KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor Review: The Ultimate Budget Gaming Contender?

There’s a familiar challenge every PC builder on a budget faces: the final-component conundrum. You’ve meticulously selected your CPU and GPU, balancing cores and clock speeds, stretching every pound to its absolute limit. The case is chosen, the power supply is ready, but then you look at the last, crucial piece of the puzzle—the monitor. It’s the window to your entire digital world, yet it’s often where compromises are made. Do you settle for a sluggish 60Hz panel to save cash, knowing you’re leaving your new hardware’s potential untapped? Or do you blow the budget on a high-end display, forcing downgrades elsewhere? I’ve been there, staring at spreadsheets, trying to find that elusive sweet spot. A monitor that doesn’t just display an image but enhances the experience, providing the smooth, fluid motion that modern gaming demands, all without requiring a second mortgage. This search for accessible performance is precisely what led us to the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor.

What to Consider Before Buying a Gaming Monitor

A monitor is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for translating your computer’s power into a visual experience you can actually enjoy. For gamers, it’s the difference between seeing a blur and seeing the enemy, between choppy frustration and fluid victory. For office workers or creators, it’s about having the screen real estate and colour accuracy to work efficiently and comfortably for hours. The main benefits of a well-chosen monitor are improved performance in games, reduced eye strain during long sessions, and a more immersive experience for movies and content creation. It solves the critical problem of being bottlenecked by your display, ensuring the performance you paid for in your PC components isn’t wasted on a screen that can’t keep up.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone building a budget-to-mid-range PC, a student who needs a versatile screen for both work and play, or anyone looking to upgrade from an old 60Hz office monitor to a smoother experience. It’s for the person who understands that refresh rate matters but doesn’t have the budget for a 240Hz esports-grade panel. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who are professional graphic designers needing perfect colour accuracy (who should look at professionally calibrated IPS panels) or competitive esports athletes who require the absolute lowest response times and highest refresh rates available. For them, a higher-spec 144Hz or 240Hz monitor would be a more appropriate, albeit more expensive, alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Panel Type & Size: The screen’s technology dictates its performance. VA panels, like the one in this KOORUI, are known for deep blacks and high contrast. IPS panels offer better viewing angles and colour accuracy, while TN panels are the fastest but have the weakest colours. At 22 inches, a 1080p resolution provides a sharp, pixel-dense image perfect for smaller desks.
  • Refresh Rate & Response Time: Refresh rate (in Hz) is how many times per second the screen updates. 100Hz offers a noticeably smoother experience over standard 60Hz or 75Hz monitors, crucial for gaming. Response time (in ms) measures how quickly pixels change colour. A lower number like 5ms is good for reducing motion blur.
  • Connectivity & Ergonomics: Check the ports. HDMI and VGA are standard, but do you need DisplayPort for G-Sync compatibility or USB-C for a modern laptop? Ergonomics are also key; a basic stand may only offer tilt, while more expensive models provide height, swivel, and pivot adjustments. VESA compatibility is a huge plus, allowing you to use a monitor arm for perfect positioning.
  • Adaptive Sync: This technology (FreeSync for AMD, G-Sync Compatible for NVIDIA) matches the monitor’s refresh rate to your GPU’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. It’s a must-have feature for any modern gaming monitor, and its inclusion at a budget price point is a significant advantage.

Keeping these factors in mind, the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor stands out in several areas, particularly for its blend of a VA panel and a 100Hz refresh rate. You can explore its detailed specifications here.

While the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing and First Impressions

Pulling the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor from its straightforward, no-frills packaging, the first thing we noticed was its surprising lightness. Weighing in at just 2.3 kilograms, it’s incredibly easy to handle. The box contains the essentials: the monitor panel, the two-part stand, a power adapter, an HDMI cable, and a small instruction manual. Assembly was simple in theory, though we found the instructions a bit vague, a sentiment echoed by some users who found it took them a moment to figure out the stand. It snaps together without tools, which is convenient, but it doesn’t inspire the same rock-solid confidence as a metal stand from a more premium brand. The power brick is also notably small and light; while this is great for cable management, it did feel somewhat flimsy, confirming feedback from a user who reported their plug broke within a week. Once assembled, however, the monitor looks sleek and modern. The three-sided ultra-thin bezel design is a highlight, giving it a look that punches well above its price tag and makes it a great candidate for a dual-monitor setup. The overall aesthetic is clean and minimalist, finished in a matte black plastic that resists fingerprints well.

