Lost a crucial match because your screen couldn’t keep up? That stutter and blur aren’t just annoying; they’re costing you wins. Players on a 144Hz+ monitor see the action more than twice as fast as someone on a standard 60Hz screen. They’re reacting to what’s happening now, while you’re stuck seeing the past. That’s the split-second advantage that separates victory from the respawn screen.
For years, that speed was a luxury. Not anymore. The market for high-speed, budget-friendly monitors has exploded, with sales under the ₹15,000 mark jumping by over 35% last year alone. This fierce competition means game-changing performance is finally affordable.
We’ve sorted through the options to find the absolute best budget monitors that deliver that competitive edge without the painful price tag. Let’s get your setup upgraded.
How to Choose the Best Budget Gaming Monitors
Navigating the world of budget gaming monitors can be tricky, with dozens of models all promising the best experience. To make a smart choice, it’s essential to understand which features truly matter. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you select the perfect budget gaming monitor for your setup in India.
Set Your Budget First: In the Indian market as of September 2025, the sweet spot for budget gaming monitors is between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000. This range offers the best balance of high refresh rates, good panel quality, and essential gaming features without major compromises. Knowing your exact budget will help you narrow down your options significantly.
The Resolution Sweet Spot: Full HD (1080p). For budget gaming, Full HD (1920 x 1080p) is the perfect resolution. It looks sharp on typical 24-inch monitors and, most importantly, is less demanding on your graphics card. This makes it much easier for mid-range GPUs to push the high frame rates (144+ FPS) needed to take full advantage of your monitor’s refresh rate.
Know Your Panels: IPS vs. VA The panel type determines the visual quality of your monitor. For budget gaming, your main choices are:
- IPS (In-Plane Switching): This is the top choice for most gamers. IPS panels offer the best colour accuracy and wide viewing angles, making games look vibrant and consistent. While they used to be slower, modern budget IPS panels now offer excellent 1ms response times.
- VA (Vertical Alignment): VA panels are known for their superior contrast, which produces deeper blacks and makes them great for playing atmospheric or horror games in a dark room. However, they can sometimes exhibit slightly slower response times in dark scenes.
The Golden Rule: 144Hz is the Minimum. The single biggest upgrade for any gamer is moving from a 60Hz to a high-refresh-rate monitor. For a fluid, responsive feel, a 144Hz refresh rate should be your absolute minimum. Many budget monitors now offer 165Hz or even 180Hz, providing an even smoother experience for a small extra cost.
Response Time: Aim for 1ms. A low response time is crucial for clear motion in fast-paced games like Valorant, CS2, or Apex Legends. It reduces “ghosting” and motion blur. Look for a monitor with a 1ms response time (either GtG or MPRT) to ensure your visuals stay crisp and sharp when the action heats up.
Don’t forget Adaptive Sync (FreeSync & G-Sync): Adaptive Sync technology eliminates screen tearing by synchronizing your monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s frame output.
- AMD FreeSync: This is the standard on almost all budget gaming monitors.
- NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible: Many FreeSync monitors are also “G-Sync Compatible,” meaning they work smoothly with NVIDIA graphics cards. Always check for this compatibility if you have an NVIDIA GPU.
Check Connectivity and Build Quality: Ensure the monitor has the right ports. You’ll need at least one DisplayPort connection, as it’s often required to achieve the highest advertised refresh rates. Also, consider the stand—one that offers tilt, and preferably height adjustment, can make a huge difference in your comfort during long gaming sessions.
Best Popular Gaming Monitors for 144Hz+ Performance
Here’s a quick comparison of the best Gaming monitors for 144Hz+ to help you find your perfect match.
| Monitor Name | Key Features | Price(INR) | Panel Type | Refresh Rate | Response Time | Adaptive Sync |
| BenQ MOBIUZ EX251 | VESA DisplayHDR400, USB Hub, 2.5Wx2 Speakers, Game Optimized Color | ₹14,990 | IPS | 220Hz | 1ms GtG | AMD FreeSync |
| Acer Nitro VG240Y X1 | HDR 10, Stereo Speakers, Acer VisionCare 2.0, Game View Technology | ₹9,499 | IPS | 200Hz | 0.5ms | AMD FreeSync Premium |
| GIGABYTE G24F 2 | 95% DCI-P3/125% sRGB, HDR Ready, OSD Sidekick, USB Hub | ₹11,870 | SS IPS | 165Hz (OC 180Hz) | 1ms MPRT | FreeSync Premium |
| LG Ultragear 24GS60F | NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible, HDR 10, sRGB 99% (Typ.), Smart Energy Saving | ₹11,499 | IPS | 180Hz | 1ms GtG | NVIDIA G-Sync & AMD FreeSync |
| Amazon Basics Ultra Slim 23.8-inch | Frameless Design, 6 ECO Modes, Ultra-Wide Viewing Angles, 16.7 Million Colors | ₹8,248 | IPS | 165Hz | 5ms | N/A |
BenQ MOBIUZ EX251
The BenQ MOBIUZ EX251 launched as a premium offering in BenQ’s MOBIUZ line, known for delivering immersive gaming experiences. This monitor targets gamers who demand top-tier speed and visual fidelity without stretching their budget into the enthusiast bracket. BenQ, a well-established brand in display technology, has designed this monitor to seamlessly integrate with various gaming setups, thanks to its versatile connectivity options.
Its “Game Optimized Color” technology is particularly useful, enhancing visual details in specific game genres to give players an edge. The inclusion of quality built-in speakers also reduces the need for external audio solutions, simplifying desk setups.
