It’s amazing how much more productive you can be with a good second monitor. Having another screen allows you to open more windows at once. So, you can get more done and create a smooth workflow.
That’s why I think everyone should invest in a dual monitor setup. And the good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot. Instead, you can buy a cheap second monitor and significantly improve your workstation.
This guide aims to help you find the best second monitor to suit your needs. Here are some of the best budget monitors out there right now. But despite the low prices, they are high quality with incredible visuals.
I’ll also share my buying tips for buying the best second monitor. So, you’ll know you’re getting great value for your money.
Best Cheap Second Monitor – A Buying Guide
Here’s what you need to know to help you choose the best budget dual monitor setup!
Screen Size
First of all, you should think about what size monitor you need. That will depend on your desk size and how large your main monitor is.
You want it to fit neatly on your desk, but you probably also want to maximize the screen space. Because the bigger the monitor, the better it is for streaming or detailed work. For example, if you edit photos, you will benefit from seeing tiny details easily.
All these monitors range between 21 and 27 inches. A 21-inch monitor is already pretty large, especially if it’s your second monitor. So, you can feel confident going for any of these options.
Screen Resolution
The higher the resolution, the crisper the visuals you’ll get. A high resolution means that there are more pixels per inch. So, you shouldn’t have any issues with pixelation or blurring if you go for an HD monitor.
I would recommend going for at least 1920 x 1080 pixels. On a large screen, you don’t want to go below this, or the image quality may be lacking.
But some monitors offer even higher resolutions like the LG 27QN600-B reviewed above. So, you’ll know that the image quality will be spectacular on these displays.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is another vital spec when choosing a new computer display. It’s measured in Hertz and tells you how often the screen refreshes the image every second.
The most common refresh rate is 60 Hz. That’s fair, but you can find many models with a faster 75 Hz rate. Some premium monitors for gaming are as speedy as 144 Hz, but most users won’t need anything that fast.
Color Accuracy
You want bright, accurate colors on your computer monitor. That will make all the difference to your experience. But it’s even more important in a monitor for streaming video or doing creative work like graphic design.
So, look for a monitor with a wide color gamut and 16.7 million colors. Then, it should be vibrant, with rich, saturated colors.
Extra Features
There are some extra features you may want to look out for, depending on your needs. For example, do you need a monitor that has built-in speakers? Or is a cable management system essential to keep your desk tidy?
Some monitors even have special technology for gamers to enhance the experience. So, make sure you’re clear on what you need from a display before you start shopping around.
Best Secondary Monitor
Top 3 Products: A Quick Comparison
TL;DR? Here’s a quick summary of the best second monitors on a budget.
In my opinion, the best secondary monitor is the LG 27GN600-B. With its huge 27-inch screen and super-sharp resolution, it’s hard to beat this monitor. It also has a speedy refresh rate and special technology to enhance images and videos.
But if you’re looking for a smaller model, you could go for the Acer CB242Y. It’s another great display that allows you to multitask, with its large 23.8-inch screen. The design is slim and sleek, taking up very little space on your desk. But it’s also very adjustable, so you can set it up in an ergonomic working position.
And if you’re tight on cash, you could go for the Sceptre 24-inch monitor. Not only is it a real bargain, but it provides all you need from a second monitor.
Read on for the full guide of each of these monitors (and more!)
 |  |  | |
| Product | Best Second Monitor – LG 27QN600-B | Runner-Up Monitor – Acer CB242Y | Best Cheap Monitor – Sceptre E248W-19203R |
| Screen Size | 27 inches | 23.8 inches | 24 inches |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 pixels | 1920 x 1080 pixels | 1920 x 1080 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 75 Hz | 60 Hz | 60 Hz |
| Color Support | 16.7 million colors | 16.7 million colors | 16.7 million colors |
HP Pavilion 21.5-Inch Full HD LED Monitor
Best Low-Cost HP Monitor
(Image credit: HP)
If you’re looking for a great low-cost monitor, check out this 22-inch display from HP. As you’d expect from this giant brant, this monitor is of high quality.
