Best 27-inch monitor in 2024 – our top 27″ picks for gaming
Here are some of the best 27-inch monitors for your setup...
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If you are looking for the best 27-inch monitor for your setup, then we’re here to help you with that.
Choosing the best 27-inch monitor can be a tricky prospect, especially when you consider how far gaming monitor technology has come in the last ten years. Monitor gaming monitors offer a slew of exciting features and benefits, which encompass backlight technology, high refresh rates, low response times, and stunning designs (in a variety of sizes). However, many find the perfect balance between price and performance in the humble 27-inch monitor.
For that reason, and to simplify the decision-making process, we’re going to be reviewing some of the market’s leading 27-inch monitors in this guide. Whether you’re looking for an all-out gaming panel, a silky smooth OLED display, or an all-around monitor for everyday use, this article will have a panel that suits your exact needs.
- 03Best curved 27-inch monitor
How we choose the best 27-inch monitors
Whether it’s a best-of-guide or a single product review, we ensure every monitor we recommend has been through a strict testing process. We don’t just search Amazon for the top sellers; we hand-pick the market’s best monitors, and each one is tested with the same meticulous care and attention as the last. This ensures that we can present you with the best products the market has to offer and gives our readers confidence that they can trust any gaming monitor we do recommend as having been through the same impartial review process.
As part of the monitor review process, we like to test each for color accuracy, responsiveness, panel uniformity, build quality, and overall gaming performance. We use a number of specifically designed tools to capture the data for each monitor, ensuring only the highest levels of accuracy are recorded during testing. This process allows us to hand-select the best gaming monitors from both a performance and value standpoint whilst also enabling us to compare the latest models with last season’s best sellers.
Click here if you want to see our in-depth explanation of how we test each and every monitor.
Best 27-inch monitor 2023: in-depth reviews
In the following section, we’ll be outlining the best 27-inch monitors on the market – handpicking the main pros and cons of each.
Best 27-inch gaming monitor: Alienware AW2723DF
Alienware AW2723DF
Refresh rate
240Hz
Response time
1ms
Screen size
27″
Resolution
2560 x 1440 (1440p)
- Fast 240Hz refresh rate
- Very low input lag
- Quick response time
- Respectable peak brightness
- Contrast ratio could be better
We’ve crowned the Alienware AW2723DF as the best 27-inch monitor right now, and for good reason. Not only does this monitor offer excellent gaming performance, but it also brings an abundance of other great features to the table that include excellent color accuracy, a fully ergonomic stand (height adjustment, pivot, etc.), and superb 1440p image clarity.
The design is fairly standard as far as Alienware is concerned. This monitor utilizes the latest Alienware design language and picks up some subtle aspects that are not overlooked. It has thin bezels and a fairly large footprint to allow full functionality from the stand. It’s finished with a light gray color theme, which is complemented by a black stand and various RGB zones. Like most Alienware monitors, this one also lends itself to several different background aesthetics.
Moving onto performance, the AW2723DF comes to the table with a blistering 240Hz refresh rate, 1MS response time, a bunch of I/O ports, G-Sync support, and 95% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut all wrapped up in a high-performance 1440p IPS panel. There are ports for USB 3.2, USB Type-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, and more. That means this thing is pretty good for most uses. Whether you’re a gamer or a creative type, this gaming display is going to be fairly equipped for the job.
Best budget 27-inch monitor: ASUS TUF VG279Q
ASUS VG279Q
Size
27″
Refresh Rate
144Hz
Response Time
1ms
Panel Type
IPS
Resolution
1920 x 1080
- Versatile stand
- Excellent value for money
- Highly responsive
- Great gaming performance
- AMD FreeSync support
- Poor Speaker Quality
Finally, we come to our budget pick – the ASUS VG279Q. Don’t let the price tag fool you, though; this monitor still offers a bunch of premium specs that are going to increase your gaming experience exponentially.
