Choosing the best gaming monitor for sports games can be a challenging task, given the myriad of specifications and models available. Nevertheless, now is an opportune moment to enhance your gaming setup for the latest sporting titles.
Although opting for one of the best TVs for sports might seem like the obvious choice, serious sports gamers may find greater benefits in selecting a monitor. To assist those dedicated to sports gaming, we've curated a selection of top-tier gaming monitors based on their features, pricing, and reviews, spotlighting the defining traits that set each apart.
What should you prioritise when selecting a monitor? A high-quality 4K display is key for experiencing intricate graphics, as showcased in games like EA FC 24, at their peak visual excellence. Furthermore, a high refresh rate coupled with a low response time is essential for achieving seamless gameplay, minimising disruptions like stuttering and screen tearing that could impact performance.
So whether you seek a superior 4K display like the Gigabyte AORUS FV43U or crave ultra-low response times akin to the LG UltraGear 27GN850, our selection caters to diverse preferences. Let's get into it...
Best sports gaming monitors
- Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
- LG UltraGear 27GN850
- AOC Gaming C32G2ZE
- Sony Inzone M9
- BenQ Zowie XL2411K
- Samsung Odyssey G9
1. Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
Best HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor for sports games
If you're looking for the king of the HDMI 2.1 monitors, then this impressive Gigabyte AORUS could be for you.
One of the key features that make this monitor ideal for sports is that it is a massive 43 inches to give you a wider view of the playing field. This is ideal as most sports typically use zoomed-out camera angles, so giving yourself a greater view of play should give you a competitive edge.
Moreover, it comes with an impressive 144Hz refresh rate and a 1ms response time, making it a great option for smooth, competitive gameplay on game modes like Weekend League, for example.
To top it all off, you get 10-bit colour, 97% DCI-P3, plus HDR1000 to make all the bright lights and colours of your favourite sports game more vibrant. As a result, this display could even be considered one of the best HDR monitors around right now. On the whole, we feel this monitor would suit, not just sports games, but all your gaming needs.
- Read More: Best monitors for EA FC
2. LG UltraGear 27GN850
Best 4K gaming monitor for sports games
This LG UltraGear monitor is an exceptional option for gaming if you want to view all the action in stunning 4K.
You also get a 144Hz refresh rate that is more than suitable for sports, as is the impressive 1ms response time which, together, can help fast-paced action, such as slick one-touch passing on some of the best football games on the market, appear ultra smooth and fluid.
Also, the monitor comes with some nice additional features such as G-Sync compatibility to help reduce screen tearing and stuttering for a far smoother and faster gaming ride.
This is a solid option for anyone looking to showcase and play their sports games in as much detail as possible.
- Read More: Best controllers for EA FC
3. AOC Gaming C32G2ZE
Best 240Hz gaming monitor for sports games
If you're serious about your competitive sports gaming, then you'll need a super-fast and responsive monitor to match your ability. If this is the case then the AOC Gaming C32G2ZE might be for you.
It comes with a hugely impressive response time of just 0.5ms, meaning your quick one-touch pass counter-attack on FIFA should be accurately captured on the game.
Moreover, it has been designed with smoothness in mind thanks to the 240Hz refresh rate plus FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync so it will likely showcase the rapid action of NHL, for instance, without a stutter.
Ultimately, monitors don't get much quicker than this, so if you're quick on the sticks, check out this AOC display.
- Read More: Best laptops for Football Manager
4. Sony Inzone M9
Best 144Hz gaming monitor for sports games
If you're happy with a 144Hz refresh rate though, then Sony's Inzone M9 monitor is a strong option to consider.
It features a 27-inch display with an impressive 4K resolution and HDMI 2.1 connectivity, allowing you to play your favourite sports games in stunning 4K at a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Sony's monitor also comes equipped with the INZONE Hub PC software, allowing you to personalise and fine-tune the monitor settings according to your preferences. You can even assign specific picture modes to different applications, simplifying the process of adjusting settings on the fly.
So, if you're after one of the best monitors for your PS5 or Xbox Series X gaming setup, check out this Inzone M9 from Sony. It's an exceptional piece of hardware that delivers top-notch performance and an immersive visual experience.
