2024】How to choose a gaming monitor and 10 recommendations, from FPS to beginner's monitors.

One of the main characteristics of gaming monitors is that they can adapt to the intense motion of FPS, TPS, and fighting games. Because they are able to render images with minimal afterimages and blurring, these speedy games can be played without stress. Of course, many monitors are also high-performance monitors for everyday use, and while in the past, some monitors were not so good at expressing colors as the price of specializing in game display, this is no longer the case, thanks to the evolution of panels.

However, with a wide range of monitors on the market, from inexpensive models to more expensive models costing well over 100,000 yen, it is difficult to know which one to choose.

In this issue, we will introduce some of the gaming monitors recommended by our editorial department, focusing on the newer models.

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Points to consider when selecting a gaming monitor

Recommended gaming monitors

Key Points for Selecting a Gaming Monitor

Monitor size

Larger monitors offer a more powerful and immersive experience, but they also require more space and are more expensive. Consider a monitor in the affordable 24" to 27" size range, depending on your room, budget, and how large a screen you want to play on.

Resolution

In addition to the common Full HD (1920 x 1080), there are also WQHD (2560 x 1440) and 4K (3840 x 2160) with higher resolutions. Of course, there is nothing better than a higher resolution, but if the monitor size is between 24" and 27" as mentioned above, you will not feel that much difference. On the other hand, if you have a large screen, you may want to consider 4K, and WQHD gives the impression of being just right in terms of price and balance. In the case of consumer game consoles, check in advance, as some may support output up to Full HD to begin with (PS5 supports 4K).

Panel Type

LCD panels can be broadly classified into IPS, TN, and VA panels.

IPS panels offer high color reproducibility and wide viewing angles. The slow response time used to be a disadvantage, but with technological improvements, an increasing number of panels have achieved a response time of 1 ms or less in recent years. There are also some panels (AHVA, etc.) that have evolved from IPS panels through proprietary development.

TN panels are inexpensive and feature a fast response time. If you are looking for a monitor suitable for FPS and TPS with a high refresh rate at a reasonable cost, a TN panel model is also an option.

VA panels have a high contrast ratio and are particularly good at rendering blacks. However, most of them have a slow response time, so they are more suitable for general video viewing and games that do not require such intense motion than for intense games.

In addition to the LCD panels mentioned above, monitors using OLEDs, which offer beautiful colors, high contrast ratios, and fast response times, are also on the rise. If your budget allows, this is another monitor to consider.

Refresh Rate

Refresh rate is a numerical value that expresses "the number of times (frequency) that the image on the screen is refreshed per second," and is measured in Hz. 60 Hz (60 times per second) is the standard for most monitors, but 144 Hz or higher is the norm for gaming monitors, with the latest models capable of 240 Hz and 360 Hz The latest models are 240Hz and 360Hz. Simply put, the higher the value, the smoother the image, and the better the comfort and visibility in FPS, TPS, and other fast-moving games. This may be confused with the frame rate (e.g., 60 fps), but the frame rate is an "output" value, while the refresh rate is a "display" value.

Naturally, the higher the value, the better, but the price increases accordingly, so you should decide how much you need according to your gaming style and budget. It is important to note that consumer consoles have a fixed maximum frame rate, so you cannot maximize the specs: PS4 and Nintendo Switch have full HD resolution (PS4Pro supports 4K) & a maximum frame rate of 60fps, while PS5 has 4K & 120fps respectively. Refresh rates greater than 60Hz or 120Hz are also over-specified and the monitor will not be able to take full advantage of its capabilities.

Response Time

Response time" is a numerical value that indicates how long it takes to switch colors. The unit is "ms (milliseconds)," and models with a response time of 1 ms or less are recommended for games with intense motion, such as FPS, TPS, and fighting games. There are two types of response times: GTG, which measures the time it takes to switch from one intermediate color to another, and MPRT, which is defined by the industry standardization organization VESA.

