8 Best Computer Monitors (2026): Budget, OLED, 4K, and More

Best Overall Computer Monitor

The Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor (S2725QS) is our top pick for most people. At around $240, it combines a sharp 4K resolution with a 120-Hz refresh rate for smooth motion. It also includes AMD FreeSync Ultimate support and surprisingly good built-in speakers.

The monitor's stand offers tilt, swivel, and height adjustment, but it cannot pivot to a vertical orientation. It lacks USB ports, but a nearly identical model with a USB-C hub is available for laptop users.

• Price: $240 (20% off $300 MSRP)
• Size & Panel: 27-inch IPS
• Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
• Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
• Key Feature: Exceptional value for a 4K, 120-Hz display

The Best Budget Monitor

The MSI Pro MP243W E14 offers impressive image quality for just $100. It reaches 359 nits of brightness and has good color coverage for its price. It also features a 144-Hz refresh rate, making it viable for casual gaming.

Its limitations are standard for the budget tier: the stand only tilts, and ports are limited to HDMI, DisplayPort, and a headphone jack. A sharper 27-inch, 1440p model (MP273QW E14) is also available for a higher price.

Best HDR Monitor

The Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC) is built for HDR content creation and consumption. As one of the few non-gaming OLED monitors under $1,000, it combines deep blacks with nearly 1,000-nit peak brightness. It features a 120-Hz refresh rate and a clean white design.

The main drawback is its limited port selection, as it lacks an integrated USB hub. For creators or media enthusiasts wanting true HDR performance, it represents a strong value in the OLED space.

Best Gaming Monitor

The AOC QD-OLED Monitor (Q27G4ZD) brings premium OLED gaming under $500. This 27-inch, 1440p monitor has a 240-Hz refresh rate, Nvidia G-Sync support, and delivers vibrant, color-accurate HDR visuals. It's an ideal upgrade for gamers moving from 1080p displays.

The stand is underwhelming and the glossy screen finish can be divisive, but the core OLED performance is exceptional for the price.

How We Test and What To Look For

We test monitors by integrating them into our daily workflows and measuring panel performance with a colorimeter. We assess brightness, contrast, color accuracy, and features specific to use cases like gaming or content creation.

When shopping, consider these key specifications:

• Size & Resolution: 27-inch is the standard; pair 32-inch or larger screens with at least 1440p resolution for clarity.
• Refresh Rate: 60 Hz is fine for office work; gamers should look for 120 Hz or higher.
• Panel Type: IPS for color accuracy, VA for contrast, and OLED for perfect blacks and high contrast.
• HDR Support: For meaningful HDR, look for OLED or Mini-LED panels with high peak brightness (over 1,000 nits).
• Ports & Ergonomics: Check for necessary connections (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) and ensure the stand offers adequate height and tilt adjustment.

Setup and Other Considerations

Most monitors include a stand, but for optimal ergonomics or multi-screen setups, a VESA-compatible monitor arm is recommended. While many monitors have speakers, dedicated computer speakers will provide far better audio quality.

You can use a TV as a monitor, but their large size and lower pixel density at typical desk distances are not ideal for productivity. For a dual-monitor setup, ensure your laptop or PC has the necessary video outputs, or use a docking station.

OLED burn-in is less of a concern today due to improved panel technology and software protections, with many manufacturers now offering three-year warranties that cover it.