The Best 27-Inch LCD Monitors of 2024

Top-rated monitors for every budget and use case

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

A 27-inch monitor hits the sweet spot. Smaller monitors get quickly cluttered, while larger displays can be too bulky and expensive. 

If you're primarily 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 4K resolutions, while gamers need attractive visuals, a high refresh rate, and a low response time.

in this article

Best Overall

Dell S2721QS

Dell S2721QS 27 4K UHD Monitor

Best Buy

Pros
  • Outstanding image quality

  • Attractive design

  • Sturdy adjustable stand

Cons
  • 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 cost. 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 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 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

Pros
  • Low cost

  • Premium build quality

  • AMD Freesync and 75Hz refresh rate

Cons
  • Only 1080p

The Dell S2721H is the best bargain for a 27-inch monitor. Not only is this a beautiful IPS panel, but it 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, 1080p is far less taxing on your hardware. 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

Pros
  • Bright, punchy 4K image

  • Up to 144 Hz refresh rate

  • Sturdy, attractive design

Cons
  • 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 few alternatives, most of which are even more expensive. It’s also compatible with AMD FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync. 

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

Best Budget Gaming

Dell S2721HGF

Dell S2721HGF 27-inch Gaming Monitor

Amazon

Pros
  • Great image quality

  • Up to 144 Hz refresh rate

  • Attractive design

Cons
  • 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 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. In some alternatives, the S2721HGF lacks cosmetic features like RGB lighting. The included stand adjusts for height and tilt but lacks a swivel or pivot. This is better than many budget gaming monitors, and it’s also VESA compatible so that 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

Best Curved

Samsung 27-inch G5 Odyssey Gaming Monitor

Samsung 27-inch G5 Odyssey Gaming Monitor

Amazon

Pros
  • Great image quality

  • Aggressive, eye-catching curve

  • 144 Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync support

Cons
  • Bulky design

  • Stand adjusts only for tilt

The Samsung G5 Odyssey has an aggressive 1000R curvature, as curved as 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

Pros
  • Dual 5-watt built-in speakers

  • Includes webcam and microphones

  • Good image quality

Cons
  • 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 of 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 a 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

Pros
  • Sharp QHD resolution

  • Attractive, accurate color

  • USB-C compatible

Cons
  • 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 up to 60 watts of power to external devices. This monitor has a simple, no-fuss design with a sturdy stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. 

Laptops with 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

What to Look For in a 27-Inch LCD Monitor

Resolution

In a 27-inch monitor, 1920 x 1080 is acceptable but not outstanding. Stepping down to 1080p for a higher refresh rate is a good tradeoff for gaming. However, you’ll want a display that offers at least 2160 x 1440 for creative work such as photo editing. 4K monitors are increasingly common, and the extra resolution is excellent if you can afford it. If you plan to play games at 4K, ensure your PC is capable.

Bezel Size

An excellent way to reduce the footprint of a monitor on your desk is to look for one with a slim bezel. Reducing the bezel size makes your screen smaller without reducing the usable screen space of the monitor. Fortunately, even inexpensive monitors now frequently feature thin bezels.

Ports

Most modern monitors include HDMI ports, which are almost universally compatible with computers. Look for DisplayPort on higher-end models, a more robust connection. Some displays include older ports, such as VGA, which can be helpful. Other extras to look for include AUX audio and USB passthrough.

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.

Was this page helpful?