We explore some of the best mini LED monitors in 2023
Updated: Dec 1, 2023 9:01 am
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Looking for the best Mini LED monitor in 2023? Well, look no further, our experienced team of monitor experts have hand-selected some of the industry’s most prestigious monitors that utilize Mini LED backlights instead of more generic LEDs. Mini LED monitors have been flirting around the perimeter of the mainstream display marketplace for some time now. However, that is now changing as we enter into the next phase of gaming monitor technology. We’re already starting to see an array of mini-LED monitors spanning various price points, opening these displays up to a much wider audience. To save you some time, we definitely recommend the likes of the ViewSonic ELITE XG321UG and Samsung Odyssey Neo G9, but there’s more to discover. We’ll be keeping this guide as up to date as possible, all the while continuing to review more and more fantastic Mini-LED displays.
Mini LED backlight monitors offer a huge range of benefits when compared to generic LED alternatives. Wider color gamuts, brighter peak luminance, richer color accuracy, and far better HDR performance (thanks to a large increase in full array local dimming support) are just some of the benefits that it brings to the table. For that reason, we can only see mini LED monitors being a huge hit as we work our way through 2023 – even more so with a number of esports-tailored options coming to market.
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Best Mini LED monitor: ViewSonic ELITE XG321UG
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ViewSonic ELITE XG321UG
Pros
- Stunning image quality
- Excellent HDR performance and super wide color gamut
- Deep contrast levels and superior backlighting
- High 4K screen resolution
Coined our current best mini-LED pick, and one we’d love to get a hands-on review of, the ViewSonic ELITE XG321UG really impresses. Of course we’re talking about an expensive display here, but if you want a truly stunning mini-LED experience, then this does the job nicely. The impressive backlight technology is the key focus for this ViewSonic display, and is a perfect choice for those that want accurate colors and an excellent HDR rating that makes the most of mini-LED.
One of the stand-out features for the XG321UG has to be the massive amount of backlighting zones – 1152 to be exact. Combined with the true 10-bit color depth and VESA DisplayHDR 1400 specs, the monitor really displays a crystal-clear picture with accurate colors and contrast levels. All of this is packed into a high-resolution 4K display and stunning IPS panel to give you a truly high-end and bright monitor.
The large 32″ screen size is perfect for 4K and makes this a great choice for immersive gameplay which looks its best. This ViewSonic monitor features a smooth 144Hz refresh rate, although the 3ms response time does mean there are smoother options out there for fast-paced competitive titles. Either way, it features Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate and Nvidia Reflex technologies for optimized gaming performance.
Next best Mini LED monitor: ASUS ROG SWIFT PG32UQX
Pros
- High-end VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification
- 144Hz @ 4K is top-tier
- Excellent aesthetics
- Large 32″ screen is immersive
We’ve decided to give our next spot to the ASUS ROG SWIFT PG32UQX, and for good reason – it really does offer everything you could want for a stunning gaming experience. This is one we had the pleasure of reviewing, with plenty of positives to talk about.
As far as specifications go, the PG32UQX delivers a 4K resolution that features a 144Hz refresh rate, super-bright VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification, 98% DCI-P3 coverage, and some of the best implementation of mini-LED backlight technology – with a massive total of 1152 LED zones for Full Array Local Dimming. This is more than enough local dimming to provide a stunning HDR experience which doesn’t go unnotice. As we’d expect for a high-end 4K display, it sits at 32″, so you can really be immersed in the excellent design and high-end IPS panel.
The high-end gaming monitor officially hit shelves with a wild starting price of $2,999, which put it way out of many people’s budgets. Since then, it has dropped in priced, but you can still expect to pay a premium. Well worth considering though if you have the cash to throw around.
Best ultrawide Mini LED monitor: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
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Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 (S49AG95NC)
Pros
- High 240Hz refresh rate
- Impressive VESA DisplayHDR2000 certification
- Immersive 1000R Curvature
- Low 1ms Response Time
The new refresh of Samsung’s popular Odyssey G9 really does add performance in the right places. Instead of wasting time on increasing refresh rates, Samsung has opted to increase the backlight technology used – not only adding more immersion and better colors but a huge boost in HDR too. We got a full review of the 49″ Neo G9 and it’s five stars for good reason.
The new Samsung G9 Neo comes equipped with all the latest high-end features you could imagine, including a brand new CSOT VA panel and Mini-LED backlight technology. Like its predecessor, the G9 Neo offers up a wide 5120 x 1440 screen resolution, low 1ms response time, and 240Hz refresh rate – the perfect combination of specs for a truly immersive gaming experience.
