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How to Choose the Perfect Gaming Monitor: Refresh Rate and Resolution Explained

January 2, 2025

Understanding Refresh Rate

When selecting a gaming monitor, the refresh rate is one of the most crucial specifications to consider. Measured in Hertz (Hz), the refresh rate indicates how many times per second the screen refreshes the image. A higher refresh rate, such as 144Hz or 240Hz, can make a significant difference in gaming experience, providing smoother visuals and enhancing responsiveness during fast-paced action.

Importance of Resolution

In addition to refresh rate, resolution plays a vital role in your overall gaming monitor choice. Common resolutions include Full HD (1920 x 1080), QHD (2560 x 1440), and 4K (3840 x 2160). Higher resolutions offer more detail and clarity, allowing you to immerse yourself in stunning graphics. However, ensure your gaming PC can support the desired resolution to avoid performance issues.

Other Features to Consider

While refresh rate and resolution are key features, don’t overlook other essential aspects such as response time and panel technology. A lower response time (measured in milliseconds) ensures that your monitor reduces motion blur and ghosting effects. Additionally, different panel technologies like IPS, TN, or VA offer varying color accuracy and viewing angles, making them suitable for different gaming preferences.

In conclusion, when choosing a monitor for gaming, prioritize the refresh rate and resolution, but also consider response time and panel technology. An informed decision will lead you to a gaming monitor that enhances your gaming sessions and provides an outstanding visual experience.

Comparison

We found 5 different monitors in the market which are the best at their price range, and compared them in different features.

FeatureSamsung Odyssey OLED G8 LS32DG802SUXXULG UltraGear 4K OLED 32GS95UVAlienware AW3225QFAOC Gaming Q27G3XMNDell G2724D
Screen Size32 inches32 inches32 inches27 inches27 inches
Panel TypeQD-OLEDOLEDIPSVAIPS
Resolution3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)3840 x 2160 (4K UHD)2560 x 1440 (QHD)2560 x 1440 (QHD)2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Refresh Rate175Hz240Hz165Hz180Hz165Hz
Response Time0.03ms (GtG)0.03ms (GtG)1ms (GtG)1ms (GtG)1ms (GtG)
Adaptive SyncG-Sync & FreeSync Premium ProG-Sync & FreeSync PremiumG-Sync & FreeSyncFreeSync PremiumG-Sync & FreeSync
HDR SupportHDR True Black 400HDR10HDR10HDR10HDR10
ConnectivityHDMI, DisplayPort, USB-CHDMI, DisplayPort, USB-CHDMI, DisplayPort, USBHDMI, DisplayPortHDMI, DisplayPort, USB
Curved ScreenYesNoYesNoNo
Special FeaturesUltra-thin, Smart Hub, Built-in AppsDual Mode: 4K/240Hz or 1080p/480HzUltrawide gaming experienceBudget-friendly, thin bezelEntry-level gaming monitor
Price RangeHigh-endHigh-endMid-to-high-endMid-rangeBudget to mid-range
Best gaming monitors
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Samsung Odyssey Gaming OLED G8 LS32DG802SUXXU 32" Ultra HD Gaming Monitor - 4K UHD, 0.03ms, 240Hz, HDR10+, Height Adjust, Speakers, Full Smart Platform, 3840x2160
Price
£899.00
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Best gaming monitors
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LG UltraGear OLED Gaming Monitor 32GS95UV-W, 32 inch UHD, Dual mode 4K: 240Hz / FHD: 480Hz, 0.03ms Response Time, NVIDIA G-Sync & AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, 7W Stereo speakers, DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1
Price
£1,099.00
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Best gaming monitors
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Alienware AW3225QF 32 Inch 4K UHD (3840x2160) 1700R Curved Gaming Monitor, 240Hz, QD OLED, 0.03ms, NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible, HDR, Dolby Vision, USB-C, DisplayPort, 2x HDMI, 4x USB, 3 Year Warranty
Price
£937.97
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Best gaming monitors
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AOC Gaming Q27G3XMN - 27 Inch QHD Monitor, Mini LED, 180Hz, 1ms, GTG, HDR1000, Height Adjust, G-manu (2560 x 1440, 700 cd/m, HDMI 2.0 / DP 1.4)
Price
£248.99
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