Building the best dual monitor setup for gaming can be a bit frustrating. The reason behind this is you need to be more focused on the specifications. For example, you need a monitor with no bezels or thin bezels, no wobbling, a VESA mount should be included, and many other essential features.
Moreover, as you have already taken the important decision to avoid a wide display and look for 2-3 monitors instead, affordability becomes crucial.
So, this article aims to give you the 7 best affordable options for dual monitor setup. The most promising thing about this post is the in-depth analysis of all the included products to make it easier for you to choose an ideal monitor for the best monitor setup.
7 Best Dual Monitor Setup
Image | Product | Detail | Price |
---|---|---|---|
AOC C27G2Z 27″ |
| Price | |
Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor |
| Price | |
SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 Series |
| Price | |
ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM |
| Price | |
LG 27GN750-B UltraGear |
| Price | |
Sceptre Curved 32″ |
| Price | |
Dell S2522HG |
| Price |
AOC C27G2Z 27″
Ultra-Fast Gaming Monitor
- FHD 1080p
- 0.5ms 240Hz
- FreeSync
- HDMI/DP/VGA
- Height Adjustable
- 3-Year Zero Dead Pixel Guarantee
- 27″ FHD Curved
With the AOC C27G2Z gaming monitor, you get premium capabilities at a very affordable price. It has a 240Hz refresh rate, which is usually only associated with more expensive monitors. That is why it’s the best dual monitor Setup.
Other than the 240Hz refresh rate several aspects of the AOC C27G2Z make it stand out from the competition, including its 27-inch VA panel featuring a 1920 x 1080 resolution and its 0.5ms MPRT response time.
Further, the backlight is rated at 300 cd/m2, while its contrast ratio, as is the case with most VA panels, is set at 3000 to 1. It is true that VA screens are generally not as precise as IPS screens. However, the advantage of VA screens in the contrast ratio can result in more vivid images and a deeper black.
The AOC C27G2Z is, regardless of its curved surface, the same as the 27G2, except for its 1600r. Since it comes from the G2 series, it is not a surprise. The matte black chassis and the red streaks on the screen make the monitor not seem old-fashioned when seen from the front, despite being an outdated gaming monitor in terms of color scheme.
However, you will see borders around the screen when the screen is in use but on three sides of the screen, there are no bezels at all.
With regards to build quality, this monitor is of excellent quality, so you can be sure that it will last and perform well for many years. Construction-wise, the plastic looks sturdy enough to withstand a few knocks, and the panels fit well together without any uneven seams, which is a plus. In addition, once the monitor is fully built, it does not shake or vibrate at any time, so once the input level increases, there is no need to worry about it shaking.
Due to the presence of a DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, it can be used with many different devices other than just your PC. The majority of the slots can support the 240Hz refresh rate, but it is important to keep in mind that some of the devices, like gaming consoles, will be unable to push out frames to optimize the output. This particular variant does not come with USB slots, unlike the AOC C27G2ZU that can be found on the European market, which contains those ports.
Overall, the AOC C27G2Z is the best dual monitor desk setup choice for gaming if you are looking for the kind of screen capable of delivering rich colors and a hint of immersion thanks to its curved glass screen. Aside from this, the price is very reasonable for a 240Hz model whose bracket offers plenty of options for between 400 to 500 dollars.
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- 240Hz refresh rate
- Backlight rated at 300 cd/m2
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- Affordable gaming monitor
Cons
- Does not come with USB slots
Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor
Speed You Can’t Outplay
- Lightning-fast
- 1ms response
- Stay cool under pressure
- Dynamic on-screen display
- 240 Hz
- 25 Inches
The Alienware AW2521HF is dedicated to providing you with an unmatched gaming experience thanks to its 240Hz IPS panel with 1920 x 1080 resolution and 1ms response time, which is exceptionally smooth and offers excellent color accuracy. As you’d expect with a brand like Alienware, it’s a very powerful monitor that has been specially crafted to deliver a big punch of performance for anyone who enjoys gaming. Aside from that, there is a surprising price tag for the Alienware AW2521HF at the lower end of the brand’s usual price range which makes it the best for dual monitor setup.
