There are three options that we recommend for an RTX 2060. A 1080p 144hz monitor is a good choice for fast-paced games like first-person shooters. A 1440p 60hz monitor is a good choice for slower paced games like The Witcher 3. And if you want a monitor that will survive a future upgrade to a more powerful GPU, you might want to consider a 1440p monitor with a higher refresh rate. Below you can find our monitor recommendations for each option.

Quick Look at Our Recommendations

Smoother Experience

Better Picture

Future-proofing

Monitor

ViewSonic XG2401

Dell UltraSharp U2715H

ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ

Summary

Lower resolution but higher refresh rate for smoother experience. Best suited for fast-paced gaming.

Higher resolution but lower refresh rate for better picture quality. Best suited for slow-paced gaming, editing work, and watching movies.

High resolution and high refresh rate. Great choice for future-proofing but RTX 2060 won't be able to use it's full potential.

Size

24"

27"

27"

Resolution

1080p

1440p

1440p

Refresh Rate

144hz

60hz

165hz

Panel Type

TN

IPS

IPS

Response Time

1ms

8ms

4ms

G-Sync/FreeSync

FreeSync (G-Sync compatible but not officially supported)

No

G-Sync

-

from $179.99

$214.95

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Smoother Experience

Monitor

ViewSonic XG2401

Summary

Lower resolution but higher refresh rate for smoother experience. Best suited for fast-paced gaming.

Size

24"

Resolution

1080p

Refresh Rate

144hz

Panel Type

TN

Response Time

1ms

G-Sync/FreeSync

FreeSync (G-Sync compatible but not officially supported)

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

Better Picture

Monitor

Dell UltraSharp U2715H

Summary

Higher resolution but lower refresh rate for better picture quality. Best suited for slow-paced gaming, editing work, and watching movies.

Size

27"

Resolution

1440p

Refresh Rate

60hz

Panel Type

IPS

Response Time

8ms

G-Sync/FreeSync

No

-

$214.95

Buy on Amazon

Future-proofing

Monitor

ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ

Summary

High resolution and high refresh rate. Great choice for future-proofing but RTX 2060 won't be able to use it's full potential.

Size

27"

Resolution

1440p

Refresh Rate

165hz

Panel Type

IPS

Response Time

4ms

G-Sync/FreeSync

G-Sync

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

Smoother Experience or Sharper Image?

When you’re deciding on the best monitor to pair with your RTX 2060, you need to decide whether you want a smoother experience (1080p @ 144hz) or better picture quality (1440p @ 60hz). You might also want to consider a 1440p 144hz monitor if you want something that will survive a future GPU upgrade.

Should I Buy a 1080p 144hz Monitor?

A 1080p 144hz monitor is a good choice for gaming with a RTX 2060 at high frame rates. The picture isn’t going to look quite as sharp as on a 1440p monitor, but a RTX 2060 should be able to get well above 60 FPS in most AAA games at 1080p. I would highly recommend a 1080p 144hz monitor for a RTX 2060 if you like to play fast-paced games like multiplayer first-person shooters.

To help you decide which 1080p 144hz monitor to buy, the following should help you:

• Size: 24″ is a good size for 1080p. It’s not too small but if you go any larger the screen will start to look pixelated due to the lower pixel density. If you spend a lot of time sitting further back from the screen then you may prefer a 27″ monitor, but for most people, 24″ is the best option.
• Panel Type: If you choose a 1080p 144hz monitor, it’s probably because you want to play fast-paced games. If this is the case then I would recommend a monitor with a TN panel because these have a faster response time which reduces ghosting (motion blur). This will help to give you the smoothest experience possible. The downside is that TN panels don’t have the best colors and the viewing angle is narrow.
• G-Sync: G-Sync syncs your monitor with your graphics card to prevent screen tearing and give you a much smoother experience. It’s similar to v-sync but without the input lag. AMD also has a syncing feature called FreeSync and it used to be the case that you couldn’t use this feature if you have an Nvidia graphics card and needed an AMD card. There are now quite a few FreeSync monitors where you can use the syncing feature with an Nvidia graphics card. Some are officially supported whereas others aren’t but still work.

We Recommend – ViewSonic XG2401

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with...

from $179.99

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• 24″ 1080p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• G-Sync compatible (not officially supported)

For fast-paced gaming with an RTX 2060, we recommend the ViewSonic XG2401. With a 1080p 144hz display, the XG2401 will feel very smooth and for a reasonable price too. A perfect choice for first-person shooters and racing games.

Since this monitor uses a TN panel, the colors and viewing angles aren’t the best, but the fast response time will mean there is very little ghosting. Although not on the same level as an IPS in terms of colors, the panel on the XG2401 is very good considering it’s a TN panel.

The XG2401 is not officially supported a G-Sync compatible FreeSync monitor. However, you can find plenty of reports online of people successfully using G-Sync with this monitor so you should be able to make use of G-Sync.

Should I Buy a 1440p 60hz Monitor?

If you prefer to play slower paced games that are more immersive (e.g. The Witcher 3), then you will probably prefer a 1440p 60hz monitor. Although the RTX 2060 is a good GPU, it isn’t powerful enough to run many AAA games consistently above 60 FPS so you won’t notice much of a difference between a 60hz monitor or 144hz monitor (although your bank account might). A 1440p 60hz monitor won’t be as smooth as 1080p 144hz, but the image will be much sharper. I would highly recommend a 1440p 60hz monitor for a RTX 2060 if you like to play slower paced, immersive games like The Witcher 3.

To help you decide which 1440p 60hz monitor to buy, the following should help you:

• Size: 27″ is a nice middle ground for a 1440p monitor. You get a decent sized monitor but the higher resolution means the image will still be sharp.
• Panel Type: For a 1440p 60hz monitor I would recommend choosing one with an IPS panel. These panels generally have the best colors and viewing angles. They do have slower response times which means there will be some ghosting (motion blur), but if you’re mainly playing slower paced games then it won’t be too noticeable.
• G-Sync: G-Sync monitors don’t exist for 60hz monitors. Since we only recommend a 1440p 60hz monitor for slower-paced games anyway where smoothness isn’t the main concern, this isn’t too much of a problem.

We Recommend – Dell UltraSharp U2715H

Dell FBA_884116128656 UltraSharp U2414H 23.8 inch...

$214.95

Buy on Amazon

• 27″ 1440p display
• 60hz refresh rate
• IPS panel
• 8ms response time

For slower-paced gaming, editing work, and watching movies, we recommend the Dell UltraSharp U2715H to pair with the RTX 2060. The panel on this monitor has excellent colors and the 1440p resolution will give you a nice, sharp image.

The downside is the response time at 8ms. For most purposes this won’t be noticeable. But if you play really fast-paced games (like CS:GO), you might notice some ghosting (motion blur) which might get annoying.

Should I Buy a 1440p 144hz Monitor?

In most AAA games, an RTX 2060 won’t be powerful enough to produce enough frames per second to warrant a 144hz monitor. However, some games which aren’t as demanding may be able to. It’s worth heading over to Game Debate to see how well an RTX 2060 can run your favorite games at 1440p. If you will be able to get around 100 FPS, it will be worth a 144hz monitor.

You also might want to consider a 1440p 144hz monitor if you want it to be future-proof. Most people upgrade their graphics cards more often than their monitors. A 1440p 144hz monitors might not be the best option for an RTX 2060, but it might be for your next GPU.

• Size: Just like with a 1440p 60hz monitor, we recommend a 27″ screen size for 1440p 144hz.
• Panel Type: If you’re really into fast-paced games (like CS:GO) and are very competitive, go with a TN panel. TN panels have a slightly faster response time which reduces ghosting, however, the colors and viewing angles aren’t as good. But for most people I would recommend an IPS panel. The colors are much better on an IPS panel which means they are also great for watching movies. The slower response time won’t really be noticeable if you aren’t playing super fast games.
• G-Sync: If you can afford a 1440p 144hz monitor with G-Sync then definitely go for it. It will give you a silky smooth experience. The downside is that these monitors can get very expensive.

