7 Best Gaming Monitors for PS5 in 2026 (4K, OLED, & Budget Picks)
You've finally got your hands on a PlayStation 5, a powerhouse console capable of breathtaking 4K visuals and buttery-smooth 120 frames-per-second gameplay. But are you seeing its full potential on that old TV? Finding one of the best gaming monitors for PS5 is the single most important upgrade you can make to truly experience next-gen gaming the way developers intended. A dedicated monitor offers lower input lag, faster response times, and features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) that most TVs just can't match, giving you a serious competitive edge and a more immersive world to explore.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to find the perfect display for your setup and budget. We'll dive into the essential features, compare the top models on the market, and help you choose a monitor that will make games like God of War Ragnarök and Call of Duty look and feel absolutely incredible. Get ready to transform your gaming experience!
Quick Summary
- HDMI 2.1 is Essential: To get 4K resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate on the PS5, a monitor with an HDMI 2.1 port is non-negotiable. This is the key that unlocks the console's maximum performance.
- Resolution and Refresh Rate: 4K (3840×2160) is the ideal resolution for stunning visual fidelity. A 120Hz (or higher) refresh rate is crucial for smooth, fluid motion in fast-paced games.
- Panel Type Matters: OLED panels offer perfect blacks and vibrant colors but can be expensive. IPS panels provide a great balance of color accuracy and viewing angles, making them a popular choice for gaming.
- Consider Your Space and Budget: Monitors range from compact 27-inch models perfect for a desk to larger curved screens for ultimate immersion. Prices vary widely, so determine your budget before you start shopping.
- Beyond the Screen: Don't forget about ergonomics and audio! A comfortable gaming chair and a quality headset are key components of a complete and immersive PS5 gaming station.
What Makes a Monitor One of the Best for PlayStation 5?
Not all monitors are created equal, especially when it comes to pairing one with the PS5. The console has specific capabilities that require a display with the right technology to shine. Simply plugging it into any old computer monitor means you're likely leaving a huge amount of performance on the table. Let's break down the critical features that define the top PS5 monitors.
The HDMI 2.1 Connection
This is the single most important feature to look for. HDMI 2.1 is the latest standard, and it provides the necessary bandwidth to transmit a 4K signal at 120 frames per second (fps). Without it, you'll be stuck choosing between high resolution (4K at 60Hz) or a high frame rate (1080p at 120Hz). You can't have both.
An HDMI 2.1 port ensures you get the best of both worlds: crisp, detailed graphics and incredibly smooth gameplay. This makes a massive difference in competitive shooters where every frame counts and in visually rich adventure games where the world comes to life with fluid motion.
4K Resolution and 120Hz Refresh Rate
The PS5 was built for 4K gaming. A 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) monitor has four times the pixels of a standard 1080p display, resulting in dramatically sharper and more detailed images. You'll notice finer textures, clearer distant objects, and an overall more realistic and immersive picture.
The 120Hz refresh rate refers to how many times the screen updates per second. A 120Hz monitor can display up to 120fps, which is double the 60fps standard of the previous console generation. This higher refresh rate makes motion on screen look incredibly fluid and responsive, reducing motion blur and making gameplay feel more immediate.
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
Variable Refresh Rate is a fantastic feature that helps eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. Screen tearing happens when the monitor's refresh rate is out of sync with the frame rate being output by the PS5. VRR allows the monitor to dynamically adjust its refresh rate to match the console's output in real-time.
This creates a consistently smooth experience, even if a game's frame rate dips slightly during an intense action sequence. The PS5 supports VRR over HDMI 2.1, so having a compatible monitor ensures your games will run as smoothly as possible, without any distracting visual glitches.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
HDR significantly expands the range of color and contrast a display can produce. A good HDR monitor will deliver brighter whites, deeper blacks, and a wider, more vibrant spectrum of colors. This makes game worlds look more lifelike and dynamic.
When looking at HDR, you'll see certifications like DisplayHDR 400, 600, or 1000. The higher the number, the brighter the display can get, which generally leads to a more impactful HDR experience. For a truly noticeable effect on a PS5 gaming display, aiming for DisplayHDR 600 or higher is recommended.
How to Choose the Perfect PS5 Gaming Display for You
Now that you know the key technical specs, how do you pick the right monitor from the dozens of options available? The best choice depends on your personal preferences, your gaming space, and your budget. Thinking about these factors will help you narrow down the field and find the perfect match.
Panel Technology: OLED vs. IPS vs. VA
The technology behind the screen's panel has a huge impact on image quality. There are three main types you'll encounter:
- OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode): This is the premium choice. Each pixel on an OLED screen produces its own light, meaning it can turn off completely to create perfect, inky blacks. This results in an infinite contrast ratio and incredibly vibrant colors. The downside is that they are the most expensive and carry a small risk of burn-in with static images over long periods.
