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As we enter into the second half of 2022, the best HDMI 2.1 monitors are becoming much more of a staple in both console and PC gamers.
Now fully established in today’s market, the latest 4K 144Hz supportive monitors are a breath of fresh air for gamers – delivering excellent performance in 8K @ 60FPS or 4K @ 120FPS gameplay.
If you’re in the market for one of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors in 2022, look no further – we’ve reviewed a tonne of the latest panels and have compiled this short list of options for your consideration. Whether you’re looking for a large-screen panel for console use or need something smaller that can be used for both PC gaming and console gaming, this guide will have a monitor that suits your exact needs.
We’ll be taking a closer look at all the major HDMI 2.1 monitors in today’s market, comparing price, performance, specs, and overall value for money.
So, with plenty to get through, let’s dive into the best HDMI 2.1 monitors in 2022.
HDMI 2.1 monitor deals
Looking to save a few bucks on a great HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor? Look no further, we have all the latest deals below:
Best HDMI 2.1 monitor in 2022: our top picks
01
Best HDMI 2.1 Monitor
Acer Nitro XV282K
02
Best Large-Screen HDMI 2.1 Monitor
Gigabyte FV43U
03
Best All-Round HDMI 2.1 Monitor
LG UltraGear 27GP950
Last HDMI 2.1 monitor news
Corsair Xeneon Flex hands-on first impressions:
Corsair has partnered with LG Displays for the Xeneon Flex, utilizing one of the brand’s W-OLED display – offering up stunning picture quality, perfect blacks, and infinite contrast ratio.It will sit at an eye-watering 45 inches and will deliver crisp image quality thanks to its 3,440 x 1,440 screen resolution (21:9 aspect ratio). While that does seem a little lacking for a 45-inch screen, we found the viewing experience to be incredible immersive and sharp.
List of recommended best HDMI 2.1 monitors
- Acer Nitro XV282K
- Gigabyte FV43U
- LG UltraGear 27GP950
- Samsung Odyssey G9
- Gigabyte AORUS FI32U
- LG OLED C1 Series
- LG OLED C2
Best HDMI 2.1 monitor video
How We Choose And Test
Physically testing the products we recommend here at WePC is one of the fundamental factors that has helped us secure your trust in recent years.
For the best HDMI 2.1 monitors post, we haven’t quite managed to test all the monitors we’ve recommended – my bad. That being said, the ones we haven’t tested have been selected from previous experience, specifications, and the overall reputation of the brand.
Like all our best-of guides, we will be performing thorough tests of all the monitors we recommend – as and when we can.
What Is HDMI 2.1?
Maybe a silly question, but for some individuals – especially the ones new to PC/console gaming – the features and benefits of the new video/audio transfer standard are a little foreign. HDMI 2.1 is the latest standard of HDMI specification – the world’s most popular video/audio interface. The latest standard of HDMI offers a whole host of exciting features and benefits that will improve gaming, exponentially.
The new HDMI specifications support a range of higher video resolution and refresh rates, including; 8K@60 and 4K@120 – not to mention 10K resolution too. Furthermore, dynamic HDR formats are also supported alongside bandwidth capabilities that reach 48Gbps.
Whilst most of the HDMI 2.1 excitement surrounds higher resolution support, that isn’t the only benefit. Gamers will also be able to enjoy eARC simplified connectivity – providing greater ease of use and supporting the most advanced audio formats (higher quality audio experience).
Gamers can also look forward to enhanced gaming features too, including a more efficient VRR experience, Auto Low Latency Mode, and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) too – for reduced latency.
When Are HDMI 2.1 Monitors Available?
HDMI 2.1 monitors are readily available for purchase right now. Having said that, due to the shortage in, well, everything tech-related, we are experiencing some lengthy delays on some of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors. At this stage, there is no sign to suggest when stock levels will return to normal – with many leading manufacturers struggling to produce leading panels in mass.
Fortunately, delays won’t last forever, and it’s only a matter of time before stock becomes available.
Things To Consider When Purchasing A HDMI 2.1 Monitor
Like any new hardware technology, choosing the best HDMI 2.1 monitor right now can be incredibly difficult – especially if you aren’t bang up to date with the latest technology. For HDMI 2.1 monitors, there are a tonne of prior considerations to think about to ensure the monitor you choose is right for your specific needs.
