The best 4K monitors make games look insanely crisp and realistic, especially if you’ve got a solid graphics card. In our latest buying guide, six monitors emerged as top choices from over 196 models evaluated. These winners boast high brightness, superb color gamut coverage, and killer contrast ratios for vivid and accurate visuals.
We evaluated 319,390 reviews, certifying products as tested and applying our proprietary scientific True Score, ensuring only the best monitors make it to our recommendations. These top monitors performed exceptionally well in our tests, offering superior performance and reliable user satisfaction.
How Did We Rank the Best 4K Gaming Monitors?
In our pursuit to find the best 4K gaming monitors, we meticulously analyzed over 200 sites, focusing on their testing methods and customer reviews. By understanding the nuances of expert critiques and user experiences, we distilled the criteria that matter most. Our guide highlights 2 required test results and 1 must-have specification, ensuring you get the most out of your gaming setup.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Resolution: A 4K resolution (3840 x 2160), delivering ultra-high definition for crystal-clear visuals.
? Test Criteria
- Input Lag: An input lag of less than 13 milliseconds ensures a highly responsive gaming experience with minimal delay between action and on-screen response.
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1 or higher (infinite), offering deep blacks and bright whites for an exceptional viewing experience.
Latest Updates
- 06/13/2024: Republished the list to include the best 4K gaming monitors based on our True Score system.
Top 4K Gaming Monitors For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dell S2722QC
The Dell S2722QC offers budget-friendly 4K gaming without sacrificing performance. With low input lag, vibrant visuals, and versatile compatibility, it’s an excellent choice for gamers and professionals.
True Score
83813Experts
893kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $120$369.99$249.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- 4K screen resolution delivers high picture quality
- Supports Variable Refresh Rate technology
- Thin top and side frame for multi-monitor setup
- Great ergonomics
- Wide viewing angles
Reasons to Avoid
- Low 60Hz refresh rate
- No HDMI 2.1 ports
- Low contrast ratio
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 60 Hz Response Time 4 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 339 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,247 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 83 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 79 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 60 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 9 Response Time (ms) 8 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 5 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 43 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 42 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 35 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 34 All Tests
All Retailers
- $249.99$370Save $120
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $299.99$320Save $20
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $323.86$558Save $234
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
For those looking for a budget-friendly 4K gaming monitor that doesn’t skimp on performance, the Dell S2722QC is an excellent choice. Boasting an impressively low input lag of 9 ms paired with a swift response time of 8.3 ms, this monitor ensures that every action is as immediate as your reflexes. These specifications are particularly crucial for gaming, where every millisecond counts, providing a smooth and responsive experience that can keep pace with fast-paced games.
Further enhancing its appeal, the Dell S2722QC has a luminance of 339 nits, guaranteeing that your games are smooth and brilliantly vibrant. Coupled with its 100% sRGB color gamut coverage, it delivers true-to-life colors, making it a fantastic choice for gaming and any color-critical work. Its contrast ratio of 1247:1, though second to the Asus PG32UQX’s 1315:1, still ensures deep blacks and bright whites. Additionally, with a high refresh rate of 144 Hz and compatibility with both G-Sync and FreeSync, it offers a versatile and tear-free gaming experience across a broad range of hardware.
The Dell S2722QC’s performance shows it would excel in various other scenarios, such as watching TV shows, movies, or even content creation and productivity tasks. Its combination of high brightness, excellent color coverage, and strong contrast ratio means it can provide an enjoyable viewing experience for media consumption and an accurate color representation for content creators. While quick response time and low input lag are essential for gaming, they also translate to a snappy and efficient performance for everyday use and professional applications.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
LG 27GP950-B
Best For Fortnite
The LG 27GP950-B is a premium 4K gaming monitor with exceptional performance and versatility. Its low input lag, high refresh rate, and vivid colors ensure an immersive experience for gaming and beyond.
