The Nintendo Switch is an incredibly popular hybrid video game console that can be played on the go or docked to a TV or monitor.
The Switch can display up to 1080p resolution when docked, making a good monitor important for getting the best visual experience.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the top monitors for the Nintendo Switch and help you decide the best pick for your needs and budget.
What to Look for in a Nintendo Switch Monitor
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a monitor to pair with your Nintendo Switch:
Screen Size – The Nintendo Switch’s portable screen is only 6.2 inches, so you’ll likely want a monitor that’s 22-27 inches for a noticeable upgrade in screen real estate. Larger monitors like 32 inches can also work well.
Resolution – The Switch can output up to 1080p natively, so a 1920 x 1080 resolution monitor is ideal. Higher 1440p or 4K monitors can work, but some upscaling may occur.
Refresh Rate – A 60Hz refresh rate is fine for most Switch gaming. Higher refresh rates up to 144Hz provide a smoother experience but are not essential.
Response Time – Low response times like 1ms reduce input lag and motion blur. This results in a more responsive, fluid gaming experience.
Ports – You’ll want at least one HDMI port to connect the Switch. USB ports are also useful for charging controllers or accessories. An audio out port like 3.5mm is handy too.
Price – Monitors range from $100 to $1000+ depending on features. Determine how much performance you want weighed against your budget constraints.
With these factors in mind, let’s look at some of the top monitors for the Nintendo Switch in various categories.
Best Budget Monitor for Switch: Acer SB220Q
- Screen Size: 21.5 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz
- Response Time: 4ms
- Ports: HDMI, VGA
- Price: Around $100
The Acer SB220Q is an excellent budget 1080p monitor for the Nintendo Switch. It’s easy to set up, provides good image quality with sharp visuals and vibrant colors, and has very minimal input lag. While the response time is not the fastest at 4ms, it works great for more casual gaming on the Switch.
The minimalist stylish design with ultra-thin bezels makes it an attractive display. It also has built-in speakers, though they only provide middling sound quality. This affordably priced monitor checks all the boxes if you want a basic 1080p display to dock your Switch to on a tight budget.
Best Portable Monitor for Switch: ASUS ZenScreen Touch
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Ports: micro HDMI, USB-C
- Price: Around $250
For Switch gaming on the go, the ASUS ZenScreen Touch is the perfect portable monitor solution. This 15.6 inch 1080p display connects directly to the Switch tablet via USB-C or micro HDMI ports. The touchscreen provides convenient direct interaction. You can also attach a Bluetooth controller or Joy-Cons just like playing on the Switch screen.
Weighing just under 2 pounds with a slim 8mm profile, the ZenScreen is highly portable. The smart cover folds into a sturdy stand and the battery lasts up to 4 hours for gaming on the fly. Visuals look sharp and colorful on the IPS panel. While the 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time are just average, performance is very usable for on-the-go gaming. Overall, this is the best monitor for portable big-screen Switch play.
Best Gaming Monitor for Switch: AOC 24G2
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA
- Price: Around $180
For a premium Switch gaming experience, the AOC 24G2 is a fantastic monitor choice. This 24 inch 1080p display really brings out the best in Switch games with its 1ms response time and 144Hz refresh rate. Motion feels incredibly smooth and lag-free. The improved responsiveness really enhances Switch titles, especially fast-paced games.
Visually, the monitor delivers excellent picture quality thanks to the IPS panel. Games look sharp and vibrant on the screen. The nearly bezel-less design also provides an immersive viewing experience. While you pay a bit more compared to basic 60Hz monitors, the performance advantages and gaming-centric features are worth it for hardcore Switch gamers.
Best 4K Monitor for Switch: LG 27UK650-W
- Screen Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Ports: 2 HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C
- Price: Around $350
While the Switch can’t natively output 4K, the LG 27UK650-W is an excellent future-proof monitor choice. This 27 inch 4K display takes full advantage of the Switch’s max 1080p resolution today while also letting you enjoy 4K gaming and media from other sources like PCs and media streamers.
Visuals are incredibly sharp and clear at 4K resolution with excellent color accuracy thanks to the IPS technology and HDR 10 support. Input lag is low and the 60Hz refresh rate runs Switch gaming smoothly. The adjustable stand and thin bezel design also give it a modern, stylish aesthetic. If you want a monitor that can grow with future upgrades beyond the Switch, the LG 27UK650-W is highly recommended.
