You just got a PlayStation 5 and you can’t wait to start playing the latest games! But, do you have the right monitor for next gen? We’ve come a long way from the AV cable days, and now graphics are better than they have ever been. With the right gaming monitor, your games can be visually enhanced tremendously. Visuals will be more realistic, more clear, and much more immersive. Therefore, if you’re looking to get the most out of your PlayStation 5, you might want to upgrade your setup. Check out this article to learn the features to consider when choosing the right gaming monitors for PS5, with some recommendations.
Why is a Gaming Monitor Necessary?
A gaming monitor is designed specifically for games. It allows you to have better performance, faster response times, and little to no lag. They are optimized for gamers and video performance. Are gaming monitors an absolute necessity for gaming? No. I currently game on a 2k gaming monitor and I have a great time. But, if you’re looking for the perfect gaming experience, then they’re a must. Gaming is an investment. The more you invest into the hobby, the more you’ll get out of it.
Now, if you’re a competitive gamer, then a gaming monitor is absolutely necessary. Competitive gaming requires optimal refresh rates and response times due to their fast-paced action. This also allows you to have zero lag while playing, resulting in faster reaction times. You’ll also be able to have a variable refresh rate due to your gaming monitor compared to non-gaming monitors. Not to mention, the color accuracy you get with a gaming monitor is mind-blowing.
How to Choose a Gaming Monitor for PS5
Now, before you just swoop right into Adorama and buy the first gaming monitor you see, there are a lot of features you should be aware of. We’re going to break down all the gaming jargon to help you find the right monitor.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is the number of times per second a new image is displayed. The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image will appear to the eye. If your display has a refresh rate of 144Hz, it’s refreshing the image 144 times per second. A monitor that has a variable refresh rate is able to continuously adjust the refresh rate without user input. Variable refresh rate prevents screen-tearing and stutter. A high-end gaming monitor will have a refresh rate of at least 144Hz.
Response Time
The response time is the time it takes to shift between colors. You’ll see response time measured in black to white, or even gray to gray. This means how long it takes the colors to go from one to the other. A faster response time makes it harder for there to be blurring or ghosting on your screen. This feature is crucial for competitive gamers. Most gaming monitors have a response time of 1ms. If you’re in the competitive field, you don’t want anything slower.
Resolution
Arguably, one of the most important features in a gaming monitor is the resolution. Without a good resolution, nothing will look clear and sharp. The resolution is the amount of pixels that can be displayed on a monitor. The higher the resolution, the more pixels, the clearer and sharper the image will be. The PlayStation 5 can output up to 8K (7680 x 4320), but there isn’t really a game that does that just yet. If you’re looking to future-proof your setup for years to come, then an 8K monitor isn’t a bad option. Keep in mind — it can take a long time before we truly see an 8K game. I recommend a 4K (3840 x 2160) monitor. Gaming is just now getting into the 4K world, and we’re seeing more and more games take advantage of the resolution.
Size
The size of your monitor really depends on the space you have. A larger monitor allows for a wider field of view when you’re playing. I love a curved widescreen monitor. It really immerses you into the game. You also want to account for how far you’ll be sitting from your monitor. If you’re farther away, then you’ll want a larger screen size. I have a 27” gaming monitor and I am looking to upgrade to at least a 32”. The size of your display is all about your personal preference. If you love to play first-person shooters, then a larger display comes in clutch to be able to see more of your surroundings.
Graphics Cards
Monitors can be optimized to specific graphic cards. Now, your PlayStation 5 won’t support either Nvidia G-Sync or AMD FreeSync. Although, if you plan on switching your monitor over to your desktop, then it’s important to note. If you’re using an Nvidia graphics card, then you’re going to want to find a monitor that supports G-Sync. An AMD GPU will utilize FreeSync.
These technologies allow the graphics card to control the refresh rate of your display, allowing for a variable refresh rate. They also offer High Dynamic Range (HDR), low motion blur, and better refresh rates. Again, this is only if you plan on using your monitor alongside a desktop, as these features won’t apply to the PlayStation 5.
Speakers
If you need an alternative sound option, some monitors come with built-in speakers. I wouldn’t recommend using speakers that are built-in because you’ll get better sound through a headset or a soundbar. Plus, if you’re already spending money on a new monitor, chances are you can spend the money on a good sound system. If your wallet gets a little tight after buying a new console and a monitor, just know you can always use the monitor’s built-in speakers.
