Have you ever wished to become a champion in your favorite game, all without spending a fortune? This article is for you. With gaming getting more demanding and enjoying popularity, the best budget gaming monitors under $250 will be especially important in 2025.
Nowadays, budget no longer has to mean “simple” or “of poor quality.” In 2025, the idea that you need a costly monitor for good quality in gaming is out the window.
Due to the strong competition between manufacturers and advancements in panels, it is now possible for gamers to own great displays at reasonable prices.
Reflect on the features that make a good gaming monitor outstanding. Performance matters above everything else, whether the lights are simple or impressive.
Today’s budget monitors offer features like a 1440p display, up to a 300 Hz refresh rate, and a response time that is less than 3 milliseconds.
Until a few years ago, features like these were found only in monitors that cost way more than $500.
Plus, you can usually find budget-friendly screens with support for HDR, a wide range of colors, a curved design, and the option to use FreeSync or G-Sync.
These features are the actual high-end versions, not less important imitations.
If you are afraid that buying on a budget may make you miss out on enjoyable gaming, stunning visuals, or top speed, you will be glad to learn that this is now false.
What $250 Can Get You in 2025
Let’s think about it step by step. Considering a $250 budget, what kind of gaming monitor would you get nowadays? Basically, much more than you realize.
At the moment, monitors selling for this price frequently offer at least Full HD, and some even supply QHD resolutions. Refresh rates? It can go as high as 144 Hz without any issues.
In fact, you can find models with up to 240 Hz or 300 Hz, which were usually only for esports players.
Another thing to consider is screen size, because most models are around 27 inches and a few are as large as 32–34 inches in ultrawide format.
It used to be that only expensive phones had curved screens; now even those under $250 can have them.
Your monitor should come with two or more HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, and extra audio connections as well.
You gain features such as support for AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync, HDR colors, and vivid color ranges that give your games an exciting feel.
In short, reaching $250 in 2025 gives you a unique pass toward playing stunning, simple games.
So whether you’re new to FPS gaming, seasoned, or simply love simulations, you can find a great deal on a budget monitor.
Top 6 Best Budget Gaming Monitors You Can’t Ignore
If you want to improve your gaming setup at a reasonable price, these six monitors have the right combination of performance, features, and affordability for under $250. Let’s explore why each of them shined in 2025.
Top Picks
KTC QHD 1440p Gaming Monitor
Z-Edge UG27S 27 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor
Gawfolk 34 Inch Ultrawide Curved Gaming Monitor
SANSUI 32 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor
CRUA 34 Inch Curved Gaming Monitor
Sceptre 24.5-inch Curved Gaming Monitor
1. KTC QHD 1440p 100Hz IPS Gaming Monitor
The KTC display tops the charts in the under-$250 price category. Thanks to its 2560×1440 QHD resolution, both sports and cinematic games will show much more detail and crisp graphics.
What’s more, the ultra-wide viewing angles of the IPS screen mean colours appear consistent and stand out wherever you look at them.
With a matte finish, the screen has less glare, and the display’s 109% color gamut means you will notice accurate colors, which is good for both gaming and content creation.
It comes as no shock that the RTX 2060 is being talked about more in value-oriented trends on Reddit and gaming forums.
The screen comes with a 100 Hz refresh rate, which is slightly behind other monitors but still noticeably better than 60 Hz displays.
Because of the 3ms response time, you can expect FPS games, racing games, and action RPGs to run swiftly and smoothly.
What’s impressive about the KTC is that it supports G-Sync from NVIDIA and FreeSync from AMD, so nobody has to deal with screen tearing no matter which graphics card they have.
The console has HDR support, which adds better lighting effects and more dramatic contrast to games that can use it.
Thanks to the 2 HDMI ports and the DisplayPort, you can easily link up different gaming devices or media players.
Capacitance efficiency is suitable because it takes just 54 watts and runs at 12V.