For that reason, we have listed the most important factors and some expectations that come with an HDMI 2.1 monitor:
Price
Like many new technologies, HDMI 2.1 monitors are coming with fairly hefty price tags – as you’d imagine. Thanks to the specifications these monitors come equipped with (4K @ 144Hz in most cases), they aren’t exactly the cheapest options around there.
That’s the point though, as a gamer – especially a console gamer – the point of HDMI 2.1 is high resolutions at over 60FPS (in this case, 120hz).
So, if you are in the market for a new HDMI 2.1 monitor, remember, you’re likely going to have to spend a good amount of cash to reap the rewards.
Hardware Requirements
As most HDMI 2.1 monitors come with high resolutions, PC gamers will have to factor in the strength of their PC components.
As we say on our 4K gaming monitor page, moving from a 1080 or 1440p panel up to a UHD 4K one comes with huge knock-on effects to your gaming experience.
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This is particularly important for individuals that want to hook their monitor up to a PC and a next-gen console.
HDMI 2.1 Vs DisplayPort 1.4
There aren’t really that many huge differences between HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 – once you forget about the actual connector shape.
That said, there are some subtle differences to be found when taking a closer look at the technical specifications of both.
For all intents and purposes, HDMI 2.1 is the better of the two. It has a higher ‘Max Transmission Rate’ and ‘Max Data Rate’.
The biggest difference of all, however, is the convenience of HDMI. It is used in almost every consumer essential, outweighing the DisplayPort by some distance. Furthermore, next-gen consoles do not offer a DisplayPort connection – meaning if you want to relish 4K @ 120Hz, you will need to use an HDMI 2.1 monitor.
Check out our full guide on HDMI vs DisplayPort here.
Honorable mentions
With a tonne of different HDMI 2.1 options available, we’ve listed some honorable mentions that didn’t make the cut in this guide:
Best HDMI 2.1 monitor: in-depth review
Acer Nitro XV282K
Pros
- Immersive 4K 144Hz visual experience
- Sleek design
- Agile-splendor IPS panel
- Fully versatile stand
Cons
- HDR content is poor
- Bottom bezel feels flimsy
Acer were one of the first manufacturers to release details on their upcoming HDMI 2.1 monitor – and we were lucky enough to get our hands on one for testing. We’ve given the hugely impressive XV282K our top spot and for good reason. Not only does this monitor excel in console gaming, but it also performs extremely well in PC gaming too.
The XV282K comes with a fairly subtle design that is neither gamey nor boring. It comes with the latest XV series design signature, boasting a stylish panel, circular base, and cylindrical stand. Like other IPS panels in this guide, the XV282K comes with excellent viewing angles and an anti-glare coating that is great for daytime gaming.
From a specs standpoint, the XV282K comes with UHD 4K screen resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms GTG response time. It also offers an extremely wide color gamut, HDR400 certification, and dual HDMI 2.1 ports. The OSD is extremely versatile, bringing a whole host of cool game-tailored features to the table.
There’s really not much to complain about with this monitor, it really does tick most boxes when it comes to PC and console gaming. That being said, it does retail for around $900, making it a pretty expensive prospect for any HDMI 2.1 monitor seeker.
See the full Acer Nitro XV282K review here.
Gigabyte FV43U
Pros
- Large43-inch screen size
- Quick 1ms MPRT
- Fast 144Hz refresh rate
- Crystal clear screen clarity
Cons
- Relatively high price point
The FV43U is a brand new gaming monitor that has just become available – offering up an excellent balance of immersion and performance. The FV43U is a 43-inch gaming monitor that falls with Gigabyte’s AORUS lineup of monitors – suggesting it offers only the best performance and build quality.
By design, the FV43U looks more like a TV than a gaming monitor – however, don’t let that fool you. This is very much a high-performance gaming monitor, equipped with a 144Hz refresh rate and low 1ms MPRT – making almost any gaming scenario look fluid and immersive.
Of course, the FV43U is perfect for next-gen console gamers thanks to its HDMI 2.1 support. However, more than that, this is great for general content consumption too. The VA panel inside this monitor offers a decent 4000:1 contrast ratio with inky blacks and bright whites, further accentuated when utilized with HDR content. The FV43U offers an extremely wide color gamut that covers 99% of the Adobe RGB spectrum. With VESA DisplayHDR1000 certification, users can also expect a stunning HDR experience too – great for any console or PC games that utilize the technology.
Inputs include 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 (DSC), and 1 x 3.5mm audio out. Unfortunately, the stand doesn’t really offer any functionality – but that’s to be expected from a monitor of this caliber.
