Best Products > Computer Components 51 51 people found this article helpful The 7 Best 27-Inch LCD Monitors of 2022 See our picks for the top 27-inch monitors for every budget and use case By Matthew S. Smith Matthew S. Smith Twitter Writer Beloit College Matthew S. Smith has been writing about consumer tech since 2007. Formerly the Lead Editor at Digital Trends, he's also written for PC Mag, TechHive, and others. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on July 20, 2021 Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr Twitter University of Maryland Baltimore County Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. lifewire's fact checking process Tweet Share Email Computer Components Monitors Keyboards Mice Cards CPU USB/USB-C Storage Laptop Bags & Backpacks Printers We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Buying a screen for your PC can be a difficult balancing act, but if you pick one of the best 27-inch LCD monitors, you will find they offer an ideal compromise between size and cost. Smaller monitors can make getting work done a cluttered chore, while larger displays can be too bulky and expensive. 27 inches is often considered the sweet spot, almost regardless of your budget. Your precise needs are a key consideration when shopping for a monitor. If you're largely focused on baseline productivity tasks, just about any 1080p panel will suffice, provided it has suitable adjustment options for your desktop setup. However, professional photo and video editors will want a monitor to support higher resolutions, ideally 4K. Gamers will want a monitor with attractive visuals, a high refresh rate, and a low response time. No matter what you're looking for, our collection of the best 27-inch LCD monitors has you covered. The Rundown Best Overall: Dell S2721QS at Amazon Best Budget: Dell Dell S2721H at Amazon Best 4K Gaming Monitor: LG 27GN950-B at Amazon Best Budget Gaming: Dell S2721HGF at Amazon Best Curved: Samsung 27-inch G5 Odyssey Gaming Monitor at Amazon Best Audio: Dell C2722DE at Amazon Best QHD: ViewSonic VG2755-2K at Amazon in this article Expand Our Picks Our Picks About Our Trusted Experts What to Look for in a 27-Inch LCD Monitor Best Overall: Dell S2721QS 27 4K UHD Monitor Best Buy View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dell What We Like Outstanding image quality Attractive design Sturdy adjustable stand What We Don't Like No significant negatives The Dell S2721QS sets the standard for value among 27-inch monitors, delivering a beautiful, vibrant 4K screen at a modest price. Image quality is outstanding, not just for the price, but at any price. You could spend several times the amount on a monitor without seeing a difference in image quality. The monitor’s sharp 4K resolution is backed by accurate, eye-catching color performance and a good contrast ratio for an LCD monitor. It’s bright, too, and has an anti-glare coat, so the monitor is enjoyable in any room. This is a sturdy, well-designed, attractive monitor. The ergonomically adjustable stand tilts, swivels, and pivots. It has a modern white exterior with a textured pattern that offers some visual flair. This monitor is a great value, but it doesn’t look like a budget pick. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: IPS | Resolution: 3820 x 2160 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:0 | Video Inputs: 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.2 Best Budget: Dell S2721H 27 Inch Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On Dell View On Office Depot The 9 Best Computer Monitors of 2022 What We Like Low cost Premium build quality AMD Freesync and 75Hz refresh rate What We Don't Like Only 1080p The Dell S2721H is perhaps the best bargain on the market today when it comes to 27 inch monitors. Not only is this a beautiful IPS panel, but one that also features a faster than average 75 Hz refresh rate and AMD Freesync. If you’re looking for a gaming monitor on a tight budget, the Dell S2721H is just about perfect. The only downside is that you only get 1080p resolution, but unless you’re doing detailed creative work with photos, videos, or graphic design, 1080p will work just fine. Also, if you’re trying to max out framerates on a low budget or mini PC, then 1080p is far less taxing on your hardware. Additionally, the Dell S2721H comes with built in speakers to sweeten the deal. