Nowadays, all computers support 1080-pixel resolution, but the 1440p is slowly becoming the new standard in the gaming monitors. So, if you are looking for an upgrade, and you cannot afford a 4K monitor, the best thing you can do is to turn to its budget-friendly alternative, namely the 1440p monitors.
Below, you will find a detailed guide on 1440p monitors that will help you decide for yourself if they a worthy addition to your dream setup.
Table of Contents
Best 27-inch 1440p monitor
Samsung C27HG70 – World’s First HDR Gaming Monitor
There is no doubt that the Samsung C27HG70 monitor looks great on paper. It stretches to 27 inches, has a VA panel, a 2560x 1440 resolution and offers the staggering 1ms response rate. It also has some other additions that make it a superb gaming monitor – the 144Hz refresh rate, the curved body, and the HDR support are the other reasons why it has captured gamers’ hearts.
If you have some in-depth knowledge about gaming monitors, you must know that the above features packed in one monitor are a rarity but let’s “dissect” them and see why the C27HG70 is worth your attention.
27 inches, VA panel, HDR support, 1ms response time, 4ms input lag, 144Hz, VESA mount
The C27HG70 monitor has a VA panel with quantum-dot technology and edge-lit local dimming, which translates into crisp images that are far superior to what some other models in the same price range offer.
The monitor comes with AMD FreeSync 2 and Motion Blur Reduction technology. When you enable the HDR feature while watching HDR 10 compatible content, the images will be brighter and closer to the real world colors than you can possibly imagine.
The 2560 x 1440p enables you to enjoy sharp graphics and stunning visual effects in fast paced games.
The 1ms response time further adds to your gaming performance. Well, I agree that the motion blur would be less noticeable on a TN panel, but this comes at the cost of worse color quality and narrow viewing angles.
In other words, if you are looking for a 1440p monitor packed with a plethora of advanced features that allow you to play at a semi-professional gaming level, you will not go wrong with the C27HG70.
The input lag is also satisfying, and you can also enable the Low Input Lag mode in the OSD. The monitor has pre-calibrated gaming picture presets that automatically enable the low input lag mode.
Samsung has also decided to spare users the trouble and that’s why the monitor is factory calibrated. There is not an overdrive setting in the OSD menu, but you can choose between Standard, Faster, and Fastest options. The last two deliver the 1ms response time. Keep in mind that at 60Hz you can choose only the Standard response time speed. Also, you will not be able to use the FreeSync simultaneously with the Blur Reduction.
However, keep in mind that selecting the Faster or Fastest modes decreases the brightness and you cannot change it manually. That being said, the images are still bright enough.
The C27HG70 has an AMD FreeSync 2 technology that brings support for Low Framerate Compensation meaning that your smooth gaming performance is guaranteed even on occasions when your fps drops below 48. The monitor works with Nvidia cards too, but you will have to sacrifice the dynamic refresh rate.
The C27HG70 is super versatile. You can tilt it, rotate it, adjust the height, swivel it or opt for the VESA support if you wish. The anti-glare screen coating and the curved body further contribute to your immersive experience.
In terms of connectivity it offers a dual USB 3.0 hub as well as two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort. Its 32-inch sibling has an internal power supply, though.
To sum up, the Samsung C27HG70 monitor is an excellent choice provided that you are determined to become a professional FPS gamer. The only serious setback I can point is the ghosting in fast paced shooters but after all, you cannot expect anything else from a VA panel monitor. Still, the 1ms response rate compensates for the panel choice, and the motion blur is not so bothersome.
- Quantum dot
- 1 billion color support
- QHD resolution. Color Support-1.07B. Color Gamut (NTSC 1976)-Typ 88%, Min 84%. Quantum Dot Color(Nano Crystal). Color Mode-Custom/High-Brightness/FPS/RTS/RPG/AOS/sRGB/Cinema
Acer Predator XB271HU bmiprz – No Compromise Required
If you are a NVIDIA gamer and you want your monitor to fill your teammates and enemies with envy, the Acer Predator is an option to consider. It is an exquisite example of fine craftsmanship.
All monitors from the Predator series are designed for gamers who never settle for less than what they deserve.
27-inch monitor, 2560 x 1440p resolution, NVIDIA G-SYNC Technology, Refresh Rate: 144Hz (Overclocking to 165Hz) , Response Time: 4ms, Flicker-less Technology, 2 x 2W speakers, Signal inputs: 1 x HDMI (V1.4) & 1 x Display port
The XB271HU monitor has an IPS panel, great resolution and a G-Sync technology that completely eliminates image tearing and stuttering. Well, you will not find it listed in any “budget monitor guide” but I am positive that by the end of the review you will see for yourself that the XB271HU justifies its price tag.
