Gaming in 2023 is more exciting and fascinating with greater details and new possibilities. User experience has driven the industry to better innovation with gaming PCs getting more powerful and displays becoming larger and richer with details. Buying a gaming monitor in 2023 is more of a balancing act that requires you to balance between price and possibilities.
They come in a wide array of options, sizes, and richness, making choosing the best unit more difficult. You mostly have to choose between the larger TVs and content-rich 4K gaming monitors. Buying the best 4k monitor for a gaming console offers better smoothness and greater resolution and color details.
The sad part about the best 4K gaming monitors is the cost aspect. They are usually more expensive than the same-sized TVs, bringing a new challenge to gamers who like playing on larger screens. However, that is quickly changing as more players adopt the technology.
The prices are becoming more affordable as you can get the best 4K monitor under $400, enabling you to enjoy more detail and sharpness for an enhanced gaming experience. This article helps you find the best 4K monitors that offer more value and show you the most important factors to consider when buying a 4K monitor for gaming.
Why Game On A 4K Monitor
1) More detail and sharpness
Gaming on a 4K monitor lets you enjoy up to four times more pixels than a Full HD screen for a better gaming experience. The higher resolution makes the details in the game world like faces, clothing, and texture clearly visible. Furthermore, the pixels on a 4K screen are closer together, offering better picture transitions.
2) Less serrated edges
Setting the anti-aliasing high on a 4K screen on a game makes the knurled edges less visible than on Full HD screens. The in-game objects and models have more pixels of space to fill with details, resulting in better-flowing edges for an enhanced gaming experience.
3) Wider view
4K monitors give you a wider view of the game, enabling you to see more in-game objects on the left and right sides of the screen. You will see more locations of your enemies and an expanded landscape view of your game character.
4) Works better with a console
The 4K monitors are not just reserved for PC gamers. You will find gaming more appealing on a 4K monitor if you have a PlayStation 4 Pro or Xbox One X. The consoles have a special design that supports a 4K display. The Xbox One S also supports upscaling of a Full HD image signal to 4K resolution. However, you will need to use an HDMI 2.0 cable to display games in 4K at 60fps.
5) Room for PC upgrades
Buying a larger monitor and upgrading your PC at the same time, requires a substantial budget that may not be available to most people. You do not have to immediately upgrade your PC if it does not support a 4K display. The 4K monitors support lower resolutions but with greater resolution than Full HD screens. Using a Full HD screen limits the maximum resolution to 1080p while a 4K monitor lets you enjoy gaming in 1440p (QHD) without overloading your video card.
How To Choose The Best 4K Monitor For Gaming
1) Set a budget
4K monitors have a wide price range. You can pay less than $200 or more than $1000 for a 4K monitor and hence, the need to determine how much you can afford to pay. Unless, you have special gaming needs, choosing the best 4K monitor under $400 will be adequate.
2) Think about monitor size
What size is the best for your gaming needs? Do you like playing on a couch, bed, or desk? Unless you will be playing from a distance, you will not an excessively large monitor. Most people are comfortable with 4K monitor sizes between 24 inches and 32 inches.
3) Think about your gaming source
Will you be playing from a computer or a PlayStation? Computers and laptops will work with all 4K monitors, but that is not the case when playing from a PlayStation. Some PlayStations do not support 4K while others will not work with specific resolutions and refresh rates, taking away the benefits of buying a 4K monitor.
4) Determine your needs
What will you like to have on the monitor? Although they are perfect for gaming, you can use them to stream videos and edit documents. However, you will need to ensure the best unit supports your video streams as they come with different standards.
5) Look at the response time
How long does the monitor take for a single pixel to switch between different gray shades or black to white? A 4K monitor with a slower response time will have smoother images while a unit with a high response time will have motion blur during fast movements. Monitors with TN panels tend to have lower response time as they can support a 1ms response time while those with IPS can only achieve 4ms as the best response time.
6) Understand refresh rates
A common feature you will come across as you look for a 4K monitor is the refresh rate denoted in Hz. The common refresh rates are 60 Hz, 75 Hz 120 Hz, 144 Hz, and 240 Hz. The figure indicates the number of frames a monitor can display in a second to refresh a displayed image per second.
