Best Monitors Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In today’s world, the right monitor is more than just a screen; it’s the centrepiece of your productivity, gaming, and creative pursuits. After extensive hands-on testing and analysis of countless user experiences, we’ve curated the definitive list of the best monitors available in the UK. We’ve assessed everything from pixel-perfect colour accuracy to lightning-fast refresh rates to find the perfect display for every need and budget. For us, one model stood out as the ultimate all-rounder: the Dell S2725DS 27-inch QHD 100Hz IPS Monitor. It masterfully balances stunning QHD visuals, smooth performance, and outstanding ergonomic design, making it our top recommendation for most users.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Monitors Uk

#1 Dell S2725DS 27-inch QHD 100Hz IPS Monitor – Ideal for: All-Round Excellence and Home Office Productivity

From the moment we unboxed the Dell S2725DS 27-inch QHD 100Hz IPS Monitor, it was clear this was a contender for the top spot. The lifestyle-inspired white design with its subtle texture is a refreshing change from the typical black office monitor. Setup was a breeze, a sentiment echoed by many users who found it was working within minutes. The real magic, however, happens when you power it on. The 27-inch QHD (2560×1440) IPS panel delivers exceptionally sharp text and vibrant, accurate colours, covering 99% of the sRGB gamut. We found it perfect for everything from editing documents to light photo work. The 100Hz refresh rate provides a noticeable smoothness when scrolling through web pages or documents compared to standard 60Hz screens. A pleasant surprise was the quality of the dual 5W built-in speakers; while they won’t replace a dedicated sound system, they are impressively clear and powerful for integrated audio, a point many owners praised. The fully ergonomic stand is the star of the show, allowing for height, pivot, swivel, and tilt adjustments, making it incredibly easy to find the perfect viewing position for long work sessions. This level of adjustability is something we, and many users, feel is essential for a primary work monitor.

#2 ASUS TUF Gaming VG249QM1A 270Hz Gaming Monitor – Perfect for: Competitive Esports Gaming

For serious gamers where every millisecond counts, the ASUS TUF Gaming VG249QM1A 270Hz Gaming Monitor is an absolute weapon. The headline feature is its blistering 270Hz overclocked refresh rate, which we found delivered an incredibly fluid and responsive experience in fast-paced titles like FPS and racing sims. Motion is buttery smooth, giving you a tangible edge in competitive play. Paired with a 1ms GTG response time and ASUS’s Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology, ghosting and motion blur are virtually non-existent. The Fast IPS panel provides great colours and viewing angles without sacrificing speed. During our tests, the G-Sync and FreeSync Premium compatibility worked flawlessly, eliminating any screen tearing for a seamless visual experience. The 24-inch size and 1080p resolution are the sweet spot for many competitive players, allowing for high frame rates without needing a top-of-the-line graphics card. While our test unit was perfect, it’s worth noting some user reviews mention concerns about quality control, such as dead pixels on arrival. However, for pure gaming performance at this price point, we found this monitor is incredibly hard to beat.

#3 Dell P2425H 24″ 100Hz IPS Monitor – Suits: Professional Office and Everyday Use

The Dell P2425H 24″ 100Hz IPS Monitor is a workhorse designed for productivity and comfort. We were immediately impressed by its focus on practical features for the modern office. The Full HD (1920×1080) resolution is crisp and clear on the 23.8-inch screen, making text easy to read for hours on end. Similar to its larger sibling, the 100Hz refresh rate makes for a smoother experience than older 60Hz models. Where this monitor truly shines is its connectivity and ergonomics. With a vast array of ports including USB-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA, and a 4-port USB hub, it acts as a fantastic docking station for your laptop. We loved being able to connect everything with a single USB-C cable. Dell’s ComfortView Plus technology is excellent, reducing blue light at the hardware level without the yellow tint we see on many other monitors. This was confirmed by users who work long hours and noted the screen is pleasantly bright without causing eye strain. The stand offers great adjustability with pivot and swivel, allowing you to easily switch to a portrait orientation for coding or document work. For a reliable, feature-rich office monitor, this is a phenomenal choice.

