What is the best gaming monitor for PS5 under $500?

Question

I recently managed to snag a PS5, but I’m quickly realizing that my old 1080p office monitor really isn't doing the console any justice. I want to upgrade to something that actually shows off those next-gen graphics, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the technical specs out there. My budget is strictly under $500, so I know I’m not in the high-end OLED territory, but I’m hoping to find the absolute best bang for my buck.

I’ve been trying to decide if I should prioritize a native 4K resolution at 60Hz or if I should go for a 1440p display that can hit that sweet 120Hz for smoother gameplay in shooters and racing games. Since the PS5 supports 1440p now, is that the better route to take? Also, how important is HDMI 2.1 at this price point? I’ve seen some monitors like the Gigabyte M27U or the LG UltraGear series mentioned in reviews, but I’m worried about things like HDR looking washed out or getting stuck with bad backlight bleed. I mostly play a mix of cinematic single-player games and some occasional Warzone sessions.

If you had a $500 limit, which specific monitor would you recommend that balances picture quality with those PS5-specific features like VRR? I'd love to hear what you guys are actually using!

htzhvsvnzf · Accepted Answer

yo, i think the Gigabyte M27U 27" 160Hz 4K Gaming Monitor is literally your best bet right now. honestly, dont worry about the 4k vs 1440p choice cuz this monitor actually does it all under $500!!

1. it's got HDMI 2.1 for that sweet VRR support.
2. great for cinematic single-player and warzone.
3. basically the best bang for ur buck.

hdr is kinda meh but thats standard at this price... gl!

John Riley · Answer

basically, IPS panels lack deep contrast, so blacks look gray. * lighting: do you play in the dark? I'm satisfied with the ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A 28” 4K HDR Monitor!

Jackson · Answer

Honestly, I'd suggest a different approach. I've tried those budget 4K monitors mentioned above and, unfortunately, the experience was reallyyy disappointing. Most 4K screens under $500 lack the local dimming or brightness for actual HDR, so it just ends up looking washed out like you feared. Plus, the backlight bleed on my last one was so bad I had to return it.

Instead of forcing 4K at this price, I think you'll get more bang for your buck with a high-end 1440p panel. It's way safer for your budget and looks amazing on PS5 now that it's fully supported.

- LG 27GR83B-B 27-inch UltraGear QHD 240Hz Gaming Monitor - This is basically the gold standard for your situation. It actually has HDMI 2.1, which is super rare for 1440p, so you get full VRR support on the PS5.
- The motion clarity is miles better for those Warzone sessions than a cheap 4K/60Hz screen.
- You avoid that grainy "office monitor" look without spending $800+ on an OLED.

Tbh, I think you'll be way happier with the smoothness of a high-spec 1440p monitor than a mediocre 4K panel that struggles with contrast. Just my two cents tho! gl!