It ticks all the right boxes with its full HD screen and great dynamic contrast. It also has a decent response time of 7 ms, so you won’t get any blurring.
This bright LED monitor has a slim, minimalist design, so it doesn’t take up much space on your desk. The IPS technology ensures an excellent user experience. You get wide viewing angles, rich colors, and crisp details.
Plus, the anti-glare screen is gentle on your eyes, reducing eye strain and fatigue.
All in all, this monitor provides excellent value for money. There are a couple of drawbacks, though. It doesn’t have a speaker included, so you may need to buy separate speakers too.
Also, it’s not VESA-compatible. That means you’ll have to use the stand included. There’s no option to mount it on the wall or a monitor arm. But overall, it’s a great affordable monitor.
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 21.5 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- This display has gorgeous visuals, with a high resolution
- It’s energy-efficient and eco-friendly, with a slim design
- The bezel-free design maximizes the screen space
Cons:
- It’s not VESA-compatible
- It doesn’t have a built-in speaker
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Asus VS228H-P 21.5″ Full HD HDMI DVI VGA LCD Monitor
Best Second Monitor for Streaming
(Image credit: Asus)
This Asus monitor is another fantastic affordable option. Its slim design and sturdy, single stand are ideal for keeping your desk clutter-free. The tiny bezels and chrome finish make it sleek and stylish.
It has excellent visuals and a fluid display, perfect for gaming or watching videos. Plus, it has a feature that allows you to switch between two different aspect ratios. So, depending on what you’re doing, you can flick between full screen and 4:3. That prevents any image distortion and improves your viewing experience.
It also has Smart View Technology, which is a real bonus. This clever feature automatically adjusts the colors, sharpness, brightness, and contrast. So, video and graphics will always look amazing on this screen!
Factor in the super dynamic contrast and wide viewing angles, and it’s an obvious choice for gamers. But you’ll also like this monitor for creative work or streaming.
As for connectivity, you have plenty of options. It has VGA, HDMI, and DVI-D inputs, and it’s also VESA-compatible. So, you can also attach it to a monitor arm or mount it on the wall. That makes for a very versatile and cheap dual monitor setup.
(Image credit: Asus)
One thing to consider is that Asus doesn’t have the best customer service reputation. As you can see here on Trustpilot, there are quite a few annoyed customers. So, that could be enough to put you off.
But otherwise, this cheap ASUS monitor is a fantastic second monitor. With so many attractive features, it’s well worth your money.
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 21.5 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 75 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- Excellent color & image quality with great dynamic contrast
- It has six different video modes to optimize your viewing experience
- You can choose between two different aspect ratios
Cons:
- It’s compact and sturdy, with VESA compatibility
- HP doesn’t have the best customer service
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HP Sceptre 24″ Ultra Thin LED Monitor
Best Budget 24-inch HD Monitor
(Image credit: HP)
If you’re looking for a large second monitor, then check out this 24-inch model from Sceptre. It has great specs and features, but it’s also a real bargain.
This monitor has a full HD display with 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also has a super-fast refresh rate of 75 Hz, so graphics and videos look awesome. Plus, it’s smooth and flicker-free with a fast 5 ms response time.
The 24-inch Sceptre monitor looks high-quality. It has small bezels and a brushed metal finish that’s stylish and durable.
(Image credit: HP)
It also offers Blue Light Shift, which protects your eyes from harsh blue light. As a result, you should experience fewer headaches and eye strain. That’s a useful feature for anyone who works long hours at their computer.
The Spectre monitor has both HDMI & VGA compatibility. It’s also VESA compatible, but it only uses two screw holes instead of four. That does make it a little flimsier than some monitors. But generally, it should be fine as it doesn’t have a bulky, heavy build.
At this price, the Spectre offers excellent value for money. It provides everything you need from a cheap second monitor.