Alienware’s new AW2521HF is certainly impressive in that it supports the new design, but it doesn’t blend in well with the glossy white case of the AW2720HF. Rather than a smooth metallic finish, this model keeps up with the brand’s history and status as a premium product. Moreover, there are no bezels on 3-sides of the display, but when the display is in use, you can still see narrow panel edges like the first one on this list.
Due to the design’s curves and flow, Alienware AW2521HF’s size is quite a bit larger than similar monitors, so you would need to consider the measurements of your desk before making the purchase. To fit a 25-inch display on the base of the stand, a depth of approximately 10-inches should be available. This monitor does not weigh a great deal, but while it does not feel as massive as some of the 27-inch models we checked out in the past, it still feels heavier than the rest.
It should not surprise anyone that the build quality for the Alienware AW2521HF is outstanding, as one would expect from a brand of this caliber. Because the plastic panels are smooth and manufactured with precision, the monitor does not have any appearance imperfections. It will stay stable no matter how many times you bump into your desk, and when you adjust the screen, you will not hear any squeaking or creaking sounds.
According to its specifications, it has a 400 cd/m2 backlight, and its contrast ratio is 1000:1, which is very high for an IPS panel. However, despite the fact that this monitor is HDR 400 compatible, it is available with only a little improvement in the appearance of compatible games or media files.
There is no doubt that the Alienware AW2521HF does not have the highest resolution available in full HD today, but it is still the benchmark for competitive gaming. With this monitor, you will be able to play games at high frame rates, so you will be able to take advantage of the 240Hz refresh rate most of the time. Aside from that, there is also excellent visibility, so you won’t have any trouble reading large paragraphs of text.
Overall, the Alienware AW2521HF delivers as advertised when it comes to competitive gaming, in which speed and precision are of the utmost importance. In addition to its fast refresh rate, short pixel response time, and low input lag, this monitor will offer gaming enthusiasts a taste of gaming hardware that was previously unavailable on the consumer market. Although the IPS panel can produce superior image quality, it is necessary to calibrate the panel first, which can sometimes be a problem.
Pros
- HDR 400 compatible
- 400 cd/m2 backlight
- 240Hz IPS panel
- Outstanding build quality
Cons
- Need to be calibrated first
SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 Series
WQHD Gaming Monitor
- 2560×1440 Resolution
- 26.9 Inches
- 240Hz
- Curved Display
- 1ms
- HDMI
- G-Sync
- FreeSync Premium Pro
This breathtaking gaming monitor from Samsung is one of the best gaming monitors for both a brilliant and lifelike gaming experience. There are a couple of reasons for this, including the QHD screen’s 240 Hz frequency, 2560 x 1440 resolution, and the 1ms response time.
With a 32″ diagonal size and a deep 1000 R curvature, the Samsung G7 monitor is massive. So, it is necessary to allow a foot of space on either side of the device to make sure that it fits on your desk but its width and height fit within a reasonable range. Additionally, it is a relatively heavy device, as it weighs in at 18.08 pounds, so if you regularly attend LAN gaming events, you may want to consider other options.
There is no doubt that Samsung G7 monitors are known for their excellent build quality, which is expected when using a high-end monitor from a premium manufacturer. Although it is made of plastic, it feels sleek and sturdy, and no visual flaws are present such as sharp edges, ridges, and irregular seams. However, there is no bezel around the display on three sides, but you will still see the inner borders of the display when it is turned on.
The Samsung Galaxy G7 has a unique feature known as Infinity Core Lighting. 18 RGB LEDs are located near the place where the stand connects. Additionally, you can find more LEDs on the bottom of the bezel to customize the look to fit your preference. However, for them to work properly, you will have to turn off the light in your room.
It is worth mentioning that with this monitor, you can expect a typical brightness rating of 350 cd/m2 and a peak brightness rating of 600 cd/m2, along with a contrast ratio of 2500:1. Because it is a VESA DisplayHDR 600-certified monitor, it is impressively capable of offering HDR performance far better than most monitors that claim to be HDR compatible.
