Buying Guide
The Best Dell Gaming Monitors for a Better Desk Setup
We looked at 6 dell 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
Best Dell Gaming Monitors aren't always interchangeable, exactly why dell gaming monitors, marketing skips the rest.
Dell gaming monitors comparisons come down to real curve intensity, given that response time numbers skip real motion blur.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS
Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Our take Check price for Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS (opens in a new tab)
Also Worth Considering
Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Solid Alternative
Acer 27in FHD 1920x1080 IPS 120Hz Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Acer 27in FHD 1920x1080 IPS 120Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Another Strong Option
Dell 27 Plus Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Dell 27 Plus Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Runner-Up Pick
Dell 24 Plus Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Dell 24 Plus Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Best Value
Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Our take Check price for Sceptre New 22-Inch 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 | Improved comfortview | Check price for Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Qhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring astounding depth and vivid detail | Check price for Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | images | Check price for Acer 27in FHD 1920x1080 IPS 120Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity | Check price for Dell 27 Plus Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly | Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity | Check price for Dell 24 Plus Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
| Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use | Integrated speakers | Check price for Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 6
Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS
Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS is our overall pick in this lineup.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
Reduces harmful blue light emissions to 35%, for all-day comfort without sacrificing color accuracy. 03ms response time create a captivating experience for work and play.
The gap between this and Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor isn't in the essentials, it shows up in immerse yourself in breathtaking 4K visuals with in-plane switching technology.
This makes sense for anyone who 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 specs
- Improved comfortview
- Refresh rate
- Vivid colors
Pros
- Improved comfortview
- Refresh rate
- Vivid colors
- Re-engineered sound quality
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Also Worth Considering2 of 6
Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor
Dell 27 Plus QHD 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
The qhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring astounding depth and vivid detail, while a 144hz refresh rate and 1ms moving picture response time (mprt) deliver a smooth, tear-free viewing experience. Immerse yourself in sound with integrated dual 3w speakers delivering a wider range of frequencies.
Prioritize visual comfort with this 4-star tüv-certified display, which is the main thing that distinguishes this pick from Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS.
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 specs
- Qhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring astounding depth and vivid detail
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
Pros
- Qhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring astounding depth and vivid detail
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
- Designed for comfort
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Solid Alternative3 of 6
Acer 27in FHD 1920x1080 IPS 120Hz Gaming Monitor
Acer 27in FHD 1920x1080 IPS 120Hz 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
The acer kb272 g0bi 27" monitor with 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution in a 16:9 aspect ratio presents stunning, high-quality images with excellent detail. Get fast refresh rates thanks to the adaptive-sync support (freesync compatible) product that matches the refresh rate of your monitor with your graphics card.
: fast response time of 1ms enhances the experience, which is the main thing that distinguishes this pick from Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS.
Reach for this pick 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 specs
- images
- Adaptive-sync support
- Responsive!!
- fast response time of 1ms enhances the experience
Pros
- images
- Adaptive-sync support
- Responsive!!: fast response time of 1ms enhances the experience
- 27" Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen ips monitor
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Another Strong Option4 of 6
Dell 27 Plus Monitor
Dell 27 Plus 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
The fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity, while a 144hz refresh rate, and 1ms moving picture response time (mprt) deliver a smooth, tear-free viewing experience. Experience dell’s singular, innovative application to optimize the performance of your entire dell PC workspace*.
Against Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS, 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. Compatibility with your exact setup matters more than the spec sheet alone, so confirm it works with your specific gear before buying.
Key specs
- Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
Pros
- Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
- Designed for comfort
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Runner-Up Pick5 of 6
Dell 24 Plus Monitor
Dell 24 Plus 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
The fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity, while a 144hz refresh rate, and 1ms moving picture response time (mprt) deliver a smooth, tear-free viewing experience. Immerse yourself in sound with integrated dual 3w speakers delivering a wider range of frequencies.
Prioritize visual comfort with this 4-star tüv-certified display, a detail worth checking closely before choosing between this and Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS.
This one is the right call 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 specs
- Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
Pros
- Fhd resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity
- Hear the audio difference
- Eye comfort
- Designed for comfort
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Best Value6 of 6
Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor
Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor is the best-value option in this roundup, priced lowest without a real capability gap.
Best for
- Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Why we like it
Whether you're at work or in the midst of an intense gaming session, our built-in speakers provide rich and seamless audio, all while keeping your desk clutter-free. Protect your eyes and enhance your comfort with blue-light shift technology.
Against Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS, neither pick has an obvious edge on paper, so the deciding factor comes down to whichever spec matters most for your specific use case.
This one is the right call if you want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use. Compatibility with your exact setup matters more than the spec sheet alone, so confirm it works with your specific gear before buying.
Key specs
- Integrated speakers
- Easy on the eyes
- Widen your perspective
Pros
- Integrated speakers
- Easy on the eyes
- Widen your perspective
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
How We Chose These Dell Gaming Monitors
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Curve Radius Numbers Indicate How Aggressive the Curve Actually Is
- Curve radius is a real spec worth understanding, not just a marketing checkbox, a lower radius number means a tighter, more aggressive curve, appropriate for very wide ultrawide panels, a higher number is gentler and suits a standard-width panel better, an overly aggressive curve on a narrower panel can feel unnecessary or even distracting rather than immersive..
