High refresh rate monitors bring out the best in fast-paced games and action scenes because the picture is smoother with no motion blur. The best high refresh rate monitors are specifically designed to give players the edge in competitive gaming, where matches are won and lost in the blink of an eye. Some high refresh rate options are available for everyday office work as well, and others with superb color accuracy are for graphics designers, animators, and other creatives wanting the best picture quality when working with video.

Related: The 6 Best Ultrawide Monitors (Updated 2023)

Refresh rate refers to how often an image is redrawn on the screen per second and is measured in hertz (Hz). Most TVs and older gaming monitors work at 60Hz, so the screen refreshes 60 times per second. The latest high refresh rate gaming monitors often start at around 120Hz and go all the way up to 500Hz to deliver the smoothest visuals possible. Work and creator models don't go so high and average around 100Hz, which is perfectly fine for animations and media. There are countless high refresh rate monitors currently available, and we've made it easier to choose the best one for your budget and requirements with our list of the best high refresh rate monitors for every use.

Gigabyte's M32U tops our list because of its exceptional all-around versatility at a price most buyers can afford. Its first strong point is its 32-inch screen size, ideal for gaming, watching movies, or work, and still capable of fitting on most desks. It also has a curved VA screen for better immersion offering an amazing 4K UHD (3840x2160) resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate that can be overclocked to 160Hz. Gamers will appreciate AMD FreeSync to reduce screen tearing and a range of tools like timers and frame counters in the dashboard.

Despite its impressive features and gaming pedigree, the M32U has discrete all-black styling with slim bezels, making it perfect for home or office use. Connectivity is about standard for this type of monitor with a DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB-C port, and four USB-A ports, including one upstream and three downstream. There are a pair of built-in three-watt speakers, but most players will probably use a headset through the 3.5-millimeter port or wirelessly.

With the Gigabyte M32U, you get a large 32-inch curved display with 4K UHD resolution and a fast native 144Hz refresh rate at a decent price. It's a no-brainer if you're looking for a monitor that does everything and even works with the latest PS5 and Xbox Series S/X consoles.

No high refresh-rate monitor list is complete without the current speed king, the Alienware AW2524H. This monitor pushes the boundaries of performance and is one of the first to reach an astounding 500Hz refresh rate. Apart from its stellar refresh rate, the AW2524H features a 24-inch IPS display with FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution.

It may be small, but it can fit on any desk and is the perfect size for competitive players who need all the action within their field of view. NVIDIA's G-Sync is standard, and the Alienware AW2524H also includes its Reflex Analyzer to monitor latency. Design-wise, it's obvious the AW2524H is an Alienware product with its Dark Side of the Moon color scheme and flowing lines of the Legend 2.0 design language. There are numerous ports to connect your PC or console, like two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and four USB-A ports. There are no built-in speakers or USB-C ports.

The Alienware is the best option if you're looking for outright speed, but finding a PC to match it might be hard. At least it offers a degree of future-proofing and the bragging rights of owning the world's fastest monitor.

The Acer Predator X25 is an excellent option if you're looking for high-speed at a decent price. It has a 24-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS display with NVIDIA's G-Sync and Reflex Latency Analyzer as standard features to prevent screen tearing and reduce input lag. The Predator X25's main claim to fame is its speedy 360Hz refresh rate offering one of the smoothest experiences of any gaming monitor, making it perfect for demanding Esports players.

Another standout feature of the Acer Predator X25 is its unique design with spiked legs, and grooved triangular accents in an attractive pattern on the back. Thankfully the RGB lighting is limited to a thin line bordering the accents to give it a classy vibe. Connectivity options include a DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, and four USB-A ports. There are also two built-in two-watt speakers and the obligatory 3.5-millimeter port for audio.

Acer's Predator X25 was one of the first 360Hz to hit the market, and it still holds its own against newer upstarts thanks to its incredible design and stunning picture quality. It's one of the best 360Hz monitor options if you're using it with a PC only.