See the full Gigabyte FV43U review here.
Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
Pros
- 240Hz refresh rate
- UHD image clarity
- Mini LED technology
Samsung’s new Odyssey Neo G8 gets our third spot for best HDMI 2.1 monitor and for good reason. Not only is it the fasted monitor in this guide, but it’s also the first 4K display with a 240Hz refresh rate.
Samsung has continued to use its tried and tested Odyssey styling for the new G8. It features the fan-favourite vortex on the rear, alongside a fully white exterior. A wide, black V-shape stand holds the 32-inch 1000R curved display in place firmly. The same G9 cable management system has also been utilized here.
As for performance, the Samsung Neo G8 really does offer some of the best gaming in this guide. The 240Hz refresh rate it uses is a world-first for the 4K screen resolution, providing liquidy smooth gaming which is great for both competitive and casual gaming. A 1ms response time can be expected from this monitor, alongside a 1000 nit peak brightness and mini-LED backlight technology.
That’s right, this will also be the first time Samsung has utilized mini-LED technology in a monitor as well – allowing the G8 to hit DisplayHDR 2000, respectively.
All being said, the Samsung G8 is a superb all-round panel. Keep in mind, however, that the G8 does retail for well over $1,000, making it one of the most expensive panels in this guide.
LG UltraGear 27GP950
Pros
- Excellent Color Accuracy
- Good Peak Brightness
- Wide Color Gamut
- 160Hz Refresh Rate
- 1ms Response Time
The new LG 27GP950 is the successor to the hugely popular 27GN950. It comes to the table boasting all the fan-favourite traits that the predecessor did, only with HDMI 2.1 and a few other cool additions too.
LG are one of the biggest names in the game when it comes to monitor tech, so it’s no surprise to see one of their latest panels score highly in another best-of guide. The LG 27GP950 is one of the latest monitors to be released by the South Korean manufacturer, providing all the top-line specs you could want for a stunning visual experience.
As far as design goes, the 27GP950 doesn’t offer that many changes when compared to the GN addition. With sharp edges, a sleek screen, and subtle design traits, this monitor really does offer the best of both worlds. Design aside, however, performance is where this monitor really comes into its own.
The LG offers up a UHD 4K resolution, 160Hz refresh rate (via simple OC), 1ms response time GTG(with Over Drive), and VESA DisplayHDR600 certification – all wrapped up in a new Nano IPS panel that offers a wide color gamut and a decent peak brightness. You’ll be able to relish smooth visuals with adaptive sync support in the shape of both FreeSync (Premium) and G-Sync (compatible). Features also include a versatile stand, RGB lighting, and a user-friendly OSD too.
Whilst there isn’t an official price tag for this panel, we expect the price to be somewhere in the region of $750 – respectable value when you consider the specifications.
Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 (S49AG95NC)
Pros
- High 240Hz refresh rate
- Impressive VESA DisplayHDR200 certification
- Wide 1000R Curvature
- Mini-LED Backlight Technology
Cons
- Stand can wobble due to size
Samsung has recently updated its hugely popular 49-inch gaming monitor – coined the Odyssey Neo G9, it comes equipped with a mini-LED backlight, VESA DisplayHDR2000 certification, and all the same high-end gaming features you could expect from the original.
As far as specifications go, the Odyssey Neo G9 hasn’t changed a great deal since the original – still offering a good mix of specs that provide high levels of immersion and fluid gameplay. Users can expect a 240Hz refresh rate, low 1ms response time, and impressive color accuracy. The VA panel at the heart of this monitor is a new offering from CSOT, bringing decent viewing angles and a wide color gamut to the table. The Neo G9 covers 125% of the sRGB spectrum, alongside 95% of DCI-P3.
Designers of the Neo G9 say that the 1000R curvature of the panel helps to reduce the levels of strain on the eye, matching the curvature of the eyeball. Furthermore, the G9 also offers excellent picture clarity thanks to its 5120 x 1440 screen resolution (32:9 aspect ratio).
Inputs include 2 x HDMI 2.1 ports, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, and a plethora of USB 3.0 Type-A ports. Users will be able to connect directly to the monitor via the 3.5mm audio jack found at the rear.
The only real downside to this panel is the eye-watering price tag it comes equipped with – currently retailing for north of $2,000. That makes the G9 almost double the cost of the original – leaving many unable to even afford the panel. However, with the additional 2048 local dimming zones (thanks to mini-LED), it’s no surprise that the monitor comes at such a high price point.