Key Specifications:
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Screen Finish: Matte
- Display Type: LED
- Display Technology: IPS
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
- Refresh Rate: 100Hz
- Response Time: 3ms
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1
- Brightness: 350 cd/m²
- Viewing Angle: 178°
- Color Gamut: 109%
- Pixel Pitch: 0.27 mm
- HDR Support: Yes
- Adaptive Sync: G-Sync, FreeSync
- HDMI Ports: 2
- DisplayPort: Yes
- Component Outputs: 1
- Power Consumption: 54W
- Voltage: 12V
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Crisp 1440p QHD display
- Precise IPS color representation
- It can operate with FreeSync and G-Sync.
- A refresh rate of 100 100Hz guarantees smoother movement on the screen.
- Brightness on the screen reaches up to 350 nits.
Cons:
- The response time is slightly higher than some other 1ms models because it is 3ms.
- The fact that it only offers a 100Hz refresh rate is not enough for dedicated FPS gamers.
2. Z-Edge UG27S 27-Inch 300Hz Curved Monitor
If esports and Twitch shooters are your thing, you won’t go wrong with the Z-Edge UG27S.
A 1920×1080 FHD resolution is present on this 27-inch curved monitor, strengthening the speed of images instead of their detail, as it has fewer pixels.
With a refresh rate of 300 Hz, this model is the quickest one included. You can easily spot what the enemies are doing and react to it without any delay.
Experienced players will surely like how fast and responsive the headset is, given how important every decision is in Overwatch 2, Valorant, and Warzone.
Thanks to the attractive matte appearance, curved design, and deep contrast ratio, the TV always feels engaging, even though it’s only 4K resolution. With this price, I think the pros outweigh the cons.
A response time of just 1 ms is an excellent score. In smooth or hectic parts of the game, you won’t face ghosting, smearing, or delays because of the input lag.
But since it doesn’t have G-Sync, FreeSync Premium gives a perfectly consistent and silky smooth picture.
With 2 HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, and 4 component outputs, the Z-Edge allows you to use many devices, including dual PC-console setups.
This model is great for people who want to excel in scores without having to pay a lot. Even though it isn’t as crisp as a 1440p screen, its fast response time makes it stand out from the rest.
Key Specifications:
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Screen Finish: Matte
- Display Type: LED
- Display Technology: LED
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
- Refresh Rate: 300Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Contrast Ratio: 4000:1
- HDR Support: Yes
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync Premium
- HDMI Ports: 2
- DisplayPort: Yes
- Component Outputs: 4
- Color Screen: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- An impressive 300Hz refresh rate
- A 1-millisecond response time is necessary for an advantage in the market.
- FreeSync Premium makes your gameplay smooth and consistent.
- A high contrast ratio helps the film become more engaging.
- Excellent features at an affordable price
Cons:
- Only 1080p is available.
- It’s not a good choice for people who want to produce content or work effectively.
You can also read: Best Gaming Monitors Under $400 That Feel Like $1000!
3. Gawfolk 34-Inch Ultrawide Curved 165Hz Monitor
If you want a slow and detailed experience over fast action, picking the Gawfolk 34-Inch Ultrawide gaming monitor is a great option at such a reasonable price.
Because of its wide screen and high-quality resolution, the monitor surrounds your view like no standard display can.
All this technology enables the screen to render beautiful sights and show every detail clearly.
Both open-world gamers and those who use their desktop for work love how much more useful the screen is and how crisp the picture is.
Because of the matte curved display, gamers who play sim racing, fighting games, or strategy games will notice more immersion since they have a wider zone for action.
The screen’s performance is helped by the 165 Hz refresh rate and 3 ms response time. The focus is not on esports but on gamers who like titles with stories and impressive graphics, like Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, or Starfield; this screen really improves the gaming experience.
AMD users will also discover FreeSync, helping to prevent screen tearing when you’re gaming all day.
The monitor comes with standard DisplayPort and HDMI ports and weighs less than 6kg, so it’s easy to place or move on your desk.
Not long ago, ultrawide screens cost a lot, but Gawfolk has shown that it is possible to buy one with an affordable budget.