True Score
82834Experts
87903Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $423$899.99$476.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- 4K resolution delivers great picture quality
- High peak brightness level
- Great color accuracy
- HDMI 2.1 ports for connectivity to modern consoles
- Support for HDR content
Reasons to Avoid
- Low contrast
- Poor reflection handling
- So-so ergonomics
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter n/a Built-In Speakers No Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR600 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 410 Contrast Ratio (as ratio x:1) 1,194 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 97 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 88 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 70 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 4 Response Time (ms) 4 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 38 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 37 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 33 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 35 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 8 All Tests
All Retailers
- $476.99$900Save $423
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $496.99$897Save $400
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
- $896.99$937Save $40
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $899.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a premium 4K gaming monitor, the LG 27GP950-B is exceptional. Its best-in-class input lag of 4.2ms and impressive response time of 4.4ms ensures that every frame is rendered precisely and quickly, critical for competitive gaming. This monitor shines with its 410 nits of brightness and full sRGB coverage, offering vibrant and true-to-life colors for an immersive gaming experience. Its solid contrast ratio of 1194:1 enhances the depth of dark scenes, making it ideal for games with varied lighting.
Moreover, the LG 27GP950-B boasts a refresh rate of 144Hz, which is higher than the standard 60 Hz of the Dell S2722QC. This enables smooth and fluid motion for fast-paced action games. This, coupled with its compatibility with G-Sync and FreeSync, ensures a tear-free gaming experience across various hardware configurations. These features cater to the demands of hardcore gamers and creative professionals who require accurate color representation and smooth visuals.
The LG 27GP950-B’s exceptional performance in brightness, color accuracy, and high refresh rates makes it a versatile choice for other uses, such as watching TV shows, movies, content creation, and productivity tasks. Its low input lag and quick response time, while paramount for gaming, also contribute to a snappy and responsive experience for everyday computing tasks, making this monitor a well-rounded option for both work and play.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Acer Nitro XV282K
The Acer Nitro XV282K delivers top-notch 4K gaming performance, exceptional response time, and color accuracy. It’s a fantastic all-around choice with impressive specs and AMD FreeSync Premium.
True Score
79775Experts
85296Customers
Mixed Reviews
$534.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High Refresh Rate
- 4K Resolution
- Fast Response Time
- Low Input Lag
- Wide Viewing Angles
- Versatile Stand
Reasons to Avoid
- Low Contrast Ratio
- Lousy Local Dimming Feature
- Sub-Par Build Quality
- Low Brightness in HDR
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam n/a Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 28″ Sync Technology Adaptive Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 250 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,053 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 88 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 83 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 112 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 13 Response Time (ms) 3 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 39 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 38 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 34 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 All Tests
All Retailers
- $534.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $564.51$871Save $307
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a 4K gaming monitor with excellent performance and specifications, the Acer Nitro XV282K is a fantastic all-around option. It is especially noteworthy for its input lag of 12.7 ms and best-in-class response time of 2.7 ms, which ensure smooth and responsive gameplay. However, it’s essential to note that it has the lowest brightness among its peers, with 250.3 nits, slightly lower than the Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70’s 285 nits.
The Acer Nitro XV282K doesn’t just excel in gaming performance; its impressive 111.72% sRGB coverage and a contrast ratio of 1053:1 make it a solid choice for content consumption and creation. With a refresh rate of 144 Hz and compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium, it ensures a tear-free gaming experience, crucial for immersive and high-paced gaming sessions.
Thanks to its excellent color accuracy and decent contrast, the Acer Nitro XV282K’s capabilities extend to other use cases, such as watching TV shows, movies, and content creation. The monitor’s specifications, including its flicker-free panel and blue light filter, make it a comfortable choice for long hours of productivity and creative work. Overall, the Acer Nitro XV282K is a versatile monitor that offers more than just exceptional gaming performance; it’s also suited for a wide range of multimedia and creative tasks.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Asus PG32UQX
The Asus PG32UQX offers excellent performance and visuals, ideal for serious gamers and professionals alike. With stellar brightness, color accuracy, and G-Sync Ultimate compatibility, it’s a premium choice for diverse tasks.
