BenQ gaming monitors use TN and VA panels that prioritize fast 1ms response times ideal for esports and competitive gaming, while LG gaming monitors primarily utilize faster IPS panel types that offer superior colors and viewing angles better suited for single player cinematic games. Both support key refresh rates and adaptive sync features well.
When researching a new gaming monitor in 2024, two top brands to consider are BenQ and LG. Both companies make high-performing displays across various specs, prices, and panel types like IPS, VA, and TN. But if you’re debating between BenQ vs LG gaming monitors, how do you decide which is better for your needs?
In this detailed comparison guide, we’ll break down the key differences between BenQ and LG monitors to help you choose. We’ll compare prices and value, panel types, refresh rates, response times, adaptive sync technologies, size options, and more. By the end, you’ll understand the strengths of each brand and which is better for competitive esports gaming versus console gaming.
Prices and Budget Options
When looking at the gaming monitor market, BenQ tends to be more budget-friendly in the low-end price tier compared to LG.
For example, the BenQ Zowie XL2411P 24-inch 144Hz gaming monitor can routinely be found for under $200. The LG UltraGear 24GL600F-B is a very similar 144Hz monitor but retails over $50 higher on average.
However, LG starts to become more affordable and offer better value once you move up into the $300+ price range. The LG 27GN750-B is an excellent 240Hz IPS gaming monitor with a 1ms response time that costs around $350. Comparable 240Hz TN models from BenQ sell for $100+ more.
Panel and Features
One of the biggest differences between BenQ and LG gaming monitors lies in the panel technology used. BenQ monitors relies more heavily on TN (twisted nematic) and VA (vertical alignment) panel monitors which offer faster response times of 1ms or lower. This is beneficial for competitive esports and twitch gaming.
However, LG uses IPS (in-plane switching) panels in most of its gaming monitors which offer better colors, viewing angles, and image quality, but at the cost of slightly slower 4-5ms response times. IPS is better for single player games.
In terms of features, both BenQ and LG monitors come with gaming-centric extras like crosshairs, Black Stabilizer modes to brighten dark scenes, and multiple gaming presets to optimize visuals for different game genres.
For HDR, some high-end models from both brands support basic HDR10 or VESA Display HDR 400. But only LG has monitors compliant with VESA Display HDR 600 or 1000 standards for true HDR gaming.
Refresh Rates
The refresh rate determines how many frames per second (FPS) a gaming monitor can display from your PC’s graphics card. Standard monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, while 120Hz, 144Hz, and 240Hz displays are considered optimal for gaming.
Both BenQ and LG offer monitors will all the key refresh rate tiers:
- 60Hz – Basic monitors good for work. Not ideal for fast gaming.
- 144Hz – The most popular for PC and console gaming. Smoother visuals and response over 60Hz.
- 240Hz – Top-end monitors aimed at esports/competitive play. Super smooth with extremely fast pixel response.
When it comes to response times, BenQ’s TN panel monitors like the XL2546K with DyAc+ technology can achieve sub 1ms response at 240Hz. This is some of the fastest performance ideal for twitch shooters.
LG’s fastest IPS monitors have 1ms response with overdrive enabled at 144Hz, and around 4-5ms at 240Hz. Still solid for gaming and better all-around visuals.
Performance Comparisons
| Spec | BenQ | LG |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz or 240Hz | 144Hz or 240Hz |
| Response Time | 1ms or lower (TN panels) | 1ms with overdrive (IPS panels) |
| Adaptive Sync | FreeSync Premium | G-Sync Compatible or AMD FreeSync |
| HDR | VESA DisplayHDR 400 in some models | VESA DisplayHDR 600 or 1000 certification |
| Panel | Primarily TN and VA focused on response times | Primarily fast IPS for better colors and viewing angles |
To summarize the key performance differences:
- Response Times – BenQ pulls ahead here with true 1ms or better response times thanks to TN panel gaming monitors aimed at esports pros.
- Adaptive Sync – Both support variable refresh rate tech with either AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync compatibility for smoothing gameplay.
- HDR – LG has more monitors that meet certifications for true high dynamic range. Useful for single player story games.
- Panels – LG specializes in fast IPS panels for better overall visuals while BenQ uses TN and VA to prioritize fast response.
Overall, LG gaming monitors excel in visual quality with solid performance while BenQ dominates on raw speed and responsiveness. Pick the brand aligning best with your priorities.
Size Options and Ultrawide Support
For gaming monitors, the most popular sizes tend range from 24-27 inches. Both BenQ and LG have multiple options across this gamut. LG offers more 32-inch and above monitors though while BenQ tops out around 28-inches for its primary gaming displays.
In terms of ultrawide monitors with 21:9 aspect ratios, LG has committed more heavily to this form factor. They offer high-performance 34-inch and 38-inch ultrawide monitors with IPS panels and 144Hz or better refresh rates. Great for immersive gaming.
BenQ lags behind when it comes to ultrawides – they only have one 34-inch model with a VA panel which limits refresh rate to 100Hz.
Additionally, LG has embraced curved display gaming monitors more extensively. Their ultragear line features both flat and curved radius options catering to user preferences, while BenQ sticks to flat panels only outside of its one ultrawide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand is more reliable and durable?
In terms of reliability and durability, BenQ and LG monitors both perform very well with minimal issues reported. LG offers a 1-year warranty while BenQ provides 3-years of coverage. Overall build quality is solid on both although some LG monitors have experienced failing USB hubs.
Which has better customer service and support?
BenQ receives slightly better reviews for their responsive customer support team according to various monitor review websites like Rtings and Tom’s Hardware. But LG also has helpful support staff if issues emerge.
Do BenQ or LG monitors have better picture quality?
LG monitor picture quality is ahead thanks to their focus on color-rich and vibrant IPS panel monitors. They offer better viewing angles too. However, some players may prefer BenQ’s focus on fast TN panels even if visuals are more washed out.
Which is better for competitive esports gaming?
BenQ is likely the better choice if you play fast-paced competitive esports titles and want the fastest response times possible. Models like the XL2546K have TN panels with DyAc+ for unmatched fluidity. Casual gamers will still enjoy LG’s IPS monitors though.
What are the best BenQ and LG monitors for Xbox Series X or PS5?
The LG 27GP950-B (4K/160Hz/IPS) and BenQ Mobiuz EX3210U (4K/144Hz/VA) are both excellent high-end options for Xbox Series X and PS5. The LG monitor gets the slight edge for next-gen console gaming.
Final Thoughts
Both BenQ and LG make high-performing gaming monitors across various panel types, specs, and price ranges. LG tends to focus more on faster IPS panels while BenQ offers great TN and VA monitors with the best response times. Use this analysis as a guide when choosing your next display
A former esports professional turned tech journalist, Aiden Johnson is on a mission to help gamers optimize their setups. His expertise extends beyond gaming monitors, encompassing the broader tech ecosystem. Known for breaking down complex topics into digestible pieces, Aiden provides a holistic view of how monitors fit into the larger gaming and tech landscape.