Key Specifications:
Aspect Ratio: 21:9
Screen Finish: Matte
Display Type: LED
Display Technology: LED
Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (QHD Ultra Wide)
Refresh Rate: 165Hz
Response Time: 3ms
Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
Brightness: 300 cd/m²
Pixel Pitch: 0.31 mm
Color Gamut: 99%
HDR Support: Yes
Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
HDMI Ports: 2
DisplayPort: Yes
Component Outputs: 4
Weight: 5.62 kg
Voltage: 12V
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Response times as fast as 300 Hz
- A 1 ms response time provides an edge over other games.
- The FreeSync Premium feature offers smooth gaming.
- A high contrast ratio helps you focus on the picture.
- The price is great for what the device offers.
Cons:
- Only a standard resolution of 1080p is available.
- Its design limits the efficiency of creating content.
4. SANSUI 32-Inch Curved 240Hz Monitor
Are you searching for an affordable monitor that offers fast response times? Gaming with the SANSUI 32-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor at a 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time is sure to help esports players stay at their best.
Anyone expecting a plain 1920×1080 display will be surprised by the vividness that comes with the display’s curve and its wide color range.
Even though the screen is not 1440p, the images are pleasing to the eye when you use it under 300 nits of brightness.
There are other gaming features too.
The monitor offers what gamers want: HDR and FreeSync, and you can plug in your devices through either HDMI or DisplayPort.
Gaming on the PS VR feels smooth, the sharp motion makes everything clear, and playing on the curved screen is very engaging.
You also get another plus because it’s suitable for budget gaming PCs. Having one of the best gaming PCs isn’t necessary with this monitor, since it allows you to play at 240 240Hz smoothly. Out of all the competitors in this price class, only a few can match this monitor’s speed.
You should definitely consider SANSUI under $250 if you want a screen that limits blur and increases frame rate in action-packed titles.
Key Specifications:
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Screen Finish: Matte
Display Type: LCD
Display Technology: LCD
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Refresh Rate: 240Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Brightness: 300 cd/m²
Viewing Angle: 178°
Color Gamut: 125%
HDR Support: Yes
Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
HDMI Ports: 1
DisplayPort: Yes
Component Outputs: 2
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The monitor offers a super-fast 240Hz refresh rate.
- Better response time of 1ms reduces the chances of ghosting.
- The screen covers a wide range of colors (125%) and supports HDR
- Large curved monitors
Cons:
- Having the resolution of 1080p on a big screen
- Only one HDMI port is available.
5. CRUA 34-Inch Ultrawide 144Hz Gaming Monitor
The CRUA 34-Inch Ultrawide Curved Gaming Monitor is great for people who enjoy working across various programs simultaneously, playing racing games, and exploring large game environments.
Having an ultrawide display, a high resolution, and a high refresh rate helps you enjoy games and work at the same time.
Because of its 4000:1 contrast ratio and 120% color gamut, the image is clear and vivid. Whether you use it for video, spreadsheets, or Assetto Corsa, the CRUA does not let you down.
Because of its 300-nit lightness and 178° angles, you can still see clearly on this TV, even when it’s turned on in bright or angled lighting.
The presence of 2 HDMI and a DisplayPort combined with a 3.5mm audio jack should suit every type of connection.
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People who play games that involve racing, flying, or space exploration will love the involvement that the monitor’s widescreen provides.
In addition, people who spend a lot of time creating or streaming content will appreciate the ample room on the screen.
This screen also supports FreeSync, responds fast with a 2ms response time, and uses a satin finish to bring more value at an affordable price.
