If you are contemplating what resolution, 1080p vs 1440p is better for PC gaming, you have come to the right place. In this short guide, we will help you make a crucial, yet informed decision, on which resolution to opt for if you wish best gaming experience possible.
There are a few things you need to consider when it comes to these two popular resolutions, but it all boils down to things like, budget, the type of games you play, and hardware capabilities, among other important constraints, such as future-proofing. Nevertheless, as the gaming world expands it is no surprise if you are asking yourself if it is time to move forward, or if your current setup matches your gaming needs.
1080p vs 1440p - which should you pick for PC gaming?
Each of these two resolutions has its advantages and drawbacks over one another. However, a pros and cons list should help you better understand your choice.
1080p Gaming Pros
1. Budget-Friendly
The vast majority of 1080p monitors can be bought at cheaper prices than their counterparts that operate at 1440p. Moreover, it is not just the monitors that are cheaper, but also the rest of the hardware, including GPU, and a CPU. These can now be found at bargain prices a new, best suited for a mid-range gaming setup.
2. Higher frame rates
The 1080p gaming brings a higher frame rate, making it great for competitive FPS games, such as CS2, Valorant, Fortnite, and other similar video games. If you are a professional gamer, you might consider refraining from an upgrade still if you favour a higher frame rate.
3. Higher refresh rates
Nowadays, there are 1080p monitors that are capped at 360Hz, though a bit pricier, they still bring more to the table than the 1440p similarly priced monitors in terms of refresh rate. This enables far smoother in-game motion, reducing motion blur. Though you can find 1440p with the same refresh rate, but they come with a steeper price.
1080p gaming cons
1. Limited image quality
We have just entered 2024 and 1080p is being left behind when it comes to image quality. The stunning image quality of higher resolutions is eating in 1080p which has prompted many to adhere to new technological rules.
2. Becoming obsolete
There aren't many cons when it comes to 1080p gaming, but as new games are being released, 1080p will become obsolete at some point. You might consider an upgrade sooner rather than later.
1440p Gaming pros:
1. Sharper image quality
With a 2560 x 1440 pixels resolution, 1440p offers a sharper and more detailed image compared to 1080p. This can enhance the overall visual experience, especially on larger screens.
2. Balanced performance
1440p strikes a great balance between image quality and performance. While a high refresh rate will cost you a bunch both in terms of monitor and GPU, the standard 144Hz monitors can be found at great deals, offering both stunning image quality and a quick response rate. Moreover, these monitors come with different panel types, such as IPS, TN, and VA, and additional features like high refresh rates, adaptive sync technologies (like G-Sync or FreeSync), and HDR support. You will see the best performance if you choose a monitor anywhere from 24' to 27' size.
3. Wide range of available hardware
1440p is becoming a standard resolution and we see more and more quality hardware built for it, without being overpriced.
4. Future-proof
Although we have seen an uprise in 4k gaming, we are still far off that becoming a mainstream resolution for gaming. For now, gamers who are sticking with 1440p have nothing to fear when it comes to future gaming.
1440p gaming cons:
1. Low frame rates
Although technological advances are constant, entry-level or mid-level GPUs and CPUs are still incapable of achieving this resolution at a desired frame rate. This further means that you will need to cough up a bit more cash for quality experience. What you need is a powerful graphics card and a powerful CPU. For instance, your best bet would be a GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800.
2. Quality is pricey
While 1440p can beat 1080p gaming in refresh rate, frame rates, and visuals, all of this will cost you an arm and a leg.
If you are into competitive FPS games, we recommend you stick to 1080p and wait a bit longer to upgrade to the higher resolution. On the other hand, if you are into open-world RPGs then you should definitely think of an upgrade as 1440p delivers stunning visuals.