The Best Monitor for PS5: Complete Buying Guide

Choosing the best monitor for PS5 isn’t about finding the highest specs on paper. It’s a critical trade-off: do you need 4K resolution at 60Hz for visual-heavy adventures, or fast 120Hz gameplay at 1080p or 1440p for a competitive edge? The correct answer depends entirely on the games you play and your budget.

The PS5 Specs That Actually Matter

Before you consider buying a monitor, you need to understand the PS5’s capabilities. Sony’s console is powerful, but much of the monitor marketing targets high-end PC gamers. Let’s focus on the specs that provide a tangible advantage so you don’t waste money on features the PS5 can’t use.

Resolution and Refresh Rate: The Core Tradeoff

This is the first and most important decision you’ll make. It’s a direct choice between visual detail (resolution) and gameplay fluidity (refresh rate). For the PS5, the options are clear.

• 4K (2160p): This is for the visual purist. If you play graphically intensive single-player games like God of War or Horizon Forbidden West, the detail of 4K is effective. Be aware that you’ll be locked to 60Hz (60 frames per second) in most titles.

• 1440p (QHD): This is a balanced option for many PS5 owners. It’s a noticeable visual improvement over 1080p, and because the PS5 now natively supports it, you can achieve 120Hz for fluid gameplay without needing a top-tier monitor. This is a solid choice for MMO players who need sharp text and responsive combat.

• 1080p (Full HD): For the competitive player, performance is the priority. At 1080p, hitting a stable 120Hz in games like Call of Duty is more achievable, giving you a reaction-time advantage where every frame counts.

For anyone seeking value, a quality 1440p 120Hz+ monitor is the most practical all-around choice. It delivers a functional balance of sharp visuals and fluid performance without the high price of a true 4K 120Hz display.

The HDMI 2.1 Question

You’ll see HDMI 2.1 marketed heavily, as it’s the only port capable of running 4K at 120Hz, the PS5’s peak output. It’s a useful feature for future-proofing, but it is not essential for most users right now.

An HDMI 2.0 port is sufficient for 4K at 60Hz, 1440p at 120Hz, and 1080p at 120Hz. For anyone building a value-focused setup, a monitor with HDMI 2.0 will handle all necessary tasks effectively.

Panel Types and What They Mean

The screen technology plays a significant role in how games look and feel. Each panel type has distinct strengths and weaknesses.

Ultimately, choosing between IPS and VA depends on your preference. An IPS panel is suitable for vibrant, colorful worlds, while a VA panel is better for atmospheric games where deep blacks enhance immersion. Both are functional options for the PS5.

Finding the Sweet Spot Between Budget and Performance

Deciding how much to spend on a PS5 monitor is a balancing act. You don’t need to spend a lot to get a good experience, but the cheapest option often means leaving performance on the table. The key is to understand what your money gets you at different price points.

Let’s break down the common budget tiers to clarify the trade-offs. This will help you identify which features are critical for your needs and where you can save money.

Entry-Level Value (Under $250)

In this price range, the focus is on performance over premium features. You can find effective 1080p monitors that hit a 120Hz refresh rate, which is a significant upgrade for competitive FPS games like Apex Legends or Fortnite. The main trade-off is in build quality and visual extras.

Expect monitors in this tier to have plastic stands with limited adjustability, often just tilt. Color accuracy will be sufficient for gaming but may not be adequate for serious content creation or streaming. Features like HDR are often advertised, but the performance is typically poor and can make the picture look washed out. Still, if your goal is raw performance on a budget, this tier offers good value. You can find more great options in our guide to the best budget gaming monitor.

Mid-Range Performance ($250-$500)

This is the most sensible option for most PS5 owners. For this price, you can move up to a sharp 1440p resolution while still getting a high refresh rate of 120Hz or more. This combination provides a detailed picture and fluid gameplay, making it a versatile choice for both immersive single-player titles and fast-paced online matches.

Build quality also improves. Monitors in this tier typically have more robust stands with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments for better ergonomics. You’ll find better color performance, often with wider color gamuts that make games look more vivid. While high-end HDR is still uncommon, the overall picture quality is a clear step up from entry-level models.

For the majority of gamers, a monitor in the $250-$500 range offers the most balanced package. It delivers the key performance and resolution upgrades that make the PS5 perform well without the diminishing returns of high-end models.

High-End Immersion ($500+)

Once you cross the $500 mark, you’re paying for premium features that create a more immersive experience. This is where you’ll find 4K 120Hz monitors with HDMI 2.1, offering the best in both detail and smoothness. You’ll also see monitors with legitimate HDR performance—look for certifications like VESA DisplayHDR 600 or higher—which provides the brightness and contrast needed for impactful highlights and deep blacks.

The build quality is typically solid, with premium materials and well-designed stands. The decision to invest this much depends on how much you value those elite features. It’s a principle that applies to other home tech, too. For instance, when you learn how to choose a WiFi router for your home, you’re making similar trade-offs between speed, features, and cost.