#4 AOC Q27G3XMN 27-Inch QHD Mini LED Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: High-Fidelity HDR Gaming

The AOC Q27G3XMN 27-Inch QHD Mini LED Gaming Monitor brings premium display technology to a more accessible price point, and the results are stunning. The key here is the Mini LED backlight with 336 local dimming zones. In our testing, this produced incredible contrast with deep, inky blacks and dazzlingly bright highlights, making HDR content truly pop. With its HDR1000 certification and 1000 nits peak brightness, games that support HDR look absolutely phenomenal, a sentiment many users shared, stating it made their games look loads better. The QHD resolution on the 27-inch VA panel offers a great balance of sharpness and performance, while the 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time ensure gameplay is fluid and responsive. We experienced no noticeable ghosting or tearing, thanks to the effective FreeSync Premium Pro implementation. The build quality feels solid, and the height-adjustable stand is a welcome ergonomic feature. While the menu buttons can be a bit fiddly, once you have it set up, the visual experience is simply breathtaking for the price. This is the monitor we’d recommend for gamers who prioritise visual quality and impactful HDR.

#5 BenQ PD2705U 27″ 4K UHD Designer Monitor with USB-C – Perfect for: Professional Creative Work and Design

Stepping up to an ultrawide monitor is a game-changer, and the Philips Evnia 34M2C5501A 34 inch Curved Gaming Monitor offers a fantastic immersive experience. The 34-inch curved VA panel with a 21:9 aspect ratio completely fills your peripheral vision, making games and movies feel incredibly engaging. The WQHD (3440×1440) resolution keeps the image sharp, while the 180Hz refresh rate ensures that fast-paced action remains smooth and clear. We found the colours to be vibrant and the contrast to be excellent. A unique feature we loved is the Ambiglow technology, which projects light onto the wall behind the monitor that matches the on-screen colours, extending the action beyond the bezels. For productivity, the extra horizontal space is a dream for multitasking, easily accommodating multiple windows side-by-side. This was a key benefit noted by users who bought it for a work-from-home setup. The stand is fully adjustable, and the built-in USB hub is a convenient addition. While the integrated speakers are fairly basic, the overall package delivers an impressive and immersive experience for both gaming and work.

#7 KOORUI 27 Inch 1440P 180Hz Curved Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: Budget-Conscious QHD Gaming

The KOORUI 27 Inch 1440P 180Hz Curved Gaming Monitor proves you don’t need to break the bank to get a high-performance gaming display. We were genuinely impressed by the value on offer here. For a very reasonable price, you get a 27-inch QHD (1440p) display with a snappy 180Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time. During our gaming sessions, the experience was super smooth, a significant upgrade from 60Hz or even 1080p screens, a point many users upgrading for the first time were thrilled with. The 1500R curvature adds a nice level of immersion without being too aggressive. The VA panel delivers good contrast and vibrant colours, especially after a little tweaking in the settings menu. While it doesn’t have the HDR capabilities of more expensive models, the standard picture quality is more than sufficient for an enjoyable gaming experience. It supports Adaptive Sync to prevent screen tearing with both AMD and NVIDIA cards. The main trade-off at this price point is the stand, which only offers tilt adjustment. However, with VESA compatibility, you can always add a more ergonomic monitor arm down the line. For gamers on a tight budget, this monitor offers an incredible feature set for the money.

#8 KTC 27 Inch 2K 210Hz Gaming Monitor – Perfect for: High-Refresh Rate Performance on a Budget

The KTC 27 Inch 2K 210Hz Gaming Monitor is another strong contender in the value-oriented gaming space, pushing refresh rates to an even higher level. The standout feature is its ability to overclock to a blazing 210Hz at 2K (2560×1440) resolution. In our tests, this Fast IPS panel delivered exceptionally smooth motion and a rapid 1ms response time, making it feel incredibly responsive in competitive games. What surprised us was the colour performance; with 131% sRGB coverage and excellent factory accuracy (ΔE<2), this monitor doesn’t just perform well, it looks fantastic too. Games were vibrant and sharp, and it could easily double for creative work in a pinch. The brightness is also a strong point at 450 nits, making the image pop even in well-lit rooms. The inclusion of HDR400 support is a nice bonus. We found the design to be sleek and modern, and setup was straightforward. Like other budget-focused models, the stand is tilt-only, so a VESA arm might be a worthwhile investment for better ergonomics. However, for gamers who want the highest possible refresh rate at 1440p without spending a fortune, this KTC monitor offers incredible performance for its price.