Advantages

  • Excellent value for a 100Hz refresh rate, offering smooth gameplay
  • High 3000:1 contrast VA panel delivers deep blacks and vibrant colours
  • VESA 100x100mm mount compatibility provides ergonomic flexibility
  • Modern three-sided thin-bezel design looks great on any desk

Limitations

  • Limited connectivity with only one HDMI and one VGA port (no DisplayPort)
  • Basic stand with tilt-only adjustment and a somewhat clunky design

A Deep Dive into the KOORUI E2212F’s Performance

A monitor’s true worth is only revealed when it’s powered on and put through its paces. Specifications on a box are one thing, but real-world performance in gaming, productivity, and media consumption is what truly matters. We spent extensive time with the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor, testing it across a range of scenarios to see if its performance lives up to its promising feature set. From fast-paced shooters to sprawling spreadsheets, we pushed it to its limits.

100Hz Gaming Performance: Smoothness on a Budget

The headline feature here is undoubtedly the 100Hz refresh rate, and we’re happy to report that it delivers. The jump from a standard 60Hz or 75Hz monitor is immediately apparent. In fast-paced games like *Apex Legends* and *Valorant*, the added smoothness translates to a clearer picture during rapid movements, making it easier to track targets and react quickly. Mouse movements on the desktop feel snappier, and simply scrolling through web pages becomes a more fluid experience. It’s a genuine quality-of-life improvement that you’ll find hard to go back from.

We enabled Adaptive Sync in our graphics card’s control panel, and the monitor had no issue keeping gameplay tear-free. As our frame rates fluctuated, the monitor adjusted its refresh rate in lockstep, providing a smooth, consistent experience without the ugly horizontal tearing that can ruin immersion. The 5ms response time is respectable for a VA panel in this price bracket. While it’s not going to challenge the 1ms speeds of high-end TN or OLED panels, we observed minimal ghosting or motion blur in all but the most extreme, high-contrast scenarios. For the vast majority of gamers, especially those playing story-driven titles, strategy games, or even casual competitive shooters, the response time is more than adequate. It strikes a fantastic balance, prioritizing a smooth, tear-free experience that dramatically enhances gameplay over a standard office monitor.

Visual Fidelity: The VA Panel Advantage

While the refresh rate is for motion, the panel quality is for everything else, and this is where the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor really shines. KOORUI opted for a Vertical Alignment (VA) panel, and the benefits are stark. The specified 3000:1 static contrast ratio isn’t just a number; it’s a tangible advantage. We loaded up visually rich games like *Cyberpunk 2077* and streamed high-bitrate movies with dark scenes, and the results were impressive. Blacks are deep and inky, not the washed-out grey you often find on budget IPS monitors. This makes darker game environments feel more atmospheric and cinematic content more engaging. One user described the picture as “deep,” and we couldn’t agree more; there’s a richness and depth to the image that belies its entry-level price.

Colour reproduction is also strong, with the monitor covering 99% of the sRGB colour gamut. This means colours are vibrant and accurate enough for gaming, web browsing, and even light photo editing. Out of the box, the calibration was decent, though we did make minor adjustments to brightness and colour temperature using the on-screen display (OSD). The 178-degree viewing angles are as advertised, with minimal colour shift when viewing the screen from the side, which is great for when you have a friend looking over your shoulder. The matte screen finish does an excellent job of diffusing reflections, making it comfortable to use in a brightly lit room. For anyone who values picture quality and immersion, the high-contrast VA panel is a compelling reason to consider this particular model.

Design and Build: Form Meets Budgetary Function

The physical design of the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor is a story of smart compromises. The focus is clearly on what’s on-screen, which is reflected in the fantastic thin-bezel design. It creates a modern, almost borderless look that minimizes distractions and makes the 22-inch screen feel more expansive. However, to hit this price point, cuts had to be made elsewhere, and that’s most evident in the stand. It’s made entirely of plastic and offers only basic tilt functionality (-5° forward, 15° backward). There’s no height adjustment or swivel, which is a common trait in this segment. While functional, we agree with user feedback that describes the base as “clunky”; it does the job but lacks elegance.