From a design standpoint, this monitor is far from the likes of ASUS’s premium panels. Having said that, it still looks pretty good. Obviously, you can tell build quality isn’t the best, but it still offers a sleek design that looks pretty good in most backgrounds.
Moving onto the specs, this monitor, like all monitors in this guide, comes with a 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and excellent color recreation. It is all wrapped up on a very efficient full HD 1080p IPS panel. That’s going to make this thing extremely good for competitive esports like CS:GO and PUBG.
The IPS panel offers excellent color recreation and good viewing angles to boot. The stand is fully functional, boasting height, tilt, pivot, and swivel adjustments. Make use of FreeSync adaptive sync for added levels of smoothness and immersion. Overall, if you’re on a budget and desire a panel that offers good colors and decent gaming performance, look no further.
Best curved 27-inch monitor: Samsung Odyssey G7 (C27G75T)
Samsung Odyssey G7 (C27G75T)
Refresh Rate
240Hz
Response time
1ms MPRT
Screen size
27″
Resolution
2560 x 1440
- AMD FreeSync
- Decent ergonomics
- 240Hz refresh rate
- Low 1ms response time
- 1440p scree clarity
- Expensive
- VA panel limitations
Next up is the Samsung Odyssey G7. It gets our best curved 27-inch monitor spot thanks to an abundance of high-end specs and its stunning aesthetic. Even with its VA panel, it still offers an immersive experience and excellent picture clarity.
The design is of the highest quality, coming with a sleek look that is only accentuated by that 1000R curved screen. The bezels are fairly slender, and the stand features the commonly-used V-shape that we’ve seen numerous times in today’s market. RGB is utilized throughout this monitor’s design, including two triangular slots at the front and a vortex at the rear.
Moving onto specs, the Odyssey G7 offers great gaming and creative work task performance. It comes to shelves boasting a 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, FreeSync support, and HDR support as well. Pair that with the impressive WQHD 1440p picture quality, and you have a superb all-round panel. The VA panel is a little less desirable than, say, an IPS panel, but it still offers a great overall experience.
From a gaming standpoint, the G7 is really quite good – especially when you consider the curved aspect of this panel. The rapid refresh rate and response time will ensure no screen artifacts are experienced. Sync the refresh rate to your frame rate for the smoothest of gameplay with FreeSync support as well.
Overall, it is a stellar monitor that offers the best of both worlds – all wrapped up in a luxury curved display.
Best 4K 27-inch monitor: Gigabyte M28U
Gigabyte M28U
Refresh Rate
144Hz
Response time
1ms GTG
Screen size
28″
Resolution
3840 x 2160
- Supports next-gen consoles
- 4K Screen resolution
- Decent build quality
- 144Hz refresh rate
- HDMI 2.1 support
- Expensive
Next up, we have our 4K 27-inch monitor pick, which comes in the shape of Gigabyte’s hugely impressive M28U. This is the enthusiast’s choice. The monitor that offers it all. Whether you’re looking for the highest levels of color accuracy or a flawless gaming experience, this monitor is going to provide superb realism across the board.
The design is, let’s be honest, pretty subtle overall. It features a black color scheme that is void of RGB and other useless design features. That said, the bezels are slim, and the stand features a chunky V-shaped design. Speaking of the stand, users can expect limited functionality and ergonomics – with only height and tilt available.
Design aside, however, the specifications are where the true value of this monitor can be found. It comes to shelves with a 144Hz refresh rate, 4ms response time, HDR400 support, 94% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, and FreeSync support as well. Oh, and it’s 4K. Did I mention that? That’s pretty much every high-end spec you could want from a modern-day panel. Best of all, however, is the HDMI 2.1 certification it features. You’ll be able to enjoy 4K gameplay at 120Hz with this monitor via the HDMI 2.1 interface.
One downside, however, is the price point. You’re going to have to fork out for this thing. If you’re happy splashing that sort of money on a monitor, though, you’ll do well to find anything much better than this.
