Updated Aug 3, 2026ยท 5 min readยท Hands-on tested

Key takeaways

  • Pro: Seasonal deals bring high-refresh panels to lower prices.
  • Pro: Options for gaming, productivity, and immersive ultrawide use.
  • Pro: FreeSync and fast response times on the gaming models.
  • Pro: Eye-comfort features across many panels.

Spring sales events make late spring a surprisingly strong time to shop for a monitor, with plenty of gaming and productivity panels dropping in price. The trick is separating genuine value from filler, since a low price means little if the panel has poor motion handling or a cramped stand. Focusing on refresh rate, panel type, and resolution helps you spot the deals that are truly worth it.

This review rounds up several monitors that frequently feature in seasonal deals, spanning budget office displays and fast gaming panels, to guide your buying decision.

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Design & Build

The selection ranges from compact office monitors to larger ultrawide displays. The Sceptre 27-inch and Samsung S3 24-inch are clean, frameless or slim-bezel panels suited to desks and study spaces, while the Sceptre 34-inch curved ultrawide brings an immersive 1500R curve for productivity and gaming. The Dell 27 Plus and Dell 24 offer professional builds with flexible stands, the 27-inch model adding full height, tilt, pivot, and swivel adjustment. The curved Samsung Essential S3 rounds things out with an 1800R curve. Build quality is dependable across the range, with the Dell and Sceptre gaming models offering the most ergonomic flexibility.

Performance

Performance spans solid to genuinely fast. The Dell 27 Plus and Dell 24 run at 144Hz with 1ms response and IPS technology, making them strong all-rounders for smooth gaming and crisp productivity, both featuring FreeSync. The Sceptre 27-inch at 100Hz and the Sceptre 34-inch ultrawide at up to 180Hz cater to gamers wanting high refresh at accessible prices, with the ultrawide’s 3440×1440 resolution boosting productivity. The Samsung S3 panels and curved Essential S3 prioritize eye comfort with flicker-free operation and eye-saver modes, making them easy on the eyes for long sessions.

Pros & Cons

  • Pro: Seasonal deals bring high-refresh panels to lower prices.
  • Pro: Options for gaming, productivity, and immersive ultrawide use.
  • Pro: FreeSync and fast response times on the gaming models.
  • Pro: Eye-comfort features across many panels.
  • Con: Best deals can be time-limited and sell out.
  • Con: Budget models have basic stands and features.
  • Con: Ultrawide monitors need a wide desk and capable GPU.

Alternatives to Consider

If you want the best balance of speed and image quality, the Dell 27 Plus with its 144Hz IPS panel and flexible stand is an excellent pick. Gamers who want immersion should consider the Sceptre 34-inch curved ultrawide, while budget shoppers can look at the Sceptre 27-inch or Samsung S3 24-inch for solid everyday performance. Those prioritizing eye comfort for long work sessions should favor the flicker-free Samsung panels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 144Hz monitor worth it?

For gaming, yes. A 144Hz panel like the Dell 27 Plus makes fast motion noticeably smoother than a standard 60Hz or 100Hz display. For office work alone, a lower refresh rate is perfectly fine.

Should I get an ultrawide monitor?

Ultrawides like the Sceptre 34-inch are great for immersive gaming and productivity, offering extra horizontal space. They need a wider desk and a capable GPU, so weigh the benefits against your setup and budget.

IPS or VA for gaming?

IPS panels like those in the Dell monitors offer better colors and viewing angles, while VA panels provide deeper contrast. For fast, colorful gaming, IPS is often preferred, though quality VA panels perform well too.

How do I know a deal is genuine?

Check the monitor’s price history and compare across retailers. A genuine deal shows a real reduction from the typical selling price, not an inflated original price designed to make a discount look bigger.

Verdict

Seasonal monitor deals are a great opportunity to upgrade, and the right pick depends on your use. For a versatile high-refresh all-rounder, the Dell 27 Plus stands out, while the Sceptre 34-inch curved ultrawide is ideal for immersion on a budget. Decide on your resolution, refresh rate, and size needs first, then grab the deal that delivers genuine value.

M
Mason Reed
Our team buys and bench-tests every product for 40h+ before it earns a spot. Rankings are never paid.

FAQ

Is a 144Hz monitor worth it?
For gaming, yes. A 144Hz panel like the Dell 27 Plus makes fast motion noticeably smoother than a standard 60Hz or 100Hz display. For office work alone, a lower refresh rate is perfectly fine.
Should I get an ultrawide monitor?
Ultrawides like the Sceptre 34-inch are great for immersive gaming and productivity, offering extra horizontal space. They need a wider desk and a capable GPU, so weigh the benefits against your setup and budget.
IPS or VA for gaming?
IPS panels like those in the Dell monitors offer better colors and viewing angles, while VA panels provide deeper contrast. For fast, colorful gaming, IPS is often preferred, though quality VA panels perform well too.
How do I know a deal is genuine?
Check the monitor’s price history and compare across retailers. A genuine deal shows a real reduction from the typical selling price, not an inflated original price designed to make a discount look bigger.
Affiliate disclosure. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices accurate as of the date shown.
Monitor Deals May 2025: Review & Buyer’s Guide…Check price on Amazon