Affordable Monitors: Worth The Price Or Waste Of Money?

If you're looking for a monitor that's both affordable and delivers, you're in luck. There are several monitors on the market that are great for everyday use, work, and watching movies, all for under $200.

When shopping for a monitor, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check what's included in the listing to ensure you're not missing items that would have to be purchased separately, like a stand or cables. Second, if you plan to use a VESA mount, make sure the mount screws on the back of the monitor match yours. Third, if you have a Mac, you may need an adapter or cable with conversion built-in.

- Samsung T35F 27-inch FHD IPS Monitor - $150 at Samsung. This monitor has a 75Hz refresh rate, an IPS panel for better colour and viewing angle, thin bezels, and a stand that allows the screen to tilt.

- LG 24-inch FreeSync Monitor (24ML600M-B) - $109 at Walmart. This monitor has some gaming perks, such as AMD FreeSync support, a 1ms motion-blur reduction mode, and an optional centre crosshair. It also has a VGA connector and two HDMIs.

- LG 27MP60G-B 27-inch FHD IPS FreeSync Display - $130 at Amazon. This monitor has some gaming perks, identical to the 24-inch LG model.

- LG 29-inch UltraWide FHD FreeSync Monitor (29UM59A-P) - $197 at Walmart. This monitor has a 75Hz refresh rate, a USB-C DisplayPort connector, and two HDMI 1.4 ports.

- Gigabyte G27FC A 27-inch 1080p 165 Hz Curved Gaming Monitor - $142 at Amazon. This monitor has a greater-than-sRGB colour gamut, low-power stereo speakers, and a USB hub.

- Acer Nitro XV275U P3biipx - This monitor has a 170Hz refresh rate and VRR support to reduce screen tearing. It also gets incredibly bright.

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Budget monitors for general use

If you're looking for a monitor for everyday use, there are plenty of options available for less than $200. Here are some recommendations and things to consider to help you choose the right one for your needs.

First, let's look at some specific models that are suitable for general use. The HP 24mh 23.8-Inch Display is an excellent option for those on a tight budget. It offers a 1080p IPS panel with impressive sRGB colour coverage and a contrast ratio above its rating. It also has a DisplayPort connector, in addition to the usual HDMI and VGA ports, and its stand supports height and pivot control, which is a rare feature in budget monitors. Another option is the Acer SB220Q, a 21.5-inch 1080p IPS panel with very good colour accuracy in the sRGB space. It's compact and lightweight, making it ideal for those short on space or looking for a second monitor.

Now, let's discuss some factors to consider when choosing a budget monitor for general use.

Panel Size and Resolution: Most budget monitors offer a screen size of 22 to 27 inches, with 24 inches being the most common. A 24-inch monitor strikes a good balance between size and sharpness, especially if you're sitting at a typical viewing distance. In terms of resolution, 1080p is the standard for budget monitors, and it looks sharp enough on a 24-inch screen. If you go for a larger screen, like 27 inches, the pixels may become noticeable, so keep that in mind.

Panel Technology: When it comes to panel technology, IPS panels are the most common in budget monitors, and for good reason. They offer wide viewing angles, so you can look at the screen from different angles without any colour shifting or posterization. IPS panels also tend to have better image quality than other types, with good colour accuracy and coverage. However, they may struggle to display deep black levels, which can be an issue in movies and games. VA panels are another option, and they excel in contrast and black levels, but they may have poorer viewing angles and colour accuracy. TN panels are usually the cheapest but have the worst colour accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles.

Refresh Rate and Adaptive Sync: Most budget monitors have a refresh rate of 60Hz or 75Hz, which is sufficient for general use. If you're a casual gamer, you might want to look for a monitor with a higher refresh rate, like 144Hz or higher, to reduce screen tearing and improve your gaming experience. Some budget monitors also support adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync to further enhance your gaming experience.

Connectivity: When it comes to connectivity, most budget monitors will have at least HDMI and VGA ports. Some may also include a DisplayPort connector, which is a nice bonus. If you need multiple inputs, look for a monitor with two HDMI ports or an additional DisplayPort. USB-C display input is less common in budget monitors but is becoming more popular in portable monitors.

Stand Adjustability: Most budget monitors will only offer tilt adjustment for the stand. If you want more flexibility, look for a monitor with a stand that supports height and pivot control as well. Alternatively, you can opt for a monitor with VESA mount compatibility, which allows you to use a third-party stand or mount for improved ergonomics.

Built-in Speakers: About half of the budget monitors include built-in speakers, but don't expect impressive audio quality. They are usually mediocre and tinny, so if audio quality is important to you, consider investing in separate speakers or headphones.