Monitors like the LG Ultragear OLED aren't just about raw speed and offer impressive visual clarity and vibrant colors. Instead of working with LEDs like many alternatives on this list, LG's offering uses an OLED display to bring out the best in your games or movies with vivid bright colors and dark, rich blacks. In addition to its brilliant colors, it offers a fast 240Hz refresh rate with its 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) display. It doesn't matter what type of graphics card you have because this monitor is compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC.

When it comes to styling, the Ultragear OLED might look restrained, but it feels tough with superb build quality and a high level of adjustability, including pivot, swivel, and height adjustments. The port selection is practical for PC or console players with two HDMI 2.1 ports, two USB-A ports, and a DisplayPort 1.4. Both HDMI 2.1 ports VRR on the PS5 and the latest Xbox consoles, although they are limited to 120Hz.

The Ultragear OLED is one of the best high refresh rate monitors because of its perfect blend of speed and picture quality. It's also great for consoles because its HDMI 2.1 ports up to 120Hz refresh rates.

Portable monitors like the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE are ideal for people on the go and allow them to increase productivity or enjoy their games in airports, coffee shops, or other places without access to a regular monitor. The ROG Strix XG16AHPE resembles a tablet with its slimline design and features an eye-catching 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS display. It also has a fast 144Hz refresh rate and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility.

There were no cutting corners in the design aspects, and this portable monitor includes a 7,800 mAh battery with a three-hour lifespan for use in situations when there's no power. Connectivity is courtesy of a USB-C and a Micro-HDMI port, which are versatile enough to connect most PCs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Adjusting the screen orientation is also no problem thanks to the built-in kickstand allowing it to stand vertically or horizontally.

While the ROG Strix XG16AHPE isn't for everyone, those who travel often will appreciate its compact size and nifty features to keep them entertained on the move.

High refresh rate monitors like the Dell S3422DW aren't designed for gaming and are more for improving your work productivity and media viewing experiences. Opening multiple windows is easy thanks to its ultra-wide 34-inch display with WQHD (3440 x 1440) resolution. Thankfully, there's a slight 1800R curve to keep the viewing angles tight, so you can see everything onscreen at a glance without turning your neck. While the 100Hz refresh rate might not seem like much compared to many other monitors listed here, it's adequate for enjoying videos and combines with the AMD FreeSync adaptive sync for a decent gaming experience.

For a reasonably-priced monitor, the S3422DW has a stylish two-tone design with a silver stand and backing, and a black frame surrounding the display. It's a refreshing change from the all-black designs and even fits in two powerful five-watt speakers for the best experience when watching shows and movies. Ports are limited to two HDMI 2.0 ports, two USB-A ports, DisplayPort 1.2, and a 3.5-millimeter audio port, which should be enough to connect most devices.

Creatives like graphic designers and animators can check out the ASUS ProArt PA32UCG-K if they want a high refresh-rate monitor with superb color accuracy. Unlike most of the monitors on this list, it's built for clarity instead of speed and features with 1,152 local dimming zones on its 32-inch 4K UHD display. More dimming zones mean better contrast and brightness, contributing to its amazing HDR picture quality.

This monitor has a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, with 98% DCI-P3, 99.5% Adobe RGB, and 100% sRGB color accuracy. It includes the X-rite i1 Display Pro calibration tool and compatibility with most third-party alternatives. The ProArt PA32UCG-K can also work for media and gaming with its 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync compatibility. Its versatility extends to its connectivity ports with two Thunderbolt 3-compatible USB-C ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, an HDMI 2.0, an HDMI 2.1, and three USB-As to connect to any device.

There's no doubt about the ProArt PA32UCG-K's performance, but its hefty price tag limits its appeal to pros needing the best.