Recommended Gaming Monitors

BenQ MOBIUZ EX270M

• Manufacturer：BenQ Japan
• Price: 62,669 yen (tax included) *BenQ Direct Rakuten Ichiba store

Main Specifications

Screen Size	27 inches
Panel Type	IPS (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate	240Hz
Response Time	1ms (GTG/ MPRT)
Maximum brightness	400cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°/ 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI x 2, DisplayPort x 1
Size (W x H x D)	614mm (width) x 426-526mm (height) x 194mm (depth)
Main unit weight	Approx. 6.4kg

MOBIUZ is a gaming monitor brand developed by BenQ. All monitors are highly rated, but we recommend the "EX270M" for its good balance. While the actual price is around 60,000 yen, its 27-inch IPS panel, Full HD resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 1 ms response time are sufficient for a gaming monitor. It also features 2.1-channel speakers with a 5W woofer, and has a good reputation considering it is a monitor's built-in speaker. The monitor is highly satisfactory for both normal game play and everyday use.

If you want a cheaper gaming monitor, the EX2510S, also from MOBIUZ, is a good candidate. Also, BenQ's first gaming monitor with mini LED backlighting, the EX321UX, will be released this May, and depending on specifications and price, this is also a great candidate.

ZOWIE XL2546X

• Manufacturer：BenQ Japan
• Price: 89,100 yen (tax included) *Official online store
• Official website：#

Main Specifications

Screen Size	24.5 inches
Panel type	TN
Maximum resolution	1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate	240Hz
Response Time	0.5ms (GTG)
Maximum brightness	320cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	170° left/right / 160° up/down
Input terminals	HDMI 2.0 x 3, DP 1.4 x 1
Dimensions	576 mm (W) x 362-517 mm (H) x 182 mm (D)
Weight	Approx. 6.1 kg

The XL2546X is a new model from ZOWIE, a brand that specializes in the development of professional e-Sports equipment and is highly regarded by professionals. The appeal of this new model is its expressive power, which is suitable for playing games with intense motion. The refresh rate is 240 Hz, and the response time is 0.5 ms (GtG). The use of a Fast TN panel, which clearly outlines the entire image, results in less afterimage than a typical IPS panel at the same 240Hz rate. The latest Dynamic Accuracy technology (DyAc2) delivers best-in-class motion clarity. In addition, various functions, such as dark correction, vividness correction, and afterimage reduction, have also been enhanced.

In addition to panel performance, the new monitor stand is designed for ease of use. The height adjustment mechanism uses industrial bearings, making it easier and smoother to adjust to the desired height. The new monitor stand uses industrial bearings for height adjustment, making it easier and smoother to adjust to the desired height.

I-O DATA LCD-GDQ271JA

• Manufacturer：I-O DATA
• Price: 54,780 yen (tax included)
• Official website：#

Main Specifications

Screen Size	27-inch wide
Panel Type	AHVA (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	2560 x 1440
Refresh Rate	180Hz
Response Time	0.7ms (MPRT) / 0.2ms (GTG) 180Hz, with overdrive level 3 and Clear AIM level 3 set.
Maximum brightness	400cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°/ 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI x 2, DisplayPort x 1
Size	With stand: approx. 615mm x 211mm x 403-533mm / without stand: approx. 615mm x 61mm x 368mm
Weight	With stand: approx. 6.6 kg / without stand: approx. 4.2 kg

A 27-inch gaming monitor with a response time of 0.2 ms and a high refresh rate of up to 180 Hz. And yet, it is also cosmetically superior, with the actual price on many mail-order sites under 45,000 yen. The monitor is suitable for a wide range of gaming genres, including MMORPG as well as FPS, as its overdrive and Clear AIM functions reduce blurring in images with intense movement, and it also achieves image expression without white skipping or blacking out.

The "AHVA" panel is a type of IPS panel developed by AU Optronics, a BenQ Group company. It is characterized by improved response speed, but naturally also has the advantages of an IPS panel. It would be a good candidate for such users.

