The Best Cheap 4K Monitor Deals in 2024 (May Update)

4k monitors can elevate your viewing experience big time. But sadly, they don’t come cheap– generally.

But your budget shouldn’t keep you from having the absolute best visual experience.

Whether you’re working with your favorite design app, developing the next hit game, or just indulging in sitcom streaming – 4k monitors can make all the difference. 

And that’s why we’re here with a list of the 10 best cheap 4k monitor deals that you can find in 2024.

So, let’s get started on elevating your visual experience without burning a hole in your pocket!

Also see our posts on the best budget monitors for graphic design, the best budget laptops, and the best best budget tablets.

What is the Best Cheap 4k Monitor Right Now?

Given its 4k resolution, excellent performance, wide connectivity, and great ergonomics, the Dell UltraSharp U3223QE is the best budget monitor for video editing, graphic designing, and more. While it is not the cheapest 4k monitor in the market, it provides the best value at a super affordable price.

Our Top 3 Picks

Here are the 3 best cheap 4k monitor deals in the market right now!

02/18/2024 07:41 pm GMT

Detailed Reviews of the 10 Best Budget 4k Monitor Deals in 2024

Check out our detailed reviews of the best budget 4k monitors to find the right deal for you!

1. Dell UltraSharp U3223QE — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)

The overall best budget 4k monitor in 2024

Display size: 31.5 inches | Best Feature: Height Adjustment | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 75 Hz

Having tried various affordable 4k monitors, we found the Dell UltraSharp U3223QE to be the best — standing out for its precision and clarity. This 31.5″ 4K UHD monitor, draped in a sophisticated black and silver design, while not the cheapest, is the best bang for buck 4k monitor in 2024. And here is why:

Let’s start with the screen real estate. With a generous 31.5-inch display, this monitor offers ample workspace, ensuring Graphic Designers and Digital Artists can work on intricate details without constantly zooming in and out.

This expansive screen real estate is further enhanced by the 4K UHD resolution– offering over 8 million pixels. It’s a feature that Video Editors and Film Students will find invaluable. Every frame, every transition, and every color gradient is displayed with unparalleled clarity, ensuring that your creations are viewed exactly as intended.

But it’s not just about visuals. The height adjustment feature is a nod to the ergonomic needs of professionals. Day Traders, Web Developers, and even Writers can adjust the monitor to their preferred height, ensuring comfort during those long, intensive hours.

And speaking of long hours, the connectivity options on the Dell UltraSharp U3223QE ensure that you’re always plugged in. IT Professionals and Remote Workers will particularly appreciate the extensive connectivity options.

Whether it’s USB-C, HDMI, or DP1.4, transitioning between devices or setting up a multi-monitor workstation is seamless, efficient, and hassle-free.

But on the flip side, professionals like Content Creators and Researchers who rely on integrated audio-visual tools will be affected by the absence of built-in speakers, mic, and camera. This might necessitate additional peripherals.

Still, the Dell UltraSharp U3223QE is overall the best budget 4k monitor– catering to the needs of a wide range of professionals. It’s designed ensuring that every feature, every pixel, and every connection point adds value to your workflow, all while being budget-friendly.

PROS	CONS
➕ Expansive 31.5″ 4K UHD display for unparalleled clarity	➖  Missing built-in speakers, mic, and camera
➕ Versatile connectivity options for diverse professional needs
➕ Ergonomic height adjustment for optimal comfort
➕ VESA mount compatibility for diverse setups

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

2. LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W — Best for Multitasking

Best budget 4k monitor for multitasking | Display size: 27 inches | Best Feature: Built-In Speakers | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

For professionals who demand precision, clarity, and multitasking capabilities, the LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W might just be the end of their search. Let’s delve into why this monitor is the perfect addition to your workspace.

With its 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160), the LG 27UD88-W offers a level of detail that will astonish even the most discerning eyes. For digital artists, photographers, and film students, this means your creations will be displayed with unparalleled accuracy.

Topping that, the monitor’s sRGB coverage of over 99% ensures that colors are not just vibrant but also true to life.

Additionally, On-Screen Control with Screen Split 2.0 is a game-changer. Imagine as web developers– being able to code on one side of the screen while previewing your live site on the other. Or as writers– having your manuscript open alongside crucial research. The multitasking possibilities are endless.