Samsung's Odyssey Neo G9 G95NA Gaming Monitor is among the best high refresh rate options for gamers looking for maximum immersion. Its gigantic ultra-wide 49-inch offers an incredible 5,120 x 1,440 resolution and HDR1000 rating from its 1000R curved display. This monitor wows with its immersive wraparound field and 240Hz refresh rate, making you feel like you're in the center of the action no matter what game you're playing. Another benefit of the huge display is that it's the equivalent of having two smaller monitors and allows you to open multiple productivity windows on one screen.

The Odyssey Neo G9 G95NA's looks are just as spectacular as its performance, thanks to its white backing, tasteful etched accents, and RGB circle where it meets the stand. The front is a different story with a less-distracting matte black frame and legs. Connectivity ports include two USB-As, two HDMI 2.1s, and a DisplayPort 1.4, although the HDMIs are limited to 144Hz.

With its massive ultra-wide screen, Odyssey Neo G9 G95NA is an excellent alternative to standard gaming monitors, provided you have a powerful graphics card and can afford its high price tag.

Buyers looking for the best bang for their buck when looking for a high refresh rate monitor might try the ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM because it has one of the best price-to-performance ratios in its class. The 27-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) monitor is versatile enough for games or work and features DisplayHDR 400 certification. NVIDIA's G-Sync is a standard feature and combines with the Asus Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync technology and fast 280Hz refresh rate to provide smooth visuals whether you're playing games or watching fast-paced sports or action movies.

At this price point, you can't expect the best design, but the VG279QM punches above its weight with sturdy build quality and a stylish angular backing with tasteful accents and the TUF Gaming logo. When it comes to connectivity, there are two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.2. Audio is courtesy of a 3.5-millimeter jack or a pair of built-in two-watt speakers. The VG279QM offers outstanding value, and it's easy to forgive its limited port selection when you consider its price and performance.

BenQ's MOBIUZ EX240N is one of the least expensive high refresh rate models out there and still has respectable performance. It has a 24-inch FHD VA display with FHD (1920x1080) resolution that's perfect for gaming or office use. The 165Hz refresh rate is impressive considering its budget-friendly price, and it combines with AMD FreeSync to deliver smooth visuals whether you're playing games or watching movies.

Design-wise, it has super slim bezels on the top and sides with a thick bar running across the bottom. The legs elevate the all-black styling with their silver color and red accents in the front. Connectivity options are limited to an HDMI 2.0 port, a DisplayPort 1.2, and a 3.5-millimeter jack, but it's hard to complain, considering its low price tag. Overall, the MOBIUZ EX240N is one of the best options for budget-conscious buyers looking for a high refresh rate at the lowest price possible.

Which is the best high refresh-rate monitor?

The Gigabyte MU23 is the best because it has a large 32-inch display with 4K resolution and a fast 144Hz refresh rate. It also has built-in speakers and ample connectivity ports for most devices.

The ASUS ProArt PA32UCG-K is best for creatives because it has phenomenal color accuracy and includes an X-rite i1 Display Pro calibration tool. AMD FreeSync is standard, and it has a fast 120Hz refresh rate. It's incredibly expensive, though, and targeted toward professionals who need the best.

BenQ's MOBIUZ EX240N is the best option if you're looking for a high refresh rate monitor on a tight budget. It has a 24-inch FHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate and FreeSync adaptive sync technology.

FAQs

Q: Is there a 500Hz monitor?

A: Yes, the Alienware AW2524H is the world's first 500Hz monitor.

Q: Is a higher refresh rate noticeable?

A: Yes, a jump from a standard 60Hz monitor to 100Hz or higher is noticeable because the graphics are smoother and less blurry.

Q: What refresh rate do I need for my monitor?

A: It depends on what you're using it for. Options like the Gigabyte M32U have the best all-around capabilities at a decent price, while the Benq Mobiuz ex240n is a more budget-friendly alternative with fewer features. There are also impressive monitors for professionals that can be quite expensive.

Q: Are high refresh-rate monitors worth it?

A: Yes, high refresh rate monitors are worth it becauase they offer smoother and more fluid visuals that enhance the overall picture quality.