Best Budget Monitor for Graphic Design: Top 9 Affordable Picks for Designers in 2024
Looking for the best budget monitor for graphic design? Graphic designers rely on color accuracy, high resolution, and wide color gamut to create stunning visuals. A quality monitor doesn’t have to cost a fortune—many affordable options deliver professional-grade performance.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up nine of the best budget monitors for graphic design. Each has been evaluated for color performance, resolution, and build quality to ensure they meet the needs of designers on a budget.
Why Choosing the Right Monitor Matters
The best monitors for graphic design offer:
- Color Accuracy: High coverage of sRGB, AdobeRGB, or DCI-P3 color spaces.
- Resolution: Crisp visuals with at least QHD (2560 x 1440) or better.
- Ergonomics: Adjustable stands for comfortable, long working hours.
- Connectivity: Support for HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort for modern setups.
Below, we’ll dive into nine standout models for budget-conscious designers.
1. Dell UltraSharp U2723QE
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Color Coverage: 99% sRGB, 98% DCI-P3
- Brightness: 400 nits
- Price: Approx. $650
The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is a professional-grade 4K monitor equipped with IPS Black technology, offering unparalleled color depth and contrast. Ideal for photo editing and video production, it features USB-C connectivity for streamlined workflows.
2. BenQ PD2700U
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Color Accuracy: 100% sRGB, Rec. 709
- HDR Support: HDR10
- Price: Approx. $500
BenQ’s PD2700U delivers stunning 4K visuals and factory-calibrated colors, making it a favorite for creative professionals working on a budget. Its eye-care technology also reduces strain during long design sessions.
3. ASUS ProArt PA278CV
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: QHD (2560 x 1440)
- Color Accuracy: 100% sRGB and Rec. 709
- Brightness: 350 nits
- Price: Approx. $450
The ASUS ProArt PA278CV is perfect for designers needing Calman-verified color accuracy. Its USB-C connectivity and ergonomic design make it versatile for multi-device setups.
4. LG 27UL500-W
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Color Accuracy: 98% sRGB
- HDR Support: HDR10
- Price: Approx. $350
This monitor combines 4K clarity and HDR support at an affordable price. While it doesn’t cover AdobeRGB, it excels for web design, illustration, and general creative work.
5. ViewSonic VP2768a
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: QHD (2560 x 1440)
- Color Accuracy: 100% sRGB, Rec. 709
- Factory Calibration: Delta E < 2
- Price: Approx. $430
The ViewSonic VP2768a is a design-focused monitor with professional-grade calibration. Its slim bezels are ideal for multi-monitor setups, making it a great choice for graphic designers and video editors.
6. Acer ConceptD CM2
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Color Accuracy: 99% AdobeRGB
- HDR Support: HDR400
- Price: Approx. $400
Though smaller in size, the Acer ConceptD CM2 punches above its weight with AdobeRGB coverage, making it a strong choice for print design and color-critical work.
7. Eizo ColorEdge CS2410
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Color Accuracy: 100% sRGB
- Hardware Calibration: Yes
- Price: Approx. $550
Eizo is known for its exceptional quality, and the CS2410 delivers. It’s a compact monitor with hardware-level calibration, ideal for professional designers who prioritize accuracy.
8. HP Z27q G3
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: QHD (2560 x 1440)
- Color Accuracy: 99% sRGB
- Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
- Price: Approx. $470
The HP Z27q G3 offers a sleek design and great color performance for graphic designers, with wide viewing angles and adjustable ergonomics.
9. Philips 276E8VJSB
Key Features:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160)
- Color Accuracy: 109% sRGB
- Price: Approx. $300
This ultra-affordable 4K monitor is perfect for designers on a tight budget. While it lacks advanced features like USB-C, its sharp display and wide color gamut make it a great entry-level choice.