Fact Check: Are LCD monitors good for gaming?

Are LCD Monitors Good for Gaming?

Introduction

The claim under examination is whether LCD monitors are suitable for gaming. This question is particularly relevant as gaming technology evolves, with various types of monitors available, including OLED and LCD. The performance of these monitors can significantly impact the gaming experience, leading to ongoing debates among gamers and tech enthusiasts.

What We Know

1. Types of Monitors: LCD monitors, which include both IPS (In-Plane Switching) and VA (Vertical Alignment) technologies, are widely used in gaming. They are known for their affordability and decent performance in terms of refresh rates and response times. For instance, the Asus ProArt Display PA278CGV features a 144 Hz refresh rate, making it a viable option for gaming 1.

2. Performance Metrics: Key metrics for assessing gaming monitors include refresh rate, response time, and color accuracy. High refresh rates (e.g., 144 Hz or higher) are often recommended for smoother gameplay, especially in fast-paced games. The TechSpot review highlights various monitors across different resolutions and refresh rates, indicating that many LCD models are competitive in the gaming market 3.

3. Comparative Technology: While LCD monitors are popular, newer technologies like OLED are gaining traction due to their superior contrast ratios and color performance. For example, the KTC OLED G27P6 offers a static contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1, which is significantly higher than typical LCD panels 5. This raises questions about whether LCDs can compete effectively with OLEDs for gaming purposes.

4. Market Trends: The gaming monitor market is evolving, with many manufacturers focusing on high-refresh-rate LCDs. The PC Gamer Hardware Awards for 2023 included several LCD monitors, suggesting that they remain a popular choice among gamers 2.

Analysis

The evidence regarding the suitability of LCD monitors for gaming is mixed and depends on various factors:

• Performance: Many sources, including TechSpot and PC Gamer, highlight that certain LCD monitors can deliver excellent gaming performance, particularly those with high refresh rates and low input lag. However, these sources may have a bias towards promoting specific brands or models that they have reviewed favorably 23.

• Comparison with OLED: The advantages of OLED technology, such as better contrast and color accuracy, are well-documented. Reviews from sources like TechPowerUp emphasize the benefits of OLED over LCD, which may lead to a perception that LCDs are inferior for gaming 5. This could create a bias against LCD monitors, despite their continued popularity and advancements in technology.

• Source Reliability: The sources cited range from established tech review sites like TechSpot and PC Gamer to consumer-oriented platforms like Wirecutter. While these sources are generally reliable, their recommendations can be influenced by partnerships with manufacturers or sponsorships, which may affect objectivity. For instance, if a site receives funding from a monitor manufacturer, it could lead to biased reviews favoring that brand 123.

• User Experience: Anecdotal evidence from gamers often highlights personal preferences, with some preferring the color vibrancy of OLED while others appreciate the cost-effectiveness and performance of high-refresh-rate LCDs. This subjective experience complicates the assessment of LCD monitors' suitability for gaming.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly True

The claim that LCD monitors are good for gaming is mostly true, as many models offer competitive performance, particularly those with high refresh rates and low input lag. Evidence from various tech reviews indicates that certain LCD monitors can provide a satisfactory gaming experience, making them a viable option for gamers. However, it is essential to consider the advancements in competing technologies, such as OLED, which offer superior contrast and color accuracy, potentially making them more appealing for some users.

Despite the positive aspects of LCD monitors, there are limitations in the available evidence. The performance of LCDs can vary significantly based on the specific model and technology used (e.g., IPS vs. VA), and the subjective nature of user experience can lead to differing opinions on their suitability. Additionally, potential biases in reviews due to manufacturer sponsorships should be taken into account.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider their own gaming preferences and requirements when choosing a monitor. While LCD monitors can be a good choice for gaming, individual needs and experiences may vary.

Sources

1. The 8 Best Monitors for 2025 | Reviews by Wirecutter. Retrieved from The New York Times
2. PC Gamer Hardware Awards: The best gaming monitors of 2023. Retrieved from PC Gamer
3. The Best Gaming Monitors - Mid 2023 - TechSpot. Retrieved from TechSpot
4. The 4 Best Gaming Monitors of 2025. Retrieved from RTINGS
5. TechPowerUp Best of 2023 - The Best in Hardware & Gaming this Year. Retrieved from TechPowerUp
6. Alienware AW2725Q review: An exceptional OLED gaming display - Engadget. Retrieved from Engadget
7. Ranking ALL 30 Monitors We Reviewed in 2023. Retrieved from YouTube
8. Our Favorite Monitors Released in 2023 - Buying Guide. Retrieved from Monitor Nerds
9. Best gaming monitor 2023: 1080p, 4K, curved, OLED, 144Hz+, and more. Retrieved from Custom PC
10. Best gaming monitors in 2025: the pixel-perfect panels I’d... Retrieved from PC Gamer