Overall, the Samsung G7 is a well-crafted monitor that features a quickly responsive display, vivid colors, and an attractive design and everything you need for the best dual monitor setup, but in a high-priced package. Though it does not quite reach the screen’s ambitious specifications for imaging performance, it is still definitely better than the image quality of other HDR models.
Pros
- Peak brightness rating of 600 cd/m2
- Infinity Core Lighting
- VESA DisplayHDR 600-certified monitor
- 2560 x 1440 resolution
- Contrast ratio of 2500:1
Cons
- Enough Heavy and big
ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM
HDR Monitor
- 1080P Full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Fast IPS
- 280Hz
- G-SYNC Compatible
- Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync (ELMB SYNC)
- 1ms
- DisplayHDR 400
The ASUS VG279QM is a cutting-edge piece of hardware that defeats the 240Hz IPS monitors with 1920 x 1080 resolution, and TN display due to a superb overclock, bringing it to a mind-boggling 280Hz. In addition, it is also important to note that Asus achieved this feat by using an IPS panel instead of a TN panel, which means it will offer a better viewing angle and better color reproduction. That is why it’s an ideal option for the best dual monitor setup.
As a brand standard, the chassis has a matte black finish which is convenient to keep clean. Although there are some edges on the monitor, they are very thin, and you will not be bothered by them too much.
Asus VG279QM has a great design with its strong plastics and sturdy construction. Furthermore, there is no wobble, and the adjusting mechanism is smooth and strong enough to allow you to hold your desired position.
The Asus VG279QM monitor doesn’t have the most impressive connectivity layouts compared to most of the Asus monitors within the brand since it has only video inputs. In terms of I/O ports, there are only two, DisplayPort 1.2 and 2 HDMI 2.0, but only one of them will support the 280Hz output from the device.
Furthermore, unlike the SLI models in the TUF Gaming Line, this one is not equipped with a USB port, which is fine considering the brand’s goal is to make its products as affordable as possible. The good news is that Asus has managed to incorporate a pair of speakers for normal use.
With a 400 cd/m2 backlight and a 1000:1 contrast ratio, the LCD panel is equipped with a high lighting level. The problem is that even though this model supports HDR10, it does not have the necessary specifications to achieve the best HDR performance.
Overall, the Asus VG279QM monitor offers high image quality while offering blazing fast performance. There is no calibration required unless you want to edit photos. Moreover, the monitor’s responsiveness and low input lag are essential for competitive gamers who wish to be the fastest. So, you can consider this one as the.
Pros
- 400 cd/m2 backlight
- Sturdy construction
- Can achieve 280Hz
- Speakers included
- HDR10 support
Cons
- Bezels
- No USB port
LG 27GN750-B UltraGear
Gaming Monitor
- 27” FHD (1920×1080) IPS Display
- 1ms Response
- 240HZ Refresh Rate
- G-SYNC Compatibility
- 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design
- Pivot Stand
Featuring 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate IPS panel, LG’s 27GN750 is one of the most attractive monitor options for gaming setup with dual monitors. In addition, it also includes support for G-Sync and FreeSync, enabling you to enhance your gaming experience.
The monitor’s appearance is matte black with some striations of red located in discrete places around some areas of the chassis and the stand. As well, as the display is free of bezels on three sides, you can also enjoy a larger screen with no borders separating the screens, making it ideal for the best dual monitor setup.
It’s not quite the same size as other 27-inch monitors after it is assembled, but it becomes a little taller if it is extended vertically. Boomerang-shaped bases have a wide reach, but each leg is relatively thin, so they shouldn’t be too bulky to use on a desk.
LG’s LG 27GN750 should also allow you to connect to various devices other than just your main battle rig since it has a lot of options for connections. In addition to DisplayPort 1.4 and a pair of HDMI 2.0 ports, the layout also accommodates two USB 3.1 ports to connect peripherals. Also, it comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack which is specifically designed for your headphones.
However, because the LG 27GN750 is not equipped with built-in speakers, it does not come with any audio input connectors.
As a result of the backlight reaching 400 cd/m2, DisplayHDR 400 certification is achieved. Although this model has HDR 400, it does not shine when displaying colors.
However, in terms of input lag, the 27GN750 is one of the fastest gaming monitors on the market, with a clocking time of only 2.5ms, which is extremely low.