Ports
Lastly, something that is incredibly important that a lot of gamers don’t think about are ports. Know how many devices you want to plug into your monitor. I have two desktops and a PlayStation 5, so my monitor needs to have at least three ports for me to switch between or else I’m going to be swapping cables often.
Best Gaming Monitors for PS5
Best for Sony fans – Sony INZONE M9 27″ 16:9 4K Ultra HD Gaming Monitor
The Sony INZONE is a 27”, IPS, widescreen monitor. It offers 4K ultra HD resolution with a stunning 144HZ refresh rate. This monitor is built specifically for the PlayStation 5, so your gaming world will be incredibly detailed and rich with color. The monitor also has a 1ms response time, perfect for those fast-paced games. The INZONE also has Nvidia G-Sync built in for those who have an Nvidia GPU.
- 27” IPS Widescreen
- 4K Ultra HD
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- Built-in speakers
- Nvidia G-Sync
- 2 HDMI ports, 1 DisplayPort, and a USB Type-C
Best Bargain – LG 27GP95R-B UltraGear 27″ 16:9 4K HDR Gaming Monitor
This LG UltraGear has an incredible refresh rate of 165Hz giving you some of the smoothest visuals. The monitor offers a 1ms response time, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and AMD FreeSync so you don’t have to worry about which GPU your computer has. The LG is designed for comfortability, allowing you to raise, lower, tilt and pivot to your needs. The resolution of the LG is at 2K (2560 x 1440). So, if you are wanting to play in 4K, keep that in mind.
- 32” QHD, IPS Widescreen
- 2K
- 165Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- Nvidia G-Sync, and AMD FreeSync
- 2 HDMI ports, 1 DisplayPort, 2 USB Type-A
Best 27” Option – Asus ROG Strix XG27AQM 27″ 16:9 HDR Gaming Monitor
The ASUS ROG Strix is a high-powered 27” display that outputs at 4K ultra high definition. This gaming monitor has 144Hz refresh rate for super smooth gaming visuals. It supports HDR, and Nvidia G-Sync for a tear-free gaming experience. There are multiple HDR modes based on your current scenario: ASUS Cinema HDR and ASUS Gaming HDR. ASUS also has multiple software features that enhance the display, low motion blur technology that eliminates smearing and motion blur, and shadow boost technology that improves darker areas. You can even add an FPS counter, crosshair, and timer to the display. ASUS has crafted a monitor dedicated to gamers.
- 27” IPS Widescreen
- 4K UHD
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- Nvidia G-Sync
- ASUS in-game enhancements
- 2 HDMI ports, 2 DisplayPort, 1 USB Type-A
Built for Next Gen Consoles – ViewSonic ELITE XG320U 32″ 16:9 4K UHD Gaming Monitor
The ViewSonic ELITE is for elite gamers — those who want to take their gaming to the next level. You get a 32” widescreen display that outputs at 4K UHD. The monitor has a staggering 150Hz refresh rate with built-in speakers. The thin bezels are absolutely gorgeous and really make your game pop. With AMD Freesync premium pro technology, you’ll have smoother gameplay at peak performance. This console is built for next gen.
- 32” IPS Widescreen
- 4K UHD
- 150Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync
- 2 HDMI ports, 1 DisplayPort, 3 USB Type-A, 1 Micro USB
Best Color – BenQ MOBIUZ EX3210R 31.5″ 2K LED Curved Gaming Monitor
BenQ monitors have taken the gaming world by storm due to their affordable price. This BenQ gaming monitor offers a 27” display with a 4K UHD resolution. Play your games with incredible speed and clarity with a 144Hz refresh rate. The MOBIUZ is compatible with AMD FreeSync and has a 1ms response time. This monitor also offers built-in speakers with HDRi and true sound audio.
- 27” IPS Widescreen
- 4K UHD
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync
- Built-in speakers
- 2 HDMI ports, 1 DisplayPort, 4 USB Type-A
Conclusion
The PlayStation 5 deserves to be paired with an incredible gaming monitor. You’ll be able to find your perfect monitor in this list. Whether you want a curved display, a large display, an incredibly fast refresh rate, or all of the above. The next generation of gaming is just getting started and these gaming monitors will take your games to new heights.