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: IPS | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Refresh Rate: 75 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 2x HDMI 1.4 Best 4K Gaming Monitor: LG 27GN950-B 27-inch Gaming Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On Adorama.com What We Like Bright, punchy 4K image Up to 144 Hz refresh rate Sturdy, attractive design What We Don't Like Extremely expensive The LG 27GN950-B is a 4K gaming monitor that pulls no punches. It has a high-refresh, 144 Hz display with excellent image quality, precise color accuracy, and a good contrast ratio for a monitor of its type. Its combination of image quality, refresh rate, and responsiveness is challenged by only a handful of alternatives, most of which are even more expensive. It’s compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync, as well. Though built for gaming, the LG 27GN950-B’s high price affords a variety of features that are helpful in day-to-day use. It has a sturdy stand that can adjust for height, tilt, and pivot. A ring of RGB lights built in the rear provides some visual fun. It also has two rear USB-A ports, which are great for connecting the wired peripherals that gamers prefer. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: IPS | Resolution: 3820 x 2160 | Refresh Rate: 144 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4 The 6 Best Gaming PCs of 2022 Best Budget Gaming: Dell S2721HGF 27-inch Gaming Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy What We Like Great image quality Up to 144 Hz refresh rate Attractive design What We Don't Like Only 1920 x 1080 resolution Stand adjusts only for height and tilt The Dell S2721HGF delivers a rich, deep, vibrant image with a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz. The monitor is compatible with both AMD’s FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync, so you’ll enjoy smooth gameplay with a video card from either company. This monitor has a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 which, on a 27-inch display, leads to low pixel density. You’ll notice the lack of sharpness in detail oriented tasks. This is a curved display, but the curve is minor and doesn’t significantly impact gaming. The S2721HGF lacks cosmetic features, such as RGB lighting, found on some alternatives. The included stand adjusts for height and tilt but lacks swivel or pivot. This is better than many budget gaming monitors, and it’s also VESA compatible, so you can add a monitor arm for more options. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: VA | Resolution: 1920 x 1080 | Refresh Rate: 144 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 2x HDMI 1.4, 1x DisplayPort 1.2 The 8 Best Gaming Laptops for Under $1,000 in 2022 Best Curved: Samsung 27-inch G5 Odyssey Gaming Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On Samsung View On Staples What We Like Great image quality Aggressive, eye-catching curve 144 Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync support What We Don't Like Bulky design Stand adjusts only for tilt The Samsung G5 Odyssey has an aggressive 1000R curvature, which is as curved as you’ll find on a 27-inch monitor. The G5 Odyssey delivers an outstanding image, thanks to its high contrast LCD panel, accurate color, and 2560 x 1440 (QHD) resolution. Because it’s built for gaming, the G5 can refresh at up to 144 Hz, providing an ultra-smooth look. It has official support only for AMD FreeSync, but Nvidia G-Sync is unofficially compatible and works well in most games. You can adjust the stand only for tilt, which is unfortunate and a bit surprising, given the G5 Odyssey’s price. It is VESA compatible, however, so you can add a monitor arm. The display has an aggressive, bulky look that won’t please everyone but is sure to stand out from the crowd. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: VA | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Refresh Rate: 144 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.2 Best Audio: Dell C2722DE 27-inch Video Conferencing Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On B&H Photo Video What We Like Dual 5-watt built-in speakers Includes webcam and microphones Good image quality What We Don't Like Expensive for its size Webcam quality is just OK The Dell C2722DE is built specifically for people who’ve shifted to remote work. It includes a pair of dual 5-watt speakers which are louder than the speakers found in other 27-inch monitors. They also face forward, improving sound clarity. This monitor has a built-in webcam and microphone array, though the webcam’s video quality is just OK. The stand adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. The monitor works as a USB-C hub and can provide up to 90 watts power delivery for charging a laptop or powering an external device. The long list of extra features doesn’t mean the screen takes a backseat. The C2722DE has an attractive, color-accurate display with 2560 x 1440 resolution. Price is the only downside, since it is a bit expensive. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: IPS | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 mode The Best Home Office Setups in 2022 Best QHD: ViewSonic VG2755-2K 27-inch LED Monitor Amazon View On Amazon View On B&H Photo Video What We Like Sharp QHD resolution Attractive, accurate color USB-C compatible What We Don't Like Expensive for its resolution The Viewsonic VG2755-2K is a great QHD monitor for those who want a sharp image but don’t want to leap to 4K. It also has a USB-C hub that can provide external devices with up to 60 watts of power. This monitor has a simple, no-fuss design with a sturdy stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. Laptops that have a USB-C port with Power Delivery and DisplayPort can connect to the monitor and charge without an external power brick. The VG2755-2K is no slouch in image quality. It has a bright, highly color-accurate display with excellent sharpness. Its 2560 x 1440 resolution may not be 4K, but it’s pixel dense compared to 1080p, and looks great in everyday use. Size: 27 inches | Panel Type: IPS | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Video Inputs: 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 mode Final Verdict The Dell S2721QS (view at Amazon) is an incredible 4K monitor. It has wonderful image quality, an attractive design, an adjustable stand, and no significant downsides. You can spend more for a 27-inch monitor, but the S2721QS provides excellent value at a mid-range price point. If price isn’t a factor, and you want the best of the best with no real compromises, the LG 27GN950-B offers both 4K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. About Our Trusted Experts Andy Zahn has written about computers and other tech for Lifewire, The Balance, and Investopedia, among other publications. He has reviewed numerous computers, and has been building gaming PCs of his own since 2013. Andy is also an avid photographer, videographer and gamer, and knows the importance of investing in a good monitor. Matthew S. Smith is a technology journalist and product reviewer with nearly 15 years of experience. He’s tested over 600 monitors or laptop displays since 2010 and has a record of objective testing results that goes back a decade. FAQ Is refresh rate or resolution more important? If you’re using a monitor primarily for gaming, your first priority should be refresh rate. The jump from a basic 60 Hz to 144Hz or more will deliver a significant improvement in your gameplay experience. On the other hand, for photographers, videographers, and graphic designers high resolution can be absolutely vital. 4K monitors are also often more color accurate, another critical factor for creators. However, if you have the money to spare, you don’t need to compromise, since high end monitors offer both high resolution and high refresh rates. Is 27 inches the best size of monitor? 27 inches is a great compromise between expensive and bulky larger monitors and cramped smaller monitors. It provides plenty of space for getting work done or for playing immersive games. However, if you have the budget, a larger display will have more screen real estate, though in some situations only a 21 inch or smaller display may be adequate. Also, if you do need more screen space you could always buy two low price 27 inch screens such as the Dell S2721H and use them in a dual monitor configuration. Are built-in speakers an important feature? Built in speakers in monitors are something that’s nice to have, but which shouldn’t be considered a deal breaker. Most built in speakers produce sub-par audio, and good headphones or desktop speakers are available for not much money and will deliver much better sound. What to Look for in a 27-Inch LCD Monitor Resolution In a 27 inch monitor, 1920 x 1080 is perfectly acceptable, but not particularly outstanding. For gaming, stepping down to 1080p for a higher refresh rate is a good tradeoff. However, for creative work such as photo editing, you’ll want a display that offers at least 2160 x 1440. 4K monitors are increasingly common, and the extra resolution is great if you can afford it. If you’re planning to play games at 4K, make sure your PC is capable of it. "The ideal resolution of a monitor depends on the size you need. Generally speaking, the larger the monitor, the higher the resolution should be. Hence why 4K (or 3840 x 2160) is so desirable, but 1920 x 1080 is still Full HD and should be more than adequate for most setups." — Jeremy Bongiorno, Studio Frequencies Bezel Size A good way to reduce the footprint of a monitor on your desk is to look for one with a slim bezel. Reducing the size of the bezel makes your screen smaller without reducing the usable screen space of the monitor. Fortunately, even inexpensive monitors now frequently feature slim bezels. Ports Most modern monitors include HDMI ports, which are almost universally compatible with computers. Look for DisplayPort on higher-end models, which is a more powerful and modern connection. Some displays include older ports such as VGA as well, which can be useful. Other extras to look for include AUX audio and USB passthrough. "Prioritize monitors that use HDMI 2.0 or 2.1. DisplayPort is rare and not yet worth the extra cash." — Jeremy Bongiorno, Studio Frequencies Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! 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