Key Specifications:
- Aspect Ratio: 21:9
- Screen Finish: Matte
- Display Type: LCD (LED backlight)
- Display Technology: LCD
- Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (QHD Ultra Wide)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 2ms
- Contrast Ratio: 4000:1
- Brightness: 300 cd/m²
- Pixel Pitch: 101 (likely DPI scale)
- Color Gamut: 120%
- Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
- HDR Support: VA Panel (HDR-like contrast)
- HDMI Ports: 2
- DisplayPort: Yes
- Audio Out: 3.5mm jack
- Component Outputs: 4
- Voltage: 12V
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Wide, immersive 21:9 aspect ratio
- Excellent contrast from VA panel
- High 144Hz refresh rate and 2ms response
- Includes audio output for external speakers
Cons:
- Not officially HDR certified
- VA panels have slower pixel transitions than IPS.
6. Sceptre C255B-FWT240 240Hz 24.5” Curved Monitor
If you need a monitor that loads things very quickly, then the Sceptre C255B-FWT240 ought to be at the top of your shopping list.
This monitor is made to fit the needs of players who want the fastest possible reactions and ultra-fast latency in esports.
Courtesy of its massive 240Hz refresh rate and quick 1ms reaction time, the Sceptre model ensures you have a super-smooth gaming session.
So you get prompt actions, small delays, and no blurriness while playing titles such as CS:GO, Call of Duty, or Apex Legends.
Even though 1920×1080 isn’t the best, it works well on a 24.5-inch monitor, as the need for fast changes and a high refresh rate exceeds the importance of having a 4K screen.
In spite of being quite affordable, this monitor has plenty of features. With a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, 280 nits of brightness and a vibrant 99% color gamut, it really stands out.
You’ll be surprised by how good the colors look on this display, even though it’s not HDR-certified, especially because its price is under $250.
There are no issues with connectivity thanks to the 2 HDMI ports, DisplayPort and wired options. FreeSync Premium and MPRT give you solid and flawless gameplay without any stutter or unwanted images.
Anyone who looks for good value, quick reaction time, better motion, and perfect smoothness will be impressed by this monitor. It is the preferred computer for gamers as it allows them to get high performance without spending a lot.
Key Specifications:
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Screen Finish: Matte
Display Type: LCD
Display Technology: LCD
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Refresh Rate: 240Hz
Response Time: 1ms (MPRT)
Contrast Ratio: 1,000,000:1
Brightness: 280 cd/m²
Pixel Pitch: 0.36375 mm
Color Gamut: 99%
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium
HDR Support: Yes
HDMI Ports: 2
DisplayPort: Yes
Component Outputs: 2
Power Consumption: 32W
Voltage: 12V
Is Electric: Yes
Processor Count: 1
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate
- 1ms MPRT for minimal motion blur
- Exceptional contrast ratio for deep blacks
- AMD FreeSync Premium support
- Excellent value for under $250
Cons:
- Only 1080p resolution
- Smaller screen might not suit multitasking needs
Key Features to Look for in the Best Budget Gaming Monitors
1. Refresh Rate
Refreshing the screen is exactly how fast it updates new information, so let’s discuss refresh rate. If you like playing games, whether casually or not, this number is important for you.
This helps determine how much data your monitor is able to display each second. 60 Hz stands for the fact that a monitor can show 60 frames every second.
But if you choose a screen with 144 Hz, 240 Hz, or 300 Hz, you get much smoother and faster action.
What is the importance of this point? Ever experienced trying to aim at a swift and fast-moving target in a shooter? A moment’s hesitation can decide whether a person wins or loses.
When a higher refresh rate is used, motion looks more fluid, and it really benefits FPS, racing, and action games since every fraction of a second is crucial.
Even with a budget of $250, today you can easily get a monitor that runs at 144 Hz. Some models can hit higher frequencies, like the Z-Edge UG27S, which provides 300 Hz.
So, anyone who wants to game on a budget can have the benefit of smooth visuals and stand a chance in online matches.
Since 60 Hz is no longer modern, don’t accept it as an option in 2025. If you pay this amount, aim for a screen that has at least 144 Hz.
Those who prefer fast-paced games should look at screens that have 240 Hz or higher refresh rates. Don’t forget to double-check if your graphics card is strong enough.
2. Response Time
Response time is a common term used a lot in gaming. Exactly what does it imply? Essentially, response time records how quickly a pixel can go from one color to another.
