How to Choose the Best Gaming Monitor – Refresh Rate, 4K & More

If you're on the hunt for the best gaming monitor in 2025, you're not just picking a screen—you're choosing how your favourite games come to life. Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive esports player, your monitor plays a key role in everything from reaction time to visual immersion. 

With advancements like 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rates, and ultra-fast response times becoming more accessible—especially through refurbished deals—the market has never been more exciting (or confusing!). This guide breaks it all down: from essential features like refresh rate and response time to screen size and panel types, we’ll help you find the right fit for your setup. Plus, we’ll spotlight some of the best 4K gaming monitors you can grab refurbished for massive savings. 

Why Your Monitor Matters for Gaming 

Your monitor is more than a display—it's a competitive edge. Here's why choosing the right gaming monitor matters: 

• Visual Fidelity: Crisp resolution and accurate colours elevate everything from lifelike environments to subtle in-game cues. 

• Smooth Gameplay: A high refresh rate and low response time eliminate screen tearing and motion blur, giving you the edge in fast-paced games. 

• Immersive Experience: A larger screen, better contrast, and support for adaptive sync (like FreeSync) can pull you right into the action.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Gaming Monitor 

1. Resolution: Full HD vs 4K 

• Full HD (1080p) is fine for budget builds or competitive players who prioritise frame rate. 

• 4K (3840 x 2160) offers stunning clarity and detail—ideal for immersive AAA gaming, cinematic visuals, and future-proofing your setup. 

Looking for a high-end display without the high-end price? Consider a refurbished 4K monitor. 

2. Refresh Rate: Why 144Hz+ Makes a Difference 

The refresh rate (measured in Hz) determines how many frames your monitor can display per second. 

• 60Hz: Standard for non-gamers. Acceptable, but outdated for competitive play. 

• 120Hz – 165Hz: Smooth, fluid motion—great for most modern games. 

• 240Hz and up: Ultra-smooth experience for competitive FPS and racing games. 

Combine a high refresh rate with FreeSync or G-Sync for the smoothest gameplay with zero screen tearing. 

3. Response Time: Lower Is Better 

Response time measures how quickly a pixel can change colour. Shorter times reduce ghosting and blur. 

• 1ms – 5ms is optimal for gaming. 

• Monitors with OLED or advanced IPS panels now deliver near-instant response times (as low as 0.03ms!). 

4. Panel Technology: IPS, OLED, and More 

• IPS Panels: Offer wide viewing angles and colour accuracy—perfect for immersive gaming and multitasking. 

• OLED Panels: Deliver unmatched contrast, lightning-fast response times, and true blacks—perfect for high-end gaming. 

• VA Panels: Great for deep contrast, though sometimes slower response than IPS or OLED. 

5. Screen Size & Ergonomics 

A 27"–32" monitor hits the sweet spot for most gamers. Also consider: 

• Adjustable stands for height/tilt 

• VESA mounting support 

• Curved vs flat design (curved offers more immersion) 

Top Refurbished 4K Gaming Monitors to Buy in 2025 

Buying refurbished doesn’t mean compromising on quality—it means maximising value. Here are some of the best 4K gaming monitors for sale right now at Laptop Outlet: 

1. ASUS ROG Swift PG32UCDP 31.5" OLED 4K UHD Gaming Monitor – £879.99

240Hz | OLED | FreeSync | 0.03ms | HDMI & DisplayPort 

If you’re looking for elite performance, the Refurbished ASUS ROG Swift PG32UCDP is your dream display. With a massive 31.5" OLED panel, 4K UHD resolution, and a staggering 240Hz refresh rate, it’s designed for players who demand the best visuals and fastest response. 

The 0.03ms response time means no ghosting, while FreeSync ensures buttery-smooth graphics. It’s an esports-ready display with cinematic quality—a true flagship experience at a better price. 

Buy top refurb products! 

2. Lenovo ThinkVision P27pz-30 27" 4K Ultra HD IPS Monitor – £599.99 

3840 x 2160 | LED | IPS Panel | HDR Support 

Looking for colour accuracy, sharp resolution, and minimalist design? The Refurbished Lenovo ThinkVision P27pz-30 is a professional-grade monitor that’s also a strong performer for gaming and content creation. 

With a vibrant IPS panel, 4K UHD clarity, and precise calibration, it’s ideal for visually rich single-player games or media work. It’s not a high-refresh-rate display, but the quality and sharpness make it perfect for immersive experiences and productivity. 

Great choice for hybrid gamers/designers. 

3. AOC G3 27" 4K Ultra HD LED IPS Gaming Monitor – £229.99

160Hz | FreeSync | 1ms | IPS Panel 

For those wanting serious gaming specs on a budget, the Refurbished AOC G3 is an absolute gem. With a 4K resolution and 160Hz refresh rate, it offers smooth, detailed visuals for both competitive and story-driven gaming. 

The 1ms response time and FreeSync compatibility ensure zero lag and no screen tearing. At under £250, this monitor punches well above its price—perfect for gamers upgrading on a budget. 

Buy refurbished 4K monitors 

Why Buy Refurbished Gaming Monitors? 

Not only can you buy a gaming monitor with premium specs for less, but you're also making a smarter, more sustainable tech choice. 

Benefits of Buying Refurbished: 

• Massive savings compared to new 

• Fully tested and certified 

• Warranty-backed 

• Eco-conscious and waste-reducing 

Buying from a trusted retailer like Laptop Outlet means peace of mind and excellent after-sale support. 

Final Thoughts: How to Find the Best Gaming Monitor for You 

Choosing the right gaming monitor is an investment that can truly elevate your gameplay. From refresh rates and response times to resolution and panel types, understanding the key specs—and how they align with your setup—puts you in the best position to find your perfect match. 

But here’s the real win: you don’t have to blow your budget to enjoy high-end features. With access to some of the best refurbished 4K monitors, gamers can enjoy premium visuals, low latency, and immersive detail—at a fraction of the cost of buying new. 

Refurbished monitors are professionally tested, performance-ready, and often come with warranties, giving you confidence in both quality and value. Whether you’re a competitive player or a casual weekend warrior, it's worth exploring these smart alternatives. 

So, take your time, do your research, and get ready to level up your setup. When you're ready to score epic deals without compromise, head over to Laptop Outlet to buy top refurb products and discover how far your budget can really go. 

Game on—without overspending. Read More: Why are AMD Ryzen Laptops best for gaming? Top Reasons