Best Budget 1080p Gaming Monitors in 2026: Complete Buyer’s Guide

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The BenQ EV2480 represents excellent value in the budget gaming monitor segment, delivering reliable 1080p performance at an accessible price point. While lacking the cutting-edge technology of premium OLED monitors, the EV2480 provides fundamentally solid gaming experience suitable for casual to mid-core gamers building their first PC or upgrading from ancient displays. The 24-inch form factor is perfect for desk gaming, offering excellent visibility without requiring excessive desk space.

With its 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time, the EV2480 isn’t designed for competitive esports, but it excels for story-driven games, MMOs, and casual multiplayer experiences where smooth visuals matter more than absolute responsiveness. The 1920×1080 resolution at 24 inches delivers exceptional pixel density at approximately 92 PPI, making everything from game graphics to menu text appear sharp and clear. For budget-conscious gamers, this is an outstanding entry point into gaming displays.

1

Best Seller

SANSUI 24 Inch Curved 160Hz Gaming Monitor,1500R Curved Gaming Monitor FHD 1080P Computer Monitor,MPRT 1ms Fast VA Display,Freesync,HDR,3000:1, HDMI2.0,DP1.4, VESA Support(ES-G24C1L HDMI Cable Incl.)

SANSUI

9.7 /10
ACMS Score

Updated: May 26, 2026
Last update on May 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Product information sourced from Amazon.

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2

Prime Editor's Pick

Samsung 27-Inch Odyssey G3 (G30D) Series FHD Gaming Monitor, 1ms, 180Hz, AMD FreeSync, Adjustable Stand, Black Equalizer, Virtual Aim Point, Eye Saver Mode, Flicker-Free, LS27DG302ENXZA

9.8 /10
ACMS Score

Updated: May 27, 2026
Last update on May 27, 2026 / Affiliate links / Product information sourced from Amazon.

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3

Limited Time

KTC 27 Inch QHD Gaming Monitor, 2K 200Hz Up to 210Hz 1ms Fast IPS Computer Monitor, HDR400, 1440P with Adaptive Sync, Built-in Speakers, HDMI Displayport, Tilt Adjustment, VESA Compatible, H27T22C-3

KTC

9.7 /10
ACMS Score

Updated: May 26, 2026
Last update on May 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Product information sourced from Amazon.

View on Amazon.com

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Display Specifications and Technology

The BenQ EV2480 uses TN panel technology, which provides good color reproduction and faster response times compared to IPS at budget price points. The 1920×1080 native resolution is standard for 24-inch displays, offering a practical balance between visual clarity and affordable implementation. The 60Hz refresh rate is typical for budget monitors, perfectly adequate for casual gaming where frame rate consistency matters less than overall responsiveness.

Response time of 5ms gray-to-gray ensures reasonable motion clarity without the expensive OLED technology found on premium monitors. While not instantaneous, 5ms is acceptable for casual gaming, eliminating most ghosting and blur during normal gameplay. For budget gaming monitor buyers, the EV2480 delivers solid performance without unnecessary premium pricing.

IPS Alternative Option

The EV2480 series includes IPS panel variants offering superior color accuracy and wider viewing angles compared to TN versions. IPS variants have slightly slower response times (around 5-8ms), but for casual gaming, this difference is imperceptible. The IPS versions are particularly suitable for creators who game, as the color accuracy enables basic photo and video work beyond pure gaming.

Connectivity and Practical Features

The EV2480 includes comprehensive connectivity with HDMI 1.4 and D-Sub inputs, ensuring compatibility with any PC, console, or media device. The USB 3.0 hub integration adds convenience for peripheral connections. The built-in speakers provide basic audio adequate for casual gaming, though serious gamers typically use dedicated headsets or speaker systems anyway.

The ergonomic stand offers height and tilt adjustments, allowing proper positioning for extended gaming sessions. While not as adjustable as premium monitors, these adjustments are sufficient for finding comfortable viewing angles. The 24-inch size is highly manageable on standard gaming desks without requiring excessive space or special mounting solutions.

Brightness and Color Performance

The EV2480 delivers 250 nits brightness, suitable for well-lit rooms without excessive washout. While not reaching the 800+ nits of premium monitors, 250 nits is perfectly adequate for indoor gaming environments. The color gamut covers 72% NTSC, which is standard for budget TN displays. For casual gaming where color accuracy isn’t critical, this is more than sufficient.

The monitor includes low blue light technology, reducing eye strain during extended gaming sessions. This is particularly valuable for evening gaming sessions where blue light can disrupt sleep patterns. The flicker-free technology further reduces eye fatigue, enabling comfortable marathon gaming sessions without discomfort.

Gaming Experience and Use Cases

The BenQ EV2480 shines in specific gaming contexts. Story-driven single-player games like Baldur’s Gate 3, Elden Ring, and Starfield all look great at 1080p. The 24-inch size provides immersive visuals without overwhelming your desk. MMOs and action RPGs benefit from the responsive display and clear visuals. For casual multiplayer experiences, the EV2480 is perfectly adequate.