Another area of compromise is the OSD controls. A series of small, physical buttons are located on the underside of the bottom bezel. We found them difficult to distinguish by feel, leading to a bit of fumbling when trying to navigate the menus. This was a specific point of frustration for one user, who noted it was “difficult to understand which button you are clicking.” This is a minor annoyance, as you typically don’t adjust settings often, but it’s a noticeable difference from the more intuitive joystick controls found on pricier monitors. Thankfully, KOORUI included a 100x100mm VESA mount. This is a huge win, as it allows you to bypass the basic stand entirely and mount the monitor on an arm, giving you complete ergonomic freedom and a cleaner desk setup. For us, this VESA compatibility is a non-negotiable feature that greatly enhances the monitor’s long-term value.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing feedback from various users, a clear picture emerges. The overwhelming sentiment is one of pleasant surprise, with many purchasers echoing our findings that the monitor delivers excellent value for its price. One design engineer, who bought it as a second screen, remarked, “I didn’t expect something very good for this price, but the monitor surprised me. It has very good screen quality… the picture is ‘deep’.” This directly aligns with our experience of the high-contrast VA panel.

However, the feedback isn’t universally glowing and highlights some potential quality control issues. The most common complaints revolve around the peripherals and build quality. Several users mentioned the “extremely flimsy” power plug, with one reporting it broke within a week. Others found the assembly instructions difficult to follow. More concerningly, a small number of users reported technical problems out of the box, with one stating they “had issues from day one with flickering screen.” While these negative experiences appear to be in the minority, they serve as a reminder that with budget-friendly electronics, there can sometimes be a higher chance of encountering a faulty unit. The majority, however, seem to find it a reliable and high-performing display for the cost.

How Does the KOORUI E2212F Compare to the Alternatives?

No product exists in a vacuum. To truly understand the value of the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor, we need to place it alongside its competitors. Here’s how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.

1. Dell P2425H 24 Inch 100Hz IPS Monitor

The Dell P2425H is a direct competitor in refresh rate but targets a more professional audience. Its main advantages are the slightly larger 24-inch IPS panel, which offers superior color accuracy and viewing angles, and its vastly superior connectivity, including USB-C, DisplayPort, and a built-in USB hub. Dell’s stands are also legendary for their robust build and full ergonomic adjustability. However, you’ll pay a premium for these features. The Dell is the better choice for office work, productivity, and users who need single-cable connectivity for a modern laptop. The KOORUI E2212F wins for budget-conscious gamers who will prioritize the deep contrast of a VA panel for immersive gaming and media over the Dell’s business-centric features.

2. ARZOPA A1 15.6″ FHD Portable Monitor

The ARZOPA A1 represents a completely different use case. As a 15.6-inch portable monitor, it’s designed for on-the-go productivity, serving as a second screen for a laptop or a small display for a gaming console when traveling. It excels in portability and convenience, powered directly over USB-C. It is not, however, a primary desktop monitor. Its screen is much smaller, it lacks a high refresh rate, and its built-in kickstand offers limited ergonomics. Someone should choose the ARZOPA A1 if their primary need is a screen they can easily fit in a backpack. For anyone seeking a permanent fixture for their desk for gaming or general use, the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor is unequivocally the superior choice.

3. Philips 24E1N1100A 24 Inch 100Hz IPS Monitor

The Philips 24E1N1100A is perhaps the most direct competitor to the KOORUI. It’s a similarly priced 100Hz monitor but uses a 24-inch IPS panel and includes built-in speakers. Its key advantages are the faster 1ms response time (MPRT), which may appeal to more competitive gamers, and the convenience of integrated audio. However, as an IPS panel, it will not be able to match the 3000:1 contrast ratio of the KOORUI’s VA panel, meaning blacks will appear more grey in comparison. The choice here comes down to panel preference: choose the Philips for slightly faster response times and better colours for productivity, or choose the KOORUI for the superior contrast that creates a more immersive and cinematic experience in games and movies.

Final Verdict: An Unbeatable Value for Budget Gaming

After extensive testing, our conclusion is clear: the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor is a triumph of budget engineering. It focuses its resources exactly where they matter most for its target audience: motion smoothness and image depth. The combination of a 100Hz refresh rate and a high-contrast VA panel at this price point is exceptional, delivering a gaming and media experience that punches far above its weight. While it makes sensible compromises in areas like stand ergonomics, OSD controls, and port selection, the inclusion of VESA mounting provides a perfect workaround for the stand’s limitations.

We would recommend this monitor without hesitation to anyone building their first gaming PC, looking for a high-performance secondary display, or simply wanting to upgrade from a standard 60Hz monitor without breaking the bank. It nails the fundamentals, providing a smooth, vibrant, and immersive window into your digital worlds. For the price, the performance you get is simply outstanding.

If you’ve decided the KOORUI E2212F 22 Inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.