Buying Guide
The Best 500Hz Gaming Monitors for Everyday Desk Work
We looked at 6 500Hz gaming monitors side by side, with the trade-offs that separate them and who each one suits.
By Jamie Cole, Lead Product Researcher
11 min read6 products evaluated
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Best 500Hz Gaming Monitors span a wider range, exactly why 500hz gaming monitors, marketing skips the rest.
500hz gaming monitors: we weighed true port bandwidth, since G-Sync certification is brand-specific.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF
Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Our take Check price for Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF (opens in a new tab)
Also Worth Considering
msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Solid Alternative
msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum (opens in a new tab)
Another Strong Option
Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF) QHD QD-OLED Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF) QHD QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Runner-Up Pick
KTC 24.5 Inch 400Hz Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for KTC 24.5 Inch 400Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Worth a Look
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Best for | Key spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around | 500Hz (oc)/480hz (native) refresh rate: delivers new category of speed and motion clarity | Check price for Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Msi mpg 271qr qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit | Check price for msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Msi mag 272qp qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit | Check price for msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Samsung’s 27” odyssey g6 qhd gaming monitor | Check price for Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF) QHD QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | 400Hz ultra-high refresh rate: 400hz monitor, faster than 360hz & 280hz | Check price for KTC 24.5 Inch 400Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | 500Hz (oc) / 480hz (native) refresh rate delivers new category of speed and motion clarity | Check price for Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 6
Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF is the strongest all-around choice here.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
500Hz (oc)/480hz (native) refresh rate: delivers new category of speed and motion clarity, making even fast-paced games look supremely fluid. 5 ms gray-to-gray response time, minimizing blurring and ghosting, even in fast-paced games, while offering wide viewing angles that are superior to competing tn panel technology.
Msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor lands in a similar spot overall, but the deciding factor between the two is srgb 99 percent color coverage: enables accurate, consistent colors that bring images to life.
This one is the right call if you want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around. Marketed specs and real-world performance can differ, so check independent reviews before assuming the headline number tells the full story.
Key dimensions & specs
- 500Hz (oc)/480hz (native) refresh rate: delivers new category of speed and motion clarity
- Fast ips panel
- To ensure players will experience tear- and stutter-free gaming at high speed
Pros
- 500Hz (oc)/480hz (native) refresh rate: delivers new category of speed and motion clarity
- Fast ips panel
- To ensure players will experience tear- and stutter-free gaming at high speed
- Srgb 99 percent color coverage
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Also Worth Considering2 of 6
msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
03 ms (gtg) response time for a vesa clearmr 21000 rating; an elite graphene heatsink (fanless) enhances panel durability.
Set next to Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
It's worth picking this one if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Compatibility with your exact setup matters more than the spec sheet alone, so confirm it works with your specific gear before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- Msi mpg 271qr qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit
- Quantum dot oled panel displays 1.07 billion colors
- High 500 Hz refresh rate is complemented by an incredibly low 0.03 ms
Pros
- Msi mpg 271qr qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit
- Quantum dot oled panel displays 1.07 billion colors
- High 500 Hz refresh rate is complemented by an incredibly low 0.03 ms
- Ai care sensor uses a cmos sensor to capture images every 0.2s
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Solid Alternative3 of 6
msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
03ms (gtg) response time for a vesa clearmr 21000 rating; an elite graphene heatsink (fanless) enhances panel durability. 0 to help prevent burn-in, ai supported software (ai crosshair), console modes & game assistance; features a 4-way adjustable stand (vesa 100mm).
Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF is a reasonable point of comparison here, close enough that the actual listing details are worth checking before deciding between them.
This fits best if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Marketed specs and real-world performance can differ, so check independent reviews before assuming the headline number tells the full story.
Key dimensions & specs
- Msi mag 272qp qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit
- High 500 Hz refresh rate is complemented
- Msi gi software features oled care 2.0 to help prevent burn-in
Pros
- Msi mag 272qp qd-oled x50 gaming monitor combines 10-bit
- High 500 Hz refresh rate is complemented
- Msi gi software features oled care 2.0 to help prevent burn-in
- PC, mac, console & laptop interface options (all wqhd/500hz) include displayport 1.4a
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Another Strong Option4 of 6
Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF) QHD QD-OLED Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Samsung 27” Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF) QHD QD-OLED Gaming Monitor is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
Qd-oled offers enhanced brightness and a wide range of colors for vibrant scenes in qhd resolution.
Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF is a reasonable point of comparison here, close enough that the actual listing details are worth checking before deciding between them.