We Recommend – ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ

Sale

ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ 27" WQHD 1440P IPS 165Hz DP...

from $179.99

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• 27″ 1440p display
• 165hz refresh rate
• IPS panel
• 4ms response time

If you want to make sure your monitor will survive your next GPU upgrade, the ASUS ROG Swift PG279QZ is a great choice. It actually has a higher refresh rate than 144hz at 165hz. Although the RTX 2060 won’t be able to make use of this refresh rate in most games, if you decide to get a more powerful GPU in the future then that will.

This monitor has an IPS panel with great colors and viewing angles, and the reponse time is very reasonable for an IPS monitor at only 4ms. Not quite as reponsive as a TN panel but for most purposes it’s absolutely fine.

Since this is a G-Sync monitor, you will have no problems using the feature with an RTX 2060.

The first option is to buy a carpet protector mat. These can be picked up fairly inexpensively on Amazon (link here) but they aren’t exactly aesthetically pleasing. The second option is a DIY option of using an MDF board with a carpet off cut to create your own mat/rug. This solution isn’t as convenient but generally looks much nicer.

2 Solutions to Consider

Below you can find the two best options I have come across to protect your carpet from office chair wheels.

1. Carpet Protector Mat – Most Convenient Option

Resilia - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor...

$20.42

Buy on Amazon

The most common and easiest solution to protect your carpet from office chair wheels is to buy a carpet protector mat. These are relatively inexpensive, plastic mats specifically designed for this purpose.

The advantage of this solution is convenience. Simply buy a mat, put it under your chair and you’re good to go. They are very effective too. Many of these mats have small spikes on the bottom to prevent it from moving around on the carpet and the solid surface means your chair can still move around.

The disadvantage is that they don’t exactly look great. I wouldn’t say they are repulsive, but they do look a bit tacky which might be a problem if you really care about how the room looks.

When you purchase a carpet protector mat, make sure to consider the size you want. If you don’t need much movement then a smaller mat will be fine. But if you’re wanting to wheel your chair around a bit, make sure you get a mat big enough to accommodate that. The great thing about the mats I have recommended on this page is that they are available in many different sizes and you can easily cut them to make a custom size.

Some of these mats are designed for deep pile carpets and some for low pile carpets. Below you can find links to Amazon for both types.

Preview	Product	Price
	Resilia - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor Runner/Protector for Deep Pile Carpet - Non-Skid Decorative...	$20.42	Buy on Amazon
	Resilia - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor Runner/Protector for Low Pile Carpet - Non-Skid Decorative...	$17.00	Buy on Amazon

2. MDF Board & Carpet Off Cuts – Best Looking Option

A less convenient but better looking solution is to create a DIY mat/rug with an MDF board and some carpet off cuts. This method works best if your have off cuts of the same carpet being used in that room because it will almost look invisible, but you can do it with any carpet off cuts.

Step 1: The first thing you want to do is have the carpet whipped around the edges to make it look neat. This isn’t 100% necessary but it will make it look much better.

Step 2: Next, attach some carpet gripper to both sides of an MDF board (the board want to be slightly smaller than the carpet off cut).

Step 3: Trim off any excess carpet if necessary.

Step 4: Finally, lay the board in place on the floor and place the carpet on top.

Since Apex Legends is a fast-paced and competitive game, I would recommend purchasing a monitor with a TN panel. The colors on TN panels aren’t particularly good, but they have a very fast response time which reduces motion blur making them ideal for fast-paced games. I would also recommend choosing a monitor with a lower resolution and higher refresh rate in order to maximise your frame rate for smoother game play.

Best for Most People – ViewSonic XG2401

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with FreeSync Eye Care Advanced Ergonomics HDMI and DP (XG2401)

• BE THE DIFFERENCE: Full HD resolution, ultra-fast 1ms response time, and amazing 144Hz refresh rate give you the edge in all...
• SMOOTH GAMING: AMD FreeSync technology enables smooth frame rates to aid you in battle
• IN IT TO WIN IT: A fully adjustable ergonomic stand and blue light filter delivers the comfort you need for marathon gaming...
• GAME ON: An arsenal of pre-set customizable visual modes keeps you ready for any FPS, RTS, eSports, or MOBA games

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

How Well Can Your PC Run Apex Legends?

Before you decide on a monitor, you should find out how well your PC can run Apex Legends at different resolutions. Because Apex Legends is a fast-paced and competitive game, you will want to have a high frame rate to give you a competitive edge. For most people this will mean a 1080p 144hz monitor will be the best option, but if you have a really high-end PC then a 1440p 144hz monitor can be a good option too.

You can find video card benchmarks for Apex Legends here, or you can head over to YouTube and type in your PC specs followed by Apex Legends and different resolutions (e.g. “i5 8400 GTX 1080 Apex Legends 1440p”). You should be able to get a good idea of how well your PC can run the game at different resolutions.

If you have a high end PC and even at 1440p you can get around 100 FPS most of the time and not dip below 80 FPS, then you might want to consider a 1440p 144hz monitor. But if your PC struggles to keep a steady 80 FPS at 1440p, I would recommend a 1080p 144hz monitor. Even if you have a high-end rig, you still might want to go for a 1080p monitor because it will give you an even smoother experience. But in my experience, the biggest noticeable difference in frame rate is between 60 FPS and 100 FPS.

Best Monitors for Apex Legends

Hopefully you now have an idea of whether you want a 1080p or 1440p monitor. Now let’s look at some of the best monitors for Apex Legends and try to find the best one for you.

1. ViewSonic XG2401 (Our Top Pick)

FreeSync monitor for low-end and mid-range PCs

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with...

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

• 24″ 1080p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• AMD FreeSync

Our top monitor choice for Apex Legends (for most people at least) is the ViewSonic XG2401. It has a 1080p display which means even low to mid-range PCs will be able to run Apex Legends at fairly high frame rates. It also has a 144hz refresh rate so you will be able to get the most out of those frames. It uses a TN panel which means the colors aren’t great, but it has a low response time which is perfect for fast-paced, competitive games.

There are many monitors available with similar specs, but the reason this one is our top pick is due to the panel. TN panels are known to have bad colors compared to IPS and VA panels. Whilst the panel in the XG2401 still isn’t on the same level as an IPS or VA in terms of colors, it is as good as you can get for a TN panel.

2. Acer Predator XB241H

G-Sync monitor for low-end and mid-range PCs

Acer Predator XB241H bmipr 24-inch Full HD...

from $469.02

Buy on Amazon

• 24″ 1080p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• Nvidia G-Sync

Whilst the ViewSonic XG2401 is our top pick for most people, it is a FreeSync monitor and you won’t be able to make use of this feature if you have an Nvidia graphics card.

The Acer Predator XB241H is a G-Sync monitor which is Nvidia’s version of FreeSync and compatible with Nvidia graphics cards. (If you don’t know what FreeSync and G-Sync is, it synchronises the monitors refresh rate with the GPU which eliminates screen tearing and makes for a smoother, more pleasing experience.)

The Acer Predator XB241H and ViewSonic XG2401 have very similar specs, but the colors on the ViewSonic’s panel are better. If you have an AMD graphics card then you should deffinetely go with the ViewSonic. If you have an Nvidia graphics card, go with the ViewSonic if you want better colors and the Acer Predator if you want movement to look silky smooth.