True Score
77776Experts
811kCustomers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $406$2,299.00$1,893.22Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-wide color gamut for high color accuracy
- High response time and low input lag make it ideal for gaming
- Very ergonomic stand
- High HDR peak brightness levels
Reasons to Avoid
- No HDMI 2.1 port for advanced consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox X Series
- No brightness control in HDR mode
Specifications
Display Type LCD HDMI Inputs 3 HDR Format HDR10 Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 4 ms Screen size 32″ Sync Technology G-Sync Ultimate All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 451 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,315 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 117 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 77 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 98 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 0 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 12 Response Time (ms) 7 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 5 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 45 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 47 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 31 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 All Tests
All Retailers
- $1,893.22$2,299Save $406
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $2,299.00$3,119Save $820
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No - $2,999.99
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If budget is no object, the Asus PG32UQX is an excellent option for those looking for a premium 4K gaming monitor. With an input lag of just 12.2 ms and a swift response time of 6.6 ms, this monitor is tailored for the serious gamer who craves seamless and immersive gameplay. Its high refresh rate of 144 Hz further enhances fluidity in fast-paced scenes, ensuring that every frame is rendered precisely.
The Asus PG32UQX doesn’t just excel in performance; it’s a visual feast, too. It boasts best-in-class brightness at 451 nits, surpassing the 410 nits for the LG 27GP950-B, making it a standout for gaming in well-lit environments. The color accuracy is equally impressive, with 117% DCI P3 and 97.5% sRGB coverage, ensuring vibrant and true-to-life colors. Gamers who value depth and contrast will appreciate the monitor’s exceptional 1315:1 contrast ratio surpasses its peers and delivers deep blacks and bright whites. Additionally, its G-Sync Ultimate compatibility ensures a tear-free experience, aligning perfectly with the needs of NVIDIA enthusiasts.
Beyond gaming, the Asus PG32UQX’s stellar performance means it would excel in other demanding use cases, such as content creation, thanks to its wide color gamut and high contrast ratio. Its superior brightness and color accuracy make it suitable for professional photo and video editing, where detail and color fidelity are paramount. Moreover, the low input lag and high refresh rate could benefit productivity tasks requiring precise and responsive control, making it a versatile choice beyond gaming.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Gigabyte M32U
The Gigabyte M32U offers a balanced blend of performance and features for 4K gaming. With responsive input lag, vivid colors, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, it caters to gamers and content creators alike.
True Score
77757Experts
83708Customers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $230$729.99$499.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Low input lag
- Outstanding refresh rate
- Great build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Subpar image quality
- Slow response time
- Limited ergonomics
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter No Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type LED Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen No Screen size 31.5″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium Pro All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 352 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,016 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 88 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 85 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 118 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 12 Response Time (ms) 12 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 39 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 39 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 34 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 All Tests
All Retailers
- $499.99$730Save $230
Availability
Free Shipping
Yes - $499.99$730Save $230
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes - $499.99$1,378Save $878
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
No
Our Verdict
For those looking for a 4K gaming monitor that balances performance and features, the Gigabyte M32U is an excellent option. With an input lag of 11.7 ms and a response time of 11.9 ms, it ensures that your gaming experience is responsive and free from undesirable delays, a crucial factor for any gaming setup. Furthermore, the monitor’s brightness level of 352.3 nits and remarkable best-in-class 117.53% sRGB coverage ensures vivid and accurate colors, enhancing the visual quality of your games and multimedia content.
The sRGB coverage is essential for gamers and content creators who value color accuracy and vibrancy in their displays. However, its contrast ratio of 1016:1 falls short compared to the similarly priced LG 27GP950-B and may not deliver the deepest blacks compared to other high-end gaming monitors. The Asus PG32UQX offers much better contrast with 1315:1. Yet, the monitor compensates with a refresh rate of 144 Hz and compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, ensuring smooth gameplay without screen tearing, making it a strong contender in its category.
