Recently invested in a great Nvidia graphics card for your rig? Well, now you need a G-Sync monitor to keep screen tearing to a minimum as you maintain speedy frame rates. Luckily, many of the best gaming monitors offer G-Sync compatibility, while some take it a step further by including a G-Sync module to keep the action smooth throughout the monitor's entire refresh rate range. But no matter what type of display and G-Sync support you’re after, we’ve found a host of awesome gaming monitors to suit your needs.
TL;DR – These Are the Best G-Sync Gaming Monitors:
G-Sync is a popular VRR format that’s key to motion fidelity when your gaming PC is packing a Nvidia GPU. This technology syncs your monitor’s refresh rate to your graphics card to prevent stuttering. Even after nailing G-Sync support, the best G-Sync gaming monitors will also offer solid picture quality, high refresh rates, and low input lag, so you can have the most enjoyable experience playing the best PC games.
Admittedly, the market for true G-Sync monitors is relatively slim. Still, we’ve included a few awesome options, like our top display, the ASUS ROG Swift PG279QM, sporting high refresh rates and low latency, and the stunning Alienware AW3423DW with its G-Sync Ultimate support and OLED-QD panel. Yes, some of our picks may be FreeSync gaming monitors, but they are G-Sync compatible and deliver silky-smooth action. Take a look at our nine favorites below.
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1. Asus ROG Swift PG279QM
Best G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Our Top Pick
Asus ROG Swift PG279QM
G-Sync ensures motion fidelity is maintained even at high refresh rates on this sizable 1440p display.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
27”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
2,560 x 1,440
Panel Type
IPS G-Sync
Brightness
350 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
240Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
3 x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x USB-A
PROS
1440p resolution and 240Hz refresh rate
Height, tilt, and swivel adjustable stand
CONS
Only HDMI 2.0
Big, sharp, and fast — the ASUS ROG Swift PG279QM ticks all those boxes. With a 1440p resolution, visuals will be crisp while managing an insane 240Hz refresh rate. Its true G-Sync module ensures motion fidelity at those high frame rates and pairs well with the wickedly fast response time and low input lag for an exceptional gaming experience.
The ASUS ROG Swift PG279QM puts a sizable 27-inch monitor on your desk, making it easier to spot enemies in the distance. Its IPS panel delivers an extremely wide color gamut and superb color accuracy, so all your images will pop. You don’t get the deepest blacks, but that’s a common issue with IPS panels.
To round out this solid monitor is a sturdy stand that’s height, tilt, and swivel adjustable. And you’ll be good to hook up a gaming PC and your consoles with three video ports on board: a DisplayPort 1.4 and three HDMI 2.0. However, the limited bandwidth of the HDMI means you won’t be able to use the monitor to its full abilities when slotted in that port.
2. Asus VG248QG
Best Budget G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Asus VG248QG
An ultra-cheap monitor offering a 1080p resolution, 165Hz refresh rate, and G-sync compatibility for under $200.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
23.8”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
1,920 x 1,080
Panel Type
TN FreeSync Premium and G-Sync Compatible
Brightness
350 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
165Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, Audio out
PROS
Speedy response times
165Hz refresh rate
CONS
Poor viewing angles
You don’t need to spend a fortune for a smooth gaming experience, and the Asus VG248QG is proof of this. This ergonomic 23.8-inch monitor is the predecessor of one of our previous favorites, the Asus VG248QE. Its latest iteration offers 1080p, 165Hz, and uses a TN panel to shave the price below $200. Though it's not the largest or most capable monitor out there, it sure beats the typical boring 24-inch, 60Hz office monitor.
You get G-Sync compatibility with this option, the least strenuous of the G-Sync standards available. However, the support of any refresh rate between 1Hz and 165Hz using the DisplayPort connection provides a broad frame rate range and prevents screen tearing. The HDMI port doesn’t support G-Sync, but there’s also native FreeSync if you’ve got an AMD graphics card in another rig. You get smooth motion due to a speedy response time, and input lag is low for responsive gaming. Therefore, you’re getting an overall pleasant gaming experience.