The Acer Predator XB271HU is a solid piece of engineering, although I do not advise you to make it endure anger outbursts after a PvP loss. In addition, it comes with a number of adjustments, so that you feel comfortable and you’re your best during long gaming marathons.
The XB271HU is not a budget monitor, but the good news is that you get what you pay for. No flimsy parts or squeaky noises after the second time you try to tilt it. Another perk of getting the XB271HU is the 2mm bezel offering a seamless view.
Although I defined the Predator monitors as the most sophisticated devices currently available, I am not going to sugar-coat the truth, and the truth is that the XB271HU falls behind in terms of connectivity. It has two and two ports only – a DisplayPort and an HDMI. There is a headphone jack as well as in-built speakers, but if you were hoping to get USB ports, you will be disappointed.
The 27-inch Predator monitor comes with a resolution of 2560x 1440 which results in a brilliantly balanced pixel density. The IPS panel ensures superb viewing angles.
The monitor comes with decent default settings, so you can start using it as soon as you adjust the brightness levels to your liking.
Now, let’s jump to the image quality. The IPS panel ensures excellent color consistency; the contrasts are strong, and I would totally include the XB271HU Predator into the professional class gaming monitors category. The 165Hz refresh rate, G-Sync support and the IPS panel speak for themselves. You will get top-quality images without any ghosting or tearing.
- 27" Wqhd (2560 x 1440) widescreen with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz (overclocking to 165Hz) - Using Display port
- Response time: 4ms, Pixel Pitch: 0. 233mm. Flicker-less technology-reduces annoying screen flickering that can cause eye strain when viewing the monitor for long periods.
Asus ROG Swift PG278QR – All Bells and Whistles at Your Fingertips
The Asus ROG Swift PG278QR is a beautiful piece of hardware sporting a TN panel with a 2560x 1440p resolution, a NVIDIA G-Sync adaptive technology, and 144Hz refresh rate that can be overclocked to 165Hz.
The increased refresh rate is one of the key features that set the monitor apart from its predecessor. Asus has made some upgrades such as the addition of an audio line-out port and an extra HDMI 1.4 port.
27-inch, WQHD 2560 x 1440 resolution display , 165Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time , NVIDIA®G-SYNC™ technology , ASUS-exclusive Ultra-Low Blue Light, Flicker-Free, GamePlus and GameVisual technologies , Ergonomically-designed stand with full tilt/swivel/pivot/height adjustment
As a monitor unapologetically geared towards serious gamers, the ROG Swift PG278QR comes with special modes that enhance your FPS, RTS or racing games and ensures crisp, detailed images. The monitor allows you to adjust the blue light levels and avoid the eye strain after a gaming or movie marathon.
Asus ROG Swift PG278QR got me with the GamePlus feature that allows you to fix four types of crosshairs on the screen and gain a competitive advantage against your enemies, as your aiming will be considerably improved.
To be able to overclock the monitor to 165Hz and achieve a stable fps rate, you need a graphics card that can endure such an abuse. If you are currently considering an upgrade to your graphics card, you’d better opt for the Ultra-Low Motion Blur feature instead of enabling the G-Sync. The Ultra-Low Motion Blur will help you get rid of the annoying blurring and ghosting.
This PG278QR comes with a TN panel, but if you are overly concerned about the color reproduction, Asus has also released the PG279Q sporting an IPS panel. The latter is a little bit pricier and you will be better off with the PG278QR unless you are a pro gamer.
As for the PG278QR monitor appearance, I consider it as gorgeous as the colors it reproduces. It comes with the full range of ergonomics adjustments, as well as VESA support that allows you to mount it on the wall.
Apart from an HDMI 1.4 port and a DisplayPort, you also have two USB 3.0 ports for plugging external devices.
Overall, the Asus ROG Swift PG278QR monitor is an excellent solution for competitive gamers who are heavily into FPS, RTS, RPG or racing- style games. I don’t think the PG278QR model has any serious setback that can deter you from making the most out of your gameplay although professional gamers might want to have a look at the model with an IPS panel.