Nevertheless, you will need to note that a refresh rate of more than 144 Hz is barely noticeable to the naked eye. Furthermore, a high refresh rate is not effective unless you have a powerful GPU to effectively handle the number of frames per second.
7) Connector’s flexibility
How will you connect your monitor to a computer? All gaming monitors come with HDMI ports for connections. However, HDMI ports may not be the best at all times and thus, it is necessary to ensure that your monitor comes with many ports that include DisplayPort, HDMI, Audio Out, and Mini DisplayPort.
DisplayPort 1.4 is the best for video and audio transfer on a PC. HDMI ports come in 1.4 and 2.0 standards with HDMI 2.0 supporting higher resolutions but not as high as DisplayPort 1.4. Audio out port lets you customize your experience with external speakers or headphones.
8) Extras
Some 4K monitors make it possible to multitask, enabling you to work while watching your favorite videos on a different window. Other units come with additional features like extra ports and a joystick for greater flexibility.
The 10 Best 4K Monitor For Console Gaming Reviews
1) Sceptre 24” Curved 75hz Gaming 4K LED Monitor
You can get the Sceptre 24-inch curved gaming with a budget of less than $140 and enjoy a revolutionary visual experience. The 1800R screen curvature delivers images that seem to wrap around you for an in-depth, immersive experience. It has a high refresh rate of 75 Hz for more detailed in-game content.
The monitor is wall mount ready and has a lamp life of more than 30,000 hours. It comes with PC audio, VGA, and HDMI ports for all your connectivity needs. This curved monitor meets the latest HDMI standards that support a bandwidth of up to 18Gbps, delivering video at 30 Hz, 2160p, and 48 bit/px color depth.
Features
- 24-inch screen size
- 1800R curved monitor
- Meets HDMI 4K video standards
- LED display type
- 1920×1080 maximum resolution
- Windows 10 compatible
2) BenQ EW3270U 32-inch 4K Monitor
You can spend hours playing your favorite game with the BenQ EW3270U without feeling eye strain. The monitor features eye-care technology that offers low Blue light and flicker-free technology, reducing eye discomfort, making it the best 4K monitor for console gaming for ardent gamers.
Brightness Intelligence Plus technology monitors and adjusts brightness and color temperature as per the on-screen content and ambient light conditions. It supports HDR, increasing the dynamic range between white and black for incredible clarity and details. The 31.5-inch LED monitor lets you enjoy gaming at an incredibly high resolution.
It supports 3840×2160 4K UHD resolution. The BenQ EW3270U has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and multiple connectivities. It comes with multiple connectivity ports that include HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4, and USB-C for all your video needs.
Features
- 32-inch screen size
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- LED display technology
- Multiple connectivity ports
- Eye-care technology
- Brightness Intelligence Plus technology
3) Philips 328E1CA 32 Inch 4K Monitor
For the best 4K monitor under $400, the Philips 328E1CA is a top choice for a curved 32-inch monitor at $350. The monitor comes with Philips Ultra Wide-Color technology that delivers 97.8 percent NTSC color gamut, 120 percent sRGB, and 1.074 billion-plus colors for smooth color gradations and detail.
The flicker-free technology and low Blue mode keep you gaming for extended hours with less eye fatigue. An Adaptive-Sync technology delivers smooth gameplay effortlessly. The Philips e-line has a mega-infinity dynamic contrast ratio that delivers deeper blacks and brighter colors for an immersive, detailed gaming experience.
It further comes with a 4-year advance replacement warranty for minimal downtime. For connectivity, the gaming monitor comes with two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.2, and an audio-out with built-in speakers.
Features
- 31.5-inch viewable screen size
- 1500R curvature UHD monitor
- Philips Ultra Wide-Color technology
- Mega Infinity dynamic contrast ratio
- Adaptive-sync technology
- Flicker-free technology
4) ViewSonic VX2776-4K-MHD 27-inch 4k Monitor
The ViewSonic VX2776-4K-MHD features an ultra-slim frameless design and a SuperClear IPS panel that gives a near-seamless viewing experience perfect for multi-monitor setups. The monitor succeeds where most affordable units fail.