3. Acer XG270HU

FreeSync monitor for high-end PCs

Sale

Acer XG270HU omidpx 27-inch WQHD AMD FREESYNC...

from $305.39

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• 27″ 1440p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• AMD FreeSync

If you have a beast of a PC then you might want to consider a 1440p monitor like the Acer XG270HU. I would only recommend this if you can consistently get around 100 FPS in Apex Legends at 1440p, otherwise you won’t be making the most out of the 144hz refresh rate.

The Acer XG270HU uses a TN panel which has a fast response time of 1ms (this reduces ghosting or motion blur) with the downside being the colors aren’t great. The screen size is 27″ which is ideal for 1440p. It’s a decent sized screen but not so big that it looks pixelated. This monitor has AMD FreeSync so it is perfect if you have an AMD graphics card, but if you have an Nvidia graphics card, check out the next monitor in our list.

4. ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR

G-Sync monitor for high-end PCs

Sale

ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR 27” Gaming Monitor 1440p...

from $399.99

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• 27″ 1440p display
• 165hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• Nvidia G-Sync

If you have a high end PC with an Nvidia graphics card then you should check out the ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR. It has similar specs to the Acer XG270HU with a 27″ 1440p TN panel, but it is G-Sync monitor rather than a FreeSync monitor.

This monitor also has slightly higher refresh rate than any of the other monitors on our list at 165hz. It’s certainly not a bad thing but the difference between 144hz and 165hz isn’t particularly noticeable, and even the best PCs will struggle to get higher than 144 FPS in Apex Legends, so I wouldn’t let this be a deciding factor.

ViewSonic XG2401 – Our Top Pick

Depending on what you want from your new monitor and your PCs specs, there are a few monitors that are great for Battlefield V. However, our top pick for most people is the ViewSonic XG2401. Since Battlefield V is a fairly fast-paced first-person-shooter, I would recommend a higher refresh rate over a higher resolution to give you a competitive edge. I would also recommend a TN panel which will give you a faster response time and reduce ghosting (motion blur). One of the problems with TN panels is that the colors are not very good. However, the TN panel on the ViewSonic XG2401 is relatively good which is why it is our top pick.

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with FreeSync Eye Care Advanced Ergonomics HDMI and DP (XG2401)

• BE THE DIFFERENCE: Full HD resolution, ultra-fast 1ms response time, and amazing 144Hz refresh rate give you the edge in all...
• SMOOTH GAMING: AMD FreeSync technology enables smooth frame rates to aid you in battle
• IN IT TO WIN IT: A fully adjustable ergonomic stand and blue light filter delivers the comfort you need for marathon gaming...
• GAME ON: An arsenal of pre-set customizable visual modes keeps you ready for any FPS, RTS, eSports, or MOBA games

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

Things to Consider

Before we look at the best monitors for Battlefield V, there are a few things you need to consider to make sure you choose the right monitor for you and your PC.

• Your PC’s specs – Battlefield V is a fairly demanding game so you want to make sure you choose a monitor that your PC can make good use of. For example, if you have a high-end build, you don’t want to choose a 1080p 60hz monitor because you will be wasting a lot of the potential of what your build is capable of. On the other hand, if you have a low-end PC, then you don’t want to invest in a 4K monitor because your PC won’t be able to run Battlefield V at 4K very well. If you don’t already know how well your PC can run Battlefield V (at different resolutions), a great way to get an idea is to head over to youtube and search for your specs followed by “Battlefield V”. For example: “i5-8400 GTX 1070 Battlefield V”.
• Better visuals or better performance? – With some games it’s quite obvious whether better visuals or better performance is preferable. For example, for games like CS:GO, I would always choose performance over visuals. But for non-competitive, immersive games like The Witcher 3, I would choose better visuals. Battlefield V is a bit different because some people (like me) are very competitive whilst playing, and would choose better performance, but other non-competitive players would rather sacrifice a few frames in favor of a higher resolution. If you take BFV more competitively, I would recommend a monitor with a TN panel and higher refresh rate but lower resolution. If you aren’t very competitive and prefer better visuals, I would recommend a monitor with an IPS panel and higher resolution but lower refresh rate. To keep it simple, I have split our list of monitors into these two categories.
• Screen size – When it comes to screen size, a good rule of thumb is to choose a 24″ monitor for 1080p, a 27″ monitor for 1440p, and a 32″ monitor for 4K.
• G-Sync or FreeSync – G-Sync and FreeSync technology syncs your monitor to your graphics card. This prevents screen tearing and provides a much smoother experience. Many monitors now come with one of these features. However, keep in mind that G-Sync is only compatible with NVIDIA graphics cards and FreeSync is only compatible with AMD graphics cards. (You will still be able to use the monitor with a non-compatible graphics card, just without the G-Sync/FreeSync technology.) G-Sync monitors are usually more expensive than FreeSync monitors, so if you have an AMD card, I would definitely go for a FreeSync monitor if possible. Otherwise you will be wasting money on a feature you can’t use.

Best Monitors for Battlefield V (best performance)

These monitors are great for Battlefield V if you are a more competitive player. They have TN panels, high refresh rates, and lower resolutions. This means (as long as your PC is capable of hitting high frame rates) you will have a really smooth and responsive experience, but the colors won’t look quite as good and the picture won’t be as sharp.

ViewSonic XG2401 (best for most people)

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with...

from $179.99

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• 24″ 1080p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• AMD FreeSync

The ViewSonic XG2401 is a great monitor for Battlefield V if you have a mid-range PC. Most mid-range PCs should be able to get well above 60 FPS in BFV so you will be able to make use of the high refresh rate of this monitor.

This monitor has a TN panel which means it has a fast response time that reduces motion blur. This is what you want for more competitive gaming. This also means the colors aren’t as good as an IPS panel, however, for a TN panel they are about as good as they get (which is the main reason this monitor is our top pick).

The resolution is 1080p which is fine for most people, but if you have a high-end PC, you might be better off with a 1440p monitor as long as your PC is still capable of achieving well above 60 FPS at this resolution. The higher resolution will give you a sharper image.

Similar alternatives:

ASUS VN248Q-P – If you have a lower-end PC that is only capable of around 60 FPS or lower in BFV (and you don’t plan on upgrading any time soon), then you might want to check out the ASUS VN248Q-P. It’s great for gaming at 60 FPS, but it isn’t very future proof and you will likely want another upgrade whenever you next upgrade your PC.

Acer Predator XB241H – The ViewSonic XG2401 has FreeSync which is perfect if you have an AMD graphics card. If you have an Nvidia graphics card and you want the smoothest experience possible, you might want to consider the Acer Predator XB241H which has G-Sync (it is more expensive though). You can still use the XG2401 with an Nvidia card, but you won’t be able to use the FreeSync feature.

Acer XG270HU (for high-end PCs)

Sale

Acer XG270HU omidpx 27-inch WQHD AMD FREESYNC...

from $305.39

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• 27″ 1440p display
• 144hz refresh rate
• TN panel
• 1ms response time
• AMD FreeSync

If you have a high-end PC capable of running Battlefield V at a high frame rate even at 1440p (at least a GTX 1080), then you should check out the Acer XG270HU. (There are a few similar models to this monitor so make sure you choose the 1440p 144hz model.)

The specs are quite similar to the ViewSonic XG2401 with a 144hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, TN panel and AMD FreeSync. The main difference being a higher resolution at 1440p and a slightly larger screen size at 27″.

If you really want to maximise performance, then go with the ViewSonic XG2401 because you will get a higher frame rate with the lower resolution, but if you’re willing to sacrifice a few frames for a sharper image, this monitor is worth checking out (as long as your PC is capable of 80+ FPS in Battlefield V at 1440p).

Similar alternative

ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR – If you have an Nvidia graphics card and a larger budget, the ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR has similar specs and comes equipped with G-Sync. This is Nvidia’s version of FreeSync that prevents screen tearing and provides a much smoother gameplay experience. You can still use the Acer XG270HU with an Nvidia card, but you won’t be able to use the FreeSync feature.