#9 AOC 27G2ZNE 27 inch 240Hz Monitor – Suits: Fast-Paced Full HD Gaming

If your gaming rig is built to push maximum frames at 1080p, the AOC 27G2ZNE 27 inch 240Hz Monitor is a perfect match. This monitor is all about speed. The 240Hz refresh rate and lightning-fast 0.5ms MPRT response time combine to create an incredibly fluid and blur-free gaming experience. We tested it with several fast-paced shooters and found that target tracking was exceptionally clear and responsive. The VA panel provides a significant advantage in contrast over IPS and TN panels, with deep, rich blacks that make darker game scenes look more atmospheric. FreeSync Premium support works perfectly to eliminate screen tearing, which is crucial when frames are fluctuating at such a high rate. The 27-inch size at 1080p resolution results in a lower pixel density, so it might not be the sharpest for desktop work, but for gaming from a slight distance, it’s perfectly fine. A key point to note, as highlighted by some users and our own experience, is that the fixed stand offers no ergonomic adjustments at all. If you need height or tilt adjustment, you’ll need a VESA mount. For pure, unadulterated speed in Full HD, however, this AOC monitor is a formidable and well-priced option.

#10 ARZOPA 16.1” 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor – Ideal for: On-the-Go Gaming and Productivity

The ARZOPA 16.1” 144Hz Portable Gaming Monitor has completely changed how we think about mobile setups. This isn’t just a secondary screen; it’s a high-performance portable display. The most impressive feature is the 144Hz refresh rate, which is a rarity in the portable monitor space. We connected it to a gaming laptop and a Steam Deck and were blown away by how smooth and responsive the experience was. It’s a genuine game-changer for playing demanding titles while travelling. The 16.1-inch 1080p screen is crisp, and the 100% sRGB coverage means colours are vibrant and accurate. We were also impressed by its build quality; it’s incredibly thin and light but feels sturdy, with a solid integrated kickstand. Setup is pure plug-and-play simplicity, using a single USB-C cable for both power and display with compatible devices. Many users praise its versatility, using it for everything from extending their work laptop screen to playing their PS5 in a different room. While the built-in speakers are understandably basic, the overall package is incredibly compelling. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who needs a high-quality, high-refresh-rate display that can go anywhere.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right monitor can feel overwhelming. Here are the key factors we recommend you focus on to find the perfect fit for your needs.

• Resolution: This determines the sharpness of your screen. Full HD (1920×1080) is the baseline, QHD (2560×1440) offers a significant step up in clarity and is the sweet spot for many, while 4K (3840×2160) provides the ultimate in detail, ideal for creative work and media consumption.
• Screen Size: 24 inches is great for competitive gaming and smaller desks. 27 inches is the most popular size, offering a great balance for both QHD and 4K resolutions. 32 inches and above provide an immersive experience but require more desk space.
• Refresh Rate (Hz): This is how many times per second the screen updates. 60-75Hz is standard for office work. 100-120Hz provides a noticeably smoother experience for general use. For gaming, 144Hz is the gold standard, with 240Hz and higher offering a competitive edge for esports.
• Panel Type: This technology dictates image quality. We explain this in more detail below, but the main types are IPS (best colours), VA (best contrast), and TN (fastest, but with weaker colours).
• Ergonomics: A good stand can make a huge difference to your comfort. Look for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot (rotation to portrait mode) adjustments, especially for a work monitor.