Similarly, it delivers in the area of connectivity. The USB Type-C port is a boon for IT professionals and remote workers alike. Not only can you display 4K video, but you can also transfer data and charge. devices simultaneously. Quite efficient– if you ask us.

While the LG 27UD88-W is packed with features, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t come with built-in speakers. However, for many professionals who prefer high-quality external audio setups, this might not be a significant concern.

Overall, the LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W is tailored to enhance the productivity and creativity of various professionals by allowing them to easily multitask. Whether you’re designing, coding, trading, or creating, this monitor can be your ideal partner.

PROS	CONS
➕ Stunning 4K UHD resolution for unparalleled clarity	➖ No built-in speakers
➕ Excellent color accuracy with sRGB over 99%
➕ Multitasking capabilities with Screen Split 2.0
➕ USB Type-C for diverse connectivity

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

3. PHILIPS 276E8VJSB — Cheapest 4k Monitor

Cheapest 4k monitor for budget-conscious professionals

Display size: 27 inches | Best Feature: Tilt Adjustment, Blue Light Filter, Flicker-Free, Energy Efficient | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

Now, if you want to enjoy the 4k experience while spending the absolute minimum, PHILIPS 276E8VJSB is the right monitor for you. Combining impeccable clarity, performance, and affordability in a neat package, it caters to the diverse needs of creative professionals.

Whether you’re a graphic designer working on intricate designs, a digital artist painting with millions of colors, or a researcher analyzing high-resolution imagery– the UltraClear 4K UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 ensures every detail is crisp. The 1.074 billion colors further guarantee smooth gradations, making your visuals come alive.

We know how for photographers and video editors, color accuracy is paramount, and that’s why we love its IPS technology. This ensures you get consistent and accurate colors from any viewing angle, eliminating the color shifts that can occur on other panels.

Similarly, the MultiView technology helps professionals like web developers, IT professionals, and day traders connect and view multiple devices simultaneously. This monitor lets you multitask efficiently, enhancing your productivity.

PHILIPS 276E8VJSB also delivers when it comes to eye comfort. For writers, journalists, and remote workers who spend extended hours in front of the screen, the Flicker-free technology combined with LowBlue Mode ensures reduced eye strain.

But again, the 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for game developers and other professionals dealing with motion graphics. However, for most professional tasks, this rate is sufficient.

Additionally, the absence of USB-C might be a slight inconvenience for some. But you can easily work around it with HDMI, DisplayPort inputs, or a USB hub.

In simple terms, PHILIPS 276E8VJSB is the best, cheapest 4k monitor you can find in the current market. Whether you’re crafting a masterpiece, analyzing data, or simply enjoying a 4K movie after a long day– this Philips monitor can cater to all your professional and non-professional needs.

PROS	CONS
➕ Ultra Clear 4K UHD resolution for precision	➖ 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for intense gaming
➕ IPS technology for consistent color accuracy	➖ Lack of USB-C connectivity
➕ MultiView for enhanced multitasking
➕ Eye comfort features for extended usage

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

4. ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV — Best Vibrant Display

Best budget 4k monitor for photo editing

Display size: 27 inches | Best Feature: USB Hub, High Dynamic Range, Adaptive Sync | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz”

If you are a photo/video editor, game developer, or animator, you need a display that can do justice to your work. And that’s where the ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV shines with its super vibrant display– making your work pop like nothing else.

Dive into stunning visual clarity with its 4K Ultra HD 3840 x 2160 resolution. Whether you’re a digital artist sketching intricate details or a researcher analyzing high-resolution imagery, this monitor ensures every detail is crisp.

For graphic designers and photographers, color is paramount. With 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 wide color gamut, and a Delta E < 2 color accuracy, your designs and photos will come out with utmost precision. This means your gallery prints or web designs will look exactly as you envisioned.

The extensive connectivity options, including DisplayPort over USB-C with 65W Power Delivery, HDMI, and a USB 3.1 hub, ensure that you can seamlessly connect multiple devices. The USB-C compatibility is a boon for Mac users, making it a versatile choice for diverse setups.

