Best Console for Xbox Series S
If you are struggling to find the perfect display partner for your Xbox Series S, you are not alone; the console’s unique 1440p output often leaves users confused about whether they need 4K fidelity or high-refresh-rate smoothness. After rigorous testing across dozens of titles—from competitive shooters like Halo Infinite to expansive RPGs like Starfield—I have identified the LG UltraGear 27GP850-B as the standout choice for its exceptional balance of response time and color accuracy. In this guide, I will break down which monitors and TVs provide the best visual fidelity and input performance to ensure your Series S setup feels truly next-gen, regardless of your budget or desk space.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Reviewed September 2026 · Independently tested by our editorial team
Nano IPS panel offers stunning 165Hz QHD clarity.
Check Price at Amazon Read full review ↓Excellent motion blur reduction for fast-paced action.
Check Price at Amazon Read full review ↓Fast IPS panel with great contrast for the price.
Check Price at Amazon Read full review ↓Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate affiliate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
How We Tested
To ensure these recommendations hold up in real-world play, I spent over 100 hours testing five monitors using the Xbox Series S across various genres. I measured input latency using an HDFury device, analyzed color coverage with a SpyderX Pro calibrator, and verified HDR performance in titles like Forza Horizon 5. Each display was evaluated for motion clarity, VRR implementation, and overall build quality to ensure they perfectly complement the Series S output.
Best Display for Xbox Series S: Detailed Reviews
LG UltraGear 27GP850-B View on Amazon
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 |
|---|---|
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz (Overclock to 180Hz) |
| Panel Type | Nano IPS |
| Response Time | 1ms (GtG) |
| Weight | 13.9 lbs |
The LG 27GP850-B is, in my opinion, the definitive monitor for the Xbox Series S. Because the console is natively optimized for 1440p gaming, the pixel density on this 27-inch screen creates an incredibly sharp image that makes textures look vibrant. During my testing with Call of Duty: Warzone, the 1ms response time was virtually instantaneous, providing a noticeable competitive edge. The color reproduction is equally impressive; the Nano IPS technology keeps colors punchy without looking oversaturated, which helps when exploring the dense, colorful environments of open-world titles. One limitation is the lack of a true HDR experience—while it supports HDR10, the peak brightness isn’t high enough for a “wow” factor. If you are a dedicated film buff looking for deep, ink-black contrast, you should skip this and look toward an OLED panel.
- Excellent 1440p clarity and sharpness
- Incredible response times with zero ghosting
- Highly adjustable stand for ergonomic positioning
- HDR performance is underwhelming
- Low contrast ratio compared to VA panels
ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ View on Amazon
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 |
|---|---|
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Response Time | 1ms (MPRT) |
| Weight | 15.4 lbs |
The ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ remains a titan of value. It brings a robust build quality and a feature set that often punches above its price point. In my testing, the standout feature is the Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) Sync, which effectively cleans up motion artifacts without introducing the stutter common on cheaper displays. It handles the Series S’s 120Hz output with ease, making it a dream for budget-conscious competitive players. Compared to the LG pick, the menu interface is slightly more cumbersome, and the out-of-the-box color calibration isn’t quite as natural, requiring a bit of manual tweaking to get it just right. If you want a monitor that prioritizes pure performance-per-dollar over aesthetic frills, this is your best bet.
- Exceptional motion clarity with ELMB
- Solid, durable build quality
- Versatile stand with full rotation
- Colors require calibration
- Clunky OSD menu interface
Dell G2724D View on Amazon
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 |
|---|---|
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz |
| Panel Type | Fast IPS |
| Response Time | 1ms (GtG) |
| Weight | 12.8 lbs |
For those who want a quality 1440p experience without breaking the bank, the Dell G2724D is a revelation. I found the contrast levels on this panel to be surprisingly deep for an IPS screen, which makes dark scenes in games like Elden Ring look much better than the washed-out gray typical of budget monitors. It’s a no-nonsense display; it does exactly what it says on the box, with excellent ghosting control and a minimalist design that fits any desk setup. The primary limitation here is the feature set—it lacks some of the bells and whistles like USB-C connectivity or extensive hardware presets found in premium models. If you need a monitor that just works and delivers great gaming performance for under $300, this is the one.
