When we think of something as a “budget” product, it doesn’t really get us excited. When the word budget comes up, we think of “not enough money” or sacrificing the features and things we want so we can buy something that’s cheaper. Luckily, that doesn’t always have to be the case. You can get all the great features of a high-quality, brand name, and desirable product at a low-budget price range. The problem is, most people don’t know where to look. The best budget monitors are a bit hard to find, so that’s why we did all the research for you.
We’ve reviewed dozens of budget computer monitors to find the ones that offer the most amount of features without costing a dollar more than you need to spend. It’s a great time in the world where we can punch in what we’re looking for online and find it within minutes. Following our extensive research, we located 25 awesome budget monitors, and they’re all available for purchase online from Amazon.
The Acer 21.5-inch Full HD Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor offers everything we want bundled into an affordable package. You get the widescreen IPS display, Radeon Free Sync graphics, flexibility in terms of tilt, twist, and swivel, and the zero frame design and thin bezel is characteristic of a monitor that costs $100 more than this one.
The 5 Top-Rated Budget Monitors
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Budget Monitor Overall | Acer 21.5-Inch Full HD Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor | 4.6 |
Best Budget Monitor With Built-In Speakers | Sceptre Ultra-Thin Frameless LED Monitor | 4.3 |
Best Ultra Cheap Budget Monitor | Acer 19.5-inch LED Computer Monitor | 4.1 |
Best Large Screen Budget Monitor | HP 23.8-Inch Full HD Monitor | 4.5 |
Best Budget Gaming Monitor | Sceptre 24-inch Curved LED Monitor | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Budget Monitor Overall: Acer 21.5-Inch Full HD Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor
Our top pick is the Acer 21.5-Inch Full HD Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor and we picked this one for a few reasons. First, you’re getting a 21.5-inch screen for less than $100 so you can’t go wrong there. Second, it’s ultra-thin with a zero frame design which makes it super affordable for you to create a multi-screen setup. If you’re using this monitor for work or play, it’s a great way to get started with more than one screen.
The refresh rate is high at 75Hz, and it comes with a wide viewing angle using advanced crystal formula and IPS technology to offer the highest level of color performance. No matter how you view this screen, you will get the best quality picture from all angles.
Lastly, the monitor is only 0.24 inches thin. It has a beautiful shape that appears much more expensive than it is. This Acer monitor is a great way to impress your friends and family when you show them your office. They’ll think you spent a ton of money on the setup, but you know in the back of your mind that it was super affordable!
Acer 21.5-Inch Full HD Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor Key Features:
- Thin screen
- Zero frame which is ideal for multi-screen setups
- Great refresh rate
Best Budget Monitor With Built-In Speakers: Sceptre Ultra-Thin Frameless LED Monitor
Having built-in speakers is a great feature but that would be nothing if you didn’t have anything else to go along with it. The Sceptre Ultra-Thin Frameless LED monitor boasts a 1600 x 900 resolution with fast response rate and clarity which is ideal for gaming or people who work with graphics on their computer.
This screen also offers built-in speakers to deliver high-quality audio, whether you’re playing games or joining in on a remote business call. Adaptive-Sync technology is a feature that many people look for in gaming computers, but they give you this one included in a standard monitor. It makes sure that there isn’t any image tearing or lagging while you’re gaming.
Overall, you have one of the best budget monitors here that works great for both work and play.
Sceptre Ultra-Thin Frameless LED Monitor Key Features:
- Built-in Speakers
- Adaptive Sync technology
- Great screen resolution
Best Ultra Cheap Budget Monitor: Acer 19.5-inch LED Computer Monitor
While this is a review of the most “budget-friendly” monitors, we wanted to make sure that you didn’t have to sacrifice any of the features you want in exchange for a low price. We do understand though that some people might not care about these fancy features and they might want the lowest cost computer monitor because that’s all they need. If that sounds like you then the Acer 19.5-inch LED Computer Monitor will do the trick.
This monitor offers a 1600 x 900 resolution and a five-millisecond response rate, which makes this little guy a contender when it comes to gaming and graphics work. This Acer monitor comes with a super slim profile and an X-shaped stand that helps you fit it on smaller desks without having to take up a ton of space. This series of monitors also uses mercury-free white LED backlights that meet ENERGY STAR requirements, so they save power and conserve energy.
Acer 19.5-inch LED Computer Monitor Key Features:
- Budget-friendly
- Fast response rate for gaming
- Slim profile and great for small desks
Best Large Screen Budget Monitor: HP 23.8-Inch Full HD Monitor
Sometimes a small screen won’t cut it so you need to get something like the HP 23.8-inch Full HD Monitor. This screen has a 1920 x 1080 resolution with 60Hz. There is an anti-glare matte IPS backlight panel, so this helps provide better visuals no matter what angle you’re looking at the computer from. There’s also a five-millisecond response rate that delivers a smooth and crisp picture, whether you’re gaming or working.
Something else surprising about this monitor is that it also includes dual integrated speakers accessible using a VGA and HDMI port. Overall, you can’t go wrong with what you’re paying for a monitor that offers all of these features. If you require a larger screen than some of the other options, you’ll want to check this one out.