Best Monitors for Battlefield V (best visuals)

These monitors are great if your not particularly competitive when you play Battlefield V. They have IPS panels which means the colors will be better and a higher resolution so it will be a sharper picture. The downside is that the refresh rates are lower and the response time won’t be as good which means there will be a little bit of motion blur.

Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX (best for most people)

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Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX 27-Inch WQHD 2560x1440...

$379.99

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• 27″ 1440p display
• 60hz refresh rate
• IPS panel
• 8ms response time (5ms in fast mode)

If you have a mid-range PC and want to feel really immersed in Battlefield V, you should definitely consider the Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX. The 1440p resolution will give you a really sharp image and the IPS panel has excellent colors and wide viewing angles compared with a TN panel.

The biggest downside is that this monitor only has a refresh rate of 60hz, but this is the trade off if you want a higher resolution on a mid-range PC. If you have a high-end PC and want a high resolution and refresh rate, check out the Acer XG270HU which I talked about earlier.

Acer Predator XB321HK (for high-end Pcs)

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Acer Predator XB321HK bmiphz 32-inch IPS UHD (3840...

from $379.17

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• 32″ 4K display
• 60hz refresh rate
• IPS panel
• 4ms response time

If you have a high-end PC with at least a GTX 1080 graphics card, you might want to check out the Acer Predator XB321HK. Personally, I would rather have a higher frame rate for a competitive edge when playing Battlefield V, but if you would prefer incredible visuals and a super sharp image, the 4K resolution and IPS panel on the XB321HK will be incredibly immersive.

With a 60hz refresh rate you won’t have the smoothest experience, and because it uses an IPS panel the response time is higher than a TN monitor at 4ms. However, the Acer Predator XB321HK is specifically designed for gaming and this is a relatively low response time for an IPS monitor. Overall, a great gaming monitor for Battlefield V if immersion is your top priority and your PC is capable of running BFV at 4K.

Best Monitors for a GTX 1080

Below you can find the best monitors for a GTX 1080. I have split the list into three parts: best 1080p monitors, best 1440p monitors, and best 4K monitors.

Best 1080p Monitors

If you play games that are quite demanding, then a 144hz (or higher) 1080p monitor is a good choice for a GTX 1080 if you want the smoothest experience possible. Some people might suggest a GTX 1080 is overkill for a 1080p monitor, but many graphically demanding games still won’t be able to hit 144 FPS even at this resolution. I wouldn’t recommend a monitor with a refresh rate lower than 100hz though, because then a GTX 1080 will be overkill for the monitor.

Sale

ViewSonic 24" 1080p 1ms 144 Hz Gaming Monitor with FreeSync Eye Care Advanced Ergonomics HDMI and DP (XG2401)

• BE THE DIFFERENCE: Full HD resolution, ultra-fast 1ms response time, and amazing 144Hz refresh rate give you the edge in all...
• SMOOTH GAMING: AMD FreeSync technology enables smooth frame rates to aid you in battle
• IN IT TO WIN IT: A fully adjustable ergonomic stand and blue light filter delivers the comfort you need for marathon gaming...
• GAME ON: An arsenal of pre-set customizable visual modes keeps you ready for any FPS, RTS, eSports, or MOBA games

from $179.99

Buy on Amazon

ViewSonic XG2701 27 Inch 144Hz 1ms 1080p FreeSync Gaming Monitor with HDMI and DisplayPort

• BE THE DIFFERENCE: Full HD resolution, ultra-fast 1ms response time, and amazing 144Hz refresh rate give you the edge in all...
• SMOOTH GAMING: AMD FreeSync technology enables smooth frame rates to aid you in battle
• IN IT TO WIN IT: A fully adjustable ergonomic stand and blue light filter delivers the comfort you need for marathon gaming...
• GAME ON: An arsenal of pre-set customizable visual modes keeps you ready for any FPS, RTS, eSports, or MOBA games

from $400.00

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Acer Predator XB241H bmipr 24-inch Full HD 1920x1080 NVIDIA G-Sync Display, 144Hz, 2 x 2w speakers, HDMI & DP

• 24-Inch Full HD Widescreen with 1920 x 1080 resolution. Swivel Angle 30 degree
• Panel Technology: Twisted Nematic Film (TN) Technology
• Response Time: 1ms, Pixel Pitch: 0.276mm. Flicker-less Technology-Reduces annoying screen flickering that can cause eye...
• Signal Inputs: 1 x HDMI & 1 x Display Port (v1.2)

from $469.02

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Best 1440p Monitors

If you want a monitor that has a good balance between a sharp image and smooth experience then choose a 1440p monitor. A GTX 1080 should still give you close to and sometimes more than 100 FPS at 1440p. You will see a lower framerate compared to a 1080p monitor, but it won’t be as bad as 4K and it will feel relatively smooth too.

Sale

Acer Predator XB271HU bmiprz 27" WQHD (2560x1440) NVIDIA G-SYNC IPS Monitor, (Display Port & HDMI Port, 144Hz)

• 27" WQHD (2560 x 1440) Widescreen with NVIDIA G-SYNC Technology
• Refresh Rate: 144Hz (Overclocking to 165Hz) - Using Display Port
• Response Time: 4ms, Pixel Pitch: 0.233mm. Flicker-less Technology-Reduces annoying screen flickering that can cause eye...
• 2 x 2W speakers. Brightness: 350 Nit. Panel Technology : In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology. Tilt Angle- -5°to35°.Swivel...

from $350.00

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Sale

ASUS 27-inch 2k 144Hz WQHD FreeSync Gaming Monitor IPS, 4ms Response Time, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3.0, 2560 x 1440 Display with Pivot, Tilt, and Swivel, ASUS EyeCare (MG279Q)

• 27" WQHD (2560 x 1440) resolution display with IPS technology provide wide-viewing angles, and clear, vivid visuals
• 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology (35Hz-90Hz) with Low Framerate Compensation (LFC) for seamless visuals and...
• Ergonomically-designed stand with full tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment (0~150 mm) for comfortable viewing position
• Exclusive GamePlus and GameVisual technologies provide a comfortable gaming experience

from $346.99

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Sale

ASUS ROG Swift PG278QR 27” Gaming Monitor 1440p 1ms 165Hz DP HDMI G-SYNC Eye Care

• 27" WQHD (2560x1440p) panel with a 1ms response time and overclocked refresh rate up to 165 Hz embraces ROG standards and...
• Flexible connectivity options with DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 and USB 3.0 ports;Security : Kensington lock
• NVIDIA G-SYNC ensures smooth gameplay by eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. Brightness(Max)- 350 cd/㎡
• ASUS Eye Care Technology makes marathons even easier with blue light filter and flicker-free backlighting to reduce eyestrain...

from $399.99

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Sale

Acer XG270HU omidpx 27-inch WQHD AMD FREESYNC (2560 x 1440) Widescreen Monitor

• Acer XG 27" monitor features WQHD resolution (2560 x 1440) presenting stunning, high quality images with excellent detail...
• With AMD Free Sync, the game's frame rate is determined by your graphics card, not the fixed refresh rate of the monitor,...
• A fast response time of 1ms enhances the in-game experience. No matter how fast-moving the action is, transitions are...
• Signal Inputs: 1x DVI, 1 x HDMI 2.0 & 1 x Display Port

from $305.39

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Best 4K Monitors

Since the GTX 1080 is still a fairly powerful GPU, it’s capable of running games at 4K reasonably well. You should get around 60 FPS most of the time (although you should expect to see drops below this in more demanding games) which is OK but will feel quite different when compared to 100 FPS on a 144hz monitor. I would only recommend a 4K monitor with a GTX 1080 if you primarily play slow-paced games but not if you play fast-paced first-person-shooters.