- Some Gaming Monitor Features Only Work With a PC, Not a Console
- A gaming monitor's advertised features like variable refresh rate, high refresh rate at 4K, or specific adaptive sync technology may only be accessible through a PC connection, while a console (even a current-generation one) can be limited by its own HDMI output capability or lack of specific adaptive sync support, check the monitor's actual supported features against your specific console generation rather than assuming every advertised spec is console-accessible..
- Gray-to-Gray Response Time Numbers Don't Capture All Motion Blur Sources
- The single response time number on a gaming monitor's spec sheet is a narrow measurement that doesn't tell the whole motion clarity story, panel technology, backlight behavior, and overdrive settings all affect perceived blur independently of that one number, look for independent motion testing rather than assuming a lower advertised response time always means visibly less blur..
- Backlight Bleed and Panel Uniformity Vary Between Individual Units of the Same Model
- Manufacturing variance means backlight bleed and panel uniformity aren't perfectly consistent across every unit of the same gaming monitor model, reviews give a reasonable average expectation, but your specific unit can land outside that range, verify the return policy before buying, particularly if you're sensitive to backlight bleed in dark-scene gaming..
- G-Sync and FreeSync Compatibility Isn't Universal Across GPU Brands
- Adaptive sync compatibility on a gaming monitor is more brand-specific than many buyers assume, a monitor certified for NVIDIA G-Sync is built and validated specifically for NVIDIA GPUs, FreeSync tends to work more broadly across brands but verify against your specific GPU before assuming seamless compatibility, a mismatch doesn't break the monitor but can leave adaptive sync features non-functional..
What to Look for in a Dell Gaming Monitor
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Curve Radius Numbers Indicate How Aggressive the Curve Actually Is
Curve radius is a real spec worth understanding, not just a marketing checkbox, a lower radius number means a tighter, more aggressive curve, appropriate for very wide ultrawide panels, a higher number is gentler and suits a standard-width panel better, an overly aggressive curve on a narrower panel can feel unnecessary or even distracting rather than immersive.
Some Gaming Monitor Features Only Work With a PC, Not a Console
A gaming monitor's advertised features like variable refresh rate, high refresh rate at 4K, or specific adaptive sync technology may only be accessible through a PC connection, while a console (even a current-generation one) can be limited by its own HDMI output capability or lack of specific adaptive sync support, check the monitor's actual supported features against your specific console generation rather than assuming every advertised spec is console-accessible.
Large monitor on a wooden desk between two speakers Gray-to-Gray Response Time Numbers Don't Capture All Motion Blur Sources
The single response time number on a gaming monitor's spec sheet is a narrow measurement that doesn't tell the whole motion clarity story, panel technology, backlight behavior, and overdrive settings all affect perceived blur independently of that one number, look for independent motion testing rather than assuming a lower advertised response time always means visibly less blur.
Backlight Bleed and Panel Uniformity Vary Between Individual Units of the Same Model
Manufacturing variance means backlight bleed and panel uniformity aren't perfectly consistent across every unit of the same gaming monitor model, reviews give a reasonable average expectation, but your specific unit can land outside that range, verify the return policy before buying, particularly if you're sensitive to backlight bleed in dark-scene gaming.
Monitor on a riser above a black desk with a gaming chair G-Sync and FreeSync Compatibility Isn't Universal Across GPU Brands
Adaptive sync compatibility on a gaming monitor is more brand-specific than many buyers assume, a monitor certified for NVIDIA G-Sync is built and validated specifically for NVIDIA GPUs, FreeSync tends to work more broadly across brands but verify against your specific GPU before assuming seamless compatibility, a mismatch doesn't break the monitor but can leave adaptive sync features non-functional.
How to Choose a Dell Gaming Monitor
By GPU Headroom
| Your GPU output | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| Modest frame rates in your games | Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor |
| Solid mid-range frame rates | Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS |
| High-end GPU pushing high frame rates | Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor |
By Budget
| Budget | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| Lowest price in this lineup | Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor |
| Mid-range pick | Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor |
| Higher budget | Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor |
G-Sync vs FreeSync
- Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor)
- Built and validated specifically for NVIDIA GPUs.
- FreeSync
- Works more broadly across AMD and NVIDIA cards in most cases.
Match this to your actual setup and priorities.
By Screen Curvature
| Your preference | Recommended pick |
|---|---|
| Standard flat panel | Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS |
| Curved for wider immersion | Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor |
For Competitive Gaming Specifically
- Look for
- Independent input lag testing, not just the headline refresh rate number, since the two specs don't always move together.
- In this comparison
- Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS is worth checking against its specific spec sheet before assuming any pick here covers your exact need.
When to Spend More
- Spend more if
- You need the strongest real-world performance and sturdiest build, where Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor justifies the extra cost.
- Save if
- You want straightforward everyday use without paying for headroom you won't need, where Sceptre New 22-Inch Gaming Monitor already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are built-in gaming monitor speakers good enough?
They're a convenience for quick cable-free audio, but thin form factors limit bass and volume compared to even modest external speakers, treat them as a backup rather than a primary audio solution.
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.
Can I use backlight strobing and adaptive sync at the same time?
Usually not, strobing modes often can't run simultaneously with G-Sync or FreeSync, check whether a specific monitor supports both together before assuming it's not a tradeoff.
Is a 1ms gaming monitor actually blur-free?
Not necessarily, the gray-to-gray number is one narrow measurement, panel technology, backlight behavior, and overdrive tuning all affect real perceived motion blur, check independent motion clarity testing instead.
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 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.
Bottom Line
Best overall: Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all dell gaming monitors on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.