This monitor isn’t designed for competitive esports; 60Hz is insufficient for games like CS2 or Valorant where 144Hz+ refresh rates provide competitive advantage. However, for seasonal players and casual competitors, the EV2480 remains perfectly playable. For budget gaming PC builders, this represents the ideal display complement.

Console Gaming Compatibility

The EV2480 works excellently with modern gaming consoles. PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X connect via HDMI and display at 1440p or 4K downscaled to 1080p, still looking excellent at this resolution and refresh rate. The 24-inch size is perfect for console gaming on desks or small entertainment setups. For casual console gamers, this monitor is outstanding value.

Specifications Comparison Table

Feature | BenQ EV2480 | ASUS TUF VG289Q | Dell S2722DGM
Screen Size | 24 inches | 28 inches | 27 inches
Resolution | 1920×1080 (1080p) | 3840×2160 (4K) | 2560×1440 (1440p)
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | 165Hz
Panel Type | TN/IPS | IPS | IPS
Response Time | 5ms | 1ms | 1ms
Color Gamut | 72% NTSC | 95% DCI-P3 | 98.5% DCI-P3
Brightness | 250 nits | 400 nits | 350 nits
Price Range | $150-$200 | $400-$500 | $350-$450

Advantages and Disadvantages

Strengths

The BenQ EV2480’s primary advantage is exceptional value—a capable gaming monitor at budget pricing. The 24-inch size is practical for desk gaming without excessive space requirements. Solid build quality from BenQ ensures reliability. The eye-care features (low blue light, flicker-free) are valuable for extended gaming. The versatility for casual gaming, console gaming, and general computing makes this an excellent all-around display for non-competitive gamers.

Limitations

The 60Hz refresh rate is insufficient for competitive gaming or esports interest. The 5ms response time, while acceptable, isn’t ideal for fast-paced action games. The TN panel on standard models has limited viewing angles compared to IPS alternatives. 1080p resolution, while sharp at 24 inches, feels dated when compared to modern 1440p and 4K options. The 72% NTSC color gamut isn’t suitable for professional color work. No HDR support limits visual impact in newer games with HDR optimization.

Who Should Buy the BenQ EV2480?

Budget-conscious gamers building their first PC should seriously consider the EV2480. If your gaming library consists primarily of casual experiences, story-driven single-player games, and MMOs, this monitor is perfect. Console gamers upgrading from older TVs appreciate the 24-inch desktop formality and responsive display. Students and casual gamers with tight budgets benefit from the low price without sacrificing basic quality. Anyone seeking affordable gaming monitors should evaluate the EV2480 first.

This monitor is NOT recommended for competitive esports players, professional color work, or ultra-high-refresh gaming enthusiasts. For those priorities, investing in higher-tier displays is worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 60Hz acceptable for casual gaming?

Absolutely. For story-driven games, MMOs, and casual multiplayer, 60Hz is perfectly fine. The distinction between 60Hz and 144Hz+ matters primarily in competitive esports where every millisecond provides advantage. For casual gaming monitor selection, 60Hz remains adequate.

Can I game competitively on the BenQ EV2480?

You can play competitive games, but won’t have the refresh rate advantage of 144Hz+ monitors. In Valorant or CS2, competitive players running 240Hz+ gain tangible advantages. The EV2480 works for casual competitive play but isn’t ideal for ranked grinding or esports aspirations.

Should I get the TN or IPS version?

If you do any creative work or value color accuracy, choose IPS. If purely gaming on a budget, TN is fine. IPS panels have slightly slower response times but better color and viewing angles. For casual gaming, either works excellently.

Is 24 inches too small for gaming?

Not at all. 24 inches is ideal for desk gaming, providing immersive visuals without excessive head movement. Larger monitors (27″+) are better for immersion if desk space allows. The choice depends on viewing distance and desk real estate, not gaming capability.

How does the EV2480 compare to gaming laptops’ displays?

The EV2480 is substantially better than most gaming laptop displays. Laptop screens typically have 60Hz, 5ms response, and smaller diagonals. The external EV2480 monitor provides larger screen space and better refresh capability while remaining affordable.

Conclusion

The BenQ EV2480 24-inch budget gaming monitor is an exceptional value for casual gamers and first-time PC builders. By delivering solid 1080p performance, responsive gameplay, and eye-care features at an affordable price, BenQ created a monitor that prioritizes practical gaming value over cutting-edge specs. While not suitable for competitive esports or professional color work, for casual gaming, console experiences, and general computing, the EV2480 excels.

If your budget is limited and competitive gaming isn’t your priority, the BenQ EV2480 is an outstanding choice. The reliability, practicality, and affordability combine to deliver excellent value that punches above its price point. For any gamer seeking their first quality gaming monitor or budget-conscious upgrades, the EV2480 deserves serious consideration.

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