Finding the best gaming monitor for sports games can be tricky, especially considering all the different specs and models to factor into your selection.
However, we feel there's never been a better time to upgrade your setup to get the most out of all the latest games, from FIFA 23 to the upcoming WWE 2K23 title, as well as to showcase real-life sports in excellent quality.
Investing in one of the best TVs for sports may seem like the perfect first step, but if you take sports gaming seriously, then we'd recommend a top gaming monitor instead as you tend to get better specs for your cash.
Fortunately, we've put together a list of our top picks based on their features, price, and reviews, highlighting some of the key characteristics that make each of these monitors stand out from the crowd.
What features should you be looking for though? Well, something with a high-quality 4K display is a must if you want to experience advanced graphics, like FIFA 23s HyperMotion 2, in the best quality possible.
A high refresh rate and a low response time are preferable too for ultrasmooth gameplay with minimal stuttering and screen tearing which could affect your performance.
With this in mind, if it's a high-quality 4K display you're after, like this Gigabyte AORUS FV43U, or you're looking for super low response times from something like this LG UltraGear 27GN850, then we've got everything you need right here.
We've also answered some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding monitors to help you come to an informed decision about which display is right for you and your setup. With that in mind, let's get into it.
Best gaming monitor for sports games
- Best HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor for sports games - Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
- Best 4K gaming monitor for sports games - LG UltraGear 27GN850
- Best 240Hz gaming monitor for sports games - AOC Gaming C32G2ZE
- Best 144Hz gaming monitor for sports games - BenQ Mobiuz EX2510
- Best budget gaming monitor for sports games - BenQ Zowie XL2411K
Best HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor for sports games - Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
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.
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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.
Best 4K gaming monitor for sports games - LG UltraGear 27GN850
Like some of the best TVs for FIFA 23, this LG UltraGear features what looks to be a highly detailed 4K display that doesn't sacrifice speed.
The 144Hz refresh rate should be more than suitable for sports and the impressive 1ms response time will most likely help you perform to your best during fast-paced action.
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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 definitely a solid option for anyone looking to showcase and play their sports games in as much detail as possible.
Best 240Hz gaming monitor for sports games - AOC Gaming C32G2ZE
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.
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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, then check out this AOC display.
Best 144Hz gaming monitor for sports games - BenQ Mobiuz EX2510
If you're searching for something in the 144Hz range compatible with both the 120Hz PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, then the BenQ Mobiuz might be your answer.
This monitor comes in a number of sizes but the 25" one, in particular, is a great option for anyone who prefers to play their sports games on a slightly smaller screen.
In addition to FreeSync Premium for smoother gameplay, BenQ boasts their HDRi technology, Light Tuner and Black eQualizer to help optimise image quality to enhance your sports video game experience.
BenQ has designed this monitor with gaming in mind with the 1ms response time and console compatibility so is definitely a worthy option on this list.
Best budget gaming monitor for sports games - BenQ Zowie XL2411K
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.
Frequently asked questions about monitors for sports games
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.