This fits best if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Compatibility with your exact setup matters more than the spec sheet alone, so confirm it works with your specific gear before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- Samsung’s 27” odyssey g6 qhd gaming monitor
- Qd-oled offers enhanced brightness and a wide range of colors for vibrant scenes in qhd resolution
- Glare free technology keeps screen clear of reflections from external light sources
Pros
- Samsung’s 27” odyssey g6 qhd gaming monitor
- Qd-oled offers enhanced brightness and a wide range of colors for vibrant scenes in qhd resolution
- Glare free technology keeps screen clear of reflections from external light sources
- Vesa displayhdr trueblack 500 delivers ultra-deep blacks and 1000nits peak brightness
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Runner-Up Pick5 of 6
KTC 24.5 Inch 400Hz Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
5 Inch 400Hz Gaming Monitor is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
400Hz ultra-high refresh rate: 400hz monitor, faster than 360hz & 280hz, with 1ms response time. HDR 400 combined with srgb 128% color coverage: it breathes life into images, presenting accurate and consistent colors with vividness and vibrancy.
Against Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF, neither pick has an obvious edge on paper, so the deciding factor comes down to whichever spec matters most for your specific use case.
It's worth picking this one if you want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Marketed specs and real-world performance can differ, so check independent reviews before assuming the headline number tells the full story.
Key dimensions & specs
- 400Hz ultra-high refresh rate: 400hz monitor, faster than 360hz & 280hz
- HDR 400 combined with srgb 128% color coverage: it breathes life into images
- Fast ips panel fhd monitor
Pros
- 400Hz ultra-high refresh rate: 400hz monitor, faster than 360hz & 280hz
- HDR 400 combined with srgb 128% color coverage: it breathes life into images
- Fast ips panel fhd monitor
- Integrated freesync premium pro technology eliminates screen tearing and stuttering
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Worth a Look6 of 6
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor is a strong alternative worth comparing directly against the top pick.
Best for
- Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Why we like it
500Hz (oc) / 480hz (native) refresh rate delivers new category of speed and motion clarity, making even fast-paced games look supremely fluid. Fast ips panel features srgb 99% color coverage for consistent, accurate colors and wide viewing angles.
5Ms min** gtg (gray-to-gray) response time eliminates ghosting and blurring.
This makes sense for anyone who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly. Compatibility with your exact setup matters more than the spec sheet alone, so confirm it works with your specific gear before buying.
Key dimensions & specs
- 500Hz (oc) / 480hz (native) refresh rate delivers new category of speed and motion clarity
- Fast ips panel features srgb 99% color coverage for consistent
- 0.5Ms min** gtg (gray-to-gray) response time eliminates ghosting and blurring
Pros
- 500Hz (oc) / 480hz (native) refresh rate delivers new category of speed and motion clarity
- Fast ips panel features srgb 99% color coverage for consistent
- 0.5Ms min** gtg (gray-to-gray) response time eliminates ghosting and blurring
- Nvidia reflex latency analyzer technology lets players optimize
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
How We Chose These 500Hz Gaming Monitors
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Some Gaming Monitor Features Only Work With a PC, Not a Console
- Not every headline spec on a gaming monitor's box is available to a console user, some high refresh rate or adaptive sync features require a PC connection and GPU-side support that a console's HDMI output doesn't provide, verify the monitor's feature list specifically against your console's actual output capability before assuming full spec parity across PC and console..
- G-Sync and FreeSync Compatibility Isn't Universal Across GPU Brands
- A gaming monitor's adaptive sync technology (NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync) reduces screen tearing by matching the monitor's refresh rate to your GPU's output, but full G-Sync certification generally requires an NVIDIA GPU, while FreeSync is more broadly compatible across both AMD and NVIDIA cards in most cases, check the monitor's specific certification against your actual GPU brand rather than assuming any adaptive sync label works with any graphics card..
- DisplayPort Often Outpaces HDMI for High Refresh Rate Gaming at Full Resolution
- Which port you use to connect a gaming monitor can change your achievable refresh rate at full resolution, DisplayPort has generally led HDMI in bandwidth for high refresh rate gaming, though this depends on the specific versions each device supports, verify both your monitor's and GPU's port versions rather than assuming any cable delivers the monitor's full advertised specs..
- Backlight Bleed and Panel Uniformity Vary Between Individual Units of the Same Model
- A gaming monitor's backlight bleed (light leaking around the edges in dark scenes) and overall panel uniformity can vary between individual units of the exact same model due to manufacturing tolerances, reading reviews of the model as a whole gives a general expectation, but a specific unit you receive can still fall outside that average, check the retailer's return policy in case backlight bleed on your specific unit is more noticeable than expected..