For writers, journalists, and remote workers who spend long hours in front of the screen, the ergonomic stand design offers tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments.

Coupled with ASUS Flicker-Free Technology and Ultra-Low Blue Light technology, eye strain is significantly reduced, ensuring comfort during those long work sessions.

It also delivers for you hustlers and multitaskers out there. The Picture in Picture (PiP) and Picture by Picture (PbP) modes are perfect for game developers, architects, and 3D modelers, allowing them to view different inputs simultaneously, maximizing productivity.

But on the flip side, its 60 Hz refresh rate will not suffice for pro gamers and some video editors. However, for most professional tasks, this refresh rate is more than adequate.

Additionally, navigating the monitor’s extensive menu options can be a tad cumbersome due to its button placement. So, this might take some getting used to.

All in all, the ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV is a testament to the fact that you don’t need to break the bank for quality. Whether you’re editing a film, developing a website, or simply enjoying a casual gaming session after work, this monitor is designed to cater to your every need.

PROS	CONS
➕ Exceptional 4K clarity	➖  60 Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for all users
➕ Outstanding color accuracy with sRGB and Rec. 709 support	➖  Menu navigation can be a bit tricky
➕ Versatile connectivity options, including USB-C
➕ Ergonomic design for prolonged use

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

5. LG 32UN550-W — Comfortable Viewing Experience

Best budget 4k monitor for working long hours

Display size: 32 inches | Best Feature: Tilt/Height Adjustable Stand, Wall Mountable | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

Do you often find yourself rubbing or washing your eyes while working? Yes, the eye strain from those long screen times is real. Not to mention how it disrupts your flow and productivity. So, here’s the LG 32UN550-W– the best budget 4k monitor for eye comfort.

With its anti-glare screen, you can work for extended hours without straining your eyes, making it perfect for those long editing sessions or coding marathons. But it doesn’t compromise quality for comfort.

Boasting a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, every detail is crisp and clear. Whether you’re a digital artist working on intricate designs, a researcher analyzing high-resolution imagery, or a game developer testing out the latest 4K content, this monitor ensures you see every pixel in its full glory.

The DCI-P3 90% Color Gamut with HDR10 further ensures vibrant and true-to-life colors. Photographers and video editors can trust their edits, knowing that what they see on screen is what they’ll get in the final product.

On top of that, the tilt/height adjustable stand and wall-mountable feature allow you to find your perfect viewing angle– whether you’re setting up a multi-monitor workstation or a DIY digital signage.

Similarly, the 3-side virtually borderless design ensures a seamless viewing experience– especially in dual or multi-monitor setups.

For content creators and film students, the built-in stereo speakers (5W x 2) offer a decent audio experience. While it helps keep your workspace clutter-free, you should invest in external speakers for a better experience.

We also felt that its default settings might not be ideal for some creative professionals working on color and detail-intensive projects. So, you might want to calibrate it according to your needs for optimal visuals.

Despite the minor shortcomings, the LG 32UN550-W is a versatile, high-quality monitor that caters to a wide range of professionals. From its impressive display capabilities to its ergonomic design, it’s built to enhance productivity and provide a top-notch viewing experience.

PROS	CONS
➕Stunning 4K UHD resolution for crystal-clear visuals	➖ Default settings might require calibration
➕DCI-P3 90% Color Gamut ensures vibrant and accurate colors	➖Built-in speakers might not be sufficient for audio-intensive tasks
➕Ergonomic design with tilt/height adjustable stand
➕Anti-glare screen for comfortable long-hour usage

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

6. SAMSUNG ViewFinity S6LS34A650UBNXGO — Smoothest Graphics

Best budget 4k monitor for video editing and motion graphics

Display size: 34 inches| Best Feature: USB Hub, Curved, High Dynamic Range | Aspect Ratio: 21:9 | Refresh Rate: 100 Hz

When you deal with motion graphics, you need nothing less than a monitor that can keep up with the transitions. The SAMSUNG ViewFinity S6LS34A650UBNXGO, with its high refresh rate, ensures your graphics transition gracefully. But there’s more to why it’s one of the best budget monitors for video editing.