It comes with dual integrated speakers that offer rich stereo sound for an immersive multimedia experience, making it the best 4K monitor under $400 for those who do not need to use external speakers. You can focus on your game without worrying about headaches and eye damage.
The monitor has Flicker-Free technology and a Blue Light Filter that helps to eliminate eye strain, keeping you entertained for extended periods. It looks as good as it performs, delivering videos in exceptional 4K UHD 3840x2160p and maximized color and contrast ratio for an immersive viewing experience. An 80M: 1 Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio delivers sharp, crisp images.
Features
- A 4K UHD 3840x2160p maximum resolution
- HDR10 content support
- 80M:1 Mega Dynamic Contrast ratio
- Flicker-Free technology
- Blue Light Filter
- Flexible connectivity
- VESA compatible mount
- Dual integrated speakers
- Ultra-slim panel with frameless design
5) BenQ El2870U 28-inch Gaming 4K Monitor
BenQ has a reputation for innovative, quality products and the BenQ EI2870U follows strict manufacturing standards. The 28-inch LCD gaming monitor combines style with performance. It comes with AMD Free Sync that ensures smooth gameplay, eliminating tearing and broken frames.
You can use it in well-lit rooms thanks to the HDR technology that offers greater brightness and contrast level for picturesque images. The monitor delivers an exceptional performance with 60 Hz, 1 ms GTG, 10-bit displays, and 1.07 billion. It provides an immersive experience without being hard on your eyes.
BenQ EL2870U monitor features brightness intelligence adaptive technology for comfortable viewing and zero-flicker technology for eye care as you play games for extended hours. Low Blue light technology prevents headaches and eye strain.
Features
- 3840×2160 high resolution
- Brightness Intelligence Adaptive technology
- Low Blue Light
- Zero flicker technology
- AMD Free Sync
- HDR technology
- Multi-device connection
6) AOC U2790VQ 27-inch UHD Frameless 4K Monitor
AOC is a leading manufacturer in the gaming industry with over half a century of experience specializing in display technology. The manufacturer’s know-how is evident on the AOC U2790VQ 27-inch UHD frameless monitor. It is the best 4K monitor for console gaming if you are looking for a modern, frameless design that maximizes space while offering a clean, attractive viewing.
The U2790VQ gaming monitor has a wide 10-bit color gamut that offers smoother color transitions. Playing your games on this monitor gives you a better experience due to deep colors than panels with 8-bit color depth. It has a 5ms response time for fast responses and a 4K UHD 3840×2160 UHD LED monitor for crisp, clear content.
The monitor delivers accurate colors with over 99 percent sRGB and 90 percent NTSC color gamut coverage. It also displays more details with a 20,000,000: 1 Dynamic Contrast ratio. The screen is not harmful to your eyes. AOC low Blue mode protects your eyes, enabling extended gaming.
Features
- 27-inch, 4K UHD 3840×2160 maximum resolution
- IPS panel with 1 billion colors
- Wide viewing angles
- 5ms response time
- AOC low Blue mode
- VESA compatible
- Frameless design
7) Asus VP28UQG 28-inch 4K Monitor
The 28-inch 4K/UHD Asus VP28UQG is the best 4K monitor for console gaming for Asus GamePlus when you need a fully immersive gameplay experience. It is a powerful unit with a 1ms response time and Adaptive-Sync/ FreeSync for smooth, clear visuals.
The monitor features the Asus Eye Care technology that lowers blue light and eliminates flickering, reducing eyestrain and associated ailments. A 5-Way OSD joystick offers intuitive monitor controls for seamless access to features like the Asus GamePlus.
It further features the Exclusive GamePlus and GameVisual settings that help to enhance color performance and control. You can play your favorite games all day without worrying about headaches or eye problems. The Asus Eye Care technology helps to lower blue light and eliminate flickering, reducing eyestrain and ailments.
