Choosing a monitor for gaming with the best panel is important. Depending on the game you play, your play style, and your preferences, you might opt for a different panel. Between In-Plane Switching (IPS), Twisted Nematic (TN), and Vertical Alignment (VA) panels, the differences may not be dramatic, but there are certain qualities to look out for. So, what monitors should you consider when looking at the 7 best panels for gaming?
Continue reading to learn the 7 best panels for gaming. Other qualities of a monitor are important, but the panel determines how the pixels on the screen function. While there are 3 main panels to consider, different monitors offer various attributes. Although IPS, TN, and VA panels are the best panel options, the monitor you choose affects the panel’s performance.
Panel Rundown
Before diving into specific monitors, it is worth learning about panels. The monitor you choose should definitely be influenced by the panel installed. As mentioned, different panel qualities may appeal to your gameplay style more or less.
The table below gives a quick explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of the three-panel types.
| Response Speed | Color | Contrast | Viewing Angle | Gameplay | |
| IPS | 1-2ms | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Multiplayer, vibrant display |
| TN | <1ms | Fair | Good | Fair | Online, competitive |
| VA | 2-4ms | Good | Excellent | Excellent | All-around color |
As you can see, the panels offer different attributes. For a game that involves countless colors that add to the value and experience of the game, you might opt for IPS. It is also great for multiplayer on the same monitor because the viewing angle does not stretch, fade, or change in color when not seen from directly in front of the monitor. One thing to look out for with IPS panels is that their display may make it more difficult to see in darker game formats.
A TN panel is best for competitive gaming because of its response time. Although it may not provide as vibrant of colors as IPS or VA panels, TN’s response time makes your efforts to make every move count more successful. Whether it is a first-person shooter game, a racing game, or something of the like, every move you make playing online counts. TN panels are also typically the most affordable.
VA panels are somewhat in the middle ground between IPS and TN attributes. They have great color contrast and a useful viewing display, but their response time generally takes longer. In terms of popularity, VA comes in third place. Still, reputation should not completely decide which panel you choose. As mentioned, the monitor in which the panel is installed can make a difference.
The 7 Best Panels for Gaming
Below is a list of monitors with the seven best panels for gaming. Keep in mind that you should look for a panel that fits your preferences while also considering the monitor that you are buying.
LG 27GN950-B
The LG 27GN950-B monitor comes with a Nano IPS display. It is one of the best monitor/panel combinations available for gaming. With a 27-inch display, a 1ms response time, and the best pair of color and viewing angle attributes, you will have no problem playing online, multiplayer, and vibrantly colored games. It is also adjustable for tilting, heightening, and pivoting.
Dell S2722DGM
The Dell S2722DGM utilizes an enhanced VA panel type. The viewing angle is made even better by the 27-inch, curved screen, and with a response time of 2ms, it competes with other top-tier monitors. It is also one of the most affordable high-quality monitors you can find.
HP V20 HD+
The HP V20 HD+ is the most affordable monitor on the list. The great response time with a TN panel is useful for online gaming. It also comes with an enhanced blue-light display to protect from visual damage. The 19.5-inch display is vertically adjustable, but you might struggle with a faded viewing angle upon adjusting.
GIGABYTE G27Q
The GIGABYTE G27Q is a great IPS panel-type option. The 27-inch, adjustable screen with low blue light is easy on the eyes while still providing essential color contrast for improved gaming visuals. It may not be the most elaborate-looking monitor available, but other attributes, such as the 1ms response time and FreeSync features, might outweigh that factor.
Pixio PX277 Prime
The Pixio PX277 Prime monitor is one of the fastest VA panel types you will find. The standard 27-inch display works nicely with VA features. However, this particular monitor is not well-known for VA’s excellent contrast abilities, so playing games with darker colors may be tough.
Acer Predator X38
The Acer Predator X38 is equipped with an IPS panel that adds to its 37.5-inch, curved display. For gamers who prefer an elongated screen, you will not be disappointed by the display abilities of this monitor. With a response time with the potential to be as quick as 0.3ms, playing on a large monitor has never been easier.
Samsung Odyssey New G9
The Samsung Odyssey New G9 has an insane 49-inch, curved display. While such a large monitor may not be enticing to every gamer, this monitor is special. The VA panel adds great color contrast with a maximum viewing angle. The 1ms response time works amazingly with the screen curved to the measurements of a rounded human eye. However, you will have to pay a pretty penny to get your hands on this monitor.
Takeaway
There are so many gaming monitors on the market. With the three panel types, it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you. IPS panel types are probably the best option overall, but the main thing to consider is which panel qualities appeal to you.