See the full Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 review here.
Gigabyte AORUS FI32U
Pros
- Excellent response for a 32-inch monitor
- Quick Refresh Rate
- UHD Screen Resolution
- Decent Peak Brightness
Last, but not least, is the Gigabyte AORUS FI32U – a 32-inch gaming monitor that plans to tick all the right boxes regardless of usage scenario. Despite its larger size, the AORUS FI32U still makes for an incredibly efficient gaming monitor.
Aesthetically, the AORUS FI32U looks superb. Like other Gigabyte monitors, the FI32U comes equipped with an extremely ‘gamey’ feel that is characterized by AORUS branding and tonnes of RGB.
Looks aside, this monitor really does perform to the highest standards. At the heart of this monitor lies a very capable SS (super speed) IPS panel, equipped with a wide color gamut (90% DCI-P3), 1000:1 contrast ratio, and VESA DisplayHDR400 Certification. It also supports a 144Hz refresh rate, UHD screen resolution, and 1ms (GTG) response time.
Furthermore, the FI32U also comes with a whole host of cool features that include OSD Sidekick, active noise cancelling (ANC) 2.0 speakers, and VRR support for a tear-free experience. The only real downside to this monitor has to be the price tag. At time of writing this, the suspected price will be somewhere north of $1200, making it one of the most expensive in this guide.
See the full Gigabyte FI32U review here.
LG C1 OLED Series
48″, 55″, 65″, 75″, 83″
Pros
- OLED Technology
- Perfect Blacks
- Instantaneous Response Time
- VRR Support
The LG C1 OLED may not be a monitor, but it does offer a superb gaming experience for console players – and can actually be used for a big-screen monitor if you require it.
Unlike any other monitor in this guide, the 48″ LG offers up OLED technology. Whilst this will drive the price of the TV up, it more than makes up for it in picture quality, response time, and HDR content. OLED technology allows the LG to turn off pixels individually, helping create perfect blacks and an extremely wide contrast ratio. This is not only ideal for general content consumption (movies or TV shows) it also helps create better immersion when playing AAA Games.
Speaking of games, the LG offers up great gaming performance to console gamers thanks to HDMI 2.1 support and a slew of additional features. The TV provides VRR for both FreeSync and G-Sync systems for a tear-free gaming experience. The near-instantaneous response time will also reduce smearing and ghosting exponentially, offering up more clarity in fast-moving images when paired alongside a quick 120Hz refresh rate. The 48″ screen size is great for general use and gaming, but not ideal for competitive games like CS:GO or COD. Furthermore, as it has an OLED panel, this TV will always be at risk of permanent burn-in. If you’re careful, however, this should not be a problem.
You get all this for a fairly respectable price point – even if it is the most expensive so far. When you compare the pros and cons, it’s easy to see why many console gamers are opting for this over a monitor.
See the full LG C1 OLED review here.
LG C2 OLED Series
42″, 48″, 55″, 65″, 77″, 83″
Pros
- New Evo OLED panel
- Increased peak brightness
- New Alpha a9 Gen 5 processor
- Lighter Construction
Cons
- Price increased
- Not available yet
LG have just released their next-generation C2 OLED TVs in 2022 and boy does it impress. The new OLED TV lineup from LG is arguably one of the most sort-after displays in 2022, sparking huge excitement upon its announcement at CES 2022.
While the official release date for the LG C2 was set for Q2 2022, many UK customers could pre order the 42″ and 48″ variants early. Weirdly, both are priced equally, leaving many potential buyers a little annoyed considering the size difference.
That being said, we’ll be focusing on the 55″ in this guide, offering up the latest Evo OLED technology, a new Alpha a9 Gen 5 processor, increased peak brightness, and lighter construction for easier mounting and unboxing. The C2 OLED TV will feature almost all of its predecessor’s best assets, including VRR technology for both AMD and NVIDIA systems, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDMI 2.1 support. As always, the OLED panel will feature an infinite contrast ratio, perfect blacks, and stunning HDR performance. Unlike the original C1 TV though, the C2 will offer an increased peak brightness that should result in greater daytime content consumption and HDR.
See the full LG C2 OLED review here.