- 27 inch WQHD (2560x1440p) panel with a 1ms response time and overclocked refresh rate up to 165 Hertz embraces ROG standards and design
- Flexible connectivity options with DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 and USB 3.0 ports;Security : Kensington lock
- NVIDIA G SYNC ensures smooth gameplay by eliminating screen tearing and stuttering; Brightness(Max) 350 cd/square meter
Best 144Hz 1440p monitor
LG 32GK850G-B – The Calm before the Storm
Over the last few years LG has fallen behind with the release of gaming monitors to make a major comeback with the introduction of the 32GK850G-B in 2018.
The monitor ticks all right boxes and satisfies the exquisite taste of gamers who never compromise on hardware components.
I agree that the price is a bit steep, but I am positive that the 32GK850G-B monitor is worth every penny.
32-inch screen, 2560x1440p resolution, Nvidia G-Sync compatible, 144Hz refresh rate, Advanced gaming Features
The LG32GK850G-B boasts impressive versatility. It can be tilted; rotated to portrait mode; you can also mount it on a wall and adjust the height, but keep in mind that you will have to purchase a VESA adapter.
If you are familiar with the monitors LG releases, you must have noticed that the company is a huge supporter of the IPS panels. Well, it seems that there is an exception to every rule as the LG32GK850G-B has a VA panel. No, don’t be put off by the panel type. The VAs are actually pretty good. They ensure better response times than the IPS and ensure better contrast, too.
The LG32GK850G-B has a 2560 x 1440p resolution which translates into 93ppi pixel density on its 32″ real estate.
As far as connectivity is concerned, the monitor comes with a HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, a 3.5mm audio output, and three USB ports, but you will use the third one for upgrading the firmware, for example.
The LG32GK850G-B has a 144Hz refresh rate but it can also be overclocked to 165Hz. However, being able to run the monitor at a higher refresh rate and overclock it to 165Hz depends on the game itself and the Nvidia graphics card you use.
In any case, even if you do not push the monitor to such extremes, the 144Hz refresh rate will ensure a smooth performance. If you have a Nvidia graphics card, you will be able to sync the display refresh rate and the GPU and forget about the tearing and stuttering. The 350 nits of brightness and the WQHD screen resolution definitely add to the vibrant colors and clear images.
If you can afford it to go beyond the budget models and you want an immersive Battlefield experience, the LG32GK850G-B is a solid pick.
- LG AUTHORIZED DEALER - Includes Full LG USA WARRANTY
- LG 32" Class QHD Gaming Monitor with G-SYNC (2018 Model)
- The LG 32GK850G gaming monitor combines an immersive QHD resolution display screen with NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility, a 144Hz refresh rate, plus a dedicated Game mode and black stabilizer for ultimate...
ASUS MG278Q – Asus Displays Never Cease to Amaze Us
ASUS MG278Q is a gorgeous piece of engineering tailored to meet your individual playstyle.
The monitor has genre-specific color presets and comes with plenty of ergonomic features intended to ensure maximum comfort during long gaming sessions.
The ASUS MG278Q also has an AMD FreeSync and offers a GamePlus visual that further enhance your experience.
27-inch monitor, WQHD 2560 x 1440 resolution display, 1ms response time , 144Hz refresh rate, AMD FreeSync technology, ASUS-exclusive Ultra-Low Blue Light, Flicker-Free, GamePlus and GameVisual technologies
If we put aside the 144Hz response time, the adaptive sync, and the vibrant colors it produces, one of the biggest selling points of the MG278Q is its versatility. You can adjust the height, swivel and pivot it, or mount it on the wall.
The rear panel houses the standard ports including a DVI port, two HDMI ports, and a DisplayPort. You will also find two USB 3.0 ports, a line in port, as well as a headphone jack.
The ASUS MG278Q monitor has a total of five buttons on the sight side. Clicking on the navigation nub grants you access to the main menu where you can make the necessary customization settings.
As mentioned above, the monitor has a 27-inch display, a 2560x 1440p resolution, and a refresh rate that tops at 144Hz. Owning the MG278Q means that you will enjoy sharp, realistic images and even the more demanding games will run smoothly, provided that you have a suitable graphics card.
The ASUS MG278Q is perfect for first person shooters, fighting or racing games where images’ consistency and monitor’s responsiveness are of critical importance. The trouble-free performance is guaranteed by the AMD FreeSync technology. If you have an AMD graphics card, motion blur and screen tearing will be non-existent.
As a device, designed with gamers in mind, the MG278Q has six display presets – FPS, RTS/ RPG, sRGB, Scenery, Racing, Cinema.
As for GamePlus features, the cross hairs are really useful when it comes to landing precise shots.