As far as colors go, users can expect a 125% sRGB gamut (equivalent to 95% DCI-P3) – meeting HDR’s WCG requirements. Furthermore, with VESA DisplayHDR 2000 certification, you’ll be blown away by the color recreation of this panel. Of course, price is always a large factor in these monitors, and the Samsung Neo G9 is no different. It comes to shelves for north of $2500 dollars so be prepared to fork out for this beast of a panel.
Best 32 Inch Mini-LED gaming monitor: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
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Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
Pros
- 240Hz refresh rate
- UHD image clarity
- Mini LED technology
Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 earns its place as one of our best mini-LED displays – and HDMI 2.1 monitors – 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 newer 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.
Best Mini LED monitor for esports: AOC Agon PRO AG274QZM
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AOC Agon PRO AG274QZM
Pros
- Rapid 240hz refresh rate
- 1440p image quality
- G-Sync compatible
- Excellent ergonomics
Cons
- Average amount of dimming zones
We’ve had the pleasure of testing a ton of AOC monitors in recent times, and it’s safe to say we’ve never seen anything like this. Like other leading monitor manufacturers, AOC’s AGON department has also vouched to bring us a new line-up of high-speed panels – one of which is being coined the AGON Pro AG274QZM.
As far as esports-grade monitors go, this one is right up there – not only offering a blistering 240Hz refresh rate but stunning 1440p clarity too. This is backed up by the low 1ms response time, making it great for all kinds of action-packed and fast-paced games. If you want excellent gaming performance combined with stunning Mini-LED quality, this is the pick for you.
The stunning flagship 1440p panel from AOC will also feature NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility to ensure smooth gameplay at all times. One of the benefits of Mini-LED displays is the excellent HDR performance. As such, the AG274QZM is DisplayHDR 1000 certified, making for a bright display which looks great for games and general media viewing.
Best value Mini LED monitor: Cooler Master Tempest GP27Q
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Cooler Master Tempest GP27Q
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- FreeSync & G-Sync compatible
- Impressive build quality
- Great Mini-LED display with 576 local dimming zones
Cons
- Lower resolution than high-end displays
When it comes to picking out a Mini-LED monitor which offers the best value for money, the Cooler Master Tempest GP27Q has to be the current winner. We’ve seen it mentioned time and time again as one of the best ‘cheap’ monitors featuring this kind of backlight technology. You aren’t skimping on quality though, as Cooler Master assure a premium display and great quality control as always.
It’s certainly a great pick for gaming with a smooth 165Hz refresh rate, snappy 1ms response time and the assurance of FreeSync & G-Sync on board. Overall, there isn’t much to say against the Tempest GP27Q – it’s an incredible display considering how much cheaper it is compared to other Mini-LED monitors on the market.
This 1440p monitor features a suitable 27″ screen and ultra-speed IPS panel which looks the part. The Mini-LED tech makes for a HDR peak brightness of 1200 nits, so it’s perfect for all kinds of media consumption – not just gaming. It features 576 local dimming zones to improve contrast ratio – an extremely impressive figure for this price point. Overall, a premium monitor without the premium price tag. If you’re looking for another Cooler Master pick which offers lots of value, you can also opt for their Cooler Master Tempest GP27U 4K monitor which is priced around the $800 mark.
Mini LED monitor list
Mini LED backlight technology has been featuring more heavily in gaming monitors in recent times, offering up greater colors, better contrast ratio, and much higher HDR reproduction than your run-of-the-mill LED monitor.
We keep on top of all the latest mini-LED monitor releases, updating frequently so you can always compare the market’s best mini-LED monitors available.