Overall, LG’s 27GN750 gaming monitor is a great choice if you’re looking for a monitor with ultra-fast response times and the advantages of an IPS display, such as good color reproduction and wide viewing angles. Among the best available monitors, this monitor offers among the best pixel response times and input lags, which makes it ideal for running fast-paced or competitive games in the best possible manner.
Pros
- Plenty of connectivity options
- 2.5ms input lag
- G-Sync and FreeSync for enhanced gaming
- Best pixel response time
- No bezels
Cons
- No built-in speakers
Sceptre Curved 32″
Gaming Monitor
- 240Hz 1ms AMD FreeSync
- Premium Build-in Speakers
- 32 Inches
- 1800R Curvature
- Multiple Ports
Sceptre Curved 32″ Gaming Monitor is regarded as one of the best and cheapest available display products at home or in the office. In addition to this, it’s also great to have this display for those who want to enjoy some comfortable gaming with a gaming console. The Sceptre C325 features a 32-inch curved VA panel with a resolution of 1920×1080, 75Hz refresh rate, and response time of 5ms.
In terms of the monitor’s chassis, it is matte silver, which, to be honest, is a welcome change when we see so many black monitors every day. Even though there is no bezel-free display, the dual-stage design reduces the border lines on the three sides of the panel.
It is a budget monitor, but the build quality is reasonable as it is constructed mostly of plastic, but it still feels solid despite the thin plastic panels. If you are going to knock the Sceptre C325 by force, you need to remember that it has a slight wobble. In any other case, the device stands up straight.
Due to its hollow design, the oval base of the case occupies only a small amount of space, making it possible to place small items, such as thumb drives, in the middle of it. We recommend buying a monitor arm for your device if you plan on using it on a desk, as it will give you a much better experience and greater usability.
Regarding connectivity, the Sceptre C325 has also performed well, although we are used to seeing a greater variety of ports on other 1080p monitors on the market right now. This monitor comes with two DisplayPort 1.2 and one HDMI 1.4 port that will serve as the primary video inputs, while a VGA port will be used for devices that cannot connect to a DisplayPort 1.2 connection. There is no built-in speaker on the monitor, but a 3.5mm jack is available to connect the monitor to an external speaker.
The screen has a maximum brightness of 311cd/m2, and the screen has a 3000:1 contrast ratio, which is in line with what can be expected from vertically aligned displays. Even though this is not the best monitor for gamers and does not satisfy today’s 144Hz gaming standard, we think it is a reasonable choice for those who use consoles for gaming.
It is also worth noting that the Sceptre C325 lacks FreeSync compatibility, which means that VRR technology may not be able to solve stuttering problems. However, it is fairly easy to run games in 1080p, even with entry-level graphics cards. Although the input lag is quite high, at around 25ms, it is still acceptable for casual gaming; serious gamers should look at other established options on this list that are more suitable for them.
Overall, Sceptre C325 is a good display considering its size and the picture quality; however, there are still a few things missing from it for a dual monitor setup. It does not include FreeSync, and there are no creature comforts such as an adjustable stand, but these things can somehow be overlooked due to the low price.
Pros
- 3.5mm jack included
- Occupy less space
- 32-inch size
- Solid design
- Affordable
Cons
- Bezels on all sides
Dell S2522HG
240hz Gaming Monitor
- 24.5 Inch Full HD Monitor with IPS Technology
- Antiglare Screen
- 240 Hz
- 1ms GtG (Gray to Gray)
- Fully Adjustable
Featuring an E-Sports grade IPS screen, the Dell S2522HG is an affordable monitor that offers all the essentials without breaking the bank. This monitor has a 25-inch IPS panel that has 1920 x 1080 resolution and 240Hz refresh rate with a 1ms response time.
In addition to being easily cleanable, the matte black finish of the device allows you to match whatever theme you have set up with no problem. While the display does not have any bezels on any of its three sides, when the display is on, you can still see the flushed inner border of the display, which is negative while looking for the best dual monitor setup. However, it is mostly a personal preference.