Thanks to its comprehensive color coverage and ample brightness, this monitor will excel in various other use cases, such as watching TV shows, movies and even content creation. The Gigabyte M32U is a well-rounded 4K gaming monitor that excels in color accuracy and responsiveness. It is suitable for gaming and creative work, offering a blend of features catering to various needs. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to use their gaming setup for multimedia consumption and content creation.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Samsung Odyssey G7 S28AG70
The Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70 excels as a versatile 4K gaming monitor. Its impressive performance and vibrant visuals make it an excellent choice for gaming and multimedia.
True Score
72711Experts
781kCustomers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $263$799.99$537.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers No Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 28″ Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 285 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,155 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 87 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 83 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 99 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 13 Response Time (ms) 3 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 5 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 40 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 41 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 34 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 33 All Tests
All Retailers
- $537.00$800Save $263
Availability
In StockFree Shipping
Yes
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a solid all-rounder 4K gaming monitor, the Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70 is a fantastic choice. With an input lag of just 12.8 ms and a remarkable response time of 2.8 ms, this monitor ensures that every action you take is almost instantaneously reflected on screen, crucial for competitive gaming. Furthermore, it boasts a decent brightness of 285 nits and impressive color accuracy with 99.2% sRGB coverage, making game worlds appear vibrant and true to life.
In addition to its gaming prowess, the Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70 features a 144 Hz refresh rate, enhancing the smoothness of fast-paced action. Its compatibility with G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro further smooths out potential screen tearing, ensuring a seamless gaming experience across various hardware platforms. However, its relatively low contrast ratio of 1155:1 might not deliver the deepest blacks, but this is often a trade-off with monitors that excel in other critical areas for gaming. The Asus PG32UQX has a better contrast ratio of 1315:1 for darker blacks.
Thanks to its comprehensive color coverage and adequate brightness, the Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70 will also be well-suited for watching TV shows and movies and creating content. Its balanced performance across various metrics makes it an excellent choice for various multimedia applications, not just gaming. This versatility, combined with its gaming-centric features, makes the Samsung Odyssey G7 S28Ag70 a robust option for users seeking a monitor that excels in gaming while being adaptable enough for other entertainment needs.
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Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best 4K Gaming Monitors?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these computer monitors and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase the best 4K gaming monitor.
CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
---|---|---|---|
Contrast Ratio | >1000:1 | Yes | The difference in brightness between the whites (lit sections) and blacks (dim or unlit sections) of a monitor panel. |
Input Lag | < 13 ms | Yes | The time it takes for the monitor to register inputs from the user and process them as action. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 110+ computer monitor reviewers and found that 33 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for computer monitors.
- Samuel Breton – Rtings, MuckRack
- Chris Eberle – Tom’s Hardware, LinkedIn
- Tony Hoffman – PC Mag, MuckRack
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every computer monitor review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Computer Monitor Test Data & Results
1. Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) Test Results
Contrast Ratio
> 1000:1
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How bright the monitor will get, usually under specific testing conditions, like 10% windows (which means 10% of the screen is a white box.)
Units of Measurement: Ratio
Tools to Measure: Luminance meter or photometer or colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
Contrast ratio is how dynamic images are given detail and dramatic effect, with very dark areas appearing truly dark, while bright areas are bright and pop.
Contrast ratio is responsible for making images appear “dynamic” and “dramatic.” By having a good contrast ratio, a monitor is able to recreate dramatic differences between light and dark spots in scenes, images and games accurately.
At a minimum, we recommend a contrast ratio of 1000:1, as this will do a good enough job at allow for detail in dark scenes and images. If contrast ratio gets too low, the picture quality suffers, and the monitor performs worse across the board, no matter the lighting condition. By getting a monitor with a sufficiently high contrast ratio, you can ensure the picture quality doesn’t suffer, and dramatic scenes with stark shifts in lighting, whether they be in games or videos, are created as accurately as possible.
