If you’re a very competitive gamer who loves to play online, the refresh rate of a gaming monitor shouldn’t be left unnoticed. Although casual gamers might feel happy using a standard 60Hz monitor, more advanced gamers who crave smooth gameplay tend to opt for 240Hz.
But what does such a high refresh rate get you in comparison to a gaming monitor with a low refresh rate?
Oh, nothing…just smooth as butter visuals! 🖥️ ✨
First of all, a high refresh rate will help with frustrating motion blur during even the most intense games. Plus, since moving images can be refreshed more times in a second with 240Hz, you’ll be able to react faster to things happening in-game. Hence the reason why eSports gamers prefer to use the best 240Hz gaming monitors in order to beat their opponents.
Top 5 240Hz Monitors
So, what are the best 240Hz monitors on the market? Ordering them from the best choice, premium pick, and best value, we’ve got you covered with the finest 240Hz monitors to buy in 2020.
Best Choice: ASUS ROG Strix XG258Q
Pros & Cons
- ASUS Eye Care technology to reduce eyestrain
- Dual HDMI ports
- Game-grade ergonomics
- Pricey monitor
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080p
- Screen Size: 24.5-inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 1ms
- Connection Ports: Earphone jack, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Dimensions: 22.2 x 10 x 15-inches
Key Features
- Flicker-free technology
- Narrow bezels
- G-SYNC compatible
ASUS ROG Strix XG258Q Review
The second most expensive monitor on our list, ASUS ROG Strix XG258Q 240Hz gaming monitor is a flashy piece of kit.
With a unique design consisting of custom lighting that emits from the bottom of the stand and some sweet RGB features on the back, it’s definitely a crowd-pleaser. Much like the Alienware 25, this gaming monitor features very thin bezels suitable for maximizing your viewpoint.
But of course, as this is our premium pick 240Hz monitor option, it does more than just look good. So, what else does it have to offer?
Alongside the high refresh rate, this ASUS gaming monitor has a 1ms response time suitable for a smooth gaming experience. It’s also Freesync and G-sync compatible with tear-free gaming. Yes, that does mean that this monitor comes with a high price tag, but we say it’s worth it.
It even comes with Eye Care Technology to reduce eyestrain—a great feature for gamers who sit with their nose against their gaming monitor.
If you don’t want to place the ASUS ROG Strix onto a high-grade gaming desk, it’s VESA compatible (100 x 100mm mountable), so you can easily mount it onto a wall for console gaming. After all, even console gamers are prioritizing high-quality visuals by opting for a superior console gaming monitor.
Premium Pick: ASUS ROG Swift PG258Q
Pros & Cons
- Eye Care technology to reduce eyestrain
- Nvidia G-SYNC for smooth gameplay
- Frameless design
- Limited connectivity
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080p
- Screen Size: 24.5-inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 1ms
- Connection Ports: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, 2 x USB 3.0
- Weight: 12.4 lbs
- Dimensions: 22.3 x 10 x 15.2-inches
Key Features
- Smart air vent design
- Eye Care technology
- VESA wall-mountable
ASUS ROG Swift PG258Q Review
Not to be mistaken with the ASUS ROG Strix, the ASUS ROG Swift is a very expensive 240Hz monitor—but it might just be worth it. It’s one of the most advanced gaming monitors on our list, boasting Nvidia G-Sync and Eye Care technology for smooth and comfortable gaming sessions.
What’s more, is that at 24.5-inches with a 1080p resolution, it’s a suitable size for PC gamers looking to improve their gaming experience. Featuring the same futuristic built-in lighting effects on its stand as the ASUS ROG Strix, it’s one of the nicest looking monitors on the market.
Regardless of what game you’re playing all night long, you can relax knowing that the monitor will stay cool owing to its custom made heatsink. Said to be twice the size of other monitors on the market, the cooling system is aided by a ‘smart air vent design’ used to improve airflow.
How good it that? Of course, this ASUS Rog Swift PG258Q 240Hz gaming monitor comes with an expensive $460 price tag—though, if you have the money or you’re willing to save up, this 240Hz monitor is definitely worth it.
Best Value: Dell Alienware 25 AW2518Hf
Pros & Cons
- Slim bezels suitable for a multiple monitor setup
- Great looking TN panel
- Excellent viewing angles
- No built-in speakers
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Screen Size: 25-inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 1ms
- Connection Ports: USB 3.0, HDMI 2.0a
- Weight: 13.47 lbs
- Dimensions: 21.88 x 10.57 x 20.56-inches
Key Features
- Height adjustable stand, tilt, swivel and pivot
- Enhanced gaming features
- Thin bezels
Alienware 25 AW2518Hf Review
The Alienware 25 gaming monitor is an aesthetically striking, futuristic 240Hz display suitable for all types of gamers. With bezels as thin as my patience when I die in a battle royale game, it’s the perfect display for an immersive experience or even a multiple monitor setup.
