Best 1080p Gaming Monitor for PS5, Xbox & PC Gamers (2026 Guide)

Gaming hardware has evolved rapidly over the past few years, but one thing remains constant: 1080p gaming monitors are still the most popular choice for console and PC gamers alike. In 2026, despite the rise of 4K and 1440p displays, Full HD (1920×1080) monitors continue to dominate thanks to their affordability, high refresh rates, and excellent performance across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and gaming PCs.

Whether you’re a competitive FPS player chasing smooth frame rates, a console gamer looking to unlock 120Hz gameplay, or a PC gamer building a cost-effective setup, choosing the best 1080p gaming monitor can dramatically improve your experience.

This in-depth guide breaks down everything you need to know — from refresh rates and panel types to console compatibility — and highlights the best 1080p gaming monitors for PS5, Xbox & PC gamers in 2026.

Why 1080p Gaming Monitors Still Matter in 2026

While higher resolutions often steal the spotlight, 1080p remains incredibly relevant for several reasons:

• Higher frame rates: Easier for consoles and PCs to hit 120–240 FPS

• Lower hardware demands: Ideal for mid-range GPUs and consoles

• Lower cost: Better value than 1440p or 4K

• Competitive advantage: Faster response times and reduced input lag

For esports titles like Call of Duty, Fortnite, Valorant, CS2, and Apex Legends, 1080p monitors often deliver the smoothest and most responsive gameplay.

Quick Comparison: Best 1080p Gaming Monitors for PS5, Xbox & PC

Key Things to Consider Before Buying a 1080p Gaming Monitor

Refresh Rate: 120Hz vs 144Hz vs 240Hz

• 120Hz: Ideal for PS5 & Xbox Series X|S

• 144Hz–165Hz: Sweet spot for console + PC gamers

• 240Hz: Best for competitive PC esports

Both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S support 120Hz at 1080p, making refresh rate more important than resolution for smooth gameplay.

Response Time & Input Lag

• Look for 1ms GTG or MPRT

• Lower input lag = faster reactions

• Crucial for shooters and competitive titles

Even casual gamers benefit from faster response times due to reduced motion blur.

HDMI & DisplayPort Compatibility

• HDMI 2.0 is enough for 1080p at 120Hz

• HDMI 2.1 is not required at 1080p

• DisplayPort preferred for PC gaming

Many gamers mistakenly overpay for HDMI 2.1 when it isn’t necessary at Full HD.

Panel Type Explained

IPS Panels

• Best color accuracy & viewing angles

• Ideal for mixed gaming and content

VA Panels

• Better contrast

• Slightly slower response

TN Panels

• Fastest response times

• Weaker colors (used in esports)

For most gamers in 2026, IPS is the best overall choice.

Screen Size & Pixel Density

• 24 inches = perfect for 1080p

• 27 inches can look soft at 1080p

• Smaller screens improve competitive focus

Best 1080p Gaming Monitor for PS5, Xbox & PC Gamers

Best Overall: ASUS TUF VG249Q1A

The ASUS TUF VG249Q1A strikes the perfect balance between performance, image quality, and console compatibility.

Key Specs

• 24-inch IPS panel

• 165Hz refresh rate

• 1ms MPRT

• FreeSync Premium

• Excellent motion handling

Why It’s Great

• Smooth 120Hz console gaming

• Vibrant IPS colors

• Strong build quality

Pros
✔ Fast & fluid gameplay
✔ Great for PS5, Xbox & PC
✔ Excellent value

Cons
✘ Basic HDR

Best for Competitive FPS: BenQ ZOWIE XL2411K

Designed specifically for esports players, this monitor focuses on speed above all else.

Key Specs

• 144Hz refresh rate

• TN panel

• DyAc motion blur reduction

• Tournament-grade performance

Why It’s Great

• Extremely low input lag

• Used by pro players worldwide

Pros
✔ Ultra-fast response
✔ Esports-focused design

Cons
✘ Weaker colors
✘ No HDR

Best Budget Option: LG 24GN600-B

For gamers seeking maximum value, LG delivers impressive performance at a lower price.

Key Specs

• 144Hz IPS panel

• 1ms GTG

• FreeSync Premium

• Clean design

Why It’s Great

• Excellent price-to-performance

• Solid console compatibility

Pros
✔ Affordable
✔ IPS quality

Cons
✘ Limited stand adjustability

Best for Console Gaming: MSI Optix G241

This monitor is optimized for smooth console play with vibrant visuals.

Key Specs

• 144Hz IPS panel

• 1ms response

• Wide color gamut

Why It’s Great

• Excellent for PS5 & Xbox Series X|S

• Good HDR tone mapping (for 1080p)

Pros
✔ Console-friendly
✔ Great color accuracy

Cons
✘ HDR is still limited to 1080p

Best for High-FPS PC Gaming: Alienware AW2523HF

PC gamers chasing ultra-high frame rates will love this 240Hz beast.

Key Specs

• 240Hz refresh rate

• Fast IPS panel

• Premium design

Why It’s Great

• Perfect for competitive esports

• Extremely smooth motion

Pros
✔ Ultra-fast refresh rate
✔ Premium build

Cons
✘ Overkill for consoles

PS5, Xbox & PC Compatibility Explained

Best PS5 Settings for 1080p Monitors

• Enable 120Hz mode

• Use Performance Mode

• HDR optional (depends on panel)

Best Xbox Series X|S Settings

• Enable VRR

• Use Auto Low Latency Mode

• 120Hz at 1080p works perfectly

PC Optimization Tips

• Set refresh rate manually in Windows

• Enable FreeSync or G-Sync

• Use DisplayPort

1080p vs 1440p vs 4K: Which Should You Choose?

If you prioritize performance and competitive play, 1080p is still king in 2026.

Must-Have Features in a 1080p Gaming Monitor

• Adaptive Sync (FreeSync / G-Sync Compatible)

• Low input lag

• Flicker-free technology

• Adjustable stand (height & tilt)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying oversized screens

• Paying extra for HDMI 2.1 unnecessarily

• Expecting true HDR at 1080p

• Ignoring panel type

FAQs

Is 1080p good enough for PS5 and Xbox Series X?

Yes — especially for 120Hz gaming.

Does PS5 support 144Hz monitors?

PS5 caps at 120Hz, but 144Hz monitors still work perfectly.

Is HDMI 2.1 required?

No, HDMI 2.0 is sufficient at 1080p.

What size is best for 1080p gaming?

24 inches offers the best clarity and performance.

Final Verdict

• Best Overall: ASUS TUF VG249Q1A

• Best Competitive FPS: BenQ ZOWIE XL2411K

• Best Budget: LG 24GN600-B

• Best Console Choice: MSI Optix G241

• Best for PC Esports: Alienware AW2523HF

For most gamers in 2026, a high-refresh-rate 1080p monitor remains the smartest, most cost-effective choice — especially when gaming across PS5, Xbox, and PC. 

Read More: Mini-LED vs OLED: Which Should You Buy in 2026?