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LG 27UK650-W 27 Inch 4K UHD IPS LED Monitor with HDR 10 and Adjustable Stand

• 4K UHD resolution (3840 x 2160) 27 inch IPS Display
• HDR10 compatible. Viewing Angle-178/178 (CR≥10) (Typ)
• sRGB 99% Color Gamut
• AMD FreeSync technology

from $279.00

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Sale

Dell U2718Q 27" 16:9 UltraSharp InfinityEdge 4K UHD 3840x2160 IPS HDR 350 cd/m² Monitor DP, Mini DP, HDMI, USB 3.0 HUB, Height Adjustment Pivot Swivel (4K)

• Maximum Preset Resolution: 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz; In-Plane switching Technology
• Response Time: 5ms (gray to gray); Pixel Per Inch (PPI): 163
• 178°/178° Viewing Angle; Adjustability: Height adjustable (130 mm) Tilt (-5° to 21°) Swivel (-45° to 45°) Pivot (90°,...
• 1300:1 Contrast Ratio; Brightness: 350 cd/m² (typical)

from $199.00

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Monitor Buyer’s Guide

To help you decide on the best monitor for you, I have put together this guide for choosing a monitor for a GTX 1080.

Resolution & Refresh Rate

When you’re looking to buy a monitor, one of the biggest things to consider is the resolution and refresh rate. If you’re not sure on what these mean, the resolution is how many pixels are displayed on the screen (a higher resolution means a sharper image), and the refresh rate (hz) is how many times per second the image on the screen is updated (a higher refresh rate means a smoother experience).

The refresh rate ties in with the number of frames per second (FPS) your hardware is capable of. So if you’re PC is only capable of 60 FPS at a certain resolution, then it wouldn’t be worth buying a 144hz monitor because you wouldn’t be making use of the high refresh rate.

The resolution also ties in with the FPS because if your monitor has a higher resolution, it won’t be able to achieve as many FPS as a monitor with a lower resolution. This means when choosing a monitor you often have to decide between a high resolution and lower refresh rate, or high refresh rate with a lower resolution.

So, which resolution/refresh rate combos are best for a GTX 1080?

Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer because a big part will depend on which games you play (which we will look at next). However, the combos below are a good starting point.

• 1440p @ 144hz – This is what I would recommend for most people as it is a nice middle ground. You get a relatively high resolution and a high refresh rate. Depending on the games you play, you probably won’t be getting 144 FPS all of the time, but you should get more than 60 FPS most of the time with a GTX 1080 (especially if you turn down some settings) making the high refresh rate worth it.
• 1080p @ 144hz – If you want the smoothest experience and don’t care too much for a higher resolution display then you might want to consider 1080p @ 144hz. You still won’t get 144 FPS in the most graphically demanding games, but you should be getting more than 100 FPS a lot of the time (as long as the rest of your PC is capable too).
• 4K @ 60hz – This option is best suited for people who want a really sharp, high deffinition display and don’t care too much for a smooth experience. I wouldn’t recommend these monitors for fast-paced games like first-person shooters, but they are great for immersive, slow-paced RPG games like The Witcher 3.

Which Games Do You Play?

Another important factor to consider is the games you play. There are two reasons.

First, the type of games you play may factor in to whether you should choose a monitor with a higher resolution or higher refresh rate. If you play fast-paced competitive games (e.g. CS:GO) then I would recommend a higher refresh rate to give you a competitive edge. But if you play slower, more immersive games (e.g. The Witcher 3) then I would recommend a higher resolution.

The second reason is that some games are very demanding graphically, whilst others can easily be played on a potato PC. Check out the benchmarks for the games you play to get an idea of how well a GTX 1080 can run them. You should aim to buy a monitor where the refresh rate is fairly close to the FPS you can expect to achieve.

If you want to play highly demanding games on a 1440p monitor, you might find you will only get around 60 FPS so it wouldn’t be worth buying a 144hz monitor. On the other hand, less demanding games might easily get 100+ FPS, in which case it would definitely be worth getting a 144hz monitor. In my opinion, if you can get more than 80 FPS most of the time, then it’s worth getting a monitor with a refresh rate higher than 60hz.

Panel Type

There are three main types of panel:

• IPS panels have the best colors and viewing angles. However they are also the most expensive and have a slow response time (how long it takes for a pixel to change from black to white). This can be a problem for fast-paced gaming, but they are great for casual and immersive gaming, and things like content creation and graphic design.
• VA panels have reasonable colors (but not as good as IPS panels) and very good blacks. VA panels are usually cheaper than IPS panels but also have a slow response time. They are a good compromise between a reasonable picture quality and fairly low price.
• TN panels are the least expensive. The colors are not very good on TN panels but the response time is very fast making them great for fast-paced gaming. Monitors with TN panels are usually cheaper too.

Screen Size

When deciding on a screen size, the most important thing to consider is the resolution. A monitor with a large screen size but only 1080p resolution will look pixelated unless you sit far back. A monitor with a small screen but 4K resolution will look good and really sharp so it isn’t a terrible idea, but the great thing about 4K monitors is that you can get a large screen and still keep a high pixel density. There’s no absolute rule, but a good guide is:

• 24″ for a 1080p monitor
• 27″ for a 1440p monitor
• 32″ for a 4K monitor

G-Sync & FreeSync

G-Sync and FreeSync technology syncs your monitor to your graphics card. This prevents screen tearing and provides a much smoother experience. Many monitors now come with one of these technologies.

However, keep in mind that G-Sync is only compatible with NVIDIA graphics cards and FreeSync is only compatible with AMD graphics cards. (You will still be able to use the monitor with a non-compatible graphics card, just without the G-Sync/FreeSync technology.)

G-Sync monitors are usually more expensive than FreeSync monitors, so if you have an AMD card, I would definitely go for a FreeSync monitor if possible. Otherwise you will be spending money on a feature you can’t use.

Conclusion

The GTX 1080 is a poweful graphics card and as long as the rest of your PC is good enough, it can work well with a 1080p, 1440p or 4K monitor. To find the best monitor for you, you need to consider the games you play and whether you prefer a smoother experience with a low resolution/high refresh rate monitor or a sharper image with a high resolution/low refresh rate monitor. Or you can go down the middle with a 1440p monitor.

In this guide, first I will run you through what you need to consider when choosing a motherboard, and then I have some recommendations of great motherboards that are compatible with an i5-8400 CPU.

Choosing a Motherboard for an i5-8400

Before we take a look at the best motherboard for an i5-8400, there are a few things you need to consider to make sure you choose the right motherboard for your particular build.

Size

There are three common sizes of motherboard:

• ATX motherboards are the standard size.
• Micro-ATX motherboards are 2.4 inches shorter
• Mini-ITX motherboards are even smaller making them perfect for building tiny PCs.

(There are motherboards available in all of these sizes that support the i5-8400.)

Other than the physical size, the biggest difference between the motherboard sizes is the number of ports and slots, the larger motherboards usually having more.

PC cases come in different sizes. When you choose a motherboard, make sure your PC case supports the size of the motherboard. Larger cases can usually support smaller motherboards (e.g. a Micto-ATX case will likely support a Mini-ITX motherboard), but not the other way round. However, you should aim to get the largest size that your case supports because you will have more ports and slots available to use.

CPU Support

When you’re choosing a new motherboard, you need to make sure it is compatible with your CPU. There are two things to consider: the socket is what the CPU physically fits into, and the chipset determines which specific CPU models can be used with the motherboard.

The i5-8400 is only compatible with motherboards with an LGA-1151 socket but it will work with a few different motherboard chipsets. (All of the motherboards in this guide have chipsets that are compatible with the i5-8400.)

