Key takeaways
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p is the budget standard and looks fine on smaller screens. Very cheap panels may use lower resolutions, so check before buying.
- Size vs. price: Smaller 19 to 22-inch monitors cost the least, while larger panels add space at a modest premium. Match size to your desk and needs.
- Connectivity: Ensure the monitor has the ports you need, such as HDMI, VGA, or USB-C, to connect your devices without extra adapters.
- Refresh rate: 60Hz to 100Hz is common on budget displays and fine for everyday use. Higher rates matter mainly for gaming.
- Portability: If you need a travel or second screen, a portable USB-C monitor offers flexibility, often with a built-in kickstand.
What's inside
Sometimes you just need an affordable, functional monitor without any frills. Whether you are setting up a secondary display, kitting out a budget PC, adding a screen for a laptop, or furnishing a home office on a shoestring, the cheapest monitors on the market get the job done for surprisingly little money. Modern budget displays still deliver decent Full HD resolution, adequate refresh rates, and useful connectivity, making them genuine bargains.
The trick with cheap monitors is knowing where corners have been cut and whether those compromises matter for your use. Below we outline what to look for when hunting for the lowest-priced options, then review a range of wallet-friendly monitors in 2026, from tiny portable panels to larger Full HD displays, so you can find the best value for your specific needs.
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How to Choose the Cheapest Monitor
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p is the budget standard and looks fine on smaller screens. Very cheap panels may use lower resolutions, so check before buying.
- Size vs. price: Smaller 19 to 22-inch monitors cost the least, while larger panels add space at a modest premium. Match size to your desk and needs.
- Connectivity: Ensure the monitor has the ports you need, such as HDMI, VGA, or USB-C, to connect your devices without extra adapters.
- Refresh rate: 60Hz to 100Hz is common on budget displays and fine for everyday use. Higher rates matter mainly for gaming.
- Portability: If you need a travel or second screen, a portable USB-C monitor offers flexibility, often with a built-in kickstand.
The Cheapest Monitors Reviewed
19-inch Full HD 75Hz Small Monitor
This 19-inch monitor is about as affordable as it gets, offering an HD+ 1440×900 resolution, 75Hz refresh, and anti-glare LED display with VGA and HDMI. It is perfect as a secondary screen, a compact office display, or a basic setup where size and cost matter most.
Philips 22-Inch FHD 100Hz (221V8LB)
The Philips 22-inch delivers Full HD at 100Hz with a VA panel, flicker-free operation, and adaptive sync. Its low blue light mode and 4-year replacement warranty make it a dependable, comfortable budget choice for everyday work and light gaming.
Philips 24-Inch FHD 100Hz (241V8LB)
The Philips 24-inch offers the same reliable FHD 100Hz VA panel in a slightly larger size, with flicker-free viewing, adaptive sync, and low blue light. The extra screen space makes it a great value for productivity and casual entertainment.
Anyuse 15.6-inch Portable Monitor
The Anyuse 15.6-inch is an ultra-slim FHD IPS portable monitor with USB-C and HDMI, plus a kickstand. It works with PCs, phones, and consoles, making it a versatile, affordable second screen for travel, laptops, or gaming on the go.
Sceptre 22-Inch FHD Monitor
The Sceptre 22-inch offers Full HD 1080p with up to 144Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, and built-in speakers. Its higher refresh rate at a low price makes it a standout budget pick for anyone wanting a bit of gaming smoothness on a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap monitors any good?
For everyday use, yes. Budget monitors like the Philips models deliver solid FHD resolution and comfort features. Just check the resolution and refresh rate suit your needs.
What is the cheapest usable resolution?
1080p Full HD is the practical budget standard. Some ultra-cheap panels use lower resolutions like 1440×900, which is fine on smaller 19-inch screens.
Can I game on a cheap monitor?
Light gaming is fine on budget displays. For smoother play, look for higher-refresh options like the Sceptre 22-inch at 144Hz rather than basic 60Hz panels.
Is a portable monitor worth it?
If you need a travel or second screen, yes. The Anyuse portable connects via USB-C and works with laptops, phones, and consoles for flexible use.
Final Thoughts
The cheapest monitor for you depends on how you will use it. The 19-inch panel is the rock-bottom pick for a basic second screen, the Philips 22 and 24-inch models offer great everyday value with comfort features, and the Sceptre 22-inch adds gaming-friendly refresh. Match size, resolution, and ports to your needs for maximum value.