This 34-inch 4K UHD monitor offers 4 times the pixels of Full HD and a wide viewing angle of 178°– ensuring that your designs, videos, or games look stunning from any perspective.

Further offering 1 Billion Colors with HDR 10, it ensures that dark colors are darker, and bright colors shine even brighter– making every piece of your content a joy to look at.

It also sports an ergonomic design with an adjustable stand that allows you to pivot, tilt, and swivel the screen for the perfect viewing angle. It’s a feature that architects, writers, and researchers will find incredibly useful for long working hours.

On top of that, the USB Type-C with LAN Port keeps your workspace clean and clutter-free. This feature is particularly beneficial for IT professionals and web developers who need a seamless connection with various devices.

And, of course, the 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync! For game developers and casual gamers, the fast refresh rate and AMD FreeSync ensure a smooth and responsive experience.

However, some of our testers faced issues with the USB-C connection and the flimsy arm that mounts the monitor. But you can easily work around these issues with careful handling and a sturdy monitor arm.

Simply put, SAMSUNG ViewFinity S6LS34A650UBNXGO is the best cheap monitor for video editing and other motion graphic projects. From its impressive display capabilities to its ergonomic design, it’s built to enhance productivity and provide a top-notch viewing experience.

PROS	CONS
➕ Ultra-WQHD resolution for immersive viewing	➖  Potential issues with USB C connection
➕ 1 Billion Colors with HDR10 for stunning visuals	➖ Flimsy arm mount might cause concerns
➕ Ergonomic design for comfortable long-hour usage
➕ USB Type-C and LAN Port for seamless connectivity

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

7. Dell S2721QS — Great Flexibility

Most flexible and adjustable 4k budget monitor

Display size: 27 inches | Best Feature: High Dynamic Range, Swivel /Height /Pivot /Tilt Adjustment | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

When it comes to achieving the perfect balance between clarity, flexibility, and affordability, the Dell S2721QS wins it. It’s arguably the best 4k budget monitor when it comes to creating a personalized, comfortable working environment.

Working with Video editors, IT professionals, and writers, we understand the hours you put in. The Dell S2721QS offers swivel, height, pivot, and tilt adjustments. This means you can customize your viewing angle, ensuring comfort during those long editing sessions or coding marathons.

For graphic designers, photographers, and digital artists, the 4K UHD resolution with a three-sided ultrathin bezel design ensures every pixel counts. Imagine editing a photograph and seeing nuances you’ve never noticed before or designing a website with such clarity that it feels tangible.

The support for HDR content playback further elevates the visual experience, making colors pop and details sharper.

And with built-in dual HDMI ports, professionals like web developers and content creators can effortlessly switch between coding and previewing content. This means no more juggling between devices, with S2721QS streamlining your workflow.

Apart from that, the Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) features get a big nod from us– especially for researchers, day traders, and remote workers. You can view content from two different sources simultaneously, making multitasking a breeze.

But the 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for game developers looking for ultra-smooth animations. However, for casual gaming experiences and most professional tasks, this rate is more than sufficient.

Additionally, while the monitor boasts HDR support, it doesn’t support HDR in all scenarios. But given its price point, these are trade-offs many professionals might be willing to make.

So, whether you’re a journalist drafting an article, an architect visualizing a design, or a film student editing a project, Dell S2721QS offers all the clarity and flexibility you need. It’s ideal for those who seek a balance between performance, adjustability, and price.

PROS	CONS
➕ Stunning 4K UHD resolution for precise details	➖ 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for all gaming scenarios
➕ Ergonomic design for customized comfort	➖ Inconsistent HDR support
➕ Dual HDMI ports for seamless device switching
➕ Affordable price point for the features offered

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

8. ViewSonic VP3256-4K — Best Budget 4k Color Accurate Monitor

best budget 4k monitor for photo editing

Display size: 32 inches | Best Feature: Anti Glare Screen, Hardware Calibration | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

Next on our list is the ViewSonic VP3256-4K, a budget 4k monitor that not only stands out for its impressive specs but also for its commitment to delivering unparalleled color accuracy.

If you’re a professional, whether you’re a graphic designer, digital artist, or film student, this monitor promises to bring your work to life in ways you’ve never seen before.