Motherboards with the Z370 chipset will support the i5-8400, however, these are more expensive than the alternatives, the main advantage being that you can overclock your CPU. The i5-8400 cannot be overclocked so the extra expense isn’t really worth it unless you will be upgrading to an overcklockable CPU in the near future. However, the Z series motherboards often have newer ports that the others don’t, say you might want to consider one if you need these ports, even though you won’t be able to overclock the i5-8400.

RAM Compatibility

The i5-8400 is only compatible with DDR4 RAM. If you have used your i5-8400 in an existing build then the RAM you already have will be DDR4, but if it is a new CPU, make sure the RAM you have is DDR4. When you upgrade your CPU and motherboard, unfortunately it often means you need to upgrade your RAM too.

If a motherboard supports a CPU, then it will almost always support the compatible RAM, so all of the motherboards in this guide will support both the i5-8400 and the required DDR4 RAM.

Ports & Slots

Before deciding on a motherboard, make sure it has all the ports and slots you’re going to need. This includes things like USB ports, audio ports, and RAM slots.

Features

Some motherboards are very basic whilst others come with additional features such as built in Wi-Fi. Don’t spend extra money on features you don’t need though. I would recommend buying the cheapest motherboard that has all the ports, slots and features that you require.

Aesthetics

If you’re PC case doesn’t have a window then the appearance of the motherboard doesn’t really matter. But if your case does have a window, then you might want to spend a bit more on an aesthetically pleasing motherboard that really shows off your build. Some motherboards come equipped with RGB lights.

Best Motherboards for an i5-8400

Below you can find some great motherboards that are compatible with an i5-8400 CPU.

Sale

GIGABYTE B360M DS3H (LGA1151/Intel/Micro ATX/USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB3.0) Type A/DDR4/Motherboard)

• Socket 1151/Support 8th Gen Intel Core Processors
• Dual Channel DDR4, 4DIMMs
• USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB3.0) Type A
• Realtek 8118 LAN

$69.99

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Sale

GIGABYTE B360 HD3 (LGA1151/Intel/B360/ATX/USB 3.1 Gen 2 (USB3.1) Type A/DDR4/Motherboard)

• Socket 1151/Support 8th Gen Intel Core processors
• Dual Channel DDR4, 4DIMMs
• 3 USB 3.1 Gen 2 (USB3.1) Type A
• Realtek ALC892

$83.99

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Sale

Asus ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming Motherboard LGA1151 (Intel 8th 9th Gen) ATX DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 Gen2 802.11AC Wi-Fi

• Designed for 9th 8th Generation Intel Core processors maximize connectivity and speed with Dual M.2, USB 3.1 Gen 2, onboard...
• Revamped 5-way Optimization overclocks Intelligently based on smart prediction and thermal telemetry while FanXpert 4...
• Gamer's Guardian ensures component longevity with safe Slot, ESD guards and DRAM overcurrent protection
• Pre-mounted I/O shield ensures streamlined installation and represents ROG's attention to detail and quality

$206.45

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Sale

ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero (Wi-Fi) Z390 Gaming Motherboard LGA1151 (Intel 8th 9th Gen) ATX DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 Gen2 802.11ac Wi-Fi

• Designed for 9th 8th generation Intel Core processors maximize connectivity, speed with dual M.2, USB 3.1 Gen 2, onboard...
• Revamped 5-Way Optimization overclocks intelligently based on smart prediction and thermal telemetry while FanXpert 4...
• Aura Sync RGB lighting with addressable headers features a nearly endless spectrum of colors with the ability to synchronize...
• Pre-mounted I/O shield ensures streamlined installation and represents ROG's attention to detail and quality

from $300.13

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If the iGPU in your CPU can’t run 4K (or it doesn’t run it smoothly), there are a few options to consider. The GT 1030 is great for most 4K non-gaming uses at 60hz. However, to watch Netflix in 4K, you will need a GTX 1050 or greater with a minimum of 3GB memory.

Nvidia GeForce GT 1030

$89.99 – Buy on Amazon

If you’re not going to be watching Netflix in 4K, the GT 1030 is the card I recommend for general use and video playback. It has a HDMI 2.0 port which means it is capable of 60hz playback even at 4K, and the price to performance of this card is very good.

This card isn’t suitable for gaming at 4K and I wouldn’t even recommend it for gaming at 1080p, however, it is just about powerful enough for some light 1080p gaming. You won’t get a steady 60 FPS in most AAA games, but you should be able to keep above 30 FPS if you turn the settings down which is just about playable. Some low intensive games, like CS:GO, will actually run quite well with this card.

Gigabyte GV-N1030OC-2GI Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 OC 2G Graphics Card

• Powered by GeForce GT 1030
• Integrated with 2GB GDDR5 64bit memory
• Supports HDMI 4K@60Hz. Digital max resolution- 4096 X 2160
• Smooth 4K video playback and HTML5 web browsing

$89.99

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Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050

$159.99 – Buy on Amazon

If you want to watch Netflix in 4K, you will need at least a GTX 1050 with a minimum of 3GB memory. Like with the GT 1030, this card isn’t suitable for 4K gaming, but it will perform reasonably well for some light gaming at 1080p, as long as you don’t expect it to be silky smooth in every game.

EVGA GeForce GTX 1050 SC Gaming, 3GB GDDR5, DX12 OSD Support (PXOC) Graphics Card 03G-P4-6153-KR

• New NVIDIA pascal architecture delivers improved performance and power efficiency
• Classic and modern games at 1080P @ 60 FPS
• Base Clock: 1455 MHz/ boost Clock: 1569 MHz; Memory Detail: 3072MB GDDR5
• Fast, smooth, power-efficient gaming experiences

$159.99

Buy on Amazon

When it comes to the CPU, the i5-8400 is a great CPU to pair with a GTX 1070 if you will only be gaming. However, if you will also be streaming and multitasking, you should consider the Ryzen 5 2600. Both of these CPUs offer great performance for their prices.

When it comes to the GPU, pairing the i5-8400 or Ryzen 5 2600 with a GTX 1070 is the best option for 1080p 144hz gaming or 1440p 60hz gaming. However, you might want to consider the cheaper GTX 1060 if you will only be playing e-sports games like CS:GO which are not very graphically demanding. For 1440p 144hz gaming I would recommend a GTX 1080 with an i5-8400 or Ryzen 5 2600 to get the most out of your monitor.

Should I Buy the i5-8400?

First, let’s take a look at the CPU. The Intel Core i5-8400 is a great CPU for gaming and it offers fantastic performance for the price. It isn’t going to break the bank, but it’s still capable of running most games at very good frame rates. So if you already have a GTX 1070 and you’re looking for a CPU to pair with it, the i5-8400 is definitely worth considering and won’t be a bottleneck.

However, you should also take into consideration the AMD Ryzen 5 2600. This CPU is around the same price as the i5-8400 and offers similar performance but there is a slight difference. The i5 is slightly better when it comes to pure gaming (although the Ryzen can be overclocked which will bring it up to the i5s level), and the Ryzen is better for streaming and multitasking.

So to keep it simple, if you will be gaming and won’t be streaming or multitasking, I would recommend the i5-8400. If you will be streaming or multitasking, I would recommend the Ryzen 5 2600.

Preview	Product	Price
	Intel Core i5-8400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.0 GHz LGA 1151 300 Series 65W	from $216.98	Buy on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler - YD2600BBAFBOX	from $179.14	Buy on Amazon

Should I Buy the GTX 1070?

Now let’s look at the GPU. There isn’t really a best GPU to pair with an i5-8400, it depends on the specific circumstances. Primarily, your monitors refresh rate and resolution, and the games you play.

Some games are more demanding than others, so before deciding on the best GPU, check out the benchmarks for your favorite games, or head over to YouTube and watch some videos to get an idea of how well the combo will perform. When you do this, remember to take into account the resolution of your monitor. Ideally, you want the frame rate to be as close to your monitors refresh rate as possible to get the most out of your monitor.