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- This monitor is durable, high-quality, and sleek
- It’s very affordable – ideal for anyone on a budget
- It has a large, full-HD, 24-inch screen
- The refresh rate and response time are very fast
Cons:
- You can only mount it with two screws instead of four
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BenQ 24 Inch IPS Monitor
Best Budget Monitor
(Image credit: BenQ)
This BenQ monitor is another cheap second monitor. It has a bright screen of up to 250 nits and wide viewing angles. So, you can see the display clearly even when you’re not right in front of it.
There’s a lot more to like about this monitor. For one, it’s VESA-compatible, offering more versatility for your desk setup. So, you can mount it or attach it to a monitor arm.
The slim bezels allow it to sit nicely next to your main monitor. It takes up less space on your desk and allows the two screens to work seamlessly together.
(Image credit: BenQ)
This display also has very low blue light levels and almost no flicking. That improves your experience and boosts your eye comfort as you work or play. The screen itself has excellent color accuracy and fine details. The colors are rich, while the blacks are deep and crisp.
The cable management system is an extra bonus. You can tuck all the cables neatly away within the stand, which is a great multipurpose design. So, it will keep your desk tidy at all times.
Plus, it has two built-in speakers. That’s something not all monitors offer, so it’s very handy.
To sum up, this BenQ monitor is cheap, high-quality, and user-friendly. It provides fantastic value for money when compared to more expensive displays. So, if you’re after a bargain, this one is sure to impress!
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- This monitor has great color accuracy and a full HD screen
- It’s a real bargain
- You get two built-in speakers and a cable management system included
- It’s VESA-compatible, so you can mount it
Cons:
- The refresh rate isn’t as fast as some models
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ASUS VS248H-P 24″ Full HD LED Monitor
Best Low-Cost 24 Inch Second Monitor
(Image credit: Asus)
This Asus display is only slightly more expensive than the BenQ model. But it has impressive specs and features that make it one of the best cheap monitors around.
First of all, it has a super-fast 2ms response time. That makes it excellent for video and gaming, ensuring that you never get any delays.
It also offers great connectivity with VGA, DVI, and HDMI compatibility. So, you can hook up several devices to the monitor for more flexibility.
If you tend to get eye strain or headaches from looking at screens, you’ll love that this display is flicker-free. That helps to boost your comfort, even when working for long periods.
There are some other notable features. For example, it has very low blue light levels for your eye comfort.
(Image credit: Asus)
Plus, it’s very adaptable, allowing you to create an ergonomic setup. You can adjust everything from the tilt to the pivot and swivel. So, you’ll feel comfortable and can work for longer.
This Asus monitor also has smart GamePlus & FreeSync technology. This feature is a hit with gamers, as it syncs the frame rate and prevents any discrepancies. That can improve your gaming experience, especially in racing games or first-person games.
Finally, it comes with a 3-year warranty for your peace of mind. So, it’s hard to see why you wouldn’t love this large 24-inch Asus monitor. It could be the perfect second monitor for your dual-screen setup.
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- It has excellent dynamic contrast and a fast response time
- It has built-in technology that enhances your viewing experience
- You can adjust the swivel, tilt, and pivot to suit your needs
- It’s VESA-compatible
Cons:
- It doesn’t have the brightest colors
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LG 27QN600-B 27” QHD
Best High-Quality 27 Inch Monitor on a Budget
(Image credit: LG)
If you’re looking for a large second monitor, check out this huge 27-inch model from LG. Not only does it have an almost borderless display, but it looks sleek and amazing.
This model’s color accuracy is superb, with a 99% sRGB color gamut. Thanks to color calibration, it’s all set for you – you don’t need to fiddle with the settings at all. Factor in the fast refresh mode, and streaming or gaming is smooth and crisp.
It’s also wall-mountable for versatility. Plus, it has two HDMI ports so that you can easily connect to more than one device. Toggling between each input only takes a few clicks.
This monitor also has loads of extra features. The FreeSync technology reduces any image choppiness between the screen and the GPU. While Black Stabilizer ensures crispness and accuracy in darker visuals.