Features
- 27-i28-inches, 4K/UHD 3840×2160
- 1ms response time
- Adaptive Sync/ AMD Free Sync
- ASUS Eye Care technology
- 5-way OSD joystick
- Energy star
- Exclusive GamePlus
8) Dell Ultra 24-inch HD 4K Monitor
This Dell Ultra LED-lit monitor has the best color coverage, making it the best 4K monitor for console gaming for those who need the highest possible color accuracy. The monitor has 99 percent sRGB color coverage and a factory color calibration report that certifies the unit arrives at a delta of less than three, guaranteeing the best possible color accuracy.
You will not have difficulty using the monitor. Also, you can customize your viewing experience with a height-adjustable stand or a VESA-compatible mount. You can also maximize your viewing options by adjusting the height, easily tilting, or swiveling to your liking.
The unit comes with DisplayPort 1.2 to daisy-chain two monitors side-by-side through the DP-in and DP-out ports, reducing cable clutter. However, the monitor does not come with built-in speakers and you will need to use the speaker-out jack for your audio.
Features
- 24 inches, 4K UHD 2160p
- 99% sRGB color coverage
- Factory color calibration report
- Easily adjustable
- LCD display technology
- Compatible with all operating systems
- DisplayPort 1.2 ports
- Power BC 1.2, supporting high-speed USB 3.0 charging
- VESA compatible
9) Samsung U28E590D 28-inch 4K LED Monitor
The Samsung U28E590D delivers stunning Ultra HD picture quality, making it the best 4K monitor under $400 for individuals who need incredible lifelike details. It helps you gain a competitive advantage in multiplayer games with quick response.
It has a 1ms response time and AMD FreeSync, ensuring minimal input latency while dramatically reducing image tearing and stutter during games. With 1 billion colors, you can expect detailed, natural-looking, and extremely realistic images.
It is compatible with Windows and Mac and comes with two HDMI 2.0 inputs and one Display Port input to enable you to connect with multiple devices. This Samsung U28E590D supports Picture in Picture (PIP) 2.0 technology making it possible to watch a movie in one window while working on a spreadsheet.
Features
- 28 inches, 4K UHD 2160p
- LCD display technology
- AMD FreeSync
- 1ms response time
- 1 billion colors
- Picture in Picture (PIP) 2.0 technology
- Sharper viewing angle with a T-shaped stand
- Eye saver mode
10) ViewSonic VX4380-4K 43 Inch
ViewSonic VX4380-4K is the best 4K monitor for console gaming for those who want to see all and do all from a single monitor. The large 43-inch screen makes it perfect for all office jobs, including graphic design and document editing.
A super clear IPS panel guarantees exceptional views no matter your vantage point. The VX4380-4K features Flicker-Free technology and Blue Light Filter for extended viewing comfort. It further comes with HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, USB, and Mini DisplayPort inputs for your connectivity needs.
The monitor is ViewSplit compatible, enabling you to customize your screen into multiple viewing windows. It comes with dual stereo speakers that help to create a truly immersive multimedia experience.
Features
- 43 inches, 4K UHD 2160p
- Premium IPS panel
- Flicker-Free technology
- Blue Light Filter
- Flexible Connectivity ports
- MultiPicture functionality
- Dual-integrated stereo speakers
- Ultra-wide viewing angles
- Sleek narrow-bezel design
Factors To Consider Before Buying A 4K Monitor
1) Screen size
Many people think buying a larger screen is always better but it may not be accurate when buying the best 4K monitor for console gaming. Larger television screens are better as you will be playing from a distance. However, when it comes to buying a monitor for gaming, you will need to consider your sitting distance.
The screen size of between 24 inches and 27 inches offers a better gaming experience when you are sitting three to four feet away from the screen. You may also need to factor in the cost as moving up the screen size ladder can significantly increase the purchase cost.
2) Resolution
The resolution of your monitor will have a major impact on the quality of your gaming experience. The in-game details will always look better on a high-resolution monitor. You get more pixels on the screen, resulting in better clarity and picture quality. However, you will need to factor in adaptability and the performance of your video hardware.