In the next sections, I will talk more about when I would and wouldn’t recommend pairing an i5-8400 with a GTX 1070, but first, the video below shows you how you can expect this combo to perform in various games at 1080p.

When the i5-8400 + GTX 1070 is a Good Match

Below is a general guide for when I would recommend this combination. It will depend on the specific games you play though, so make sure to check out the benchmarks for them.

• 1080p gaming @ 144hz – the i5-8400 and GTX 1070 is a great combination for gaming on a 1080p 144hz monitor. Most games will be able to get way above 60 FPS with this combo so you will be making the most out of your monitor.
• 1440p gaming @ 60hz – this combination is also good for gaming on a 1440p 60hz monitor. At 1440p, an i5-8400 and GTX 1070 should be able to get more than 60 FPS in most games most of the time.

Preview	Product	Price
	MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1070 8GB GDDR5 SLI DirectX 12 VR Ready Graphics Card (GTX 1070 GAMING X 8G)	from $389.99	Buy on Amazon

When You Might Want to Consider Something Else

Now let’s look at the scenarios where I wouldn’t recommend this combination.

• E-sports gaming – if you will only be playing e-sports games which aren’t particularly demanding (e.g. CSGO), then you won’t need a GPU as powerful as a GTX 1070 and you can save yourself some money going with a GTX 1060 instead. A GTX 1060 will run these games just as well as a GTX 1070. For example, you should be able to get 200+ FPS with an i5-8400 and GTX 1060.
• 1440p gaming @ 144hz – although the GTX 1070 is a good card for 1440p gaming at 60hz, if you want to get the most out of a 1440p 144hz monitor, I would recommend pairing an i5-8400 with a GTX 1080.
• Streaming and multitasking – like I mentioned at the start of the post, if you will be streaming or multitasking, choose the Ryzen 5 2600 over the i5-8400.

Preview	Product	Price
	MSI GAMING GeForce GTX 1060 6GB GDRR5 192-bit HDCP Support DirectX 12 Dual Fan VR Ready OC Graphics...	from $237.00	Buy on Amazon
	Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1080 Windforce OC GV-N1080WF3OC-8GD Graphics Cards	from $769.99	Buy on Amazon

For most people, the best CPU for a GTX 1060 is the AMD Ryzen 5 2600. It is very competitively priced and offers excellent value for money. It should have no problem running most games above 60 FPS and a lot of the time you will see a frame rate above 100 FPS. It can also be overclocked to get even better performance. This CPU is great for multi-tasking and streaming too with 6 cores and 12 threads.

Sale

AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler - YD2600BBAFBOX

• 6 Cores/12 Threads UNLOCKED
• Frequency: 3.9 GHz Max Boost. Includes Wraith Stealth Cooler
• 19MB of Combined Cache. Maximum temperature: 95°C
• Compatibility : Windows 10 - 64-Bit Edition , RHEL x86 64-Bit , Ubuntu x86 64-Bit

from $179.14

Buy on Amazon

Things to Consider

There are a few CPUs that are great to pair with a GTX 1060. Before we look at these CPUs there some things to consider to make sure you choose the best processor for you.

• The games you play most – Before deciding on a new CPU, it’s worth checking out the benchmarks for the specific games you like to play. Some games will run better with one CPU, and others will run better with a different CPU. You should be able to compare benchmarks for most popular games with a quick google search.
• Monitor resolution and refresh rate – When you’re looking at the benchmarks for the games you play, take into account your monitors resolution and refresh rate. For example, if you have a 60hz monitor, you won’t see much difference between a relatively low-end CPU capable of a steady frame rate of around 60 – 70 and a high-end CPU capable of a frame rate of 100+. This is because the monitors refresh rate will be a bottleneck. Although if you think you will be upgrading to a monitor with a higher refresh rate any time soon, you might still want to invest in a higher-end CPU for future-proofing. Games released in the future will likely require more powerful processors too.
• Motherboard and RAM compatibility – You need to make sure the socket on your motherboard is compatible with the CPU. If you don’t know already, you should be able to find out which socket your motherboard has on the manufacturers website. Unfortunately, upgrading your CPU often means you need to get a new motherboard too, especially if it is a big upgrade. As long as the CPU is compatible with the motherboard, it should be compatible with the RAM. There are a few exceptions though, so it’s worth double checking.
• Will you be streaming or multitasking? – When it comes to pure gaming, Intel processors usually have a slight edge over similarly priced AMD processors. However, AMD processors are usually a better choice if you plan on doing a lot of multitasking or if you will be streaming.
• Future-proofing – Another thing to consider is whether or not you want to pay a bit more for a higher-end CPU that will be more future-proof. If you think you will upgrade the your GPU any time soon then it’s definitely worth considering.

Best CPUs for a GTX 1060

Below are our recommended CPUs for a GTX 1060. These processors will perform very well with the GTX 1060 without bottlenecking (except the i3-8100 which is a little on the weak side for some games), and they offer great value for money too.

AMD Ryzen 5 2600 + GTX 1060 (recommended for most people)

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AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor with Wraith Stealth...

from $179.14

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The Ryzen 5 2600 is an excellent processor to pair with a GTX 1060. It’s quite a bit cheaper than Intel’s i5-8400 and almost matches it on performance when gaming (in fact, when overclocked it often performs better). This a great CPU for multitasking and streaming too because its 6 cores and 12 threads.

The only reason I would recommend the Intel i5-8400 over this processor is if you will be primarily gaming and don’t want to overclock the CPU. This is because the i5-8400 is usually a little bit better than a non-overclocked Ryzen 5 2600. But other than that, you will probably be better off with the Ryzen.

This CPU paired with a GTX 1060 should have no problem getting at least 60 FPS even in highly demanding AAA games. and a lot of the time you should be getting more than 100 FPS.

The video below gives you an idea of how well the GTX 1060 and Ryzen 5 2600 performs in various games.

Below you can find the specifications for the AMD Ryzen 5 2600.

Intel Core i5-8400 + GTX 1060

Intel Core i5-8400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to...

from $216.98

Buy on Amazon

The i5-8400 is usually slightly more expensive than the Ryzen 5 2600. It does perform a little bit better in most games than the Ryzen, but only when the Ryzen isn’t overclocked. The Ryzen is also a better choice for multitasking and streaming. Considering all of this, I would recommend only choosing this CPU over the Ryzen if you won’t be doing much multitasking/streaming, and don’t want to overclock your CPU.

As I mentioned, when it comes to performance, this CPU is slightly better than the Ryzen 5 2600. Paired with a GTX 1060, you should get at least 60 FPS in AAA games pretty much all of the time, and you should be close to 100 FPS a lot of the time too.

The video below gives you an idea of how well the GTX 1060 and Intel Core i5-8400 performs in various games.

Below you can find the specifications for the Intel Core i5-8400.

Intel Core i3-8100 + GTX 1060

Intel Core i3-8100 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to...

$137.88

Buy on Amazon

If you’re on a tight budget, the Intel Core i3-8100 is worth checking out. If you only play games which aren’t particularly CPU intensive then this processor will handle them no problem and you should always stay above 60 FPS. However, some more CPU intensive games will struggle to stay above 60 FPS with this processor. The other problem with this processor is that it isn’t very future-proof and you will likely want to upgrade it fairly soon, especially if you like to play new games.

For most people, I wouldn’t recommend this processor if you have a GTX 1060 which is a fairly powerful card. But if you really don’t want to spend a lot, it isn’t the worst option, especially if you don’t regularly play CPU intensive games. Before purchasing this card, you should definitely check the benchmarks to see how well it can run the games you play the most.

The video below gives you an idea of how well the GTX 1060 and Intel Core i3-8100 performs in various games.