| Monitor | Size | Resolution | Panel technology | Backlight | Refresh rate | Peak Luminance | Local Dimming Zones | VRR Support | Product Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acer X27 S | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 160Hz | 1200 | 512 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Acer X32 S | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 160Hz | 1200 | 512 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Acer X32 FP | 32″ | 3840 x 2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 160Hz | 1200 | 512 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Acer X32 | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 144Hz | 1400 | 1152 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| AOC AG274QXM | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 170Hz | 1000 | 576 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| AOC AG274QZM | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 240Hz | 1200 | 576 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| AOC AGON PRO AG274QGM | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 300Hz | 1000 | 576 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| Apple Pro Display XDR | 31.5″ | 6016×3384 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1600 | 576 | None | Amazon |
| ASUS PA32UCG | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 120Hz | 1600 | 1152 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| ASUS PA32UCR | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 576 | None | Amazon |
| ASUS PG27UQX | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 144Hz | 1000 | 576 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| ASUS PG32UQX | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 144Hz | 1600 | 1152 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| ASUS ProArt PA27UCX-K | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 576 | None | Amazon |
| ASUS ProArt PA27UCX-P | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 1152 | FreeSync | Amazon |
| ASUS ProArt PA32UCX | 31.5″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1400 | 1152 | None | Amazon |
| Cooler Master Tempest GP27Q | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 165Hz | 1200 | 576 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Cooler Master Tempest GP27U | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 160Hz | 1200 | 576 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Dell UP3221Q | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 2000 | None | Amazon |
| Evnia 34M2C7600MV | 34″ | 3440×1440 | VA | Mini LED | 165Hz | 1400 | 152 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| INNOCN 27M2V | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 160Hz | 1000 | 1152 | FreeSync | Amazon |
| Lenovo Creator Extreme P27 | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 1152 | None | Amazon |
| MSI MEG 271Q | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 300Hz | 1000 | TBA | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| MSI MEG ARTYMIS 341 | 34″ | 3440×1440 | VA | Mini LED | 144Hz* | 1000 | TBA | TBA | Amazon |
| Philips 279P2MRX | 27″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 60Hz | 1000 | 2304 | None | Amazon |
| Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 240Hz | 2000 | 1196 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Samsung S49AG95 Odyssey Neo G9 | 49″ | 5120×1440 | VA | Mini LED | 240Hz | 2000 | 2048 | FreeSync Premium | Amazon |
| Samsung Odyssey ARK | 55″ | 3840×2160 | VA | Mini LED | 165Hz | 2000 | 1056 | FreeSync Premium Pro | Amazon |
| ViewSonic XG321UG | 32″ | 3840×2160 | IPS | Mini LED | 150Hz | 1400 | 1152 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| ViewSonic ELITE XG272G-2K | 27″ | 2560×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 300Hz | 1000 | 1152 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
| ViewSonic ELITE XG341C-2K | 34″ | 3440×1440 | IPS | Mini LED | 200Hz | 1400 | 1152 | G-SYNC Ultimate | Amazon |
How we test & choose
While mini-LED monitors might be fairly sparse in today’s market, we’re still bang up to date with the latest news regarding the technology. With few monitors to choose from that actually support this exciting backlight technology, it wasn’t too hard picking the best of the bunch available today. However, as time goes by and more Mini-LED panels become available, we’ll be running our own in-house tests to see which is truly best.
For this article, we’ve rounded up the best mini-LED monitors, researched them meticulously, and have concluded with the following list as our best.
Check out our complete in-house review process here.
Top buying tips for Mini-LED monitors
When it comes to purchasing a new monitor – regardless of price or performance – there are always considerations to be made. By having a greater understanding of the intricate features of mini-LED technology, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision on your next monitor purchase.
In this section, we’ll be highlighting all the main features of mini-LED tech so you exactly what to look for.
Price – are Mini-LED monitors affordable?
The first thing you must realise when it comes to mini-LED monitors is they won’t be cheap. The technology is relatively new in the monitor industry and, like most new technologies that offer a large performance boost, a premium is naturally applied to monitors that utilize it.
For a while, there were only a few mini-LED monitors out there – all of which lie in the upper echelons of the market. Of course, other specifications play a major role in the price of a monitor, but on average, a Mini-LED monitor will set you back over $1,000. As time passes, more and more Mini-LED monitors are making their way to the market, so we can see the price dropping below that $1,000 relatively soon, if not already.
HDR performance
One of the big differences that separates Mini-LED and LED monitors is the HDR performance they provide. To experience ‘true’ HDR, a monitor must meet strict requirements (FALD, WCG, high contrast ratio). While only a handful of LED monitors feature these core aspects, all Mini-LED monitors should adhere to these specifications.
The design of the mini-LED backlight means that FALD is always a feature on these displays. Furthermore, users can expect a much wider color gamut (98% DCI-P3), higher overall peak luminance, and greater contrast ratio – thanks to the additional local dimming zones it provides.
See our complete HDR10 vs Dolby Vision guide here.
What is FALD? Mini LED monitor technology
FALD stands for full-array local dimming and refers to the number of zones in which the backlight can dynamically change brightness. If a monitor has a limited number of dimming zones, you’ll often see annoying screen artifacts like haloing around bright objects. With that in mind, it’s easy to understand why a normal LED with a lack of FALD performs poorly in HDR scenes.
