while newer IPS monitors typically have 4ms response times. For competitive gaming, keep this number as low as possible to combat lag.
Panel type: This gets technical. The panel type largely affects response time and image clarity. TN (twisted nematic) panels offer the lowest response times and are usually cheaper, but have poor viewing angles. IPS (in-plane switching) panels provide excellent viewing angles and color reproduction, but often higher response times. VA (vertical alignment) panels fall between the two, though slower response times make them less common among top gaming monitors.
Viewing Angle: Most gamers sit directly in front of their monitor, but spectators may view from the side. A monitor's viewing angles indicate the maximum angle from which you can still see a clear image. Numbers closer to 180 mean better visibility when standing to the side or looking from above/below.
G-Sync and FreeSync: Many of the best gaming monitors in 2018 include either G-Sync or FreeSync technology—sometimes both. These technologies smooth out fps, combat screen tearing, and reduce input lag. G-Sync is Nvidia's proprietary technology, requiring an Nvidia GPU and adding to the monitor's cost. FreeSync is AMD's open standard, free for manufacturers to use, so monitors tend to be cheaper.
Gabe Carey and Bill Thomas have also contributed to this article
- Looking for a more general monitor? Check out our list of the best monitors