MSI MPG 271QRX QD-OLED

• Manufacturer：MSI
• Price: 170,280 yen (tax included) *Official online store
• Official website：#

Main Specifications

Screen Size	26.5 inches
Panel type	QD-OLED (half-glare)
Maximum resolution	2560 x 1440
Refresh Rate	360Hz
Response Time	0.03ms (GTG)
Maximum brightness	250cd/m2 (peak: 1000)
Contrast Ratio	1500000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4a x 1
Size	610mm (W) x 422mm (H) x 242mm (D)
Main unit weight	Approx. 8.3kg

The MPG 271QRX QD-OLED is the 2023 model in MSI's "MPG" series, which is packed with unparalleled performance and luxurious features. MSI has been applying new panel technologies to monitors in recent years, and this model uses the latest generation QD-OLED panel to display clearer images, video, and text. This model uses the latest generation QD-OLED panel to display clearer images, video, and text.

By stopping the emission of light, the panel expresses a jet-black color and achieves an overwhelming contrast ratio of approximately 1,500 times higher than that of ordinary monitors. Furthermore, the monitor has received "ClearMR 13000" certification, the highest rank in the CleaeMR certification system, which indicates the clarity of images. This allows the user to enjoy a crisp, blur-free image even with quick movements. At around 150,000 yen, it is not a cheap monitor, but it is one that has been gaining popularity since its release.

Incidentally, MSI also recently released a 49-inch curved monitor "MPG 491CQP QD-OLED," so those who have the space and budget for a more immersive experience may want to consider it. On the other hand, those on a budget should check out the less expensive "MAG" series.

LG UltraGear 27GS95QE-B

• Brand: LG
• Price: 149,800 yen (tax included) *Official online store
• Official website :#

Main Specifications

Screen size	26.5 inches
Panel type	OLED
Maximum resolution	2560 x 1440
Refresh Rate	48-240Hz
Response Time	0.02ms (GTG)
Maximum brightness	275cd/m2 (peak: 1300)
Contrast Ratio	1500000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI x 2, DisplayPort x 1
Size	With stand: 604 mm x 464 - 574 mm x 258 mm / without stand: 604 mm x 351 mm x 45 mm
Main unit weight	With stand: 7.35kg / without stand: 5.05kg

The LG UltraGear series of gaming monitors is developed by LG Electronics Japan. One of the latest models in this popular series is the "27GS95QE-B".

The new "Micro Lens Array" technology and a 30% increase in OLED brightness compared to the previous model have resulted in even more realistic and beautiful graphics. The OLED 95QE-B is certified as a "DisplayHDR™ True Black 400," which is one of the strictest performance standards for HDR image reproduction established by VESA, the display industry's standardization organization, and is a testament to its visual expression. In addition, it supports a high refresh rate of 240Hz and achieves the fastest response time of 0.03ms (GTG) in the history of "LG UltraGear". Flicker and crackle reduction technology is also implemented. The gaming GUI and various settings are also enhanced, making it truly a unit for gamers.

SONY INZONE M9

• Manufacturer：SONY
• Price: 121,000 yen (tax included) *Sony Store
• Official website：#

Main Specifications

Screen size	27 inches
Panel type	IPS (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate	DisplayPort: 24-144Hz / HDMI: 24-120Hz
Response Time	1ms (high-speed mode)
Maximum Brightness	600 cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	80000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°)
Input terminals	DisplayPort x 1 (Ver. 1.4), HDMI x 2 (Ver. 2.1)
Dimensions (W x H x D): 615 x 615 x 615 mm	With stand: 615 mm (W) x 479 mm (H) x 248 mm (D) / without stand: 615 mm (W) x 363 mm (H) x 73 mm (D)
Weight	With stand: approx. 6.8 kg / without stand: approx. 4.6 kg

SONY's "INZONE" series gaming monitors are highly compatible not only with PCs but also with PS5, with the two-tone black and white color of the stand and the rear of the monitor matching that of PS5. The panel is IPS, and the response time is 1ms (GTG) in high-speed mode.