The time is usually shown in milliseconds (ms). Try to make your mortgage installment payments as small as possible.
Gaming requires you to move at lightning speed. Monitors with a higher response time tend to display objects moving fast across the screen in a blurred way behind themselves.
It’s not very suitable for shooting up close in Warzone or for making a quick hit in Rocket League.
Most budget gaming monitors in 2025 can offer a response time measured in one to three milliseconds. That’s lightning-fast.
Monitors like the SANSUI 32-inch and Sceptre C255B-FWT240 are very affordable yet provide top reaction speeds.
This can lead you to go from being an average player to a skilled one. Therefore, you should select a budget monitor that can refresh its image swiftly to avoid response lag.
3. Display Technology
This one stands out—due to the fact that a monitor’s technological panel, called an IPS, matters a lot for color reproduction and its widest viewing range.
- Rich colors and a wide view of the screen are the main features of IPS (In-Plane Switching). It’s perfect for role-playing and open-world games since looks are important in these types of games. KTC does IPS technology well, as shown by the quality of the QHD monitor.
- Using VA, you can achieve inky blacks and contrast the images better. This color style looks great in darker games and films. The use of VA panels in monitors such as the CRUA 34-inch is very beneficial.
- The Twisted Nematic, or TN, glasses have rapid response speed; however, the color accuracy and viewing angle are not the best. Such a quality in monitors at this price is not common at this time.
People on a budget in 2025 mostly chose from VA and IPS panels, which is good news. They manage to offer impressive gaming results as well as great graphics and are included in most top games now.
4. Adaptive Sync
Notice that the lines become blurry or your screen rips whenever you play games that require quick actions? This is known as screen tearing, and it is really annoying. Adaptive sync is the solution that can help.
Technologies such as AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync keep the monitor displaying pictures just as fast as the GPU can send them.
As a result, screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag are removed, which helps games run more smoothly and captures your attention.
The best thing about the best Budget Gaming Monitors in 2025 is that most of them include FreeSync support, and lots of them are G-Sync compatible too.
You are, therefore, able to choose any graphics card maker you like. Regardless of registering with AMD or NVIDIA, you can take part in the event.
We can assure you that adaptive sync is not just an extra feature to have. Everyone needs this in their home.
There is the added benefit that a good monitor can be yours for under $250. Absolute win.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
It is important to pick a monitor that suits your needs, favorite games, and how much space you have. Let us sum up the main points if you are still confused.
- If you are a fan of esports or need speedy reactions, go for the Sceptre C255B-FWT240 or Z-Edge UG27S.
- If you want to experience a story-based game with better views, pick the Gawfolk 34” Ultrawide or CRUA 34”.
- When high resolution is important, you won’t find anything better than the KTC QHD.
- A great and fast refresh option for an effective low price: Try the SANSUI 32”.
All of these models give gamers incredible value for 2025—sacrificing quality is no longer necessary for those looking for affordability.
Whether you like sharpshooting or exploring, you get excellent features on these monitors for less money.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the Best Budget Monitor for Esports?
If you’re into competitive esports, the Z-Edge UG27S with a 300Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time is unbeatable for under $250.
2. Are Ultrawide Monitors Good for Gaming?
Absolutely. They offer a wider field of view, which can enhance immersion in racing, flight sims, and RPGs. Try the Gawfolk or CRUA 34-inch ultrawides for the best experience.
3. Does Refresh Rate Really Matter in Gaming?
Yes—especially in fast-paced games. A higher refresh rate like 144Hz or 240Hz gives smoother visuals and a competitive edge.
4. What Is FreeSync and Do I Need It?
FreeSync eliminates screen tearing by syncing your monitor’s refresh rate with your GPU. It’s highly recommended for smoother gameplay.
5. Should I Get a Curved or Flat Monitor for Gaming?
Curved monitors improve immersion and reduce eye strain. They’re great for ultrawide and large screens, though flat monitors still work well for smaller sizes.