ASUS TUF Gaming VG28UQL1A
Pros
- Fast 1ms GTG response time
- Subtle gaming aesthetic
- NVIDIA G-Sync and FreeSync Premium
- 90% DCI-P3 color gamut
Cons
- Peak brightness limited to 450 nits
- Lacking premium HDR support
The ASUS TUF VG28UQL1A is a great HDMI 2.1 monitor that, despite its high-end specifications, won’t break the bank. The fast IPS panel found at its core produces excellent viewing angles, a quick 1ms GTG response time, and excellent color recreation.
The design of ASUS’s TUF range has changed over the years, with the latest iterations sporting a more angular, ‘V’-shaped stand that is reminiscent of its premium ROG SWIFT lineup. Having said that, ASUS still maintains its subtle design aesthetic, perfect for almost any setting.
As far as performance goes, the ASUS TUF VG28UQL1A offers up a 4K UHD 28-inch IPS panel that delivers a 144Hz refresh rate and low 1ms GTG response time. ASUS has utilized its Extreme Low Motion Blur Sync and VRR (for both G-Sync and FreeSync systems) support in this panel, resulting in a silky smooth visual experience that is void of annoying artifacts like screen tear and bluring.
Unfortunately, peak brightness and HDR support are a little underwhelming in this monitor – only offering VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification. Peak brightness also tops out at 400 nits, meaning it isn’t the best as far as daytime viewing goes.
ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQ
Pros
- Quantum Dot technology
- 4K 144Hz support
- Low 1ms GTG response time
- 98% DCI-P3 color gamut
- VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification
The best mini-LED HDMI 2.1 monitor goes to the ASUS ROG SWIFT PG32UQ, a 32-inch panel that features all the bells and whistles you need for a truly immersive visual experience. The PG32UQ is a UHD 4K gaming monitor that features a 144Hz refresh rate, low 1ms MPRT (response time), and NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility (FreeSync Premium). Users will find all the usual gaming-tailored features, including ELMB, Variable overdrive, and HDMI 2.1 support – making it a great choice for content creators and gamers alike.
At its core lies an incredibly efficient IPS panel with VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification. Furthermore, this monitor also utilizes Quantum-Dot technology – meaning colors look incredibly vibrant and lifelike. A 98% DCI-P3 color gamut ensures the PG32UQ displays a ‘True’ HDR experience, however, unlike the mini-LED-based PG32UQX, there is no FALD feature.
Having said that, the PG32UQ still provides an excellent visual experience when compared to some of the other LED-based panels in this guide – and it’s not nearly as expensive as the PG32UQX.
HDMI 2.1 monitor: FAQs
Is HDMI 2.1 Available?
The answer’s simple, yes, yes it is! HDMI 2.1 has been available in few TVs since the back end of 2020. However, it is only just becoming available in PC hardware. Monitors are now coming to shelves offering HDMI 2.1 support, allowing next-gen console gamers to reap the rewards of an increased max transmission rate.
What Is An HDMI 2.1 Port?
HDMI 2.1 is the latest standard of the HDMI specification. Alongside a better max transmission rate, the new standard also offers a greater Max Data Rate and higher resolution/refresh rate support – enabling 4K@120hz gameplay.
Do You Need HDMI 2.1 For 4K?
Whilst you do get a better gaming experience for HDMI 2.1, it isn’t essential for 4K resolutions. Both HDMI 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 have the capacity to run 4K resolutions – both at 60Hz as well.
Do You Need HDMI 2.1 For 120Hz?
For PC gamers, getting a 120Hz output is fairly light work – covered nicely by the DisplayPort standard. The same can actually be said for console players too – as HDMI 2.0 can effectively reach 1080p @ 240Hz.
That being said, HDMI 2.0 does limit your refresh rate when you plan to game at 4K resolutions. To achieve 120Hz gameplay through a next-gen console, you will indeed need an HDMI 2.1 TV or monitor.
Is HDMI 2.1 A Firmware Update?
No, HDMI 2.1 is not a firmware update. Unfortunately, there is no way to update your old monitor or HDMI cable to 2.1 standard. It is a physical change that has allowed the increased bandwidth of video/audio – meaning a new cable, monitor, and sometimes GPU are required.
Final Word
So, there you have it, our comprehensive breakdown of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors in 2022. The benefits of HDMI 2.1 are clear to see – however, when broken down, the majority of the benefits fall in the favour of next-gen console gamers. For many PC users, 144Hz at 4K has been a possibility for some time now – via the DisplayPort 1.4 interface. That said, all the monitors we’ve recommended would be great choices for both PC and console users.
If you have any questions regarding the above recommendations, feel free to ask below.