Increasing the number of pixels can overwork your GPU. The console may also fail to support higher resolutions. You will need to ensure that your console can support 2160p resolution or at least 1440p resolution before you decide to buy a 4K monitor for console gaming.
3) Flat or curved monitors
Whether you should buy a flat or a curved screen depends on your preference and budget. Flat monitors are the most common and affordable. Flat screens tend to have better gaming features like better refresh rates, response time, and higher color accuracy.
The wide units also offer an increased field of view. The curved screens are newer on the market. The sizing of the curved screens is based on R figures. A lower number indicates a greater curve with the most common curved monitors’ sizes being 4000r, 3000r, and 1800r.
The curved units provide a greater field of three-dimensional view, resulting in a more immersive gaming experience. Curved screens are better for prolonged gaming as they put less strain on your eyes. They also do not need many adjustments to the images as flat screens.
4) Monitor bezel
Most people do not consider the monitor bezel as an important factor to consider when choosing a gaming motor. The term refers to the plastic edge that runs around the screen and the pixel-less (black) area that surrounds the physical picture. A monitor with a smaller bezel provides a more immersive gaming experience as the images will run up to the edges of the screen.
5) Refresh rate
Refresh rate refers to how your monitor refreshes images on the screen. A unit with a higher refresh rate has a smoother image, making your game look and feel more responsive. A more responsive screen is vital in giving you a competitive advantage.
Most 4K gaming monitors come with a refresh rate of 60 Hz, 120 Hz, and 144 Hz with a few top-end units claiming to have a 240 Hz refresh rate. You can easily notice a difference between 60 Hz and 144 HZ, but beyond that, you cannot see a difference with your naked eye.
6) Response time
The response time indicates how quickly your screen can change between the shades of gray. In a competitive game, every second counts,s and the ability of your screen to display everything quickly and clearly can give you a competitive edge.
A unit with a slower response time will delay visuals, resulting in ghosting. Buying a monitor with the lowest possible response time is vital when you want to maximize your competitive edge.
7) Type of panel
Gaming monitors come with a host of panel types, which makes choosing the best 4K monitor for console gaming more confusing. The most commonly used display technologies in gaming monitors include IPS, TN, and VA, with each technology coming with its pros and cons.
- IPS: The IPS technology has a superior performance and stands for in-plane switching. It has better color accuracy and viewing angles than VA and TN panels, making it ideal for high-definition gaming and editing games. The IPS display technology offers better color reproduction, a longer lifespan, and better sunlight visibility. However, it is more expensive with higher latency and inefficient power consumption.
- TN: TN display technology is the cheapest with super-fast response time, making it ideal for fast-paced, multi-player games. It has lower latency than IPS and low power consumption with worse color reproduction and narrower viewing angles.
- VA: The VA display panel is in the middle and stands for vertical alignment. It offers deeper black levels and a better contrast ratio than IPS panels but it falls short on color accuracy and viewing angles. However, it offers more accurate colors and viewing angles than TN technology.
8) FreeSync and G-Sync
When the FPS and refresh rate fails to sync, you experience screen tearing. G-Sync and FreeSync are products by AMD and Nvidia that help to eliminate the screen tear problem without taking a hit on performance.
FreeSync by AMD works with compatible AMD GPUs and displays. It works with the latest DisplayPort standards without the need for specialized hardware. FreeSync is cheaper and produces smooth, crisp graphics.
G-Sync by Nvidia works with Nvidia GPUs and G-Sync-compatible displays, but it requires dedicated hardware to function properly. G-Sync has low latency, eliminates screen-tearing, and offers powerful performance and 4K gaming.
9) Ports
The best 4K monitor for console gaming should have many ports that give you more flexibility. Make sure that the monitor comes with HDMI, DVI, VGA, and DisplayPort as the bare minimum.
Final Thought
Buying the best 4K monitor for console gaming makes playing more enjoyable with an immersive experience. They tend to have a better response rate and refresh rate, which can help you gain a competitive advantage in a multiplayer game. They also have better, natural-looking game details with high color accuracy. However, you will need to ensure that your PlayStation supports 4K, as some struggle to match the high 4K monitors’ resolutions.