Below you can find the specifications for the Intel Core i3-8100.

Best CPUs for Future-Proofing with a GTX 1060

The three cards above are great options for a GTX 1060 that shouldn’t cause any bottlenecks in your build (except perhaps the i3-8100 which is a little bit weak). However, if you plan on upgrading your graphics card any time soon, you might want to think ahead and purchase a more powerful CPU now so when you upgrade your CPU won’t be a bottleneck.

If you want to spend a bit more on a CPU that will last a long time, check out either the Ryzen 7 2700x or the Intel Core i7-8700k.

Preview	Product	Price
	AMD Ryzen 7 2700X Processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler - YD270XBGAFBOX	$287.95	Buy on Amazon
	Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz Turbo Unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W	from $351.05	Buy on Amazon

In most games, the GTX 1060 will hold these processors back. However, if you turn the graphics settings all the way down, you should be able to get a very high frame rate which can be great for fast-paced gaming if you have a monitor with a high refresh rate. But the main advantage of these cards is that they should last for years to come.

Things to Consider

• Your monitors resolution – Higher resolutions put more workload on the GPU. So if you have a 1440p or 4K monitor, you will want a more powerful GPU than if you have a 1080p monitor in order to not bottleneck your CPU. If you have a 4K monitor and you purchase a weak GPU, you might find your i5-8400 is capable of achieving a lot more FPS, but is being held back by the GPU.
• Your monitors refresh rate – Ideally, you want a CPU and GPU combo that maximises FPS. However, if you only have a 60hz monitor (and you don’t plan on upgrading any time soon), then a high-end graphics card that is capable of a 100 FPS+ will be wasted on your monitor because it will only be able to display 60 FPS. If you really don’t want to upgrade your monitor to a higher refresh rate, get yourself a lower-end GPU that is capable of a steady 60 FPS (but you will probably be wasting your CPUs full potential). Personally, because the i5-8400 is a powerful CPU and I wouldn’t want to waste it’s potential, I would get a higher-end card and look into upgrading to a monitor with a higher refresh rate.
• G-Sync and FreeSync – Nvidia’s G-Sync and AMD’s FreeSync technologies sync the graphics card to the monitors refresh rate. This gives a much smoother gaming experience. It functions in a similar way to v-sync but without the input lag. G-Sync only works with Nvidia cards and FreeSync only works with AMD cards, so if your monitor has FreeSync, get and AMD card, and if your monitor has G-Sync, get an Nvidia card.
• Which games you play – Some games are more CPU intensive and others are more GPU intensive. If you will be playing games that are more CPU intensive (most commonly e-sports games like CSGO), you might not need a particularly powerful GPU, but if you will be playing GPU intensive games, you will want to invest in a card with a bit more power. You can check out Game Debate to get an idea of how different games perform on different hardware. I also like to head over to YouTube to get an idea of what the performance will be like. Search for a game you play, followed by the resolution, your CPU, and the GPU you are interested in. e.g. “Battlefield V 1440p i5-8400 GTX 1070”. Then you might want to compare that to a GTX 1080 for example, and see if the extra performance is worth it.

Best GPUs for an i5-8400

Now you know what to keep in mind when choosing a graphics card, let’s look at some GPUs that go nicely with an i5-8400 for various situations. I have listed them in order of performance, with the less powerful, budget-friendly cards first.

1. Nvidia Geforce GTX 1060

from $237.00 – Buy on Amazon

• Low-end GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for e-sports gaming at 1080p
• G-Sync compatible

The GTX 1060 is the weakest GPU I would recommend for an i5-8400. It’s ideal if you will be playing games that aren’t graphically demanding (like CS:GO) on a 1080p monitor. If you have a higher resolution monitor or want to play more demanding games, I would avoid the 1060 and look at a more powerful card to get the most out of your CPU. The GTX 1060 is G-Sync compatible. If you have a FreeSync monitor, check out the next card in our list, the AMD Radeon RX 580.

Sale

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2. AMD Radeon RX 580

$185.99 – Buy on Amazon

• Low-end GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for e-sports gaming at 1080p
• FreeSync compatible

The RX 580 performs similarly to the GTX 1060, but since it is AMD, it is compatible with FreeSync. A great card for e-sports or low-demand games at 1080p, but not for anything more.

Sale

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• Core Clock (MHz): 1355 in OC Mode and 1340 in Gaming Mode
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• RGB fusion - 16.8M customizable color lighting
• Stylish Metal Back Plate

$185.99

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3. Nvidia Geforce GTX 1070

from $389.99 – Buy on Amazon

• Mid-range GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for gaming on a 1080p 144hz monitor or 1440p 60hz monitor.
• G-Sync compatible

The GTX 1070 is a great choice to pair with an i5-8400 for gaming on a 1080p 144hz monitor or a 1440p 60hz monitor. At 1080p, most games should run well above 60 FPS, and often above 100 FPS with this combo. At 1440p, you should still be getting above 60 FPS most of the time, but if you have a 1440p 144hz monitor, I would recommend a more powerful card. The GTX 1070 is just about OK for 4K gaming, but you will most likely see drops below 60 FPS. The GTX 1070 is G-Sync compatible. If you have a FreeSync monitor, check out the next card in our list, the AMD Radeon RX Vega 56.

Sale

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• Chipset: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070
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4. AMD Radeon RX Vega 56

from $109.99 – Buy on Amazon

• Mid-range GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for gaming on a 1080p 144hz monitor or 1440p 60hz monitor.
• FreeSync compatible

The Vega 56 performs similarly to the GTX 1070, but since it is AMD, it is compatible with FreeSync. A great card for gaming on a 1080p 144hz monitor or 1440p 60hz monitor. However, for a 1440p 144hz monitor, or a 4K monitor, I would recommend a more powerful card.

Sale

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5. Nvidia Geforce GTX 1080

from $769.99 – Buy on Amazon

• High-end GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for gaming on a 1440p 144hz monitor.
• G-Sync compatible

A GTX 1080 is the ideal card to pair with an i5-8400 if you have a 1440p 144hz monitor. Most of the time, you should be getting more than 60 FPS, and often more than 100 FPS at 1440p. The GTX 1080 will also give you more frames than a GTX 1070 on a 1080p monitor, but most of the time, the difference won’t be as noticeable as it is with higher resolutions. For gaming in 4K, this GTX 1080 is a great option, but you will still likely have to turn some settings down to achieve a steady 60 FPS in many games. The GTX 1080 is G-Sync compatible. If you have a FreeSync monitor, check out the next card in our list, the AMD Radeon RX Vega 64.

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6. AMD Radeon RX Vega 64

from $109.98 – Buy on Amazon

• High-end GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for gaming on a 1440p 144hz monitor.
• FreeSync compatible

The RX Vega 64 performs similarly to the GTX 1080, but since it is AMD, it is compatible with FreeSync. Great for gaming on a 1440p 144hz monitor, reasonable for 4K, but potentially overkill for 1080p gaming (you will get more FPS at 1080p, it just want be as noticeable as with higher resolutions).

Sale

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7. Nvidia Geforce GTX 1080 Ti

from $997.00 – Buy on Amazon

• High-end GPU for an i5-8400
• Great for 1440p and 4K gaming.
• G-Sync compatible

Finally, we have the GTX 1080 Ti. I wouldn’t recommend this card for 1080p gaming with an i5-8400 because it will be overkill. However, for 1440p and 4K gaming, the GTX 1080 Ti is a great match. Whether or not the extra cost is worth it is up to you. I would check out some YouTube videos of the i5-8400 paired with GTX 1080s and 1080 Tis specifically running the games you play. One thing to consider is that the 1080 Ti will help to future-proof your PC and should enable you to play the latest releases for quite a few years to come.

Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Gaming OC 11GB Graphic Cards N108TGAMINGOC-11GD

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