The INZONE M9 can display 4K resolution at 144Hz refresh rate when connected to DisplayPort, or 4K 120Hz when connected to HDMI, for the ultimate immersive experience on the PS5. The direct LED partial drive also allows for beautiful representation of depth and subtle details even in dark scenes.

For those seeking a high refresh rate, we recommend the INZONE M3 from the same series. This one is in Full HD (1920 x 1080) but achieves a refresh rate of 240 Hz. It is not equipped with direct LED partial drive, but the INZONE M3 is less expensive, so it is better to choose according to what you are looking for.

Alienware AW3225QF

• Manufacturer: DELL
• Price: 143,800 yen (tax included) *Official site
• Official website: #

Main Specifications

Screen Size	31.6 inches
Panel type	QD OLED (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	3840 x 2160
Refresh Rate	240Hz
Response Time	0.03ms (GtG min)
Maximum Brightness	1000cd/m2 (typical) (HDR peak)
Contrast Ratio	1,000,000:1 (for SDR and HDR)
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (for SDR and HDR)
Input terminals	HDMI 2.1 FRL x 2, DisplayPort x 1, SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1) (Type-A, Type-B, Type-C)
Dimensions	715.56 mm (W) x 472.77 to 582.77 mm (H) x 305.72 mm (D)
Main unit weight	6.0 kg (panel only)

The AW3225QF is a high-spec model from Dell's Alienware gaming brand. The main feature is the QD-OLED panel that combines Quantum Dot Technology (QD-OLED) and OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode). 3840 x 2160 resolution and a 1700R curved screen (curved monitor) make it the world's first 4K QD-OLED It is the world's first 4K QD-OLED gaming monitor.

In addition to that, with a contrast ratio of up to 1 million:1, Dolby Vision, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400, the visual clarity and light/dark colors are outstanding in all scenes. The 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time are also impeccable, ensuring a gaming experience with no image misalignment or choppiness. The monitor can also be used with next-generation consoles such as PS5 at 4K and 120Hz, allowing users to immerse themselves in games comfortably in any situation.

The two-tone white and black color scheme is also stylish, making it one of the best gaming monitors available, albeit at a reasonable price. However, be aware that the monitor requires a high machine spec on the PC side to fully demonstrate its performance, so it may end up being a treasured commodity.

Pixio PX248Wave

Manufacturer: Pixio (Hamee Corporation)

Price:26,980 yen (including tax)

Official website :#

Main Specifications

Screen size	23.8 inches
Panel type	Fast IPS (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate	200Hz
Response Time	1ms (GTG)
Maximum brightness	300cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°/ 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI 2.0 x 1, DisplayPort 1.4 x 1
Size (W x H x D)	Width 558.3 mm × Height 419.7 mm × Depth 180 mm
Main unit weight	3.2 kg

I want a high-performance gaming monitor that is also easy on my wallet. But I also don't want to compromise on a body color that matches my room. The PX248Wave from Pixio (the gaming monitor brand of Hamee Corporation, a smartphone goods developer and retailer) meets these demands.

The color variations that caught our attention were pastel blue and pastel pink. In a good sense, the soft colors that do not look like monitors are eye-catching. Looking at performance, the PX248Wave is a user-friendly 23.8-inch Full HD monitor with a Fast IPS panel, a refresh rate of 200 Hz, and a response time of 1 ms. It is a cost-effective unit that can be purchased for around 20,000 yen.

Incidentally, the 27-inch "PX278WAVE" has a refresh rate of 180 Hz, but its resolution is 2560 x 1440 (WQHD) with improved color gamut and brightness. Those who place a premium on video viewing and other activities may want to consider this model. This one is priced at 37,980 yen (tax included).

