In 2025 the screen you use to game on isn’t just a window — it’s a performance engine. Across the UK and beyond, gamers are upgrading in big ways. Here’s why your monitor deserves as much attention as your GPU, controller or headset.
💡 Want to know what’s driving the tech world right now? Check out our breakdown of how NVIDIA hit a record-breaking $5 trillion valuation — and what it means for the future of gaming and AI.
What’s driving the shift?
Several key trends are reshaping gaming displays right now:
- The UK market for gaming-specific monitors is growing strongly, driven by esports, streaming and dual-use setups (work + play).
- Panel technologies like OLED (including QD-OLED) are becoming more accessible, delivering deeper blacks, faster response times and better HDR performance.
- Refresh rates continue to climb into the 144 Hz, 240 Hz and beyond territory — especially valuable in competitive play and fast-paced genres.
What does that mean for you?
- Smooth motion & low latency: Whether you’re in a firefight or zipping through a racing track, a high refresh rate and low response time reduce blur and improve clarity.
- Visual clarity & immersion: 4K resolution, HDR support and high-performance panels bring games alive — richer colours, deeper contrast, more detail.
- Ease for long sessions: Better panels reduce eye-strain, improve comfort, and let you stay locked-in longer.
- Future-proofing: Investing in a display that keeps up with next-gen consoles and PC hardware ensures your setup will last.
☁️ Curious about where gaming’s headed next? Read our feature on how the UK cloud gaming market is set to reach $667.1 million by 2030, and why that shift could redefine how we all play.
How to pick the “right” monitor
Here are key specs and how to match them to your needs:
- Resolution: 1440p (QHD) is a strong all-rounder; 4K is great if your hardware supports it and you value detail.
- Refresh rate: For competitive gaming, aim for 144 Hz-240 Hz+. For immersive single-player or console play, 120-144 Hz may be sufficient.
- Panel tech: OLED/QD-OLED gives premium visuals; IPS and VA panels are still very good and often better value.
- Connectivity: HDMI 2.1 (for consoles), DisplayPort (for PC), USB-C/KVM features if you switch between work and play.
- Size & form factor: 27″ is a sweet spot for many; curved or ultrawide monitors add immersion but may cost more.
- Budget vs Premium: You don’t need to break the bank to upgrade significantly — the jump from a basic screen to something higher refresh/resolution will be immediately noticeable.
Our top display picks for 2025
Here are some excellent monitors across different tiers:
MSI MPG 322URX QD‑OLED UHD 240Hz
£699.00 • Currys + others
Alienware AW 27 4K QD‑OLED Gaming Monitor:
£209.00 • Amazon.co.uk
AOC Q27G42XNE 27″ Gaming Monitor:
£144.97 • Amazon.co.uk + others
ASUS TUF VG249QM1A Gaming Monitor:
£139.00 • Argos + others
MSI MAG 242C Full HD 24″:
£69.00 • Currys + others
MSI MAG 244C Full HD 180Hz Curved
£78.00 • Argos + others
MSI MAG 32C6X 32″ Gaming Monitor
£158.98 • Amazon.co.uk + others
MSI MAG 274QF 180Hz WQHD Gaming Monitor
£149.00 • AO.com + others
Brief highlights:
- MSI MPG 322URX QD‑OLED UHD 240Hz: Top-tier 4K QD-OLED with 240 Hz refresh — premium all-rounder.
- Alienware AW 27 4K QD‑OLED Gaming Monitor: Premium brand with excellent specs — ideal if budget allows.
- AOC Q27G42XNE 27″ Gaming Monitor: Good value 27″ monitor — solid upgrade without premium cost.
- ASUS TUF VG249QM1A Gaming Monitor: Budget friendly but good spec for competitive play.
- MSI MAG 242C Full HD 24″: Entry level — if you’re just beginning or streaming/light gaming.
- MSI MAG 244C Full HD 180Hz Curved: A large curved display at budget refresh — immersion on a budget.
- MSI MAG 32C6X 32″ Gaming Monitor: Bigger size for users who want screen real-estate.
- MSI MAG 274QF 180Hz WQHD Gaming Monitor: Mid-tier sweet spot: WQHD resolution + 180 Hz refresh for strong performance/value.
Why it matters for the Respawn Outpost community
At Respawn Outpost we say: “Community starts at the Outpost.” That means inclusive gear, solid setups, and no barriers. A good display is one of the pieces that make everyone feel they belong — whether you’re new, seasoned, casual or hardcore.
When your screen keeps up with you, you feel better, play better, connect better. That’s the difference between “just okay” and “locked-in”.
Final thought
If you’re using a standard monitor from years ago, now’s a great time to seriously consider an upgrade. The tech has moved — and so have the expectations. Whether you’re stream-ready, squad-ready, or solo-campaign-ready, your display deserves a seat at the top of your gear list.
Stay hyped. Stay inclusive. Stay competitive.
Respawn Outpost — where the game feels right.