- Built-In Gaming Monitor Speakers Are a Convenience, Not a Real Audio Upgrade
- Don't expect built-in gaming monitor speakers to replace a dedicated audio setup, the thin form factor limits bass response and maximum volume regardless of the brand, they're a genuine convenience for quick use without cables, but serious audio quality still requires external speakers or headphones..
What to Look for in a 500Hz Gaming Monitor
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Some Gaming Monitor Features Only Work With a PC, Not a Console
Not every headline spec on a gaming monitor's box is available to a console user, some high refresh rate or adaptive sync features require a PC connection and GPU-side support that a console's HDMI output doesn't provide, verify the monitor's feature list specifically against your console's actual output capability before assuming full spec parity across PC and console.
G-Sync and FreeSync Compatibility Isn't Universal Across GPU Brands
A gaming monitor's adaptive sync technology (NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync) reduces screen tearing by matching the monitor's refresh rate to your GPU's output, but full G-Sync certification generally requires an NVIDIA GPU, while FreeSync is more broadly compatible across both AMD and NVIDIA cards in most cases, check the monitor's specific certification against your actual GPU brand rather than assuming any adaptive sync label works with any graphics card.
DisplayPort Often Outpaces HDMI for High Refresh Rate Gaming at Full Resolution
Which port you use to connect a gaming monitor can change your achievable refresh rate at full resolution, DisplayPort has generally led HDMI in bandwidth for high refresh rate gaming, though this depends on the specific versions each device supports, verify both your monitor's and GPU's port versions rather than assuming any cable delivers the monitor's full advertised specs.
Backlight Bleed and Panel Uniformity Vary Between Individual Units of the Same Model
A gaming monitor's backlight bleed (light leaking around the edges in dark scenes) and overall panel uniformity can vary between individual units of the exact same model due to manufacturing tolerances, reading reviews of the model as a whole gives a general expectation, but a specific unit you receive can still fall outside that average, check the retailer's return policy in case backlight bleed on your specific unit is more noticeable than expected.
Built-In Gaming Monitor Speakers Are a Convenience, Not a Real Audio Upgrade
Don't expect built-in gaming monitor speakers to replace a dedicated audio setup, the thin form factor limits bass response and maximum volume regardless of the brand, they're a genuine convenience for quick use without cables, but serious audio quality still requires external speakers or headphones.
How to Choose a 500Hz Gaming Monitor
| Modest frame rates in your games | Msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor |
|---|---|
| High-end GPU pushing high frame rates |
| Lowest price in this lineup | Msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor |
|---|---|
| Msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum | |
- Msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor)
- Built and validated specifically for NVIDIA GPUs.
- Works more broadly across AMD and NVIDIA cards in most cases.
Match this to your actual setup and priorities.
| Msi, MAG 272QP QD-OLED X50, 27-Inch, WQHD, 2560x1440, Gaming Monitor, Quantum |
- Independent input lag testing, not just the headline refresh rate number, since the two specs don't always move together.
- Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF is worth checking against its specific spec sheet before assuming any pick here covers your exact need.
- You need the strongest real-world performance and sturdiest build, where Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor justifies the extra cost.
- You want straightforward everyday use without paying for headroom you won't need, where msi MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 27-Inch WQHD QD-OLED Monitor already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the curve radius number mean on a curved gaming monitor?
A lower number means a tighter, more aggressive curve, suited to very wide ultrawide panels, a higher number is gentler and better suited to a standard-width panel.
Does G-Sync work with an AMD graphics card?
Full G-Sync certification generally requires an NVIDIA GPU, FreeSync tends to work more broadly across both AMD and NVIDIA cards, check the monitor's specific certification against your actual GPU brand.
Should I use HDMI or DisplayPort for gaming?
DisplayPort has generally led HDMI in bandwidth for high refresh rate gaming at full resolution, though this depends on the specific versions your monitor and GPU support, verify both before assuming full advertised specs.
Is a bigger gaming monitor always sharper?
No, stretching the same resolution across a larger screen reduces pixel density, a 32-inch 1440p monitor looks visibly softer than a 27-inch 1440p monitor at the same viewing distance.
Is a 240Hz or 360Hz gaming monitor worth it?
Only if your GPU can actually push frame rates close to that number in the games you play, check your realistic frame rates first, pairing a high-refresh monitor with a GPU that can't fill it wastes the extra capability.
Do all gaming monitor features work with a console?
No, some high refresh rate or adaptive sync features require a PC connection and GPU-side support, verify the monitor's feature list against your specific console's actual output capability.
Bottom Line
Best overall: Dell 24 Monitor AW2524HF — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all 500hz gaming monitors on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.