HP 23.8-Inch Full HD Monitor Key Features:
- 23.8-inch screen
- Five millisecond response rate
- Comes with built-in speakers
Best Budget Gaming Monitor: Sceptre 24-inch Curved LED Monitor
Gamers need the right screen and you can’t mess around with something that isn’t going to provide high-quality graphics, fast response, fluid visuals, and no flickering. Thankfully, you’ll get all of that and more with the Sceptre 24-inch Curved LED Monitor. This monitor boasts an 1800R curved design that offers an immersive visual experience that almost makes you feel like you’re in the game.
It has a blue light shift mode to help protect your eyes if you’re working or gaming on this screen for long periods. There is also a tilt feature that allows you to tilt the screen 15 degrees backward and 5 degrees forward. Not only does this help create a more visually pleasing experience, but it can offer protection to your eyes as well.
Finally, the anti-flicker and fast response time do a few things for gamers. It helps provide a more crisp picture because the backlight won’t be flickering and getting in the way of your graphics. The response rate plays a major role in how things move in the game. When you have a fast response rate, there isn’t any ghosting or blurring. This offers precision, clarity, and it helps improve the gaming experience.
Sceptre 24-inch Curved LED Monitor Key Features:
- Curved gaming monitor
- Edgeless design for multi-screen setup
- Anti-flicker technology and a fast response rate
Who Should Buy a Budget Monitor
If you’re on the fence about whether or not you should buy a budget monitor consider the following points. Why are you trying to save money in the first place?
Maybe you’re a college student who needs to buy a cheaper monitor because you don’t have a lot of spare cash to throw around. Perhaps you don’t use the computer that often so you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something you’re not going to use all the time. Also, keep in mind that budget doesn’t have to mean that it’s cheaply made.
Many budget monitors are made as well as the most expensive counterparts but the only difference is, they might not come with as many “bells and whistles” as the more costly options. If you’re not seeking out intense graphics for gaming or anything like that, a high-quality budget monitor should do the trick for you.
Important Features to Consider
There’s a lot of technical jargon behind computers and monitors so it can be difficult for the average person to understand the graphics card, aspect ratio, and all these other factors. Honestly, unless you’re using your computer for gaming you don’t need to worry too much about all of that. Here are some of the features and aspects of a computer monitor that you want to pay attention to before you buy:
- Size. The size of the monitor is critically important because you want it to be big enough for you to see everything but not so big that you need to buy a new desk to make it work.
- Aspect ratio. This feature refers to the shape of the monitor when you compare the width and the height. For example, a widescreen monitor is 16:9 while a super widescreen is 21:9. If you’re doing any graphics or design work you’ll want to have at least a 16:9.
- Resolution. Resolution is important because it will impact the experience you have with your monitor whether you’re playing games, doing work, or scrolling through Facebook. Many computer monitors come with a 480, 720, or 1080p resolution.
- Color display. Here’s where some of the technical stuff comes in but computer monitors contain a variety of colors that they’re capable of producing. Expensive computers may produce as many as one billion colors, while a cheaper monitor will only provide up to 16 million.
- Refresh rate. This factor only matters if you’re using the monitor for gaming. It determines how smooth motion is before it starts glitching and lagging. If you have a high refresh rate of around 120hz then you’ll never have to worry. A budget monitor may only have 60hz or less.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brand has the best budget monitors?
This question is subjective because it’s hard to determine the “best” brand when everyone is looking for something unique in a monitor. I do believe that Acer offers the highest quality monitors for the lowest price. I wouldn’t purchase any of their expensive computer monitors though because I think they’re better at focusing on budget-friendly products.
How much does a good monitor cost?
Most budget monitors should cost somewhere between 100-200 dollars. If you’re paying more than that I wouldn’t consider it a budget option.
What size computer monitor should I get?
Since we’re talking about budget monitors, finding anything larger than 25-inches is impossible. Most of the options recommended above are barely 20-inches so I would go with that. Go as big as you can with the money you have to spend.
Other Budget Monitors We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other budget monitors. Even though they didn’t make our five best budget monitor list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great choice if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck.
- Large Screen Budget Monitors
- Budget Gaming Monitors
- High-Resolution Budget Monitors
- Unique Budget Monitors
Large Screen Budget Monitors
HP 23.8″ Full HD IPS LED Monitor
This HD monitor offers great resolution at 1920 x 1080p and a 16:9 widescreen ratio.
Key Features:
- Great resolution 1920 x 1080p
- Widescreen
- 5ms response time great for gaming
Cost: $180
Acer R240HY bidx 23.8″ IPS Widescreen
The monitor boasts a 23.8″ screen with 1920 x 1080 HD resolution. A 4ms response time makes it a great choice for whatever you have to do.
Key Features:
- 1920 x 1080 HD resolution
- 178 degree viewing angle
- Zero frame design
Cost: $110
This Dell monitor boasts a 27″ screen which is huge for something of this price range. It comes with 1920 x 1080 HD resolution and a 5ms response rate.