With LED lighting on the back chassis that bounce off your walls, night-time gaming sessions have never been more relaxing. Aside from the fancy design, this 240Hz gaming monitor comes armed with a built-in USB hub for other PC peripherals—a very handy feature if I do say so myself.
The version we chose to put on our list is a pretty pricey model, but don’t let that put you off. Boasting AMD FreeSync technology for fluid performance, this Alienware 25 monitor is one of the best 240Hz gaming monitors on the market.
Aside from the fantastic refresh rate technology, our best value 240Hz monitor comes with a stunning 25-inch TN panel with a 1080p resolution and a speedy 1ms response time. I mean, honestly, this thing is a superb choice for competitive gamers.
The only thing ‘wrong’ with this Alienware monitor, is the fact that there are no built-in speakers. Nevertheless, that can be resolved by purchasing some high-quality computer speakers for gaming.
Best Cheap 240Hz Monitor: CUK Bionic
Pros & Cons
- 170° horizontal and 160° vertical viewing angles
- Motion blur reduction
- Height, pivot, tilt and swivel adjustable
- No speakers
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080p
- Screen Size: 24.5-inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 1ms
- Connection Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI, 3 x USB 3.0
- Weight: 9.8 lbs
- Dimensions: 22 x 2 x 16.75-inches
Key Features
- Ergonomic design
- VESA mountable
- Adjustable viewing angles
CUK Bionic Review
If you’re on a budget but you want the smoothest gaming experience possible, the CUK Bionic B25GM is a fantastic 240Hz display. While most 240Hz monitors cost around $350, our best cheap pick is a mere $300. Ok, that’s admittedly a bit more than our best value option—but a penny saved is a penny earned, right?
The CUK Bionic 240Hz gaming monitor will improve your gaming experience drastically with a fast response time of 1ms, and of course, the 240Hz. Although it’s such a cheap monitor, it features AMD FreeSync and Overdrive technology to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. Because who wants to experience that during competitive gaming sessions? Not me!
With flexible ergonomic adjustment options, you can adjust the height, pivot, tilt or even swivel the gaming monitor. This way, you’ll have the best visual experience and you’ll feel comfortable during gaming sessions. What’s more, is if you’re a console gamer, it’s VESA mountable—a very handy feature for those who relish the couch experience.
What’s more, is that like the other monitors on our list, the bezels are very thin. This way, you get to enjoy more screen-space and less of the frame. Like our best value option, this 240Hz monitor doesn’t come with speakers. Albeit, at $300, this shouldn’t be seen as a problem.
Best Features: BenQ Zowie XL2540
Pros & Cons
- Great gaming performance
- Black eQualizer
- Color vibrancy
- Limited viewing angle
Specifications
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080p
- Screen Size: 24.5-inches
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Response Time: 1ms
- Connection Ports: DisplayPort, 2 x HDMI, DVI-DL, USB 3.0, Headphone/Mic Jack
- Weight: 16.53 lbs
- Dimensions: 22.44 x 17.55 x 8.9-inches
Key Features
- Personalized viewing angles
- Custom game modes: RTS, FPS, RPG, etc.
- Black eQualizer technology
BenQ Zowie XL2540 Review
Can’t afford to spend $360 on a 240Hz gaming monitor? Worry not, as the BenQ Zowie XL2540 is another affordable option. At $300, this BenQ gaming monitor comes with a handy control pod for managing visual presets on-the-fly. If you’re a professional gamer, this is one of the best 240Hz monitors to consider.
Why? Aside from the obvious lightening-fast 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, the Black eQualizer technology allows you to see enemies in darker scenes when turned on. The BenQ Zowie XL2540 increases the visibility in dark scenes that well, that it almost feels like you’re cheating in some games!
Adding to the value-for-money features, the color vibrancy is surprisingly good for a TN panel display. However, if you value graphics over speed, we suggest opting for an IPS panel monitor. Despite the fact that this is a TN panel, viewing angles are surprisingly poor.
Nevertheless, input lag is extremely low, so you won’t have to deal with laggy games. Plus, with the ‘shield’ side flaps, you won’t have to deal with any external distractions (family) either!
240Hz Monitor for Gaming: Buying Guide
If you’re unfamiliar with some terms we’ve discussed or you simply need a reminder, here are some important factors to consider when buying a 240Hz gaming monitor.
Refresh Rate: Important for Fluidity
As one of the highest refresh rates on the market, 240Hz monitors provide fluid in-game motion for a smooth gaming experience. If you’re a gamer who enjoys playing the best FPS games, the refresh rate is especially important to you.
See, the higher the refresh rate of a monitor, the more frames per second (FPS) the monitor can support. Which in turn, leads to smooth, almost lag-free gameplay. Although we are reviewing 240Hz monitors, there are other refresh rates out there that shouldn’t be overlooked.
A 60Hz refresh rate is the most common at the moment, but don’t be put off by higher refresh rates. 144Hz and 200Hz are becoming much more popular as time goes by. Now, you won’t see much of a difference going from 144Hz to 240Hz.