The downside? Image quality is not the best out there, and the viewing angles are limited. Its TN panel doesn’t handle contrast ratio well, and you don’t get deep blacks. However, for budget gaming displays, motion clarity is key, not image quality, so this is the perfect monitor.
3. MSI G274F
Best 1080p G-Sync Gaming Monitor
MSI G274F
Grab this affordable 1080p if you want G-Sync compatibility, a 180 Hz refresh rate, and a solid IPS panel.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
27”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
1,920 x 1,080
Panel Type
IPS G-Sync Compatible
Brightness
250 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
180Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort 1.2, Audio out
PROS
Solid color accuracy
Excellent motion clarity
CONS
Not the brightest
The MSI G274F is an affordable 1080p gaming monitor ready to take on some serious action. For well under $200, you get G-Sync compatibility on a sizable 27-inch monitor that’s ready to hit 180 fps in full HD. The monitor has excellent color accuracy, outstanding motion clarity, and a good contrast ratio—for an IPS panel. However, it doesn’t get very bright, hitting only 250 nits.
This G-Sync-compatible monitor doesn’t have a full G-Sync module baked in. Though the lack of a true G-Sync is disappointing, the monitor still keeps frames smooth, working with G-Sync at a refresh rate between 60Hz and 180Hz. You’ll find the 60Hz lower limit on G-Sync compatibility shouldn’t be an issue with most games, as running games at 1080p isn’t very demanding.
This monitor has narrow bezels around the screen, a cable routing hole to keep things tidy, and a changeable tilt— unfortunately, its height and rotation aren’t adjustable. There are three video ports, including two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.2. Beyond that, connectivity is limited to just one audio out jack.
4. Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2723DF)
Best 1440p G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2723DF)
A fast IPS panel with excellent motion handling, low input lag, and high peak brightness, though you won’t find deep blacks in dark scenes.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
27”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
2,560 x 1,440
Panel Type
IPS FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync compatible
Brightness
600 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
240Hz (280HZ OC)
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
PROS
Overclockable 240Hz refresh rate
Seriously stylish
CONS
Average native contrast ratio
Alienware’s 27 Gaming Monitor nearly bumped our top pick out of its spot thanks to its impressive specs and equally great price. The 27-inch, 1440p display offers a 240Hz refresh rate, which you can overclock a bit higher. A G-Sync compatibility certification keeps your GPU and monitor playing nicely to eliminate screen tearing while hitting those speedy frame rates.
Not only are you getting a super-fast IPS panel with excellent motion handling and low input lag, but also a high peak brightness of 600 nits alongside 95% DCI-P3 color coverage for visual fidelity. HDR support is a nice bonus, though it’s only on par with budget HDR TVs. However, unfortunately, it doesn’t have the best native contrast ratio, so you’ll lose the deep blacks when playing in darker spaces.
Alienware is known for its class-leading build quality, so we love the robust, highly-adjustable stand that ensures a solid viewing angle from just about anywhere. There’s even contoured ventilation to keep the monitor cool and a cable management system for a tidier space.
5. Asus ROG Swift PG32UQR
Best 4K G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Asus ROG Swift PG32UQR
Enjoy a crisp 4K resolution, a solid 144Hz refresh rate, and a low 1ms response time with this G-sync-compatible monitor.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
32”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
3,840 x 2,160
Panel Type
IPS G-Sync Compatible
Brightness
450 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
144Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
PROS
Crisp 4K picture
Low 1ms response time
CONS
Sacrifice frame rates in 4K
The best 4K monitors stand out because of their outrageously sharp and vibrant images, and one of the top options available is the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQR. It offers that crisp resolution at a somewhat reasonable under $1,000 price tag. Color performance is excellent, and the monitor’s high 600 nits maximum brightness adds punchy visuals to HDR games.
You sacrifice frame rates when going 4K, but the 144Hz on this monitor still provides a butter-smooth, enjoyable gaming experience. Ensuring motion fidelity is G-Sync compatibility. There may be issues at low framerates with this monitor’s high native resolution, but that can be avoided by upgrading to a much more expensive monitor like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX.
