Pixio PX248 Prime V2 24" Black 2020

A 180Hz Fast-IPS gaming monitor for around $100 is an absolute bargain. The speakers are trash and the stand is basic, but for pure gaming performance per dollar, this thing is hard to beat.

The 180Hz refresh rate over DisplayPort 1.4 is the headline here, and it lands in the 82nd percentile for performance in our database. That's genuinely impressive for a monitor this cheap. The 1ms GTG response time keeps motion crisp in fast shooters, and G-Sync compatibility works even though this isn't officially certified. But the 300 nits max brightness is just okay, and the color performance is dead average at the 50th percentile. Fine for gaming, not great for anything color-critical.

The ASUS ROG Strix XG27JCG and Acer Nitro XV272U both offer bigger 27-inch panels and better color, but they cost significantly more. The HP OMEN 27qs G2 is a closer competitor with similar gaming chops, but again, you're paying a premium for the brand name. If you're on a strict budget and want high refresh rate gaming, the Pixio undercuts all of them. If you want better color accuracy or a bigger screen, the Acer is the one to stretch for.

At $100 USD, this is a steal for a 180Hz IPS gaming monitor. You're getting performance that used to cost three times as much just a few years ago. The compromises are real, but they're the kind you can live with if you already have headphones and don't need fancy ergonomics.

The Pixio PX248 Prime V2 is a budget 24-inch 1080p gaming monitor that punches above its weight where it counts. You get a 180Hz Fast-IPS panel with 1ms GTG response time and Adaptive-Sync for around a hundred bucks, which is honestly kind of wild. The catch? The user sentiment score sits at a rough 21st percentile, so real-world ownership has some friction baked in.

If you need good built-in audio, accurate colors for photo or video work, or a stand with height adjustment, this isn't your monitor. Grab a Dell S2725QC for better color and ergonomics, or just budget for a VESA arm and external speakers if you go with the Pixio.

The Pixio PX248 Prime V2 is the budget esports monitor to beat right now. The 180Hz Fast-IPS panel delivers where it matters for competitive gaming, and the price is almost impossible to argue with. Just don't expect the speakers or ergonomics to impress anyone. Bring your own headphones and maybe a VESA arm.