ASUS ROG Swift Pro PG248QP

• Manufacturer: ASUS
• Price:140,220 yen (including tax) *Official online store
• Official website :#

Main Specifications

Screen Size	24.1 inches
Panel type	TN (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate	540 Hz (maximum)
Response Rate	0.2ms (GTG)
Maximum brightness	400cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	170°/ 160
Input terminals	HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4 x 1
Dimensions	Width 557 mm x Height 502 mm x Depth 255 mm
Weight	With stand: 7.5 kg / without stand: 3.6 kg

The Swift Pro PG248QP from ASUS' ROG (Republic of Gamers) gaming brand is the world's fastest eSports gaming monitor, with a refresh rate of 540Hz (max.). Swift Pro PG248QP.

The latest E-TN panel, which is 50% faster than conventional TN panels, has a built-in NVIDIA G-SYNC processor and a response time of 0.2ms, making it truly designed for professional FPS gamers. Other features include ULMB 2 with enhanced motion blur reduction, DisplayHDR400 compliant high dynamic range for elaborate and beautiful images, GamePlus developed based on the opinions of professional gamers, and other useful functions, making it ideal for use with a high-performance gaming PC. This unit is specially designed for those who want to master FPS.

ASUS also has a lineup of less expensive models and models that are suited for a variety of uses, but specialized models like the Swift Pro PG248QP, while expensive if it suits your own needs, will be worth the price.

JAPANNEXT JN-238Gi144FHDR-N

• Manufacturer：JAPANNEXT
• Price: 22,000 yen (tax included) *Amazon exclusive
• Official website：#

Main Specifications

Screen size	23.8 inches
Panel type	Fast IPS (non-glare)
Maximum resolution	1920 x 1080
Refresh Rate	144Hz (maximum)
Response Time	1ms (GTG/MPRT)
Maximum brightness	280cd/m2
Contrast Ratio	1000:1
Viewing Angle	178°/ 178° (with a maximum of 178°/ 178°)
Input terminals	HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4 x 2
Dimensions	Width 540 mm x Height 400 mm x Depth 143 mm
Main unit weight	2.8kg

You want a gaming monitor, but you want to keep your budget within 20,000 yen. JAPANNEXT's "JN-238Gi144FHDR-N" is the answer to such needs. This product is sold exclusively through Amazon, but can be purchased for 22,000 yen (tax included).

It uses a 23.8-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution Fast IPS LCD panel with a refresh rate of 144 Hz and a response time of 1 ms (GTG), which is a bit lacking compared to models with the highest specifications, but considering that it costs less than 20,000 yen with these specifications, it is quite a bargain. This is a good choice for a sub-monitor.

However, the actual buyers are divided in their evaluation of this monitor, with some saying that there is a problem with the screws used to attach the monitor arm. Nevertheless, considering the specs and price, it is definitely a cost-effective solution.

Switch User's Attention P ENTACT Multimedia Portable Monitor PTG-01

• Manufacturer：PENTACT
• Price: 36,800 yen (including tax)
• Official website: ##

Main Specifications

Screen size	11.6-inch
Panel type	Color TFT (IPS)
Maximum resolution	1366 x 768
Refresh Rate	-1.5
Response Time	30ms
Maximum Brightness	-Maximum brightness
Contrast Ratio	Maximum brightness - Contrast ratio
Viewing Angle	85°/ 85
Input terminals	DisplayPort x 1 (Ver. 1.4)/HDMI x 1, USB Type-C x 2, USB Type-C power supply only x 1
Size	Width 290mm × Height 197mm × Depth 32mm
Main unit weight	Approx. 1.0kg

Although not a gaming monitor, the "PENTACT Multimedia Portable Monitor PTG-01" is an interesting choice to play Nintendo Switch on a larger screen more easily. This product has received more than 25 million yen in support on the crowdfunding service "Makuake," and is now available for sale to the general public.

It is easy to use. The 11.6-inch monitor is about 1.8 times larger than its normal size. The built-in mobile battery eliminates the need for cables. Built-in speakers can play game and video sound, making it easy to use outdoors. The response time and refresh rate are not comparable to gaming monitors, but considering that the maximum output of the Nintendo Switch is 60 Hz to begin with, there is no need to worry about that. It is a good monitor to have, apart from a gaming monitor.