Contrast Ratio (higher is better)
2. Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) Test Results
Color gamut is responsible for making a monitor produce accurate colors when displaying a variety of content. The DCI P3 xy gamut is considered a “standard” gamut of sorts, and is used to help color grade films. Most HDR content will use this gamut at the very least (though other gamut exist) and it’s a commonly used gamut for films.
When it comes to a computer monitor, having a panel that covers at least 90% of the DCI P3 gamut means it’ll output accurate colors when watching HDR content and movies that use the gamut. If a monitor doesn’t cover enough of the gamut, it causes color inaccuracies and shifts the image quality. If you care about maintaining accuracy in the movies you watch so they look the way they were intended, this gamut needs to be properly covered. Comparatively, the sRGB gamut is more restricted and primarily used for standard web content and basic computing. When comparing DCI P3 vs sRGB, DCI P3 covers a wider color spectrum, offering richer and more vibrant colors suitable for high-definition and professional video editing or graphic design, making it superior for those requiring precise color representation in more visually demanding contexts.
Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy)
> 90%
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The amount of the DCI P3 xy gamut that the monitor covers.
Units of Measurement: %
Tools to Measure: Colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
Color gamut coverage is important for ensuring that a monitor is able to accurately output colors. The DCI P3 xy gamut is responsible for making movies and HDR content look the way they were intended.
Color Gamut P3 XY (in %; higher is better)
Best 4K Gaming Monitors: Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring Refresh Rate: While 4K monitors offers stunning visuals, some 4K gaming monitors may have lower refresh rates (e.g., 60Hz) compared to lower-resolution monitors with higher refresh rates (e.g., 144Hz). Ensure the monitor’s refresh rate meets your gaming preferences and hardware capabilities to avoid potential motion blur and stuttering during gameplay. For those who prioritize smoother gameplay and quicker response times, upgrading to a 120Hz or 240Hz monitor can be a significant enhancement, providing more fluid motion and an improved gaming experience.
- Underestimating Response Time: High response times can lead to motion blur and ghosting, impacting the clarity and smoothness of gameplay. Look for gaming monitors with low response times (typically measured in milliseconds) to minimize these visual artifacts and enhance gaming immersion. Additionally, pro gamers often use smaller monitors (24″) with low response times and high refresh rates, ensuring ultra-smooth rendering and almost instantaneous reaction times, which are crucial for competitive gaming.
- Neglecting Input Lag: Input lag refers to the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the corresponding action on the screen. Higher input lag can result in slower responsiveness and affect gameplay performance. Choose a gaming monitor with low input lag to ensure smooth and responsive gaming experiences. When selecting monitors for Xbox One X or a PS4, it’s crucial to find models that not only have low input lag but also support the specific resolutions and refresh rates compatible with these consoles to maximize the gaming potential of each platform.
- Not Considering Panel Type: Different panel types, such as IPS, TN, and VA, offer varying color accuracy, viewing angles, and response times. IPS panels typically provide better color reproduction and wider viewing angles, while TN panels offer faster response times. Consider your gaming preferences and prioritize panel types accordingly.
The Best 4K Gaming Monitors Tests Compared
Product | True Score
|
Brightness
|
Contrast Ratio
|
Color Gamut (DCI P3)
|
Color Gamut (sRGB)
|
Input Lag (ms)
|
Response Time (ms)
|
Reflections % | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 83 |
|
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|
|
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| $249.99 $370 $120 |
| 82 |
|
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|
|
|
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| $476.99 $900 $423 |
| 79 |
|
|
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|
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| $534.99 |
| 77 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $1,893.22 $2,299 $406 |
77 |
|
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|
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| $499.99 $730 $230 | |
| 72 |
|
|
|
|
|
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| $537.00 $800 $263 |