Choosing the right monitor for your PS5 or Xbox Series X can significantly enhance your gaming experience. With the latest consoles supporting 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rates, it’s crucial to select a monitor that can keep up with these advanced specifications. This guide will help you navigate the market and find the best monitors that offer the perfect blend of performance, features, and value.
Why Choose a Monitor Over a TV?
When it comes to gaming, monitors often provide a more immersive and responsive experience compared to TVs. Here are a few reasons why you might prefer a monitor for your PS5 or Xbox Series X:
1. Higher Refresh Rates
Monitors typically offer higher refresh rates, such as 120Hz, 144Hz, and even 240Hz. This means smoother and more fluid gameplay, especially in fast-paced games.
2. Lower Input Lag
Monitors generally have lower input lag, which is the delay between your input and the display’s response. This can give you a competitive edge in multiplayer games.
3. Better Color Accuracy
Many monitors are designed with color accuracy in mind, making them ideal for both gaming and content creation.
4. Smaller Form Factor
If you have limited space, a monitor can be a more practical choice. They also fit well on desks and are easier to set up in a dedicated gaming area.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a monitor, there are several key features to consider to ensure it meets your gaming needs:
1. Resolution
- 4K Resolution (3840 x 2160): This provides the sharpest and most detailed image, making it ideal for the latest games.
- 1080p Resolution (1920 x 1080): While not as sharp as 4K, 1080p is still a popular choice and can offer better performance in some cases.
2. Refresh Rate
- 120Hz: This is the minimum refresh rate you should look for to take full advantage of the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
- 144Hz and 240Hz: If you want even smoother performance, consider monitors with these higher refresh rates.
3. Response Time
- 1ms: This is the ideal response time for gaming, as it minimizes motion blur and ghosting.
4. HDR Support
- HDR10: This is the most common HDR standard and is supported by both the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
- HDR10+ and Dolby Vision: These are more advanced HDR standards that offer better dynamic range and color accuracy.
5. Connectivity
- HDMI 2.1: This is essential for connecting your console and taking advantage of 4K at 120Hz.
- DisplayPort: Useful if you plan to use the monitor for both gaming and other tasks like work or content creation.
6. Input Lag
- Low Input Lag: Look for monitors with input lag of less than 5ms for a more responsive gaming experience.
7. Additional Features
- FreeSync and G-Sync: These technologies help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU.
- Adjustable Stand: A monitor with an adjustable stand allows you to find the perfect viewing angle.
- Built-in Speakers: While not essential, built-in speakers can be convenient for quick gaming sessions.
Top Picks for PS5 and Xbox Series X
1. Dell S2721DGF
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz (overclockable to 180Hz)
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: G-Sync Compatible, adjustable stand
Pros:
- Excellent color accuracy
- Low input lag
- G-Sync compatible for smooth performance
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1
- No built-in speakers
2. LG 27GP950-B
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz (overclockable to 180Hz)
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: G-Sync Compatible, adjustable stand
Pros:
- High refresh rate
- Excellent HDR support
- HDMI 2.1 for 4K at 120Hz
Cons:
- No built-in speakers
- Slightly higher price point
3. Acer Predator XB273K NV
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
Additional Features: G-Sync Ultimate, adjustable stand
Pros:
- 4K resolution for the sharpest image
- G-Sync Ultimate for the best performance
- Excellent HDR support
Cons:
- Higher price point
- No built-in speakers
4. Samsung Odyssey G7
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: FreeSync Premium Pro, adjustable stand
Pros:
- High refresh rate for smooth performance
- FreeSync Premium Pro for excellent compatibility
- Excellent HDR support
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1
- No built-in speakers
5. ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
- Refresh Rate: 165Hz (overclockable to 180Hz)
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 600
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: G-Sync Compatible, adjustable stand
Pros:
- Excellent color accuracy
- Low input lag
- G-Sync compatible for smooth performance
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1
- No built-in speakers
Budget-Friendly Options
1. Acer Nitro XV272U
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: HDR10
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: FreeSync Premium, adjustable stand
Pros:
- 4K resolution for the sharpest image
- FreeSync Premium for excellent compatibility
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- No HDMI 2.1
- No built-in speakers
2. LG 27UK650-W
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- HDR Support: HDR10, VESA DisplayHDR 400
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2
- Input Lag: 5ms
- Additional Features: FreeSync, adjustable stand
Pros:
- 4K resolution for the sharpest image
- Excellent color accuracy
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Lower refresh rate
- Higher input lag
3. BenQ ZOWIE XL2540K
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p)
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- HDR Support: None
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2
- Input Lag: 1ms
- Additional Features: FreeSync, adjustable stand
Pros:
- High refresh rate for smooth performance
- Low input lag
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- No HDR support
- 1080p resolution
Buying Guide
1. Budget
Determine your budget before you start shopping. High-end monitors can be expensive, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still offer excellent performance.
2. Size
Consider the size of the monitor that will fit best in your gaming setup. While larger monitors can be more immersive, they may not be practical if you have limited desk space.
3. Purpose
Think about how you will use the monitor. If you plan to use it for both gaming and work, look for a monitor with features like multiple inputs and an adjustable stand.
4. Brand Reputation
Research the brand and read reviews to ensure you are getting a reliable and high-quality product. Brands like Dell, LG, Acer, and ASUS are known for their excellent monitors.
5. Warranty and Support
Check the warranty and customer support options before making a purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right monitor for your PS5 or Xbox Series X can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re looking for the sharpest 4K resolution, the smoothest 240Hz refresh rate, or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of excellent monitors to choose from. Consider your budget, needs, and preferences to find the perfect monitor that meets your gaming requirements.