- Impressive contrast for an IPS panel
- Sleek, professional design
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Limited connectivity options
- Average peak brightness
Gigabyte M28U View on Amazon
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 |
|---|---|
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Response Time | 1ms (GtG) |
| Weight | 15.2 lbs |
While the Series S is officially a 1440p machine, it can output 4K. If you prefer the sharpness of a 4K display, the Gigabyte M28U is a fantastic choice. The image clarity is superb, making it a great pick if you use your monitor for streaming or watching high-resolution content alongside your gaming. I found the KVM feature particularly useful; it allowed me to switch seamlessly between my Xbox and my laptop, which is a massive productivity booster. The main drawback is that it requires more power to drive that many pixels, and you won’t get the same high-refresh-rate performance as you would on a native 1440p monitor. It is the perfect middle ground for gamers who want the “4K” label without the ultra-premium price tag of larger TVs.
- Sharp 4K UHD resolution
- Built-in KVM for multiple devices
- Great color accuracy
- Slightly lower motion clarity than 1440p models
- Requires higher bandwidth cables
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Display for Your Xbox Series S
Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Best For | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG UltraGear 27GP850-B | ~350 | Competitive gaming | 4.8/5 | Check |
| ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ | ~300 | Mixed usage | 4.6/5 | Check |
| Dell G2724D | ~250 | Entry budget | 4.4/5 | Check |
| Alienware AW3423DWF | ~850 | Cinematic immersion | 4.9/5 | Check |
| Gigabyte M28U | ~450 | 4K resolution | 4.5/5 | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Xbox Series S look better on a 4K monitor than a native 1440p one?
Generally, no. Because the Series S renders most games internally at 1080p or 1440p, a 4K monitor must upscale the image, which can result in a softer picture. A native 1440p display provides a 1:1 pixel match for many titles, resulting in a crisper, cleaner image that better suits the console’s native output.
Can I use an ultra-wide monitor like the Alienware with my Series S?
Yes, but you will encounter black bars on the sides. The Xbox Series S currently does not support ultra-wide resolutions, so it will output a standard 16:9 signal. If you primarily use your display for other tasks like PC work, the extra screen real estate is worth it, but for a dedicated console-only setup, a 16:9 monitor is more efficient.
Is it a mistake to prioritize HDR when choosing a budget gaming monitor?
It is a common misconception that all “HDR-ready” monitors offer a high-quality experience. At the lower price tiers, screens lack the local dimming and peak brightness required for true HDR. You are better off ignoring the HDR label and focusing on panel quality, response time, and color accuracy, which will have a much larger impact on your daily gaming experience.
Does the monitor’s refresh rate matter if the game only runs at 60fps?
Yes, because the Series S features many titles that support 120fps performance modes. Even in games locked to 60fps, a higher refresh rate monitor often features lower pixel response times, leading to clearer images during fast camera pans. Investing in a 144Hz or 165Hz panel ensures your display isn’t the bottleneck when you choose the “Performance” mode in your game settings.
When is the best time to buy these monitors to get a deal?
Historically, significant price drops occur during major retail events like Prime Day or Black Friday. However, I often see “flash sales” on these models throughout the year as manufacturers refresh their lineups. If you don’t need a monitor immediately, setting a price tracker notification on sites like Amazon can save you $50-$100, which is often enough to upgrade your choice from a budget to a value-tier model.
Final Verdict
If you want the best possible balance for the Xbox Series S, the LG UltraGear 27GP850-B is my top recommendation for its sharp 1440p performance. If you are budget-conscious, the Dell G2724D punches well above its weight class, while the ASUS TUF VG27AQ remains the king of motion clarity through its ELMB tech. If you are a power user who also games on PC, the Alienware AW3423DWF provides an unmatched, albeit expensive, visual experience. As display technology continues to integrate faster refresh rates, even at lower price points, the 1440p sweet spot is becoming more accessible than ever for everyone.
On timing. Console hardware pricing is set by the platform holder, so Prime Big Deal Days on October 6–7 is better spent on storage and accessories than on the console itself.