Key Features:
- 27″ screen
- 1920 x 1080p resolution
- HDMI and VGA connections
Cost: $160
Samsung 23.5″ FHD Curved LED Monitor
Here we have a curved monitor from Samsung. This one features a 23.5″ LED screen with 18000R curvature that provides a much more immersive experience at an affordable price.
Key Features:
- Curved monitor
- 23.5″ screen
- 4ms response rate
Cost: $150
This ultra-slim monitor comes with a 24″ full HD screen and 1920 x 1080 resolution. It also features built-in speakers.
Key Features:
- Built-in speakers
- 24″ screen
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
Cost: $120
Budget Gaming Monitors
Sceptre E248W Ultra Thin LED Monitor
This monitor from the budget-friendly company, Sceptre boasts a 24″ ultra thin profile and contemporary design.
Key Features:
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- Built-in speakers
- 24″ screen
Cost: $100
This dedicated gaming monitor comes with AMD Radeon FreeSync technology and a one millisecond refresh rate.
Key Features:
- 23.6″ full HD screen
- AMD Radeon Freesync gaming technology
- One millisecond response rate
- Adjustable screen
Cost: $200
VIOTEK NBV24CB 24″ Curved Monitor
Here we have a monitor with incredible clarity and a 75hz refresh rate that delivers exceptional graphic quality. It’s the perfect gaming and office monitor.
Key Features:
- 24″ screen
- 1080p resolution
- 8ms response rate with 60hz refresh rate
Cost: $120
Acer KG241Q 23.6″ Full HD Monitor
Here we have another great Acer monitor that is 23.6 inches of HD screen with a 144hz refresh rate.
Key Features:
- One millisecond response rate
- FHD 1920 x 1080p resolution
- Comes with AMD Radeon FreeSync graphics
Cost: $180
BenQ ZOWIE XL2411P 24″ Gaming Monitor
This exclusive gaming monitor offers lightning-fast 144hz refresh rate which offers the smoothing gaming experience. Pair that with the one millisecond response time to eliminate lagging and ghosting.
Key Features:
- Gaming monitor
- 1080p resolution
- Three-year manufacturers warranty
Cost: $200
High-Resolution Budget Monitors
HP VH240a 23.8″ Full HD Monitor
When combining affordability and functionality, you can’t really do any better than this. This 23.8″ monitor comes with 1920 x 1080p resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Key Features:
- 1920 x 1080
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- 5ms response time
Cost: $110
Dell Computer Ultrasharp U2415
Sometimes if you’re looking for something specific, you need to pay a little extra. This monitor might be outside of the “budget” range but if you can stretch a little, it’s worth the investment.
Key Features:
- 24″ monitor
- 1000:1 contrast
- 1920 x 1200 resolution
Cost: $260
Samsung 23.6″ FHD Desktop Monitor
This widescreen desktop monitor features a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a sleek, slim design that looks great in every home or office.
Key Features:
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort inputs
- Comes with built-in speakers
Cost: $160
Here is a gaming monitor option that offers great resolution, fast response, and a graphics card that is sure to impress for a monitor in this price range.
Key Features:
- 24″ screen
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- Five millisecond response time
Cost: $185
Sometimes you just have to spend more money to get what you want and if you’re serious about getting serious resolution, a budget computer monitor won’t cut it.
Key Features:
- 2560 x 1440 resolution
- 16:9 aspect ratio
- 1.8 times clearer than regular HD
Cost: $380
Other Budget Monitors
NexiGo Premium Portable Monitor
Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you can’t have a great computer monitor. This portable monitor weighs 1.9lbs and it offers a 1080p IPS display.
Key Features:
- Built-in speakers
- Easy to connect with other devices
- 15.6″ screen and 60hz refresh rate
Cost: $160
AOC e1659Fwu 15.6″ Ultra Slim Portable Monitor
This ultra slim portable monitor comes with 15.6″ of viewable screen area and a max resolution of 1366 x 768.
Key Features:
- Portable monitor
- Connect multiple devices simultaneously
- 16:9 aspect ratio
Cost: $100
This touchscreen monitor offers 10 touch points with a variety of applications you can use the monitor for.
Key Features:
- 178 degree viewing angle
- Frameless design
- Comes with ASUS eye care technology with flicker-free backlighting
Cost: $190
VIOTEK LinQ Touch 16″ Portable Touchscreen
Here is a full-HD resolution screen with 10 point multi-touch and freedom to connect to all your devices. It weighs less than two pounds and is great for travel.
Key Features:
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- 60hz refresh rate
- MacOS does not support the touchscreen feature
Cost: $220
Angel POS 17″ HDMI Resistive Touch
If you’re looking for an affordable POS for your business, this option is the right choice. It has an HDMI and VGA port and a 17″ HDMI LED display.
Key Features:
- 1280 x 1024 resolution
- Resistive touchscreen holds up against wear and tear
- 10.4ms response time
Cost: $220
While we’re all about improving our computer space whether it’s for an office or gaming room. We understand that everyone needs to follow a budget and that’s why we chose some of these options. If you’re working on improving your office or rec space, you might want to check out some of the best ergonomic keyboards as well. These help protect your hands, wrists, and arms while allowing you to feel more comfortable if you have to type for a long period.