Many modern Mini-LED monitors will feature a minimum of 1,152 local dimming zones, enabling the display to support much higher levels of HDR performance when compared to the 16 dimming zones (average) of LED. It also allows the panel to display bolder, more vibrant colors in both gaming and general use situations.
Color accuracy & color gamut (WCG)
Another key feature in the arsenal of Mini-LED is the color accuracy and WCG (wide color gamut) they offer. Again, to perform HDR to a high standard, monitors must be able to reach certain gamut requirements – 95% DCI-P3 for true HDR.
Mini-LED monitors will be able to support a wider color gamut thanks to the higher peak brightness they produce – mainly thanks to 0.2mm design of the LED diodes.
Of course, color accuracy normally comes down to some form of factory calibration. However, with Mini-LED featuring strong HDR performance, we’ll likely see most with some form of calibration (to an average deltaE <2).
Monitor ports
You can also take into consideration the monitor ports or outputs which are available on your Mini-LED monitor. Depending on the type of ports available on your graphics card, or what kind of cables you have available, you need to know how you’re going to connect your monitor to your PC. Two of the common display interfaces these days are HDMI and DisplayPort.
Both HDMI and DP and excellent connection types, and many Mini-LED monitors will support both inputs. Be sure to check which is better supported, as 4K 120Hz performance can only be achieved by HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 or higher, especially important to note if you’re looking for a high refresh rate 4K monitor (like 4K 144Hz).
Many monitors these days also include a USB hub to provide plenty of support for your peripherals and external devices. This includes the likes of a USB-C port, which is great for charging your laptop, tablet, or phone – power delivery straight from your monitor.
Refresh rate
The next thing you should look out for, especially in a gaming monitor, is refresh rate. To put it simply, the higher the refresh rate, the smoother the visuals. Many of the Mini-LED monitors we feature are high refresh rate monitors. This means they are ideal for gaming at high framerates and making the most of your PC’s in-game performance while avoiding ghosting. Importantly though, you want to avoid effects like screen tearing by matching your refresh rate to your framerate. This is achieved by variable refresh rate (VRR) tech like AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro or Nvidia’s G-Sync.
Mini LED vs LED vs OLED
With such a large price increase over generic LED panels, you might be struggling to see the value in the new technology. Furthermore, we’ve not even touched upon OLED and how it compares to mini LED either.
Below, we’ve made a rough graph showcasing some of the more important features and differences between Mini-LED, LED, and OLED technologies.
| LED | Mini-LED | OLED | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local dimming zones | Edgelit-16zones | up to 2048 local dimming zones (FALD) | Pixels operate independently |
| Color Gamut | 100% sRGB | 135% sRGB (98% DCI-P3) | 135% sRGB (98% DCI-P3) |
| Contrast Ratio | Up to 3000:1 | Up to 3000:1 | Infinite Contrast ratio |
| Viewing angles | Good (depending on panel technology) | Good (depending on panel technology) | Excellent |
| White luminance | < 500 nits | 1000 nits | 500-600 nits |
| Black depth | >0.05 | 0.05 | True black (0.00) |
| Price | Varies massively (can be super cheap) | Mid-high pricing | Highly priced |
While Mini LED monitors do offer some benefits over OLED alternatives, they still can’t match the infinite contrast and perfect blacks that OLED monitors offer. That said, they do feature far higher peak luminance and are considered more stable that OLED technology. Both of them are better than more basic LED panels, but this of course comes at a cost.
Best Mini LED monitor FAQs
What is a Mini LED monitor?
Mini LED monitors are monitors that utilize mini LED backlights. Unlike generic LED backlights, Mini LED backlighting offers up a more efficient design which allows for greater levels of localized dimming and contrast ratio.
Officially, Mini LED monitors are panels that utilize a backlight with diodes no bigger than 0.2mm – but, like most things, take the word “mini” with a pinch of salt.
Is Mini LED good for gaming?
Thanks to the qualities that mini LED backlight technology brings to the table, mini LED monitors are excellent options for gaming.
Not only do they offer greater peak brightness and localized dimming but they also provide far greater contrast ratio – allowing the panel to display better detail in extreme dark and light regions.
Best Mini LED monitor : Final word
So, there you have it, our comprehensive guide to the best mini LED monitors in 2023. We hope this guide has shed a little light on a technology that is both relatively new and fairly advanced in operation.
All being said, we’ll be keeping this page right up to date with all the latest changes to the market, including any new high-end mini LED panels that crop up. Right now, there aren’t a ton of options available compared to some of the older panel types. However, as we move further in 2023 (and beyond), they will only become more frequent.