To make it clearer, let’s lay out what you can realistically expect at each price point.

PS5 Monitor Budget Tiers and Expected Trade-Offs

This table breaks down the core specs and compromises you’ll face as you move up in price, helping you pinpoint the tier that best fits your needs and budget.

Ultimately, choosing a monitor is about aligning your budget with the features that will have the biggest impact on your gaming. Whether you prioritize refresh rate for competitive shooters or resolution for visuals, there’s a suitable option in one of these tiers.

Our Best Monitor for PS5 Picks by Budget

Now that you understand the trade-offs at each price point, here are the specific monitors that deliver the best value in their tier.

Best Budget Pick: AOC 24G4

Price: ~$130 | Resolution: 1080p | Refresh Rate: 165Hz (120Hz on PS5)

The AOC 24G4 is the go-to recommendation for budget-conscious PS5 gamers who prioritize performance. It’s a proven 1080p monitor that fully supports 120Hz gameplay on the PS5, giving you that competitive edge in shooters without spending more than necessary. The IPS panel provides decent color accuracy, and the 24-inch size keeps pixel density sharp at 1080p. The stand is basic (tilt-only), but that’s the trade-off at this price.

Best Mid-Range Pick: Gigabyte M27Q

Price: ~$280 | Resolution: 1440p | Refresh Rate: 170Hz (120Hz on PS5)

This is the sweet spot for most PS5 owners. The M27Q delivers sharp 1440p visuals at 120Hz over its HDMI 2.0 port, which is exactly what the PS5 needs. The 27-inch IPS panel offers excellent color reproduction for both gaming and general use. It includes a KVM switch for easy device swapping and has a height-adjustable stand. If you want one monitor that handles everything well, this is it.

Best 4K Value: ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q

Price: ~$250 | Resolution: 4K | Refresh Rate: 60Hz

For single-player gamers who want maximum visual fidelity over high frame rates, the VG289Q delivers true 4K at an accessible price. The 28-inch IPS panel produces accurate colors and wide viewing angles, making those cinematic moments in games like God of War look stunning. You’re capped at 60Hz, but for story-driven games, that’s perfectly acceptable. FreeSync support keeps things smooth when frame rates dip.

Best High-End Pick: Gigabyte M32UC

Price: ~$550 | Resolution: 4K | Refresh Rate: 144Hz (120Hz on PS5)

If you want the full PS5 experience with no compromises, the M32UC delivers 4K at 120Hz through its HDMI 2.1 port. The 32-inch curved VA panel produces deep blacks and high contrast that enhances atmospheric games. It also has DisplayHDR 400 certification, though true HDR impact requires stepping up to even pricier monitors. This is future-proofing at its finest.

Matching Your Monitor to Your Favorite Games

The phrase “best monitor for PS5” is not universal. The ideal screen for a competitive Call of Duty player is often a poor choice for someone who wants to get lost in the world of Elden Ring. The most important thing you can do is match the monitor’s strengths to the games you play.

Your gaming habits should be the deciding factor. Are you chasing high refresh rates for fast reflexes, high resolution for cinematic worlds, or a balance of both? A mismatch means you’re either paying for features you won’t use or missing the one spec that would have improved your experience.

For Competitive FPS and Fast-Paced Action

If your library is filled with titles like Apex Legends, Fortnite, or Call of Duty, your priority is speed. In these games, milliseconds matter. A high refresh rate provides smoother motion, making it easier to track fast-moving targets and react quickly.

For this use case, a 1080p or 1440p monitor pushing 120Hz or more is necessary. The jump from 60Hz to 120Hz provides a tangible advantage. The trade-off is that monitors in this category, especially budget ones, often sacrifice color vibrancy and 4K sharpness for speed. The build quality can also be basic, with plastic construction and minimal stand adjustments.

A low-resolution, high-refresh-rate monitor might not look impressive on a spec sheet, but its fluid performance is more valuable than extra pixels in a competitive match.

For Immersive Single-Player Adventures

If you prefer the expansive landscapes of God of War, Horizon Forbidden West, or other story-driven games, your focus should shift from speed to visual fidelity. The goal is immersion, which comes from resolution, color, and contrast.

A 4K (2160p) monitor will deliver the sharpest picture possible. When paired with strong HDR performance (look for VESA DisplayHDR 600 or better), you get deep blacks and brilliant highlights that add depth. The compromise is that you’ll almost always be capped at a 60Hz refresh rate, which is sufficient for these slower-paced games. These monitors also tend to have better build quality with sturdier, more adjustable stands.

For MMO, RPG, and Strategy Gamers

Players of games like Final Fantasy XIV or sprawling RPGs need a versatile monitor. These games mix intense combat with long periods of exploration or menu management, so a balanced feature set is required.