5. BenQ Zowie XL2411K
Best budget gaming monitor for sports games
Gaming monitors can often vary massively in price, but the BenQ Zowie offers a slightly cheaper alternative without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.
Like the previous BenQ monitor, the Zowie supports 120Hz for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S but is capable of 144Hz PC gaming too, so it should showcase even F1 games in silky smooth quality.
Again, this is a smaller monitor so would suit anyone who prefers a more compact screen, but the detail will likely remain intact thanks to the 1080p, sharp picture quality.
All in all, if you're after something relatively inexpensive that doesn't take up too much space but is still a high-quality gaming monitor, then BenQ might just have you covered.
6. Samsung Odyssey G9
Best ultrawide monitor for sports games
The Samsung Odyssey G9 is an ideal monitor for those seeking an ultrawide display for sports. With a massive 49" screen and a 1000R curve, this monitor can offer a more immersive experience as you can surround yourself with all the sports action.
In terms of performance, the monitor boasts an impressive 240Hz refresh rate, which provides a competitive edge for online gaming. The 1ms GtG response time also ensures that your inputs happen almost instantaneously. With a Dual QHD resolution as well, you won't be lacking in the picture quality department either.
Comfort has also been taken into consideration, with the ability to adjust the height, tilt, and swivel of the monitor to find the perfect viewing angle. It is also VESA-compatible for easy setup. There's even the option of Infinity Core Lighting to illuminate the display to match your gaming setup.
Overall, if you're searching for an ultrawide display, the Samsung Odyssey G9 is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Gaming monitors can sometimes be quite technical and therefore challenging to get your head around, but don't worry as we're here to clear up some of the most common queries in relation to sports gaming.
Is a monitor or TV better for sports games?
Strictly speaking, you don't need a monitor over a TV for sports games or gaming in general, but a typical monitor will include a number of key features that will make it superior to a TV, especially for competitive gaming.
Generally, monitors are more responsive thanks to their lower input lag and higher refresh rates so if you're playing the likes of Madden online then you'll probably be grateful for this.
With that being said, a TV is slightly more versatile as you can of course watch TV on it, stream films, and play video games all on one bit of equipment.
What features should you look for from monitor for sports games?
There are a number of features to keep an eye out for to help improve your sports experience, for example, the monitor's refresh rate and resolution.
The refresh rate is the key to keeping your sports gameplay looking smooth and is vital in competitive online matches, so you'll preferably want a monitor with a higher number in this category, anything 144Hz upwards should be fine.
The resolution of the monitor is also important to factor in because you ideally want a higher resolution so your sports game is displayed in the best detail possible, however, a higher resolution can sometimes lower the refresh rates.
You'll also want to consider the response time and input lag, which is the time it takes between pressing a button on your controller or keyboard and the corresponding action taking place on the screen, as you'd want this to preferably be below 1ms.
Do you need an HDMI 2.1 monitor for sports games?
In short, no, but you will need one if you want to game in 120Hz at 4K which is highly likely if you own one of the next-gen consoles like the PS5.
It is therefore recommended that you check whether the monitor you plan on purchasing is compatible with the console you're trying to use, and that information can typically be found in the monitor's specs.
Is a 32" monitor too big for sports games?
For competitive FPS games, a larger screen may put you at a disadvantage; however, for sports games like FIFA, it may actually allow you to see more of the pitch and give you an advantage.
As a result, you might be able to find space and pick out passes you may otherwise not have seen using a smaller display, thus increasing your chances of outperforming your opposition.
That said, a larger screen isn't for everyone, especially if you play FIFA at a close-quarters setup, as the edges of your monitor may not be entirely clear as they approach your peripheral vision.
A curved monitor can help you combat some of these issues, but it won't necessarily stop a display from feeling too wide.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference on how big to go with a gaming monitor. If you're unsure, it may be worth trying a 32" monitor out before you buy if possible.
Is a glossy or matte monitor better for sports games?
Glossy gaming monitors tend to be better suited to games with exceptional graphics as they tend to deliver deeper blacks and more vivid colours.
If you're more of a competitive sports video gamer though, then you may find some reflections in darker spots distracting, especially when you're through on goal or lining up to sink a basketball.
Ultimately, choosing between the two types will come down to personal preference and perhaps the quality of the graphics of your favourite sports game as they both come with their own distinct advantages.
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!