Even though this is a budget model, the Dell S2522HG comes with many connectivity capabilities. With the layout of this device, several video inputs are provided, including a DisplayPort 1.2 port and two HDMI 2.0 ports.
In addition, 5 high-speed USB 3.2 ports are available to connect to accessories and transfer data. Also, 2 USB ports and an audio 3.5 mm jack are conveniently located at the bottom of the bezel instead of being tucked away behind the screen, so access to them is easy.
As is standard with most IPS displays, there is a maximum brightness setting of 400 cd/m2, while the contrast ratio is 1000:1.
Overall, considering how affordable the Dell S2522HG is compared to similar products available on the market, it is an excellent choice for competing gaming monitors for dual monitor setup.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- No bezels
- 5 high-speed USB 3.2 ports
- 240Hz refresh rate
Cons
- Does not have speakers
Buying Guide for Best Dual Monitor Setup
You need to keep in mind a few things when choosing a monitor or two for a multiple monitor setup when purchasing. As a first step, you should ask yourself whether you need to have more than one monitor.
Let’s say that part of your work involves having multiple applications open simultaneously, while you are also browsing the internet with several windows open in the browser. An extra monitor will likely help you out more than any other hardware replacement you may be considering in this situation.
When looking for a monitor for the best dual monitor setup, you need to consider the following factors.
Panel type
Although for gaming, an IPS display is best; however, you can go for other LCD or AMOLED panels, but only if you are willing to do everything, not just gaming.
Resolution
For gaming, the resolution doesn’t matter too much. 1920 x 1080 resolution is enough.
FPS
FPS is the most concerning feature for gamers. More FPS means more agility for an esports player. However, a stable 144Hz FPS is more than good.
Response time
Less response time means fast working and reaction. You should look for at least a 1ms response time for the best gaming experience.
Size of the monitor
You need to bear in mind that a bigger screen does not mean that it is better. As a starting point, if you want to have a lot of comfortable screen space on top of having clear, easily readable text, your monitor should have a proportionately high resolution. Overall a 27-inch monitor is best for a dual monitor setup.
Compatibility
You will need to check whether your graphics card is supported with dual monitor setups. The majority of older GPUs do support it, but some don’t. Make sure you check your graphics card’s capabilities carefully before purchasing a monitor.
In addition, you should ensure that your GPU offers compatible inputs that are compatible with the monitors you intend to use unless you are going to get additional VGA-DVI, DVI-HDMI, DisplayPort-HDMI, etc. converters or adapters.
Identical image quality
The picture quality of each of the monitors may not be the same. So, if you want the same picture quality on both displays, you will need to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color settings on both or three displays, which is tedious and takes a lot of time.
Conclusions
All given monitors on this list are exceptional in terms of gaming performance and display quality. Moreover, almost all the monitors are bezel-less, which will provide you with a clear experience in a dual monitor setup. According to our recommendations, if you are looking for an affordable and the best dual monitor setup, you should go for Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor. On the other hand, if you have a decent budget, SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 is the most value for money option for a dual monitor setup aimed at gaming.
FAQs
What is the best way to set up dual monitors?
To make a dual monitor setup, there must be a point where the two monitors meet directly in front of the user. They need to be positioned outwardly to look like a V-shape. If you are using one screen as the primary monitor, arrange the secondary monitor about 30 degrees to the right or left of the primary screen.
What are good options for a second monitor?
The 7 best monitors for dual setup are:
AOC C27G2Z 27″ Curved Frameless Ultra-Fast Gaming Monitor
Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor
SAMSUNG Odyssey G7
ASUS TUF Gaming VG279QM 27” HDR Monitor
LG 27GN750-B UltraGear Gaming Monitor
Sceptre Curved 32″ Gaming Monitor
Dell 240Hz Gaming MonitorIs a dual monitor setup worth it?
Yes, dual-screen setups are mainly used to improve productivity at the workplace and to look at users’ responses while playing a game with convenience. This belief is backed up by research, which has shown impressive gains in productivity and a corresponding cut in the time it takes to complete a task.
Does dual monitor affect FPS?
No, there is no need to worry about performance loss for anyone who runs multiple monitors. However, regardless of whether one has a single monitor configuration or not, running a video in the background will adversely affect the FPS.