(Image credit: LG)
If you’re working, you can switch on Reader Mode. It uses the best settings for reading, including reduced blue light for your comfort. Switching between the reading and dedicated gaming modes is also easy.
This model comes with a curved stand designed to increase its sturdiness. However, it’s not the most robust stand out there. It does feel a little flimsier compared to other monitor stands.
But you can adjust the tilt angle, making it customizable to your needs. And
But overall, it’s an excellent choice for its superb clarity and large screen size. It’s very affordable for such a big monitor, so it’s great for anyone on a budget.
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 75 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- You get a huge 27-inch IPS display
- It has Flicker-Safe, FreeSync, and Black Stabilizer technology to improve the visuals
- It has a Reader Mode with low blue light, plus an anti-glare coating
- It has a fast refresh rate and very high resolution
Cons:
- The stand is a little flimsy
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Acer CB242Y 23.8″ Full HD Monitor
Best Monitor for Programming
(Image credit: Acer)
This monitor isn’t the cheapest on the list, but it’s still well worth your consideration. It has lots of user-friendly features that make it a great second monitor.
Firstly, you can adjust the height of the monitor easily. This screen can also tilt and pivot, making it very adaptable for your comfort. So, you can set up an ergonomic workspace, which is ideal for working long hours.
The specs are also fantastic. It has an HD display with 1920 x 1080 pixels. Plus, the speedy 75 Hz refresh rate is excellent.
(Image credit: Acer)
Other notable features include the almost-bezel free frame and the Radeon FreeSync technology. This monitor is suitable for all your uses, from working to gaming. And as for connectivity, it has HDMI & VGA ports, so you can connect your devices.
The result is a flicker-free monitor with superb definition and accuracy. If you can afford to spend a little more, I think this monitor is an excellent second monitor. It’s also pretty low cost compared to some models out there!
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 23.8 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 75 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- This monitor is slim and sturdy, with almost no bezels
- You can adjust the height, tilt, and pivot with ease
- It has a super-fast refresh rate and FreeSync technology for gaming
Cons:
- It’s more expensive than some models on this list
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SAMSUNG LC24F390 24-inch Curved LED Gaming Monitor
Best Secondary Monitor with Curved Screen
(Image credit: Samsung)
This monitor stands out due to its curved screen. Whether you’re watching movies or playing games, it really draws you in. You get an incredible, immersive experience.
It’s also very large, but it’s only 0.5 inches thick. So, it’s a very slick and stylish, eye-catching design.
The specs are great, with a fast 4 ms response time. It also has the standard 60 Hz refresh rate that’s suitable for all but the most avid gamer.
(Image credit: Samsung)
You can use this monitor for work or play. The Eye Saver Mode protects your eyes by cutting down on blue light. It’s easy to switch on and off depending on when you need it.
Gamers will also love the FreeSync technology that syncs the frame and refresh rates. So, you get a better gaming experience with smoother play.
This monitor is perfect if you’d like to mount it, as it’s VESA-compatible. So, you can save even more space on your desk.
Specifications:
- Screen Size: 23.8 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
- Color Support: 16.7 million colors
Pros:
- It’s ideal for gamers, with FreeSync technology
- The curved screen is unique and immersive
- It’s slim, measuring just 0.5mm
- You can also choose to mount it to your wall if you prefer
Cons:
- Some monitors have a faster refresh rate than this one
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The Wrap Up
A cheap dual monitor setup could transform your workspace. You may find that you get a lot more done with two screens, giving you more space for all your programs.
Plus, it can allow you to sit more comfortably and even cut back on any headaches and eye strain.
Each of these displays has excellent visuals and an attractive low price. So, you can easily buy a budget second monitor knowing that you’re getting good value for your money.
So, what are you waiting for? Take your pick, and let me know which cheap the second monitor you chose in the comments below!
Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest before you go. I’ll keep you up to date on all the latest trends, reviews, and tips for creative professionals.
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