Other gaming features include a low 1ms response time to eliminate smearing alongside motion blur and auto low latency to keep visuals on point. You also get one DisplayPort that supports a 144Hz refresh rate. Otherwise, two HDMIs support 120 FPS, which is ideal for connecting the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S.
6. Alienware AW3423DW
Best Ultrawide G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Alienware AW3423DW
The Alienware AW3423DW combines the beauty of OLED with an ultrawide display, showing more of your game while also making it more beautiful.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
34"
Aspect Ratio
21:9
Resolution
3,440x1,440
Panel Type
QD-OLED G-Sync Ultimate
Brightness
250 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
175Hz
Response Time
0.1ms
Inputs
2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4
PROS
Stunning OLED-QD panel
Immersive ultrawide display
CONS
HDMI 2.0 ports are limiting
Enjoy a far more immersive gaming experience with one of the best ultrawide monitors, the Alienware AW3423DW. This 34-inch display has a crisp 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and a 21:9 aspect ratio, while it wraps around your field of view with a slight 1800R curve, providing a better sense of space without any distortion.
What makes this monitor a real standout is the outstanding OLED panel featuring quantum dot technology for a granular level of pixel control, bringing incredible contrast and dynamic range. And the picture is taken even further in HDR. Blacks are deep to retain even more detail in scenes and highlights sparkle with up to 1,000 nit brightness. Color performance is equally brilliant thanks to wide color gamut coverage and solid accuracy straight out of the box, making this display a great option for creatives too.
If that picture quality sounds great, we are happy to report that motion clarity is equally brilliant. OLED panels are known for their responsiveness, and this one keeps up with the best of them, as we noticed absolutely no sign of ghosting during testing. This panel can also achieve up to 175fps for silky smooth frames. It even comes with G-Sync Ultimate support, so from 1Hz to 175Hz comes ultra-enjoyable, stutter-free gameplay when paired with Nvidia graphics. However, only the DisplayPort can achieve 175Hz. Unfortunately, the two HDMI 2.0 ports are limited to 100Hz with PC and 60Hz with the current-gen consoles.
7. Asus ROG Swift PG259QN (out of stock)
Best G-Sync for Esports
Asus ROG Swift PG259QN
Hit 360fps on this fast IPS monitor with excellent motion handling, while great color accuracy, a high maximum brightness, and decent contrast for an IPS panel make for good image quality.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
24.5”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
1,920 x 1,080
Panel Type
IPS G-Sync
Brightness
400 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
360Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
1x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, 2x USB, audio out
PROS
Speedy 360Hz refresh rate
Compact
CONS
Low resolution
If you’re often playing League of Legends, Overwatch, or other fast-paced esports games, it’s important to grab a monitor with a high refresh rate over a high resolution. Luckily, the Asus ROG Swift PG259QN offers an absurdly fast 360fps for smooth, virtually blur-free motion—if your GPU can even keep up with those speeds. That’s paired with an equally stellar response time for virtually no flickering.
This monitor offers a G-Sync module, which means G-Sync will work at any refresh rate between 1Hz and 360Hz. That’s the widest range of G-Sync compatibility you’ll find on any monitor. The result is super-smooth gaming that always takes full advantage of your Nvidia video card’s performance. There’s even a G-Sync Esports Mode to get the ideal settings for esports games.
This 24.5-inch, 1080p monitor offers good image quality, and the small size makes it easier to see all the action on screen without constantly moving your eyes back and forth. It has excellent build quality and a large, sturdy stand. The monitor includes two USB ports for connecting wired peripherals, though they’re on the rear and can be a bit difficult to access.
8. Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX
Best G-Sync Ultimate
Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX
With G-Sync Ultimate, this 4K monitor is ready to keep visuals looking on point and can even make the most of HDR.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
32”
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
3,840 x 2,160
Panel Type
IPS G-Sync Ultimate
Brightness
1400 cd/m2
Refresh Rate
144Hz
Response Time
1ms
Inputs
3x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort, 3x USB, audio-out
PROS
Excellent HDR performance
Mini-LED backlight
CONS
Mediocre motion clarity
To make the most of G-Sync technology, then the ultra-premium and expensive Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX is the way to go. This monitor totes G-Sync Ultimate, so it’ll work at any refresh rate between 1Hz and 144Hz. This feature is essential, as most video cards will not be able to sustain a high framerate at this monitor’s 4K resolution, and it’s safe to say everyone wants smooth, tear-free gaming. Unlike most G-Sync Ultimate monitors, this monitor can even make the most of HDR. It’s currently the best HDR gaming monitor money can buy.
The PG32UQX rocks a Mini-LED backlight that sets a new standard for contrast ratio and dark scene performance in an IPS gaming monitor. It also blows away the competition when it comes to HDR and has an insane peak brightness. Motion performance is not outstanding, but it’s alright for a 4K monitor, and it’s ultimately about immersive visuals more than split-second responsiveness.
The build quality goes beyond great and into the realm of the absurd. The monitor is massive, thick, and even has a tiny secondary screen that can display information like GPU system temperatures or current framerate. There are three USB ports, one of which is on the top and meant for connecting a webcam.
9. LG 65" C4 OLED Evo
Best G-Sync Gaming TV
LG 65" C4 OLED Evo
Rich colors and impressive contrast come on this TV that’s well-equipped for gaming.
Product Specifications
Screen Size
65"
Aspect Ratio
16:9
Resolution
3,840 x 2,160
Panel Type
OLED FreeSync Premium, G-Sync Compatible
Brightness
1,000 nits (HDR)
Refresh Rate
144Hz
Response Time
0.1ms
Inputs
4x HDMI 2.1, 3x USB-in, Ethernet, Headphone, Digital Optical Out, Co-ax
PROS
Brighter more vibrant display than last year’s model
Speedy 144Hz refresh rate for PC gaming
CONS
No MLA technology used in the OLED panel
Skip a monitor altogether and enjoy the bigger screen on the best TV for gaming instead. The LG C4 OLED Evo is a stunning TV that takes full advantage of its OLED panel. With that type of technology comes the fastest pixel response times and control down to each individual pixel for next-level contrast. Blacks are truly black with little to no haloing around brighter objects in dark scenes. The rich colors pop on screen as well, so anything from lush landscapes to creepy basements look incredible.
We wish Micro Lens Array (MLA) technology were used in the LG C4 to take the picture quality further, but that’s reserved for the pricier LG G4. Still, the latest model of this series sees a brightness boost that is taken in even further in HDR thanks to a new AI processor. It’s an excellent option for HDR gaming, bringing extra texture and clarity to the action.
Beyond the unbeatable picture, the LG C4 OLED Evo packs all the gaming chops. Its four HDMI 2.1 ports deliver 4K/120Hz to make the most of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. But when hooked up to a capable gaming PC, it can push up to 144Hz in 4K for silky smooth action. Of course, this TV is rocking G-Sync compatibility and has FreeSync Premium baked-in. While true G-Sync would’ve been nice, it’s a rarity in TVs. Even still, screen stuttering and tearing will be a thing of the past, and when in Game Optimizer mode, input lag remains virtually undetectable. Don't want to play on PC or console? Its Gaming Dashboard brings simple access to cloud gaming services and makes for easy adjustments to game settings.
Where to Get the Best G-Sync Monitor in the UK
Thankfully all of the best monitors listed are also available to pick up in the UK. The retailers will certainly be different, but each and every one of the G-Sync displays we've mentioned can be purchased on the other side of the pond as well. Typically, most of these can be found on sites like Amazon, Currys PC World, Overclockers, and more. Funnily enough, Dell even stocks its own products, such as this 24-Inch Gaming Monitor, one of the best options for those on a tight budget.
What to Look for in a G-Sync Gaming Monitor
Nvidia G-Sync comes in three flavors: G-Sync Ultimate, G-Sync, and G-Sync Compatible. It’s important to understand the difference between G-Sync standards before you buy.