- IPS (In-Plane Switching): IPS panels are the all-around champions for most gamers. They offer excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, meaning the picture looks great even if you're not sitting directly in front of it. Their contrast isn't as good as VA or OLED, but modern IPS displays still provide a fantastic, vivid image.
- VA (Vertical Alignment): VA panels are known for their superior contrast ratios compared to IPS panels, which means they can produce deeper blacks. This makes them great for playing in a dark room. However, they can sometimes have slower response times, which might lead to some motion blur or "ghosting" in very fast-paced games.
Screen Size and Resolution Density
Screen size is a matter of personal preference and desk space. The most common sizes for desktop gaming are 27 inches and 32 inches.
A 27-inch 4K monitor offers incredible pixel density, resulting in an extremely sharp and crisp image. It's a great size for a standard desk setup where you're sitting relatively close to the screen. For competitive gaming, many players prefer this size as it allows them to see the entire screen without moving their head.
A 32-inch 4K monitor provides a more immersive, cinematic experience. It's fantastic for single-player adventure games where you want to feel absorbed in the world. Just make sure you have enough space on your desk and that you're sitting far enough back to comfortably view the entire screen.
Budget: How Much Should You Spend?
The best monitors for PlayStation 5 can range from around $500 to well over $1,000. It's important to set a realistic budget. You can find excellent 4K 120Hz+ monitors in the $500-$700 range that tick all the essential boxes. These models, often from brands like Gigabyte or Acer, offer incredible value.
If you're willing to spend more, you can get into premium features like OLED panels or Mini-LED backlighting for superior HDR performance. Monitors like the Sony INZONE M9 or high-end ASUS ROG models fall into this category. While they offer a noticeable step up in quality, the law of diminishing returns applies. The difference between a $700 monitor and a $1,200 monitor is often less dramatic than the difference between a $300 monitor and a $700 one.
The 7 Best Gaming Monitors for PS5 in 2026
Alright, let's get to the fun part! We've tested, researched, and compiled a list of the absolute best gaming monitors to pair with your PS5. This list covers different budgets and use cases, from the ultimate performance to the best value.
1. Sony INZONE M9
Best Overall Monitor for PS5
It's no surprise that the best overall monitor comes from Sony itself. The INZONE M9 was designed from the ground up to be the perfect companion for the PlayStation 5. It features a 27-inch 4K IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate and, of course, two HDMI 2.1 ports. What really sets it apart are the PS5-specific features.
The M9 has Auto HDR Tone Mapping, which automatically optimizes HDR settings when it detects a PS5, ensuring you get the best possible picture without fiddling with menus. It also has an Auto Genre Picture Mode that switches between a low-latency Game Mode and a quality-focused Cinema Mode. Its Full Array Local Dimming (FALD) backlight provides excellent contrast for an IPS panel, making HDR content pop. The aesthetic even matches the PS5's design perfectly.
Pros
- Perfect integration with PS5-exclusive features
- Excellent HDR performance with Full Array Local Dimming
- Sharp 4K resolution and smooth 144Hz refresh rate
Cons
- Local dimming can have some blooming around bright objects
- Premium price tag
2. ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM
Best Premium OLED Monitor
If you want the absolute best picture quality and money is no object, the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM is a dream come true. This 32-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor delivers the breathtaking contrast and vibrant colors that only OLED technology can. Blacks are truly black, making every scene, especially in dark games like Alan Wake 2, incredibly immersive.
With a 240Hz refresh rate and a near-instantaneous 0.03ms response time, motion clarity is flawless. It fully supports the PS5's 4K 120Hz output via HDMI 2.1 and its HDR performance is simply stunning. ASUS also includes features to protect the OLED panel, like a custom heatsink and pixel-shifting technology, to minimize the risk of burn-in. This is the top-tier choice for visual purists.
Pros
- Unbeatable contrast and color from QD-OLED panel
- Extremely fast response time for zero motion blur
- Gorgeous 32-inch 4K display for cinematic immersion
Cons
- Very expensive
- Potential for burn-in over its lifespan (though protections are in place)
3. Gigabyte M28U
Best 4K Value Monitor
For gamers who want all the essential PS5 features without breaking the bank, the Gigabyte M28U is a long-standing favorite. It offers a 28-inch 4K IPS panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and two HDMI 2.1 ports, checking all the crucial boxes for next-gen console gaming. The image is sharp, the colors are accurate, and it fully supports 4K at 120Hz.