Offering precision in every pixel– the VP3256-4K boasts a 32-inch 4K UHD (3840x2160p) IPS display. But what truly sets it apart is its Pantone validation, ensuring that the colors you see on screen are as true to life as they can be. This means that what you design or edit will be exactly what your audience sees.

And we know how long hours in front of a screen can be taxing. The VP3256-4K’s changes that with its advanced ergonomic stand that you can adjust for tilt, swivel, pivot, and height. The Flicker-Free technology and Blue Light Filter further ensure that eye fatigue is minimized.

The monitor also optimizes your workspace with its USB-C connectivity, that not only provides fast data, audio, and video transfer but also powers up your device with a 60W charge. This means fewer cables and a cleaner workspace.

On top of that, the frameless design ensures that if you’re using multiple monitors, the transition from one to the other is almost seamless, enhancing your dual or multi-monitor workstations.

But with its refresh rate capped at 60Hz, it can be limiting for those dabbling in high-end gaming or requiring ultra-smooth motion graphics. A potential workaround could be to pair this with a dedicated gaming monitor for such specific tasks.

Overall, the ViewSonic VP3256-4K is designed for professionals who need precision, clarity, and reliability in their color-intensive projects. Whether you’re editing a video, designing a website, or modeling a 3D structure, this monitor ensures that what you see is accurate, vibrant, and true to your vision.

PROS	CONS
➕ Pantone validated for best color accuracy	➖  60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for high-end gaming
➕ Ergonomic design for extended use	➖ Some essential cables not included in the package
➕ USB-C connectivity for a clutter-free workspace
➕ Frameless design for seamless multi-monitor setups

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

9. SAMSUNG UR59 ViewFinity — Best Curved Monitor

best budget 32-inch 4k monitor with a curve display

Display size: 32 inches | Best Feature: 3D, Blue Light Filter, Tilt Adjustment, Flicker-Free, Curved | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | 

Refresh Rate : 60 Hz

Curved screens can take the immersive viewing experience to a whole different level. And since it can be hard to find a good curved monitor without breaking the bank, we have done the legwork for you and found the SAMSUNG UR59 Series 32-Inch ViewFinity.

The 1500R curved screen isn’t just a design choice. For graphic designers, digital artists, and film students, this curvature means a more holistic representation of your work from edge to edge.

It also ensures that your eyes maintain a constant focus distance from the screen, reducing eye fatigue. This is especially beneficial for remote workers and researchers who spend extended hours in front of the screen.

Similarly, with support for a billion hues and a 2500:1 contrast ratio, photographers and video editors can trust this monitor to provide accurate color representation. This ensures that your edits and adjustments are precise.

For game developers, this feature further optimizes image contrast in game scenes, revealing details that can be crucial for game testing.

On top of that, its Picture-by-Picture feature is a godsend for web developers and IT professionals– allowing them to view input from two different devices side-by-side at their native resolution. This feature allows for efficient multitasking and streamlined workflow.

While the SAMSUNG UR59 offers a plethora of features, being a bit older in tech, it lacks HDR compatibility. This might be a concern for professionals seeking HDR content development.

Additionally, the stand might occupy significant desk space, so ensure you have ample room or consider a compatible VESA mount.

All in all, the SAMSUNG UR59 LU32R590CWNXZA curved monitor gives you the best, most immersive experience in 4k without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you’re a content creator, a day trader analyzing charts, or a digital artist crafting a masterpiece– you can rely on this monitor.

PROS	CONS
➕ Immersive 1500R curved screen	➖  Lacks HDR compatibility
➕ True-to-life color representation with a billion hues	➖  Stand requires significant desk space
➕ Efficient multitasking with Picture-by-Picture
➕ Eye comfort features

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

10. BenQ PD3200U — Best Ergonomic Design

Best 4k budget monitor for long work sessions

Display size: 32 inches | Best Feature: Eye-Care Technology,AQCOLOR Technology | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

When it comes to a comfortable viewing experience, the BenQ PD3200U stands out as the best budget UHD monitor in 4k resolution. It enhances your work by ensuring precision, and maximizes productivity by providing comfort during those long hours.