A 1440p monitor with a 120Hz+ refresh rate is the ideal middle ground here. It provides enough resolution to keep text and UI elements sharp, while the high refresh rate ensures combat and movement feel responsive. This category represents the best all-around value and is a good starting point if you play a variety of genres. For more in-depth analysis, you can check out our full category of monitor reviews and guides.

Why Build Quality and Durability Are Non-Negotiable

A monitor’s spec sheet only tells part of the story. While resolution and refresh rate get attention, the physical construction determines whether you’ve made a smart long-term investment or bought a flimsy product. For a budget-conscious gamer, a durable monitor is essential to ensure the purchase lasts.

The difference between a good monitor and a great one often starts at the base. A cheap, wobbly stand can undermine an otherwise solid gaming experience. Prioritizing a model with a sturdy, well-built stand provides necessary stability.

Stands and Ergonomics Matter

A monitor stand is a critical tool for your comfort. A poorly positioned screen can lead to neck strain and eye fatigue. Look for stands that offer a good range of adjustments.

• Height Adjustment: This allows you to align the top of the monitor with your eye level, which is the correct ergonomic position.

• Tilt Functionality: A good tilt helps eliminate glare from lights or windows.

• Swivel Capability: Swiveling the monitor makes it easy to share your screen or adjust the angle.

Finding all three in a budget model can be difficult, but even solid tilt and height adjustment make a significant difference. A monitor that feels secure and is positioned correctly is a sign of quality design.

A monitor’s physical interface—the feel of its OSD buttons and the placement of its ports—is an indicator of its overall build quality. Mushy buttons or awkwardly placed ports are red flags that suggest other corners were cut.

Materials and Long-Term Reliability

Beyond the stand, the quality of the materials in the monitor’s housing is a key factor. Most monitors are made of plastic, but the quality varies. You want a monitor that feels solid, without excessive creaking or flexing.

The On-Screen Display (OSD) controls—the buttons or joystick used to change settings—are another indicator. A tactile, responsive joystick is better than a row of cheap buttons and usually points to better overall engineering.

Finally, check the ports. They should feel secure, without any wiggle when you plug in an HDMI cable. Well-constructed ports are less likely to fail over time, ensuring your investment remains functional for years. Choosing a well-built monitor means you get a reliable device that feels like a quality piece of equipment.

Configuring Your Monitor for Optimal PS5 Performance

Unboxing a new monitor is just the first step. To get the performance you paid for, you must adjust settings on both your monitor and the PS5. Many users skip this and fail to utilize the monitor’s full capabilities.

Proper configuration ensures you see the high refresh rates and accurate colors you wanted. The process is straightforward but makes a significant difference in how your games look and feel.

Initial Connection and PS5 Video Settings

First, use the correct cable. If you bought a 4K 120Hz monitor, an HDMI 2.1 cable is mandatory to get full performance. For 1440p or 1080p at 120Hz, a quality HDMI 2.0 cable will work, but the one included with your PS5 is the safest option.

Once plugged in, configure the PS5’s video output.

1. Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.

2. Set your Resolution to “Automatic.” This allows the console and monitor to determine the best native settings.

3. Scroll down to Enable 120Hz Output and set it to “Automatic.” This allows supported games to run at higher frame rates.

If your monitor supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), you can enable it here. This feature syncs the monitor’s refresh rate to the game’s frame rate in real-time, resulting in a smoother picture with less screen tearing, especially in games with fluctuating performance.

Calibrating Your Picture for the Best Experience

Out-of-the-box picture settings are almost never ideal for gaming. They are usually configured to look bright in a retail environment, resulting in inaccurate colors. A few minutes of calibration will produce a more balanced and visually pleasing image for your room.

Start by finding your monitor’s Game Mode or an equivalent low-latency preset. This is critical because it disables unnecessary image processing that adds input lag. From there, use the PS5’s calibration tools.

Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Adjust HDR. Follow the on-screen instructions. The goal is to make the symbols barely visible, which sets your black and white points correctly. This ensures you get deep blacks and bright highlights without losing detail.

Beyond HDR, fine-tune a few basics on the monitor itself:

• Brightness: Adjust this to match your room’s ambient light. The screen should be comfortable to view.

• Contrast: Set this to maximize the difference between light and dark areas without making bright scenes look washed out.

• Color Temperature: Most people find “Warm” or “Standard” settings look most natural. “Cool” settings tend to give the image a bluish tint.

To get the most out of online games, you need to pair a well-tuned monitor with a stable network connection. Check out these practical tips to reduce gaming lag for smooth play to improve your response times. Taking these steps ensures you’re getting all the performance from your new setup.

Answering Your Top PS5 Monitor Questions

Even after weighing the specs and setting a budget, some questions may remain. Let’s address the most common inquiries gamers have when searching for a PS5 monitor.

At Budget Loadout, we believe the right gear empowers your gaming without emptying your wallet. For more guides and reviews, visit us at https://budgetloadout.com.