First-person shooter (FPS) games like Overwatch, Fortnite, Call of Duty, Battlefield, and CS: GO require precision and quick reflexes. To gain a competitive edge in these games, it’s essential to have a high-quality monitor that can keep up with the fast-paced action. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best monitors for FPS games under $500, ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck without compromising on performance.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Monitor for FPS Games
When it comes to FPS( First-Person Shooter) games, having a monitor with the right specifications can make all the difference in your gaming experience. Fast refresh rates, low response times, and variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies like G-Sync and FreeSync are essential for achieving smooth gameplay and minimizing motion blur and screen tearing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Monitor for FPS Games
Before diving into our top picks, let’s take a closer look at the key factors you should consider when choosing a monitor for FPS games:
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate refers to how many times a monitor can refresh its display per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate translates to smoother visuals, allowing you to react more quickly to in-game action. For FPS games, we recommend a minimum refresh rate of 144Hz, but if your budget allows, consider monitors with even higher refresh rates like 240Hz or 360Hz for the ultimate gaming experience.
Response Time
Response time is the time it takes for a pixel to transition from one color to another. A lower response time ensures that fast-moving objects appear sharper and reduces motion blur. Look for monitors with a response time of 1 ms or lower for optimal performance in FPS games.
Resolution
The resolution of a monitor determines the level of detail and clarity in the displayed image. While higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K offer more visual fidelity, they can also require more powerful hardware to run smoothly. For gamers on a budget, a 1080p resolution is a great choice as it strikes a balance between performance and visual quality.
Panel Type
There are three main panel types to consider: TN (Twisted Nematic), IPS (In-Plane Switching), and VA (Vertical Alignment). TN panels offer the fastest response times but may have narrower viewing angles and less vibrant colors. IPS panels provide better color accuracy and wider viewing angles but have slightly slower response times. VA panels offer excellent contrast ratios but can suffer from motion blur. Choose the panel type that best suits your preferences and budget.
Size and Aspect Ratio
The size of the monitor and its aspect ratio can impact your gaming experience. Larger monitors provide a more immersive gameplay experience, but they may require you to move your head more to see the entire screen. The most common aspect ratio is 16:9, but ultrawide monitors with a 21:9 aspect ratio can offer a wider field of view, enhancing your peripheral vision.
Connectivity Options
Ensure that the monitor you choose has the necessary connectivity options to connect to your gaming setup. Look for monitors with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, as these are the most common connectors for gaming consoles and PCs.
Now that we’ve covered the essential factors to consider, let’s dive into our top picks for the best monitors for FPS games under $500.
Best Monitors for FPS Games Under $500
1. Dell S2522HG
- Refresh Rate: Up to 240Hz
- Response Time: Fast
- Price: Affordable
The Dell S2522HG is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. With its fast response time and VRR support of up to 240Hz, you’ll enjoy smooth and fluid gameplay. The monitor’s affordability makes it a great option for those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
2. ASUS PG27AQDM
- Refresh Rate: Up to 240Hz
- Response Time: Instantaneous
- Resolution: 1440p
The ASUS PG27AQDM offers a combination of speed and visual quality. With its instantaneous response time and VRR support up to 240Hz, you’ll experience minimal input lag and smooth motion. The monitor’s infinite contrast ratio and wide color gamut make it a great choice for gamers who value high-quality visuals.
3. Acer Aopen 25XV2QF
- Refresh Rate: Up to 390Hz
- Response Time: Fast
- Price: Excellent value for the money
The Acer Aopen 25XV2QF is a budget-friendly option with impressive performance. With its fast response time and VRR support up to a whopping 390Hz, you’ll enjoy incredibly smooth gameplay without breaking the bank. This monitor offers excellent value for the money, making it a top pick for budget-conscious gamers.
Best 144Hz Gaming Monitors for FPS Games
While higher refresh rates like 240Hz or 360Hz are becoming more popular, 144Hz monitors still offer a great gaming experience, especially for those on a budget. Let’s explore some of the top 144Hz monitors for FPS games.
LG 24GN650
- Size: 24″
- Panel: IPS
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- VRR: FreeSync (G-SYNC Stable)
- MBR: Yes
The LG 24GN650 is a highly recommended 144Hz monitor for FPS games. With its FreeSync and MBR support up to 144Hz, you’ll experience tear-free gameplay and reduced motion blur. The monitor’s vibrant colors, wide viewing angles, and ergonomic design make it a great choice for gamers seeking both performance and comfort.
FPS Monitor Buying Tips
If you’re new to PC gaming or looking for additional guidance, here are some buying tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Faster refresh rates, such as 144Hz or higher, are ideal for competitive gaming, providing smoother visuals.
- Look for monitors with a low response time to minimize motion blur and screen artifacts.
- Consider the input lag, which measures the time it takes for the monitor to react to your input.
- If you’re aiming for the fastest displays on the market, consider a 360Hz monitor.
- For reaching high FPS, a 1080p screen resolution is recommended.
- 24.5″ monitors are often preferred by competitive gamers due to their optimal size.
Conclusion
Choosing the best monitor for FPS games doesn’t have to break the bank. With our guide, you can find high-quality options under $500 that offer fast refresh rates, low response times, and VRR technologies. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a competitive player, investing in the right monitor can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Consider your needs, preferences, and budget to make an informed decision, and get ready to dominate the battlefield with the best monitor for FPS games.
