Gaming monitors are responsible for displaying the output of your graphics card and CPU, but they vary widely in their performance. Understanding what specs and marketing terms mean can help you translate them into real-world performance so you can find the best gaming monitor for your needs.

A good gaming monitor will provide crisp, clear visuals without excessive lag or blurring. It should have a high refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), and a low response time, measured in milliseconds. A lower response time will allow you to see more detail and fast-moving action, while a higher refresh rate will reduce motion blur or ghosting.

Many gamers also prefer a curved screen to a flat one, as it can immerse them in the action by wrapping the image around them. This is particularly important for first-person shooters, as it allows you to see enemies lurking in the shadows before they become visible to the player.

A gaming monitor that supports HDR, or high dynamic range, will provide more realistic colors and deeper blacks. To ensure a quality experience, look for VESA’s DisplayHDR 1000 or Ultra HD Premium certifications.

If you’re looking for a great gaming monitor that’s compatible with both PC and consoles, opt for one with AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-SYNC support. This will ensure that your games run smoothly on both platforms and eliminate any tearing or artifacts. You can also improve the gaming experience by choosing a monitor that supports backlight strobing, which decreases motion blur by flashing the screen’s backlight in quick bursts. Look for a technology that is clearly specified, such as NVIDIA Ultra Low Motion Blur, 1ms MPRT, or Blur Busters Approved. gaming monitor