Albeit, if you jump from 60Hz to a 144H/240Hz monitor, you’re going to notice a huge difference when it comes to fluidity. Which is why we recommend high refresh rate monitors to any gamer looking for the best gaming experience possible.
Panel Technology: High-Quality Image
When on the look for a gaming monitor, you might have come across the term “panel type” or “panel technologies”. Today, there are three popular types of panels that monitors rely on:
- IPS (in-plane switching)
- TN (twisted nematic)
- VA (vertical alignment)
IPS monitors offer the best visuals and color reproduction compared to any other panel type on the market. However, they have higher response times of around 4- to 5ms. TN monitors, on the other hand, are much faster; though their viewing angles are fairly poor.
VA panels are a nice middle-ground, boasting the best contrast ratios of three existing panel types. If you wish to find out the differences between each panel type in more detail, you might want to check out our IPS vs TN vs VA comparison guide.
Response Time: Necessary for Smooth Gameplay
Another important thing to consider when purchasing the absolute best gaming monitor, is response time. This tells you how long it takes each individual pixel on your monitor from black to white or from one shade of gray to another. Therefore, longer response times can lead to motion blur in fast-paced games—something no gamer should ever have to deal with.
As we mentioned above, TN panels support speedy 1ms response times, while IPS panels can only go as low as 4ms. Of course, choosing between a TN or IPS panel depends on whether you want to prioritize responsiveness or quality visuals. Some gamers can’t even tell the difference between 1ms and 4ms. Regardless, we still suggest opting for a low response time monitor, especially if you’re a competitive gamer.
Resolution: Crisp Details and Image Clarity
As a monitor’s resolution is the screen’s length x width in pixels, it’s a very important feature to take note of. Although 1920 x 1080 (FHD) is one of the most common resolutions on the market—as you might have guessed from our list—gaming monitors today have the following resolutions:
- HD: 1280 x 720p
- Full HD: 1920 x 1080p
- Quad HD/2K: 2560 x 1440p
- Ultra HD/4K: 3840 x 2160p
Connection Ports: Stay Connected
Aside from all of the technical monitor jargon, it is important that the gaming monitor you choose has the same ports as your PC. Of course, adapters exist, though to make the proper connection between your PC and 240Hz monitor, it’s necessary to match the ports. Modern gaming monitors in 2020 have the following input and outputs:
- HDMI 1.4/2.0
- DVI
- VGA
- DisplayPort 1.4
- 3.5/5mm Audio
- USB 3.0/2.0
At the moment, DisplayPort is the best video cable for high refresh rate gaming monitors. HDMI 1.4b or anything lower, can only support 60Hz at 1080p—so choose the right monitor wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 120Hz Monitor Good for Gaming?
Absolutely! 120Hz or even 144Hz is the best refresh rate for smooth, tear-free gaming. If you currently own a 60Hz monitor, making that jump from 60- to 120Hz is important if you want to get serious about gaming. However, consoles have different requirements (no need to aim for that high ms, for example). In case you own a console, we’d recommend looking at the best monitors for Xbox One X, rather than overall screen choices.
If you aren’t much of a serious gamer, you can stick to 60Hz. However, note that gameplay won’t be as smooth as a 120Hz monitor.
Is There a Difference Between 144Hz and 240Hz?
Truthfully, there isn’t really much of a visible difference between 144Hz and 240Hz. Saying that, the minor visual boost could be the difference between life and death in a game of Apex Legends. The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz, on the other hand, is far more noticeable.
Is Hz the Same as FPS?
Refresh rate (Hz) and frames per second (FPS) are two different yet fairly similar things. The refresh rate is how many times a monitor refreshes an image on the screen. Frames per second are how many frames your gaming PC is producing or drawing per second.
So, a 60 FPS game is rendered by your GPU 60 times every single second, whereas a 120Hz monitor updates the display image 120 times every second. Therefore, the higher the FPS, the more precise gaming will be. The higher the monitor frequency, the more fluid gameplay will appear.
What Monitor Has Highest Refresh Rate?
As 240Hz is the highest refresh rate currently on the market, any 240Hz gaming monitor has the “highest refresh rate”. Aside from 240Hz, there are 165Hz, 180Hz and 200Hz gaming monitors available to buy—yet, we recommend 240Hz for the best motion blur reduction.
What’s the Best Size for a Gaming Monitor?
This is a subjective one as the “best size gaming monitor” completely depends on the space available in your room and your personal preferences. However, in general, you should aim for a high-quality 24-inch monitor; perhaps 27 inches is also fine. This way, you won’t have to sit 10cm away from a small gaming monitor in order to see enemies hiding in small spaces.
Conclusion
Whether you’re on the look for a brand new 240Hz monitor or you’re looking for a visual boost, our list contains some of the best 240Hz monitors to buy in 2020. Of course, high refresh rate monitors tend to come with a high price tag, so if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to check out some of the best budget gaming monitors on the market.
Saying that, if you’re a competitive gamer who enjoys fast-paced gaming, we recommend saving some money aside for a superior 240Hz monitor. After all, it could mean the difference between life and death during a ranked game.