If you have an AMD graphics card and you are looking for a premium-class 1440p monitor, the ASUS MG278Q will not disappoint. If you are currently using a 1080p monitor and you switch to 1440p, you may rest assured the difference will be huge. Given its specs, the ASUS MG278Q is the best monitor an AMD machine owner may find in this price range.
- 27" 2560x1440 resolution display with 1ms response time and ultra-fast 144Hz refresh rate to eliminate smearing, tearing, and motion blur.
- Asus Eye Care technology makes marathons even easier, reducing eyestrain and other eye ailments with TUV Rhineland-certified Blue light filter and flicker-free backlighting
- Nvidia G-SYNC technology removes stutter and screen tearing for the smoothest gaming experience
BenQ XL2730 – Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication
Video games are a billion-dollar industry and it comes as no surprise that more and more casual players aim for the competitive gaming scene. Luckily, more and more hardware makers release devices capable of meeting the requirements of advanced gamers.
BenQ XL2730 model is a vivid example of company’s ambitions to cater the needs of pro gamers.
The monitor is a 27-inch beauty sporting a 2560x 1440p resolution, 1 ms response rate and 144Hz frequency.
27-inch, 16:9 aspect, 2,560 x 1,440 native resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, TN panel, 1ms response time, 2 x HDMI (one HDMI 2.0 only), DisplayPort 1.2a, DVI-DL, D-Sub, Headphone jack, Microphone jack
If you are looking for an eye-catching monitor, you’d better look somewhere else. However, if you need a monitor that dutifully does its job to ensure stunning color accuracy and vibrant colors, the XL2730 is an option to consider.
BenQ Zowie XL2730 has a refined design, a sleek look and a discreet bezel that holds five OSD buttons on the lower right-hand side. The left side of the cabinet houses two USB 3.0 slots as well as audio jacks, a D-Sub port, two HDMI slots, and a DisplayPort. One of the HDMI ports is 2.0 so it supports the full WQHD resolution at 144Hz along with the DisplayPort.
The screen is tiltable and swiveling. If you wish, you can detach the mount from the panel, too.
There is no point in explaining that the 2560x1440p resolution delivers sharp, vibrant images but as the saying goes “There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch.” If you are hooked by the latest AAA blockbusters, the monitor would not be able to produce adequate 144fps on ultra settings unless your GPU is powerful enough. In other words, you may end up downplaying the settings or play at 1080p. However, if you have a compatible AMD card, you may rest assured that the FreeSync will do miracles at 144Hz refresh rate. You will not have to clench your fists in frustration due to skips or tearing.
It is essential to know that you cannot use the FreeSync simultaneously with AMA, but hopefully, BenQ will address this slight overlook in future.
Although the XL2730 has a TN panel, while some if its highly acclaimed competitors sport an IPS display, it outperforms them in terms of actual contrast ratio and color accuracy without sacrificing the speed.
While there is nothing too revolutionary about the BenQ Zowie XL2730 monitor, the FreeSync implementation is a welcome addition to its performance and the best of all is that it does not bump up the price too much.
The factory calibration settings are kind of disappointing, though, so plug and play users will not be too amused. That being said, the contrast, brightness and color representation can be tweaked to an extent that meets your needs, so I don’t think this is a dealbreaker. Overall, the good array of options in the OSD gives plenty to serious gamers striving to improve their performance.
The BenQ Zowie XL2730 monitor ticks all the right boxes in terms of performance so if you can put up with some minor ghosting and blur reduction issues and get a rewarding 2560x1440p at 144Hz experience, do not think twice.
- QHD 2560x1440 144Hz MONITOR: 1ms monitor and ultra-fast 144Hz refresh rate with smooth, real time response. Power consumption (On mode) - 65 W. OS Compatibility- Windows 7,Windows 8,Windows...
- PC GAMING MONITOR: Adopted worldwide by most professional eSports tournaments and players, BenQ Zowie is the official gaming monitor of the MLG CS:GO Major Championship along with various MLG,...
- ZOWIE eSports QHD 2560x1440 MONITOR: Black eQualizer for visual clarity in dark scenes, optimized for PC eSports game titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive CS:GO and Overwatch
For NVIDIA GPU Owners: Best G-Sync monitor
If you own a recently launched NVIDIA video card model, you’d better browse through the G-Sync capable monitors
For AMD GPU Owners: Best FreeSync monitor
If you a proud owner of one of the latest AMD video cards, then you should pair it with a FreeSync-enabled monitor.
How to Choose a 1440p Monitor?
If you are wondering whether a 1440p monitor is the best option for you, here are the main guidelines you should follow.