While its HDR performance isn't as impressive as more expensive models, it's still a capable display that provides a massive upgrade over a standard 1080p monitor or an older 4K TV. It also includes a built-in KVM switch, which is a handy bonus if you plan to use it with a PC as well. For the price, the M28U delivers an incredible amount of performance and is one of the best entry points into high-performance PS5 gaming.
Pros
- Fantastic value for a 4K 144Hz HDMI 2.1 monitor
- Sharp and color-accurate IPS panel
- Includes a KVM switch for easy multi-device use
Cons
- Mediocre HDR performance
- Basic stand with limited adjustability
4. AOC Q27G3XMN
Best Budget HDR Monitor
This monitor is a fascinating option for those on a tighter budget who still crave a great HDR experience. The AOC Q27G3XMN is a 27-inch 1440p monitor, not 4K. However, the PS5 now supports 1440p output, and this monitor's secret weapon is its Mini-LED backlight with 336 local dimming zones.
This technology, usually found on much more expensive displays, allows it to achieve incredible brightness and contrast, leading to an HDR experience that punches way above its price class. It has a 180Hz refresh rate and feels incredibly responsive. While you sacrifice 4K sharpness, you gain HDR performance that rivals monitors costing twice as much, making it a unique and compelling choice.
Pros
- Outstanding HDR performance for the price thanks to Mini-LED
- Fast and responsive 180Hz refresh rate
- Excellent contrast for a non-OLED display
Cons
- 1440p resolution is not as sharp as 4K
- Lacks official HDMI 2.1 ports (but still supports 1440p at 120Hz)
5. Alienware AW2725DF
Best for Competitive Play
Similar to the AOC, the Alienware AW2725DF is a 1440p monitor, but it's built for one thing: speed. This 27-inch QD-OLED display boasts a blistering 360Hz refresh rate. While the PS5 maxes out at 120Hz, the monitor's incredibly low input lag and near-instant pixel response time make it a top choice for competitive players.
The QD-OLED panel also means you get the same stunning colors and infinite contrast as its 4K cousins. Games look vibrant and motion is perfectly clear. If your primary focus is multiplayer games like Apex Legends or Fortnite, where every millisecond matters, this monitor provides a tangible competitive advantage while still looking beautiful in single-player titles.
Pros
- World-class response time and motion clarity
- Beautiful QD-OLED panel with vibrant colors
- Low input lag for maximum responsiveness
Cons
- 1440p resolution, not 4K
- High price for a 1440p monitor
6. The Portable Monitor
Best for Gaming on the Go
Who says your PS5 has to stay at home? For gamers who travel, are in a dorm, or just want a flexible second screen, The Portable Monitor is a fantastic solution. These lightweight, slim displays are designed to be carried anywhere, allowing you to set up a high-quality gaming session in minutes.
While most portable monitors are 1080p at 60Hz, they offer incredibly low latency compared to hotel TVs, making them a huge upgrade for gaming on the road. They connect easily via HDMI and are often powered by USB-C, making for a simple, clutter-free setup. It's the perfect way to ensure you never have to miss a gaming session, no matter where you are.
Pros
- Incredibly portable and easy to set up anywhere
- Low input lag is great for responsive gaming
- Perfect for travel, dorm rooms, or as a secondary display
Cons
- Typically limited to 1080p resolution and 60Hz refresh rate
- Smaller screen size than a traditional desktop monitor
7. Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 (G70NC)
Best Curved Option
The Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 is a 32-inch curved 4K monitor that aims to pull you into the game. The 1000R curvature is quite aggressive, matching the natural curve of the human eye to enhance immersion and reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions. It's a VA panel, which provides a fantastic native contrast ratio.
It features a 165Hz refresh rate, HDMI 2.1 support for 4K 120Hz gaming, and solid HDR performance. The curved screen really shines in first-person games and racing simulators, creating a cockpit-like feel that flat screens can't replicate. If you want to feel completely enveloped by your game world, the Neo G7 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Immersive 1000R curved screen
- High contrast VA panel for deep blacks
- Sharp 4K resolution and 165Hz refresh rate
Cons
- The aggressive curve isn't for everyone
- Viewing angles are not as good as an IPS panel
Creating the Ultimate PS5 Gaming Station
A top-tier monitor is the centerpiece of any great gaming setup, but it's not the only piece of the puzzle. To create a truly comfortable and immersive experience, you need to think about your entire environment. After all, you'll be spending hours in front of that beautiful new screen!
First, consider your seating. A standard office chair won't cut it for long gaming marathons. Investing in a high-quality ergonomic gaming chair, like those from Secretlab, can make a world of difference. These chairs are designed to support your posture, with adjustable lumbar support, armrests, and recline functions that prevent back pain and fatigue.