Warranty: Budget monitors typically come with a one-year warranty, but some may surprise you with three or four years of coverage. This is definitely something to consider if you want peace of mind for your purchase.

In conclusion, when choosing a budget monitor for general use, consider the panel size, resolution, panel technology, refresh rate, connectivity options, stand adjustability, and any additional features like built-in speakers. The HP 24mh 23.8-Inch Display and Acer SB220Q are excellent options, but don't be afraid to explore other models that fit your specific needs and budget.

Budget monitors for gaming

If you're looking for a budget monitor for gaming, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the size of the monitor. While larger monitors can provide a more immersive experience, they may also be more expensive. Additionally, the resolution of the monitor is important. A higher resolution will provide a clearer and more detailed image.

Another key factor to consider is the refresh rate. A higher refresh rate is beneficial for competitive gaming, as it can provide a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. Look for a monitor with a refresh rate of at least 100Hz, with some budget models offering higher rates of up to 144Hz or even 180Hz.

In terms of specific models, here are some options to consider:

• Dell G2724D: This 27-inch, 1440p monitor offers a great gaming experience, especially for fast-paced games, with a 165Hz refresh rate and low input lag. It can be purchased directly from Dell's website at a low cost. While it doesn't have the most vivid colours or the best contrast, it gets bright enough to fight glare and has good reflection handling.
• AOC Q27G3XMN: This 27-inch, 1440p monitor offers better picture quality than most other low-cost displays, using Mini LED backlighting to display deep blacks and bright highlights. It has a high refresh rate of 180Hz and VRR support, but it can be difficult to find in stock.
• ViewSonic XG2431: If you're looking for something smaller, this 24-inch, 1080p monitor is a great option. It has a high refresh rate of 240Hz, making it ideal for competitive gaming. It also has a customizable backlight strobing feature to reduce blur and a quick response time.
• LG 32GN650-B: For those who want the biggest screen possible, this 32-inch monitor has a 1440p resolution, delivering sharp details. However, due to its larger size, the pixel density is lower, so games and text may not appear as sharp. It has similar motion handling to the AOC 24G15N, with some smearing during fast-paced scenes.
• ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q1A: This 24-inch monitor is a great option if you want a smaller screen. It doesn't support HDR and isn't as bright as some other options, but it's still a solid choice for gaming.
• Acer Nitro XV275U P3biipx: This monitor is a unique low-cost option, offering Mini LED backlighting and an okay local dimming feature. It gets incredibly bright and has a high refresh rate of 170Hz, making it great for gaming. However, it may have more smearing and blur with fast-moving objects.
• Gigabyte GS27QC: This monitor is a step down in overall gaming performance from the Dell G2724D, but it's still a good choice for the price. It works best in darker rooms and has good contrast, with deep blacks only appearing slightly gray. It also supports HDR for a more realistic gaming experience.

When shopping for a budget gaming monitor, keep in mind that you may need to make some compromises on features and performance. Additionally, check the included items to ensure you don't have to purchase additional components separately, such as a stand or cables.

Budget monitors for work

If you're looking for a budget monitor for work, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the size of the monitor. While a larger screen can provide a more immersive experience, a 24-inch monitor is typically sufficient for most users and won't take up too much space on your desk. Additionally, look for a monitor with a 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution, often referred to as "Full HD resolution". This resolution will provide a sharp image on a 24-inch screen and is commonly found in budget monitors.

Another important factor to consider is the type of panel used in the monitor. IPS (in-plane switching) panels offer wide viewing angles and good colour accuracy, making them a popular choice for budget monitors. VA (vertical alignment) panels provide superior contrast and can display deeper blacks, but often have poorer viewing angles than IPS panels. TN (twisted nematic) panels are typically the cheapest option but offer lower colour accuracy and viewing angles than IPS and VA panels.

When it comes to budget monitors for work, it's also worth considering the adjustability of the stand. While most budget monitors will allow you to tilt the screen, some higher-end models may also offer height and pivot adjustments, providing a more comfortable viewing experience. Additionally, look for a monitor with multiple video input ports, such as HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort, to ensure compatibility with your devices.

• Dell P2425H: This 24-inch monitor offers good reflection handling and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for office work. It also features three USB-A ports and a USB-C port for connecting various devices.
• HP 24mh 23.8-Inch Display: This monitor provides excellent sRGB colour coverage and a high contrast ratio for an IPS panel. It includes DisplayPort, HDMI, and VGA connectors, as well as a stand that supports height, pivot, and tilt adjustment.
• Philips 221V8LB: With a small 21.5-inch screen, this monitor offers full sRGB colour coverage and a high contrast ratio. It has a 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync compatibility, making it suitable for casual gaming as well.
• Acer SB220Q: This compact 21.5-inch monitor features an IPS panel with good colour accuracy in the sRGB space. It's a great option for a second monitor or for use in tight spaces.
• Samsung 24-Inch CF396 Curved LED Monitor: This curved monitor provides excellent sRGB colour coverage and is bright for a budget monitor. It includes a mini-joystick controller and a stand that allows for tilt adjustment.