Understanding Panel Technology: IPS vs. VA vs. TN

The panel is the heart of the monitor. Here’s a simple breakdown of the three main types:

• IPS (In-Plane Switching): This is the go-to for most users. IPS panels offer the best colour accuracy and the widest viewing angles, meaning the picture looks great even when viewed from the side. They are perfect for creative work, general productivity, and immersive gaming. Their main weakness used to be slower response times, but modern “Fast IPS” panels have largely solved this.
• VA (Vertical Alignment): The defining feature of VA panels is their superior contrast ratio. They produce much deeper, inkier blacks than IPS panels, which makes them fantastic for watching movies and playing atmospheric games in a dark room. Their main downside can be “ghosting” or motion blur in fast-moving scenes, though this has improved in recent models.
• TN (Twisted Nematic): TN panels are all about speed. They offer the fastest response times and highest refresh rates, making them a traditional favourite for competitive esports players. However, this speed comes at the cost of colour accuracy and viewing angles, which are noticeably worse than IPS and VA panels.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid buyer’s remorse by sidestepping these common pitfalls:

• Ignoring Ergonomics: Buying a monitor with a fixed, non-adjustable stand might save money initially but can lead to neck and back strain. Check for height and tilt adjustments as a minimum.
• Mismatching Resolution and Size: A large screen with a low resolution (like a 27-inch 1080p monitor) can look pixelated and blurry for text. Conversely, a small 4K screen can make text too tiny to read without scaling. Aim for the sweet spot: QHD on a 27-inch monitor is ideal for many.
• Forgetting About Ports: Ensure the monitor has the inputs you need (DisplayPort is often required for high refresh rates) and consider extras like USB-C or a USB hub for convenience.
• Paying for Features You Don’t Need: If you only browse the web and use office apps, a 240Hz gaming monitor is overkill. Choose a monitor that matches your primary use case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best monitor size for most users in the UK?

For the majority of users, a 27-inch monitor is the perfect sweet spot. It provides ample screen real estate for multitasking without being overwhelmingly large on a standard desk. This size is ideal for QHD (1440p) resolution, which offers a significant sharpness upgrade over Full HD.

Is a 4K monitor worth it for general use?

For general use like web browsing and office work, a 4K monitor can be overkill and often requires display scaling to make text readable, which can sometimes cause issues with older apps. However, for creative professionals working with high-resolution photos and videos, or for media consumption, the incredible detail of a 4K monitor is absolutely worth it.

Which monitor brand is most reliable in the UK?

Brands like Dell, BenQ, and ASUS consistently receive high marks for reliability and build quality. Dell is particularly well-regarded for its office and productivity monitors, often backing them with excellent warranties. ASUS and AOC are top contenders in the gaming space, known for their high-performance features.

What’s the difference between an IPS, VA, and TN panel?

In short: IPS panels have the best colour accuracy and viewing angles. VA panels have the best contrast with deep blacks. TN panels have the fastest response times but the weakest colours and viewing angles. For most people, an IPS panel is the best all-round choice.

How much should I spend on a good computer monitor?

You can find excellent Full HD monitors for £100-£150. For a great QHD high-refresh-rate gaming or productivity monitor, expect to spend between £200 and £400. Professional 4K and high-end gaming displays can range from £400 to over £1000.

Do I need a high refresh rate monitor for non-gaming tasks?

While not essential, a monitor with a higher refresh rate (100Hz or more) provides a noticeably smoother and more pleasant experience even for general desktop use. Simple actions like scrolling through web pages and moving windows feel more fluid and responsive. It’s a quality-of-life feature that’s hard to go back from once you’ve tried it.

What are the key features to look for when buying a new monitor in 2024?

In 2024, look for a monitor with at least a QHD (2560×1440) resolution, an IPS panel for great colours, and a refresh rate of at least 100Hz. Good ergonomic adjustability (height, tilt) is crucial for comfort. For connectivity, USB-C is a highly convenient feature for modern laptops, providing video, data, and power over a single cable.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration of dozens of models, we are confident in naming the Dell S2725DS 27-inch QHD 100Hz IPS Monitor as the best monitor for most people in the UK. It hits the perfect trifecta of performance, design, and ergonomics. The QHD resolution is sharp and detailed, the 100Hz IPS panel is smooth and colourful, and the fully adjustable stand ensures you can work or play in comfort for hours. It’s a versatile display that excels at productivity tasks, looks great for entertainment, and is even capable of casual gaming. It doesn’t try to be a specialist; instead, it masters the art of being an outstanding all-rounder, making it a fantastic investment for any modern desk setup.