Best 27-inch monitor under $200
AOC 27G15 Gaming Monitor
- 27-inch FHD monitor
- 180Hz refresh rate
- VESA compatible
- HDMI 2.0, not HDMI 2.1
If you want a 27-inch monitor for your setup for under $200, then we think that this AOC model would be suitable.
The AOC gaming monitor sports a 27-inch FHD display, which should be slightly larger and more immersive than 24-inch monitors. Further, the monitor is frameless on three sides, which should add to the immersion. And as this display has a VA panel, it promises good viewing angles.
To add to that, the display also offers a 121% sRGB wide color gamut, which should deliver better color accuracy for graphics-related tasks. Further, the HDR10 also adds details and nuance to visuals for a better viewing experience.
As far as gaming performance is concerned, the monitor offers a 180Hz refresh rate, which should be enough to run AAA games without a stutter. Plus, you also get a rapid 1ms MPRT response time, which promises to deliver good precision.
Now, coming to the ergonomics, the monitor has an adjustable stand, so you can adjust the height, swivel it around, and tilt it as per your comfort. Plus, it also offers VESA compatibility, which should make it easier for you to set the monitor up.
Best cheap 144Hz gaming monitor
How to pick the best 27-inch monitor
When we decide to buy a new hardware component, there are a number of different ways we can ensure the upgrade we choose is right for our specific needs. It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a budget headset or the best 4K 144Hz monitor; you should always consider the main features and aspects before making a final decision.
For that reason, we’ve outlined the most important factors that separate a good monitor from a bad one. Reviewing the following areas before a hardware upgrade will ensure your purchase is not only right for you but might also save you time, money, and stress.
Panel type
Every monitor on the market is built using one of several specific panel technologies. These technologies usually tell us what to expect (in terms of performance) from that specific monitor. There are three main panel technologies used in modern monitors – IPS (In-plane switching), VA (Vertical alignment), and TN (Twisted nematic). They all come with their own very unique set of pros and cons, which lend themselves nicely to various user requirements. IPS is generally better for color recreation and viewing angles, whereas TN – a panel that produces less color accuracy – offers better responsiveness, making them ideal for gamers. Leaving VA, which is somewhere in the middle.
To better understand the pros and cons of these panel technologies, we’ve created the following table;
Check our complete TN vs VA vs IPS guide here.
Refresh rate
Refresh rates are easily one of the most important specifications you must consider when purchasing a monitor for gaming. Refresh rates are displayed in Hz (Hertz) and measure how fast the monitor can refresh the image it’s displaying. Today’s monitors offer up a variety of different refresh rate options – ranging from 60Hz to 360Hz – with faster rates being more desirable by gamers who like to play fast-paced FPS titles.
Refresh rate guides:
Having said that, the refresh rate is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to the perfect mix of specs for gaming. The other factors will be touched upon shortly, but for now, let the following be a rough guide to what refresh rates best suit what scenario;
- 60Hz is ideal if you plan to use your monitor for;
- Everyday usage – emails, google, etc
- Office work
- Creative workflows
- Old school gaming that isn’t fast-paced
- 144Hz is ideal if you plan to use your monitor for;
- Fast-paced FPS titles in particular – CS:GO, PUBG, COD
- 240Hz is ideal if you plan to use your monitor for;
- Competitive esports
- Playing games on a high-end gaming rig that can produce 240Hz in numerous titles
- 360Hz is perfect for esports gamers;
- Best for competitive players
Response time
Next up, we have response time. This tells us how fast the pixels in your monitor change color, usually using the GTG (Grey-to-grey) transition. The response time is measured in milliseconds and can range from 1 ms up to around 5 ms in modern-day panels. Response time is the second most important factor a gamer should be concerned with, as slower response time monitors can experience visual artifacts such as image ghosting. This is when the image becomes distorted with a ghost trail because the pixels can’t keep up with the fast-moving objects. Make sure you get the lowest response time possible to increase your overall gaming experience.