Does your gaming rig support 1440p?
If you play The Witcher, the Elder Scrolls, Destiny, Monster Hunter: World, and you want to enjoy the fascinating graphics on a 1440p monitor, you’d better make sure your rig can support it, otherwise you risk being disappointed by the image quality.
Are you a multitasker?
If you are looking for a versatile monitor for gaming, web surfing, watching movies, a 1440p monitor is a nice upgrade and all these activities will be more enjoyable.
You are a PC gamer
It is a well-known fact that console players often hook their PS and Xbox consoles to a monitor and they have a good reason to do that. As pointed in our buyer’s guide, there is a great difference between running games on a gaming monitor and using a TV, be it the most sophisticated one. However, the latest consoles play games at 1080p meaning a console gamer would not make a good use of a 1440p monitor even if they have a decent graphics card.
What is 1440p?
The 1440p monitors have been gaining more and more popularity among gamers and there must be a good reason why they speak well of their capabilities. In brief, the term 1440p monitor stands for a monitor that has a max resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 and 16:9 aspect ratio. What makes them superior to their 1080p HD siblings is the enhanced visuals. The 1440p monitors are also called QHD, Quad HD or WQHD. The 1440p monitors considerably improve the image clarity, especially at the close range. Keeping in mind that gamers do not stay more than 30 inches away from the monitor, they can enjoy crisp visuals and stunning effects. But why should you get a 1440p monitor instead of 4K? Well, 4K monitors are not everyone’s cup of tea not only because of the ludicrous price, but also because of the powerful GPU they require. If you need some solid arguments for and against 1440p monitors, keep reading and make an informed decision.
4K vs. 1440p
The 4K monitors are the jewel in the crown of the gaming monitors right now, but buying a 4K monitor requires a serious upgrade of the internal hardware as the higher resolution requires a more powerful graphics card. A 1440p monitor is more likely to be compatible with your current hardware, not to mention that purchasing a 4K monitor without upgrading the internal hardware will lead to refresh rate issues. In addition, the 4K is a relatively new technology and not all games support it. What’s more, most developers still struggle with making their games truly compatible with 4K, but 99% of the existing games will run beautifully on a 1440p monitor.
If you want a high-quality upgrade and you don’t want to break the bank, but at the same time you do not want to go with a randomly picked cheapo, a 1440p monitor is the perfect fit.
Equipment required for gaming on 1440p resolution
The first thing you have to take into account is whether your hardware is capable of running games on 1440p resolution, otherwise you will have to reduce the resolution to an acceptable range or disable some of the effects. To be able to play at 2560 x 1440, you have to make sure your graphics card is at least GTX 750 or R7 370. To enjoy a smooth gameplay at 60Hz, you ideally need a R9 390X or GTX 980.
If you want to get a 1440p monitor and play at 144Hz, you need GTX 1080 graphics card or at least GTX 1070Ti. If you choose a monitor with an adaptive sync technology, you will get a more stable FPS. The input lag as well as the screen tearing will be dramatically reduced.
FreeSync vs. G-Sync
Your choice of a 1440p monitor should be determined by the graphics card you use, or you are planning to buy – AMD or Nvidia. You will still be able to use a FreeSync monitor with a Nvidia graphics card and vise versa, but you will not be able to benefit from the dynamic sync feature.
The G-Sync offers a wider dynamic range, and it is also said to be better at reducing the input lag, although the gaming community is divided over the advantages and disadvantages of these two technologies.
To sum up, both technologies will give you an edge over the competition, so whichever you settle for, you may rest assured that would be one of the best investments you will make to your gaming rig.
What about the Refresh Rates? 60Hz, 144Hz, or 165Hz?
Before you consider the purchase of a 1440p monitor, you have to take into account the refresh rate, too. If you are mainly into first person shooters, the refresh rate is of critical importance. If you play Call of Duty, Overwatch or any other trending shooter at 60Hz monitor, chances are that you will be shooting at targets that are not exactly where they appear to be. In other words, for competitive FPS, the best thing you can do is to get a 1440p 144Hz rate monitor, or even a 240Hz monitor. This takes us to the next important question: should you get a 144Hz monitor or opt for a model that allows overclocking to 165Hz?
The difference between 144Hz and 165Hz might be negligible to some and critically important to others. In casual gaming, having a 165Hz gaming monitor and middle of the road graphics card will not make a big difference. For professional gamers, every millisecond can be a reason for a humiliating loss. For gamers who have no intentions to conquer the professional gaming scene, a 144Hz monitor will suffice.
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