Features:
- 220Hz Fast Response and No Tearing
- VESA DisplayHDR400 Certification
- Integrated 2.5Wx2 treVolo Speakers
- USB Hub for peripheral connectivity
- 99% sRGB color coverage
Starting Price: ₹14,990
Acer Nitro VG240Y X1
Acer has been a dominant force in the budget gaming monitor segment with its popular Nitro series, and the VG240Y X1 continues this legacy by offering impressive specifications at an accessible price point. This model aims to provide an uncompromised high-refresh-rate experience, making it a strong contender for competitive gamers who prioritize raw speed.
Launched to cater to the growing demand for affordable high-performance displays, it brings Acer’s “VisionCare 2.0” technology for reduced eye strain and “Game View Technology” with various preset modes for optimized visuals across different content. Its ultra-fast response time further solidifies its position as a go-to for blur-free action.
Features:
- 200Hz Refresh Rate
- 0.5ms Response Time
- AMD FreeSync Premium
- HDR 10 Support
- Integrated 2W x 2 Stereo Speakers
Starting Price: ₹9,499
GIGABYTE G24F 2
The Gigabyte G24F 2 quickly gained popularity after its release for delivering excellent value. Gigabyte, primarily known for its PC components, has successfully translated its engineering prowess into creating a monitor that excels in color reproduction and overall gaming performance.
The monitor uses a Super Speed (SS) IPS panel, which is a key innovation allowing for both vibrant colors and fast response times – a combination previously hard to find in budget IPS displays. Its “OSD Sidekick” software and various gaming-centric features like Aim Stabilizer and Black Equalizer empower gamers to fine-tune their experience directly from their desktop.
- Features:
- 165Hz Refresh Rate (Overclockable to 180Hz)
- 1ms MPRT Response Time
- 95% DCI-P3 / 125% sRGB Color Gamut
- FreeSync Premium Support
- USB 3.2 Gen 1 Hub
Starting Price: ₹11,870
LG Ultragear
LG’s Ultragear line is a household name in gaming monitors, and the 24GS60F continues their tradition of delivering reliable performance with advanced features. This monitor was introduced to offer a high refresh rate experience with the added benefit of compatibility with both NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync technologies, making it a versatile choice regardless of your graphics card brand.
LG focuses on panel quality, ensuring the IPS display provides accurate colors and wide viewing angles, crucial for both gaming and general use. Its slim bezel design also contributes to a more immersive gaming environment, allowing for near-seamless multi-monitor setups.
- Features:
- 180Hz Refresh Rate
- 1ms GtG Response Time
- NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible & AMD FreeSync
- HDR 10 Support with sRGB 99% (Typ.)
- 3-Side Slim Bezel Design
Starting Price: ₹11,499
Amazon Basics Ultra Slim
The amazon basics Ultra Slim 23.8 inch monitor represents the entry point for truly budget-conscious gamers looking to experience high refresh rates. As part of Amazon’s own brand, it’s designed to offer essential features at an aggressive price. Launched to capture the segment of gamers seeking maximum performance per rupee, it focuses on delivering a smooth 165Hz experience with a clean, frameless design.
While it might not boast all the advanced features of premium monitors, it successfully provides the core benefits of high refresh rate gaming, making it an excellent starting point for those upgrading from standard 60Hz displays.
- Features:
- 165Hz Refresh Rate
- Frameless, Ultra-Slim Design
- IPS Panel with 178°/178° Viewing Angles
- 6 ECO Modes and 4 Preset Color Modes
- VESA Mount Compatible (100 x 100 mm)
Starting Price: ₹8,248
FAQs
Why is 144Hz+ better for gaming?
A 144Hz+ refresh rate makes gameplay smoother, reduces motion blur, and provides quicker visual feedback compared to standard 60Hz monitors.
Do I need a powerful PC for a 144Hz monitor?
To fully utilize a 144Hz monitor, your PC should be capable of consistently producing over 144 frames per second (FPS) in your desired games.
What is the difference between IPS and VA panels?
IPS panels offer better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, while VA panels provide higher contrast and deeper blacks.
What is adaptive sync (FreeSync/G-Sync)?
Adaptive sync technologies like FreeSync and G-Sync synchronize your monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s output, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering.
Is a 1ms response time necessary?
For competitive gaming, a 1ms response time is ideal to minimize ghosting and motion blur, giving you a clearer picture in fast-paced scenes.
What does “HDR Ready” or “HDR 10” mean for budget monitors?
On budget monitors, “HDR Ready” or “HDR 10” typically means basic HDR support. It enhances contrast but may not deliver the full, vibrant HDR experience of higher-end displays (like VESA DisplayHDR400).
Should I prioritize refresh rate or response time?
For competitive fast-paced games, prioritize response time (1ms) for clarity. For general gaming and smoother visuals, a higher refresh rate (144Hz+) is key.
What connectivity ports should I look for?
Look for DisplayPort (DP) and HDMI 2.0. DisplayPort is generally preferred for achieving the highest refresh rates and resolutions.
Can I use an AMD FreeSync monitor with an NVIDIA graphics card?
Yes, most modern NVIDIA graphics cards (GTX 10-series and newer) support FreeSync monitors (often called “G-Sync Compatible” by NVIDIA) over DisplayPort.
Conclusion
Choosing a budget gaming monitor no longer means settling for less. As we’ve seen, there’s a fantastic high-refresh-rate option for every player and price point. Whether you crave the raw competitive speed of the Acer Nitro, the stunningly vibrant colours of the Gigabyte G24F 2, or the unbeatable value of the amazon basics model, top-tier performance is now incredibly accessible.
Ultimately, upgrading to a 144Hz+ monitor is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your setup, offering a real, tangible advantage in every game you play. The choice is now simpler and more affordable than ever. Pick the one that fits your style, and get ready to see the difference.