Screen Resolution
Whether you’re big into gaming or need the extra real estate for work tasks, screen resolution is a hugely important aspect of a monitor. This is because screen resolution has a direct impact on how demanding a game is and the overall picture quality of the monitor.
A monitor that offers 1440p quality will have a 2560 x 1440 screen resolution – otherwise known as WQHD. This means that the panel can literally display 1440 pixels vertically and 2560 pixels horizontally. Compare this with a 1080p monitor (1920 x 1080 ), and you will see a clear difference in both picture clarity and screen real-estate
Be aware, though, that higher screen resolution in games can be extremely taxing on your system. If you plan on upgrading from a 1080p monitor to 1440p or even 4k, prepare to take a huge dip in-game performance.
AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility
Adaptive sync is far from new. It’s a technology that has been implemented into a ton of monitors over the past 5-8 years with varying results across the board. Adaptive sync is a technology that synchronizes the refresh rate of your monitor with the frame rate of the game you’re playing. This, in turn, provides a much smoother picture when gaming.
Having said that, your system must meet some basic requirements to be able to get the most out of the technology. For best results, your PC must be able to output equal frames per second to the monitors refresh rate. So, if your refresh rate is 144Hz, you realistically want to be getting 144FPS in-game. This will result in the best gaming experience for the most part.
Certainly something worth considering if you had planned on getting a high-end monitor for that feature alone.
Budget
Budget is an interesting factor within the tech universe. There are some rules and guidelines we like to follow when it comes to our budget. A great example of this is spending half your PC budget on your GPU. This will ensure the highest levels of graphical performance. Anyway, as far as monitors are concerned, we like to take a slightly different approach.
Budget is hugely important as the difference between an entry-level display and a high-end one can be staggering – as you’ll soon see. It all comes down to your specific needs. Follow the above things to consider to work out the specs that best suit your needs, then use this simple table to work out roughly what budget you need to spend:
- Low-end gaming monitor – $150-250
- Mid-range gaming monitor – $300-450
- High-end gaming monitor – $500+
- Office monitor – $100+
- Entry-level editing monitor – $200
- High-end editing monitor – $400+
- Low-end ultra-wide monitor – $250
- High-end ultra-wide gaming monitor – $700-1,000+
- Low-end 4K monitor – $300
- High-end 4K monitor – $700+
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 27 inches good for gaming?
A 27-inch monitor is a great size for gaming, still offering achievable frame rates even when using higher screen resolutions such as 1440p. Better still, 27-inch monitors often display excellent value for money thanks to carefully chosen specifications. Unlike 24-inch monitors, you also get excellent versatility with a 27-inch monitor – with 4K UHD screen resolutions not out of the question.
Are 27 inch monitors too small?
For gaming, definitely not. They are the perfect sweet spot between performance and visual performance. While you don’t get the desktop real estate that comes with a 32 inch monitor, a 27 inch monitor still provides plenty of versatility for gamers, editors, enthusiasts, and everyday users.
How far should you sit away from a 27 inch monitor?
The recommended distance to sit away from a monitor is 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen size away. For a 27 inch monitor, that’s around 54 inches (averaged). At this distance, users should still get good clarity when viewing the monitor, even at 1080p screen resolutions.
What’s the best resolution for a 27 inch monitor?
There is no definitive answer here, however, on average, the best resolution for a 27 inch monitor is 1440p. This is the perfect sweet spot between price and performance, offering up an excellent visual experience without breaking the bank.
Final Word
There you have it guys, our complete rundown of the best 27 inch monitors available right now. We’ve tried to be as thorough as possible with our reviews without being overwhelming. If what you’re looking for is the best all-around 27 inch monitor that not only provides excellent image quality and great gaming performance, Alienware AW2723DF is our number one recommendation. The monitor offers an almost-frameless design, which, along with 1440p resolution, should deliver crisp visuals. Plus, for gaming, you get 240Hz refresh rate, quick response time, and VRR support.
Let us know what you thought of the selections by leaving us a comment below. Hopefully this guide has made choosing your next monitor that little bit easier.
