Gigabyte offers higher refresh rates and more gaming features, while LG provides superior panel technology and picture quality with innovative Nano IPS displays, better warranties and responsive customer service. For most buyers seeking the best all-around monitor combining performance, visuals and reliability, LG is the preferable choice.
When it comes to buying a new monitor, two brands that often top the list are Gigabyte and LG. Both companies produce high-quality displays perfect for gaming, professional work, or general home use. But which brand comes out on top – Gigabyte or LG?
This extensive guide compares Gigabyte and LG monitors across all the key factors to determine the ultimate winner. We analyze monitor size and resolution options, performance specs, features, pricing, panel types, warranties, and common buying considerations. Read on for a complete breakdown of everything you need to weigh up before splurging on your next monitor from either leading brand!
Monitor Size and Resolution Offerings Compared
When looking at specs, one of the first things to examine is what size monitors and maximum resolutions are available across Gigabyte and LG’s lineups. This determines how much screen real estate you have to work with.
Below is a breakdown of both brands side-by-side:
| Size | Gigabyte | LG |
|---|---|---|
| 24-27 inches | Up to 2560 x 1440p | Up to 2560 x 1440p |
| 27-32 inches | Up to 3840 x 2160p | Up to 3840 x 2160p |
| 32+ inches | Up to 3840 x 2160p | Up to 5120 x 2160p |
A key difference is LG offers larger monitors exceeding 32 inches more often, with ultra-wide models going up to 49 inches. A few high-end LG monitors also support 5K resolution.
Gigabyte’s size range tops out at 32 inches currently. So if you want a giant, immersive display for gaming or watching movies, LG may be preferable. But Gigabyte still has excellent 27 inch 1440p and 4K options.
Performance and Features Face-off
When you’re splashing out on a premium monitor, you want one that looks great and performs well for your needs – whether gaming, creative work, or all-around use.
Here’s how Gigabyte and LG compare across some key performance specs and extra capabilities:
Contrast Ratio – LG wins with higher rated contrast ratios of up to 2100:1 versus Gigabyte’s 1000:1, resulting in deeper blacks.
Refresh Rate – Both brands offer monitors with refresh rates between 60Hz up to 240Hz. LG has more models exceeding 144Hz but Gigabyte still has great high refresh options.
Response Times – Similarly fast across both at 1ms to 5ms for eliminating ghosting and motion blur.
Connectivity – All provide the main HDMI and DisplayPort connections. LG has more models with convenient USB ports for extra peripherals.
Gaming Features – Gigabyte edges ahead with gaming-centric enhancements like Aim Stabilizer, Black Equalizer and integrated crosshairs. LG monitors are still great for gaming though.
For the most part, both brands hold their own in performance and capabilities. LG excels in contrast thanks to their sharp IPS panel technology. And they lead in connectivity too.
Price and Budget Options
The amount you’ll pay is often the final deciding factor when weighing up any purchase. So how do Gigabyte and LG’s prices compare for models with similar specifications?
Below are some current prices at the same specs:
| Model | Size | Resolution | Refresh Rate | Panel | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gigabyte M27Q | 27″ | 2560 x 1440 | 170Hz | IPS | $379 |
| LG 27GP850 | 27″ | 2560 x 1440 | 180Hz | IPS | $399 |
| Gigabyte M32U | 32″ | 3840 x 2160 | 144Hz | IPS | $799 |
| LG 32UN650 | 32″ | 3840 x 2160 | 60Hz | VA | $530 |
As you can see, LG monitors can be $20 to $100+ more expensive when comparing equivalent display sizes, resolutions, refresh rates and panel types.
However, LG provides strong budget options like the 32UN650 priced very competitively. Gigabyte’s offerings cater more towards mid-range and high-end shoppers wanting the latest gaming features.
Monitor Panels Compared
The monitor panel technology used plays a big role in the final image quality. There are three main types:
IPS – Best color accuracy and wide viewing angles. Ideal for creative work and entertainment.
VA – Higher contrast ratio and darker blacks. Great middle-ground choice.
TN – Fastest response times. Most affordable. Common in high refresh rate gaming monitors.
So which panel types are utilized across Gigabyte and LG’s range?
Gigabyte monitors relies exclusively on IPS and TN panels from quality manufacturers like AU Optronics and Innolux. This allows superb color reproduction and gaming performance.
LG uses their proprietary Nano IPS and NanoCell IPS technology. This further enhances color, refresh rates and more versus standard IPS, with wide viewing angles still intact. For large affordable displays, LG turns to VA panels to deliver better contrast too.
Warranty and Customer Service
If anything goes wrong with your monitor, you want adequate warranty coverage and responsive support. How do Gigabyte and LG stack up here?
Warranty
- Gigabyte: 3 years on most models
- LG: 1 year on most models
Customer Service
- Gigabyte: Mixed reviews. Can be slow responding and getting replacements approved.
- LG: Positive feedback. Quick turnaround times for repairs/replacements.
While LG only provides a standard 1 year warranty, their customer service earns praise for timely fixes or monitor replacements when issues arise.
Gigabyte offers longer 3 year coverage from purchase. However, reviews indicate the process for getting replacements approved under warranty can be frustrating and lengthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better for gaming – Gigabyte or LG monitors?
Gigabyte monitors edge out LG on gaming capabilities. They match fast refresh rates and response times, while adding handy extras like crosshairs, aim stabilizers and black equalization. Gigabyte also caters their monitors more directly towards gamers.
Which brand has better picture quality?
LG wins on pure panel quality by utilizing their Nano IPS technology for enhanced color and clarity. This combines with high contrast VA panels in budget models too. But Gigabyte still offers sharp, accurate visuals from quality IPS options.
What LG monitors compete with the Gigabyte M32U?
The LG 32GP850 is a close rival, with a sharp 31.5 inch 4K display running at 160Hz. It matches features like HDR and 90% DCI-3 coverage for $100+ less too. Though it loses out on HDMI 2.1.
Is a curved or flat monitor better for work?
Flat monitors are best for productivity and creative tasks. Curved displays distort straight lines and geometries. So they are more a stylistic choice for gaming and movie immersion. Both brands offer curved screens, but focus on flat panel monitors for professional use cases.
Conclusion
After comparing every aspect extensively – size, resolution, performance, features, pricing, panels, warranties and key buying factors – LG monitors ultimately beat out Gigabyte overall.
The only advantages held by Gigabyte are gaming-centric bonuses and slightly lower costs at mid-tier pricing.
But LG monitors still excel at gaming too, with exceptional response times and up to 240Hz refresh rates across their lineup. And the superior panel quality enhances gaming visuals further.
If your budget goes far enough, a premium LG monitor is hard to pass up. But those seeking pure gaming prowess on a tighter budget are still well served by Gigabyte’s offerings.
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.