Budget monitors for colour accuracy

If you're looking for a budget monitor with colour accuracy, there are a few options to consider. While most monitors in this price range are basic, some are still good enough for various uses, including gaming and photo editing.

Acer SB220Q 21.5-Inch IPS Monitor

The Acer SB220Q is a compact and general-purpose monitor that offers good colour accuracy in the sRGB space. It has a typical feature range for a budget monitor, with a 1080p resolution and a 75Hz refresh rate. The thin and lightweight design makes it a good choice if you're short on space or need a portable secondary monitor. It also comes with a three-year warranty, which is longer than what most budget monitors offer.

ASUS ProArt Display PA278CV 27-Inch 1440p Monitor

The ASUS ProArt Display PA278CV is a good option if you're looking for a larger screen and higher resolution. It has a 1440p resolution, which provides clearer and more detailed images than 1080p monitors. This monitor also has a dedicated sRGB mode, ensuring better colour accuracy without the need for calibration. It includes a USB hub with four USB-A ports and a USB-C port for connecting various devices. However, the USB-C port doesn't support DisplayPort Alt Mode for displaying an image from a laptop.

Dell P2425H 23.8-Inch 1080p Monitor

If you're looking for an even more affordable option, the Dell P2425H is a basic monitor that still offers decent colour accuracy. It has a smaller screen size and a 1080p resolution, making it suitable for those on a tight budget. While it doesn't have a dedicated sRGB mode, colours are fairly accurate even without calibration. This monitor includes an ergonomic stand that allows for height, pivot, and tilt adjustments. It also has a USB hub with a USB-C port, but like the previous monitor, it doesn't support DisplayPort Alt Mode.

Philips 221V8LB 21.5-Inch 1080p Monitor

For an extremely tight budget, the Philips 221V8LB offers an incredible value at just $69.99. It has a small 21.5-inch screen with a 1080p resolution and limited ergonomic adjustability. However, it provides full sRGB colour coverage and an impressive contrast ratio, making it a good choice for casual gaming and entertainment purposes. The vertical alignment (VA) panel also has a 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync compatibility.

Samsung 24-Inch CF396 Curved LED Monitor

The Samsung CF396 is a bright and versatile budget monitor with excellent sRGB colour coverage. It has a 24-inch screen size, a 1080p resolution, and a gently curved screen. This monitor provides some convenience features, such as a mini-joystick controller for easy navigation. However, the stand is limited to tilt adjustment, and it only includes HDMI and VGA ports.

When choosing a budget monitor, it's important to consider your specific needs and priorities. Some monitors may offer higher refresh rates or additional ports, while others focus on colour accuracy and image quality. It's also worth noting that budget monitors usually have limited ergonomic features and stands, so be sure to check the adjustability options before making your purchase.

Budget monitors for portability

If you're looking for a budget-friendly portable monitor, there are a few options to consider.

The first is the AOC 16T15 15.6" IPS Portable Monitor, which offers a Full HD 1920x1080 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, 5ms response time, and USB-C connectivity. It comes with a carry case that can be used as a stand for portrait or landscape viewing, and it has built-in speakers. This monitor has received mixed reviews, with an average rating of 3.1 out of 5 stars on Best Buy. Some users have praised the high-quality picture and portability, while others have noted that the Type-C cord could be longer.

Another option is the iBEAM 5" Widescreen TFT Monitor, which comes with a suction cup mounting bracket for easy installation. This monitor has received positive reviews, with a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Best Buy. One user mentioned that the picture quality is clear and stays in place with the suction cup mounting bracket.

If you're looking for a larger portable monitor, the ViewSonic OMNI VX3218-PC-MHD 31.5" LCD Curved FHD Adaptive Sync Gaming Monitor might be a good choice. It features a high 180Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and adaptive sync technology for a fluid gaming experience. It also has built-in speakers and offers flexible connectivity options with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs. This monitor has received positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Best Buy.

Lastly, the Dell 23.8" VA LCD FHD 60Hz Monitor is a simple and affordable option for everyday use. It offers a flicker-free screen with ComfortView software to reduce harmful blue light emissions and optimize eye comfort. This monitor has space-saving features like a compact stand and improved cable management. While it hasn't received any reviews on Best Buy, it is a good choice for those looking for a basic monitor without breaking the bank.

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