Products at a Glance
Features and considerations
The best gaming monitors have features such as AMD’s FreeSync and NVIDIA’s G-Sync technology, high resolutions, and high refresh rates to make the most of high-end graphics cards and to make games run smoothly. Typically, bigger is better for gaming.
In contrast, work PCs require items such as USB hubs (so that you plug in USB flash drives and other peripherals without having to reach down to your PC or laptop), a wide variety of video inputs, and even built-in speakers for basic sound reproduction when video-conferencing or watching webinars or training videos. A wide monitor is great for work so you can have multiple programs open side by side, but an outlandishly large monitor will have you moving your head too much.
How we picked the best monitors for gaming and working
The degree to which your monitor favors gaming or work depends on your needs and you should research and buy accordingly. We’ve chosen four monitors that combine gaming features with sensible monitor sizes, high resolutions, number and variety of inputs, extras such as built-in USB hubs, and prices that aren’t excessively high. It’s best to view and trial your monitor before purchase if possible to make sure it’s right for you.
Our Recommended
Product Reviews
1
PROS
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Great connectivity
CONS
- A bit pricey
The 32-in Dell G3223Q is unashamedly a gaming monitor first and foremost. It has an IPS panel, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro to prevent tearing and to provide a 120hz refresh rate at Full HD resolution. Not to mention a console mode that supports HDR, and a 1ms response time (gtg).
However, it has features to aid work too. These include a USB 3.2 hub with two Type-A ports, two HDMI 2.1 and one DisplayPort 1.4 inputs, and a headphone jack. It also gets a tick for a low-blue-light feature to help prevent eye strain when working. The Dell G3223Q also lets you switch between the DCI-P3 color space and sRGB, which will be a boon to visual creatives.
2
PROS
- Supports AMD FreeSync Pro
- Adjustable height, swivel, tilt
CONS
- Curved design is divisive
The Gigabyte M32QC is a 31.5in WQHD-resolution (2,560 x 1,440) curved monitor. It has a VA panel and a 165Hz refresh rate (170Hz in OC mode), and a 1ms response time (MPRT). It is compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. So it should prevent tearing and provide a 120Hz refresh rate at Full HD resolution. You can adjust the height, swivel, and tilt to find the right position for you.
In terms of connectivity, it offers a good range of ports. Not only a USB 3.0 hub with two Type-A ports, and also a variety of video inputs. There’s one USB-C, two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.2, and a headphone jack. The Gigabyte M32QC has the handy flicker-free and low blue light tech to reduce eyestrain. Plus it offers picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture modes.
3
PROS
- Huge 240GHz refresh rate
- Supports AMD FreeSync and NVIdia Adaptive Sync
CONS
The Samsung G75T is a WQHD-resolution (2,560×1,440) monitor that’s available as a 27-inch or 32-inch display. The G75T has a curved screen with a 1000R curvature, so it should be easy on the eye and aid your field of view.
It features in our best monitors for gaming and work list for a few reasons. Not least a whopping 240Hz maximum refresh rate with a 1ms response time (gtg). Like others in this list, it is AMD FreeSync compatible to reduce tearing and produce smoother gameplay. It also has Adaptive Sync for use with certain NVIDIA GPUs, and HDR 600 should result in improved contrast. Finally, the G75T has two DisplayPort 1.4 inputs and one HDMI 2 input, as well as a two-port USB3 hub and a headphone jack. Not too shabby!
4
PROS
- Very affordable
- Anti eye-strain features
CONS
- More basic than other options
The Dell S2722DGM is more gaming than work-oriented. It lacks a USB hub, for example, but it does have a headphone socket. It’s another monitor which features reduced flicker and blue light, to reduce eye strain and fatigue, The feature is really worth considering for any monitor used for long periods.
This Dell model is also a relatively budget option, despite having a 27-inch panel and a curved screen (1500R). Curved screens can be good when considering the best monitors for gaming and working. Some users find they provide a more natural depth and field of view.
For resolution, we’re looking at WQHD (2,560 x 1,440), while frame rates are 165Hz over DisplayPort 1.2 and 144Hz over HDMI 2.0. AMD FreeSync Premium means reduced tearing and smoother motion. Response time for this monitor is a snappy is 1ms
5
PROS
- Latest QD-OLED display
- Fast response time and refresh rate
CONS
- No HDMI 2.1 port
- Expensive
This Alienware AW3423DW gaming monitor is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stunning, versatile monitor. What’s great about this offering from Alienware is its QD-OLED display. This new technology often features on TVs, so you’re definitely getting a top-notch viewing experience whatever you plan to use it for.
The Alienware AW3423DW also has phenomenal color saturation and a fast response rate – perfect for gaming. But that’s not all. You’ll be able to fully immerse into your game (or spreadsheet) thanks to its 178-degree viewing angle. Something this monitor lacks, though, is an HDMI 2.1 port. If you are a PS5 or Xbox S / X, this monitor may not be for you.
Is a gaming monitor OK for work?
Yes, a gaming monitor is okay for work. Because, really, if you can only have one monitor but you’ll do both it makes sense to get one for both options (hence this guide).
As gaming monitor requirements are more demanding than a monitor for work, it’s best to ensure you get what you need for gaming at a budget that suits you. But at the same time, it may not be worth going all out on a monitor with a super-high refresh rate if it offers no adjust and tilt functionality needed for long periods of work.
Essentially, when it comes to monitors, get one that works for you and your space – and can be used happily for gaming or working!
Our Verdict
Our choice for the best monitor for gaming and working is the Dell G3223Q 32-in monitor. It combines productivity-enhancing features such as a USB3.2 hub, the ability to switch between the DCI-P3 and sRGB color spaces, with gaming features such as AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. It also has a 4K maximum resolution – perfect if you’re looking for the best display experience.