With AQCOLOR Technology, 100% sRGB, and Rec. 709 color spaces, you’re guaranteed colors you can trust. Whether you’re a digital artist ensuring your digital palette matches real-world colors or a film student editing your latest project, this monitor ensures what you see is what you get.

Talking about its ergonomic excellence– the BenQ PD3200U seems to be designed with a great emphasis on comfort. Adjust the height, tilt, pivot, and swivel to find your perfect viewing angle. For architects and web developers, the ability to pivot the screen and view designs in portrait mode can be invaluable.

If you are a designer or a developer, you must have to spend long hours in front of the screen, which can seriously strain your eyes. Well, the PD3200U comes with exclusive Eye-Care technology, reducing eye fatigue and allowing you to focus on your work without discomfort.

This BenQ monitor also allows you to expand your workspace effortlessly. With HDMI, DisplayPort, mDP, and a USB hub, connecting devices is a breeze. The built-in KVM switch and HotKey Puck G2 are perfect for IT professionals and remote workers juggling between systems.

But on the flip side, the connection ports, located at the back, can be a bit tricky to access. However, for most professionals, these are minor inconveniences, easily overshadowed by the monitor’s stellar features.

Overall, whether you’re a photographer ensuring your photos are print-ready or a researcher pouring over high-resolution imagery, you can lean on BenQ PD3200U. And the best part is it delivers all that while ensuring maximum comfort for those long work sessions.

PROS	CONS
➕ Unparalleled color accuracy with AQCOLOR Technology	➖  60 Hz refresh rate not ideal for intense gaming
➕ Ergonomic design for optimal comfort	➖  Connection ports can be tricky to access
➕ Multiple connectivity options for a seamless workflow
➕ Eye-Care technology for extended work sessions

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

SOP: Selection and Testing of the Best Cheap 4K Monitors

How We Picked the Monitors:

1. Market Research:

We began by conducting extensive market research to identify the most popular and highly-rated 4K monitors within an affordable price range. We scoured online forums, tech blogs, and e-commerce platforms to gather a preliminary list.

2. Feedback from Professionals:

Collaborating with various creative professionals who may use such high-resolution monitors– we gathered insights on what they prioritize in a 4K monitor. This helped us understand the essential features and specifications that matter most for their respective fields.

3. Feature Analysis:

We then analyzed the features of each monitor, focusing on:

• Resolution & Display Quality: Ensuring true 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution.
• Connectivity Options: Prioritizing monitors with diverse input options like HDMI, DisplayPort, and more.
• Panel Type: Giving preference to IPS panels for their wide viewing angles and color accuracy– crucial for Graphic Designers, Digital Artists, and Photographers.
• Refresh Rate: While 60Hz is standard, we also considered higher refresh rates for smoother visuals, especially beneficial for Video Editors and Game Developers.

4. Brand Reputation:

We considered the reputation and reliability of the monitor brands. Brands with a history of producing quality displays and offering good customer support were given preference.

5. User Reviews:

We went through user reviews to understand real-world performance and any recurring issues faced by users. Monitors with consistently high ratings and positive feedback made it to our shortlist.

How We Tested the Monitors:

1. Setup & Calibration:

Upon receiving the monitors, we set them up in a controlled environment, ensuring consistent lighting and positioning. We calibrated each monitor using professional calibration tools to achieve optimal color accuracy and brightness.

2. Real-world Usage by Professionals:

Our team of professionals used the monitors extensively for their specific use cases. For instance:

• Graphic Designers and Digital Artists worked on intricate designs to test color accuracy.
• Video Editors edited 4K footage to assess smooth playback and color grading capabilities.
• Game Developers ran graphic-intensive games to check for any screen tearing or latency.

3. Performance Metrics:

We used specialized software to measure:

• Color Accuracy: Ensuring the colors displayed are true to the source.
• Brightness & Contrast: Checking if the monitors offer adequate brightness levels and maintain clear distinctions between light and dark areas.
• Response Time: Essential for fast-paced tasks like gaming or video editing.

4. Ergonomics & Build Quality:

We evaluated the sturdiness of the stand, adjustability (tilt, swivel, height), and overall build quality. A monitor’s ergonomics can significantly impact the user experience, especially for those who spend extended hours in front of the screen.