Next is audio. The PS5's 3D AudioTech is incredible, but you need a good pair of headphones to take full advantage of it. A quality headset can provide a competitive edge by letting you hear enemy footsteps with precise directional accuracy. Brands like BASN Audio offer in-ear monitors that provide excellent sound isolation and detailed audio, letting you hear every subtle cue in the game world.
Combining a great display with immersive audio and a comfortable chair is the true recipe for the ultimate PS5 experience.
Pro Tip: When setting up your monitor, take a few minutes to calibrate the picture settings. Most monitors come with overly bright or cool color settings out of the box. Use the PS5's built-in HDR calibration tool (found in Settings > Screen and Video > Adjust HDR) to get the most accurate and visually pleasing image.
Pricing and Cost Comparison
Navigating the prices of the best monitors for PlayStation 5 can be tricky. Here’s a quick comparison table to help you see how our top picks stack up against each other in terms of key features and typical price range.
| Monitor | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Panel Type | Key Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony INZONE M9 | 4K | 144Hz | IPS | PS5-Specific Features | $$$ (Premium) |
| ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM | 4K | 240Hz | QD-OLED | Best Picture Quality | $$$$ (Enthusiast) |
| Gigabyte M28U | 4K | 144Hz | IPS | Best Value | $$ (Mid-Range) |
| AOC Q27G3XMN | 1440p | 180Hz | VA (Mini-LED) | Budget HDR King | $ (Budget) |
| Alienware AW2725DF | 1440p | 360Hz | QD-OLED | Competitive Speed | $$$ (Premium) |
| The Portable Monitor | 1080p | 60Hz | IPS | Ultimate Portability | $ (Budget) |
| Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 | 4K | 165Hz | VA (Curved) | Immersive Curve | $$$ (Premium) |
Price Ranges: $ = Under $400, $$ = $400-$700, $$$ = $700-$1000, $$$$ = Over $1000. Always check current pricing on retailer websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What monitor works best for PS5?
The best monitor for the PS5 is one that has at least one HDMI 2.1 port, a 4K resolution, and a 120Hz or higher refresh rate. This combination allows you to use the console's full potential for both visual quality and smooth performance. The Sony INZONE M9 is an excellent all-around choice because it was specifically designed with PS5-centric features that create a seamless user experience.
Is 144Hz better than 120Hz for PS5?
While the PS5's maximum output is 120Hz, a 144Hz monitor is still an excellent choice. The monitor will simply run at 120Hz when connected to the PS5, so you won't lose any performance. Having the higher 144Hz capability is a great bit of future-proofing if you ever plan to connect a gaming PC to the same display, as PCs can push frame rates beyond 120fps.
Is 240Hz overkill for PS5?
Yes, a 240Hz refresh rate is technically overkill for the PS5, as the console cannot output more than 120 frames per second. However, 240Hz monitors are often high-end models that also excel in other areas, such as response time, color accuracy, and build quality. If you find a 240Hz monitor you love (like an OLED model), it will work perfectly with the PS5 at 120Hz and will be ready for future high-end PC gaming.
Is 1440p vs 4K noticeable?
Yes, the difference between 1440p and 4K is noticeable, especially on a 27-inch or larger screen. 4K resolution offers a significantly sharper and more detailed image. That said, 1440p is still a major step up from 1080p and is often considered the "sweet spot" for PC gaming. For the PS5, which is designed as a 4K machine, a 4K monitor is generally the recommended choice to get the best visual experience.
Is 24 or 27 inches better for gaming?
This largely comes down to personal preference and how you play. Many competitive gamers prefer 24-inch monitors because the smaller screen size allows them to see everything at once without moving their eyes too much, which can improve reaction time. For more immersive, single-player experiences, a 27-inch monitor provides a larger, more engaging picture without being overwhelmingly big for a typical desk setup. For most PS5 users, 27 inches is the ideal size.
Final Thoughts
Choosing one of the best gaming monitors for your PS5 is an investment that pays off every time you power on your console. The jump from a standard TV to a dedicated gaming display with HDMI 2.1, 4K resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate is truly transformative. Games feel more responsive, worlds look more vibrant, and you gain a competitive edge you never knew you were missing.
Whether you opt for the perfect console integration of the Sony INZONE M9, the incredible value of the Gigabyte M28U, or the breathtaking picture of an OLED display, you're making a significant upgrade. For those who need flexibility, a solution like The Portable Monitor ensures your gaming doesn't have to stop when you leave the house.
Take the time to consider your budget, your space, and what features matter most to you. No matter which you choose from this list, you're on your way to unlocking the true power of your PlayStation 5 and seeing your favorite games in a brilliant new light. Happy gaming!
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