Buying Guide
The Best IPS Gaming Monitors for a Better Desk Setup
We looked at 6 IPS 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 IPS Gaming Monitors aren't always interchangeable, so ips gaming monitors, details stay hidden.
Ips gaming monitors is judged here on true adaptive-sync compatibility, because refresh rate is wasted without GPU headroom.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best Overall
Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor
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 240Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Also Worth Considering
Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx (opens in a new tab)
Solid Alternative
Dell 24 240Hz Gaming 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 240Hz Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Another Strong Option
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ3A 27 Inch 1440p 180Hz G-SYNC Gaming Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ3A 27 Inch 1440p 180Hz G-SYNC Gaming Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Runner-Up Pick
msi PRO MP243L E14 24-inch IPS 1920 x 1080 (FHD) Gaming Office Monitor
Buyers who want a genuine alternative to the top pick with a different tradeoff worth comparing directly
Our take Check price for msi PRO MP243L E14 24-inch IPS 1920 x 1080 (FHD) Gaming Office Monitor (opens in a new tab)
Best Value
Dell 24 Monitor - SE2426H - 23.8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display
Buyers who want a capable pick without paying for headroom you won't use
Our take Check price for Dell 24 Monitor - SE2426H - 23.8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Best Overall1 of 6
Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor is the top pick in this comparison.
Best for
- Buyers who want the strongest all-around pick in this comparison and would rather not keep shopping around
Why we like it
5ms response time provide crisp visuals and fluid movement with less input lag. Freesync premium and HDMI vrr eliminate tearing for smooth, responsive PC and console gameplay.
5ms response with excellent color accuracy across wide ips viewing angles.
Choose this 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
- Smooth motion
- Seamless gaming
- Fast ips
Pros
- Smooth motion
- Seamless gaming
- Fast ips
- Rich color
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Also Worth Considering2 of 6
Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx 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 kg271u 27" ips monitor with 2560 x 1440 qhd resolution in a 16:9 aspect ratio presents stunning, high-quality images with excellent detail. Say “goodbye” to stuttering and tearing.
5ms gtg (gray to gray) response time enhanced gamers’ in-game experience ends up being the detail that matters most for most buyers.
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
- Quality visuals
- Say “goodbye” to stuttering and tearing
- Up to 180hz: the 180hz refresh rate speeds
Pros
- Quality visuals
- Say “goodbye” to stuttering and tearing
- Up to 180hz: the 180hz refresh rate speeds
- Responsive!!: up to 0.5ms gtg (gray to gray) response time enhanced gamers’ in-game experience
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Solid Alternative3 of 6
Dell 24 240Hz Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Dell 24 240Hz 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
5ms response time provide crisp visuals and fluid movement with less input lag. Freesync premium and HDMI vrr eliminate tearing for smooth, responsive PC and console gameplay.
5ms response with excellent color accuracy across wide ips viewing angles.
This makes sense for anyone who 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
- Smooth motion
- Seamless gaming
- Fast ips
Pros
- Smooth motion
- Seamless gaming
- Fast ips
- Rich color
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Another Strong Option4 of 6
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ3A 27 Inch 1440p 180Hz G-SYNC Gaming Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ3A 27 Inch 1440p 180Hz G-SYNC 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
27-Inch qhd (2560 x 1440) gaming monitor with 180hz refresh rate designed for professional gamers and immersive gameplay. Elmb sync technology enables elmb and variable-refresh-rate technologies to work simultaneously to eliminate ghosting and tearing for sharp gaming visuals with high frame rates.
Set next to Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor, the two land close enough on paper that it's worth comparing both listings directly on the spec that matters most for your setup.
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
- High-resolution qhd gaming display
- Elmb sync technology enables elmb and variable-refresh-rate technologies
- Freesync premium, g-sync compatible and adaptivesync technology delivers a seamless
Pros
- High-resolution qhd gaming display
- Elmb sync technology enables elmb and variable-refresh-rate technologies
- Freesync premium, g-sync compatible and adaptivesync technology delivers a seamless
- High dynamic range support
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
Runner-Up Pick5 of 6
msi PRO MP243L E14 24-inch IPS 1920 x 1080 (FHD) Gaming Office Monitor on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Msi PRO MP243L E14 24-inch IPS 1920 x 1080 (FHD) Gaming Office 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
Eliminating the ~200hz screen flicker common on standard monitors and reducing harmful blue light exposure to minimize eye strain during extended gaming or work sessions. Free sync dynamically matches the monitor's refresh rate to your gpu's frame output, eliminating screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag for consistently smooth, tear-free gameplay across the full frame rate range.
Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor is a reasonable point of comparison here, close enough that the actual listing details are worth checking before deciding between them.
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 dimensions & specs
- Msi's 23.8-inch full HD ips gaming monitor (1920×1080)
- Eliminating the ~200hz screen flicker common on standard monitors
- 144Hz high refresh rate delivers ultra-smooth motion and sharper tracking versus standard 60hz or 75hz monitors
Pros
- Msi's 23.8-inch full HD ips gaming monitor (1920×1080)
- Eliminating the ~200hz screen flicker common on standard monitors
- 144Hz high refresh rate delivers ultra-smooth motion and sharper tracking versus standard 60hz or 75hz monitors
- Msi's built-in eye-q check provides a vision assessment tool
Cons
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
Best Value6 of 6
Dell 24 Monitor - SE2426H - 23.8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display 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
Tüv rheinland 3‐star* certification reduces harmful blue light while preserving stunning color quality without compromise. Get consistent views across a wide 178° /178° viewing angle.
Side by side with Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor, the real difference worth noting is maximize your viewing experience with thin bezels.
It's worth picking this one 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 dimensions & specs
- Clear visuals
- Eye comfort
- Wide viewing angle
Pros
- Clear visuals
- Eye comfort
- Wide viewing angle
- In-plane switching (ips)
Cons
- Check compatibility with your exact setup before buying
- Marketed specs and real-world specs often differ
How We Chose These IPS Gaming Monitors
Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- 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..
- 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..
- Dead Pixel Policies Vary Significantly Between Gaming Monitor Manufacturers
- A gaming monitor manufacturer's dead pixel policy determines whether you can return or exchange a unit for a small number of defective pixels, some manufacturers offer a zero-dead-pixel guarantee within a return window, others only cover a defect once it exceeds a certain pixel count, check the specific manufacturer's dead pixel policy before buying, especially for a higher-end panel where even one or two dead pixels would be noticeable and frustrating..
- 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..
- Curve Radius Numbers Indicate How Aggressive the Curve Actually Is
- A curved gaming monitor's curve radius (expressed in a number like 1000R or 1800R) indicates how tight the curve is, a lower number means a more aggressive curve, ideal for wider ultrawide panels where a tighter curve keeps the edges at a consistent viewing distance, a higher number is a gentler curve better suited to a standard 16:9 panel, check the radius number against the panel's actual width rather than assuming any curved monitor curves the same amount..
What to Look for in an IPS Gaming Monitor
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
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.
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.
Dead Pixel Policies Vary Significantly Between Gaming Monitor Manufacturers
A gaming monitor manufacturer's dead pixel policy determines whether you can return or exchange a unit for a small number of defective pixels, some manufacturers offer a zero-dead-pixel guarantee within a return window, others only cover a defect once it exceeds a certain pixel count, check the specific manufacturer's dead pixel policy before buying, especially for a higher-end panel where even one or two dead pixels would be noticeable and frustrating.
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.
Curve Radius Numbers Indicate How Aggressive the Curve Actually Is
A curved gaming monitor's curve radius (expressed in a number like 1000R or 1800R) indicates how tight the curve is, a lower number means a more aggressive curve, ideal for wider ultrawide panels where a tighter curve keeps the edges at a consistent viewing distance, a higher number is a gentler curve better suited to a standard 16:9 panel, check the radius number against the panel's actual width rather than assuming any curved monitor curves the same amount.
How to Choose an IPS Gaming Monitor
| Modest frame rates in your games | 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display |
|---|---|
| Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor | |
| High-end GPU pushing high frame rates | 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display |
| Lowest price in this lineup | 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display |
|---|---|
| Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx | |
| 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display |
- 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display)
- 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.
| Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor | |
| Acer Nitro 27in QHD 2560x1440 IPS 180Hz Gaming Monitor KG271U N3bmiipx |
- Independent input lag testing, not just the headline refresh rate number, since the two specs don't always move together.
- Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor is worth checking against its specific spec sheet before assuming any pick here covers your exact need.
- 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display justifies the extra cost.
- 8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display already covers the job at the lowest price here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bottom Line
Best overall: Dell 27 240Hz Gaming Monitor — best overall pick in this roundup. See the full verdicts above for every pick, with pros, cons and who each one suits.
Browse all ips gaming monitors on Amazon — Prime-eligible options with current pricing.