5. Connectivity & Compatibility:

We tested each monitor’s connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration with various devices. We also ensured compatibility with both Windows and macOS platforms, catering to a broader range of users.

6. Feedback Compilation:

After rigorous testing, we compiled feedback from all the professionals that collaborate with us. Monitors that excelled across multiple use case scenarios and met the high standards set by our experts were finalized for our list.

By following this meticulous selection and testing process, we ensured that our list of the best cheap 4K monitors is not only budget-friendly but also meets the high standards expected by various creative professionals for their diverse needs.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Cheap 4K Monitor for Professionals

Navigating the vast sea of 4K monitors can be daunting. But for you, we’ve collaborated with experts across various fields to craft this comprehensive guide to ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs. Let’s dive in!

✅ Understand What You Need

Before anything else, pinpoint your primary use case. Are you a Graphic Designer needing color accuracy or a Day Trader requiring multiple screens for real-time data? Identifying your primary need will help narrow down your choices.

✅ Screen Size and Workspace

• 27 to 32 inches: Ideal for most professionals. It offers ample screen real estate without overwhelming your desk. Monitors like LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W and LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W are some good options.
• Above 32 inches: Perfect for those who prefer larger displays for multi-tasking or immersive experiences. Ensure your workspace can accommodate it. And if it can, the SAMSUNG ViewFinity S6LS34A650UBNXGO is an excellent choice.

✅ Panel Technology

• IPS (In-Plane Switching): Found in monitors like ViewSonic VP3256-4K, IPS offers wide viewing angles and excellent color reproduction. Ideal for Graphic Designers, Photographers, and Digital Artists.
• TN (Twisted Nematic): Typically cheaper with faster response times but compromises on color accuracy and viewing angles.

✅ Color Accuracy and Coverage

For Digital Artists, Photographers, and Video Editors, color accuracy is paramount. Look for monitors that cover a high percentage of the sRGB, Adobe RGB, or DCI-P3 color spaces. Some monitors come factory-calibrated, ensuring color precision right out of the box.

In our experience, ViewSonic VP3256-4K is arguably the most color accurate cheap 4k monitor out there.

✅ Refresh Rate and Response Time

• Refresh Rate: 60Hz is standard for most tasks. However, Game Developers or those into Casual Gaming might prefer 120Hz or higher for smoother visuals. This makes SAMSUNG ViewFinity S6LS34A650UBNXGO the cheapest 4k gaming monitor. For better refresh rates, you’ll have to up your budget a bit.
• Response Time: Lower is better. Aim for 5ms or below to avoid ghosting, which is especially crucial for Video Editors and Gamers.

✅ Connectivity

Ensure the monitor has the ports you need:

• HDMI & DisplayPort: Essential for high-resolution 4K input.
• USB-C: Beneficial for newer laptops and for a cleaner setup with fewer cables.
• Additional USB ports: Useful for connecting peripherals directly to the monitor.

✅ Ergonomics and Adjustability

A monitor that can tilt, swivel, pivot, or adjust in height can significantly impact your comfort, especially during long work sessions. Consider a VESA mount if you plan on using a monitor arm. We found that BenQ PD3200U has the most ergonomic design when it comes to best budget 4k monitors.

✅ Eye Comfort Features

For those long hours, features like a Blue Light Filter and Flicker-Free technology can reduce eye strain and fatigue. And this makes ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV an excellent choice.

✅ Budget and Brand Reliability

While hunting for a bargain, don’t compromise on quality. Stick to reputable brands known for durability and good customer support. Remember, a monitor is a long-term investment.

By considering the factors we’ve outlined, you’d be well on your way to making a choice that will serve you well for years to come.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

All You Know About Choosing the Best Budget 4k Monitor in 2024

Finding the best affordable 4k monitor that caters to your professional and entertainment needs can be a daunting task. So, we hope to have made it easier for you with our detailed reviews and comprehensive buying guide.

If we have to pick a personal favorite, that would be the Dell UltraSharp U3223QE. From performance to ergonomics, this monitor wins it all. While it is not the cheapest 4k monitor out there, it is definitely a super budget-friendly option that gives you the best value for your money.

Have you owned any of these monitors? What was your experience like? Make sure to tell us in the comments below!