The G-Sync Ultimate and G-Sync standards require a dedicated G-Sync hardware module inside the display. This module is a dedicated chip that synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the Nvidia video card’s output.
The G-Sync module’s key benefit is the ability to display smooth motion across a monitor’s entire refresh rate range. You will see smooth, evenly paced gameplay even when a game’s frame rate takes a dip. The motion will not feel as smooth as at a higher framerate, of course, but it will remain free of tearing and stuttering.
G-Sync Ultimate adds image quality standards including HDR and wide color gamut support. This is a sly marketing move from Nvidia, as it suggests these benefits are related to G-Sync. That’s not the case: Nvidia is only certifying the monitor performs to a certain minimum standard. The motion performance of G-Sync Ultimate is the same as standard G-Sync.
G-Sync Compatible is where things get dicey. G-Sync Compatible monitors don’t have a G-Sync module at all and instead rely on the open VESA Adaptive Sync standard. This standard is now common to a wide variety of monitors and, because it doesn’t require a G-Sync module, can hit very low price points.
However, the VESA Adaptive Sync standard does not support refresh rates any lower than 40Hz, and some monitors that are G-Sync compatible have a minimum G-Sync refresh rate even higher than that. G-Sync may not work properly at a framerate below the minimum refresh rate the monitor is G-Sync Compatible monitor is certified to support. You could see flickering or blanking (blank frames) while gaming. Nvidia maintains a database showing the certified specifications of all G-Sync and G-Sync compatible monitors.
Technically, G-Sync Compatible monitors may also have issues when a game’s framerate exceeds a monitor’s refresh rate. This is less frequently an issue, though, and can be addressed with a frame rate cap.
The downsides of G-Sync Compatible monitors are rare in practice. We test dozens of monitors every year at IGN, and it’s unusual that we see flickering or blanking during our review process. Most G-Sync Compatible monitors are certified to work down to a refresh rate of at least 48Hz, which means gameplay should remain smooth and trouble-free at 48 frames per second or above. That’s not a difficult standard to achieve, especially on 1080p and 1440p monitors.
Still, you should keep the difference between G-Sync Compatible and G-Sync in mind. If you want smooth and trouble-free G-Sync in every game, at any frame rate, you’ll want to buy a monitor with G-Sync or G-Sync Ultimate.
G-Sync Monitor FAQs
Is it worth getting a G-Sync Monitor?
If you have a G-Sync compatible graphics card, then you’ll definitely want to invest in a G-Sync monitor. With a large range of suitable monitors out there, you’ll find something that suits your requirements. G-Sync monitors allow you to enjoy fast-paced games without screen tearing and stuttering. This is especially useful for FPS games or esports gamers. Plus, you don’t have to spend a load of money to get a decent G-Sync monitor (but you can if your budget allows).
FreeSync vs. G-Sync
When deciding between a FreeSync vs. G-Sync gaming monitor, you’ll discover the two VRR (variable refresh rate) technologies perform similarly. Both aim to synchronize the refresh rate of the display and the frame rate of the PC or console you’re gaming on. FreeSync and G-Sync compatible displays use the same VESA Adaptive-Sync technical standard, delivering similar results in games and often cross-compatibility. Many of the displays that support FreeSync work as G-Sync-compatible, or vice versa, even if manufacturers can’t make the claim outright.
The only exceptions are G-Sync and G-Sync Ultimate monitors, as these require additional hardware, only work with Nvidia GPUs, and handle adaptive sync through a display’s entire refresh rate—other VRR usually taps out around 48Hz. That means these monitors are often pricier. G-Sync and FreeSync monitors also attempt to differentiate themselves by adding HDR or color gamut support, but this is more fluff than anything else.
When are G-Sync monitors on sale?
There a couple major shopping events where you can probably find a great deal on a G-Sync compatible gaming monitor. Prime Day and Black Friday are the best times to find sales on electronics, but other sales events also happen on the Fourth of July, Labor Day, and during the Back to School season.
Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.
Originally posted:
Aug 27, 2024 11:38 am