Best Curved Monitor for Switch: Sceptre C305B
- Screen Size: 30 inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 200Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort
- Price: Around $230
The Sceptre C305B’s massive curved 30 inch screen provides unbeatable gaming immersion with the Nintendo Switch. The 2560 x 1080 resolution matched with the aggressive curve radius puts you right in the center of the action. While Switch games run at a maximum of 1080p, the extra horizontal space expands the field of view for a more engaging experience.
Performance is also solid with up to 200Hz refresh rate support and decent 5ms response time. The monitor includes adaptive sync technology to prevent tearing. With vivid color reproduction and 3000:1 contrast ratio, the Sceptre C305B is the most engrossing display for Switch gaming today. It’s an especially good match for racing and adventure titles.
Best Monitor for Competitive Switch Gaming: BenQ ZOWIE XL2546
- Screen Size: 24.5 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 240Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI-DL
- Price: Around $330
For esports gaming on the Nintendo Switch, you want the smoothest, most responsive display possible like the BenQ ZOWIE XL2546. This 24.5 inch 1080p monitor pushes a blazing 240Hz refresh rate and lightning-fast 1ms response time. Motion clarity and input lag are practically non-existent.
BenQ also tuned the monitor specifically for competition with features like Black eQualizer for enhanced visibility in dark scenes and Color Vibrance to make characters pop. The fully adjustable stand lets you optimize viewing angles. While expensive, the XL2546 gives you an undeniable competitive edge and buttery-smooth performance for Switch games.
Best Ultrawide Monitor for Switch: LG 29WK600
- Screen Size: 29 inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort
- Price: Around $230
Ultrawide monitors provide a uniquely immersive experience for gaming, and the LG 29WK600 is a great model for the Nintendo Switch. The 29 inch 21:9 screen gives you expansive horizontal space for a wider view of gameplay action. Switch games optimized for the display like Mario Kart 8 shine with the extra peripheral vision.
The 2560 x 1080 resolution matches 1080p vertically so there’s no downscaling of Switch visuals. You also get great color reproduction from the IPS panel and AMD FreeSync support to prevent tearing. For productivity, the generous screen space lets you multitask easily. If you want an ultrawide monitor to really get pulled into Switch worlds, the well-priced LG 29WK600 is an excellent choice.
Best Monitor for Multiple Switches: ASUS VG248QE
- Screen Size: 24 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 144Hz
- Response Time: 1ms
- Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI
- Price: Around $250
A great option for multiplayer gaming on multiple Nintendo Switches is the ASUS VG248QE. This 24 inch monitor provides fast 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response times to ensure smooth gameplay for all connected systems. Each Switch benefits from the highly responsive display.
The Asus GamePlus technology also lets you implement a customizable crosshair overlay perfect for first-person titles. With a fully adjustable stand, solid picture quality, and Nvidia 3D Vision support, the VG248QE is versatile for both solo and group Switch gaming. The ample connectivity options including dual HDMI ports allow up to two Switches to connect for local multiplayer.
Best Monitor for Switch Lite: ViewSonic VA2246M
- Screen Size: 22 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz
- Response Time: 5ms
- Ports: HDMI, VGA
- Price: Around $120
Since you can’t directly connect the handheld-only Switch Lite to monitors, your best option is a portable external display like the ViewSonic VA2246M. This 22 inch 1080p monitor is lightweight and thin for easy transportation. It runs off USB-C power so you can use the same charger as your Switch Lite.
Setting up is as simple as plugging in a USB-C to HDMI adapter between the devices. While bigger portable monitors exist, the 22 inch screen strikes a good balance between size and weight. The IPS panel provides accurate colors and wide viewing angles while the 75Hz refresh rate and 5ms response work well for both gaming and media. For big-screen gaming on the Switch Lite, the ViewSonic VA2246M is your best bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What resolution monitor is best for Nintendo Switch?
The ideal monitor resolution for the Switch is 1920 x 1080 (1080p) since this matches the console’s max resolution when docked. Higher resolution displays like 1440p or 4K will also work but some upscaling may occur.
Do I need a 4K monitor for my Switch?
No, you do not need a 4K monitor for the Switch. The Switch can only output up to 1080p natively so 4K monitors end up downscaling the image. A good 1080p monitor provides the best visual experience for Switch gaming.
Will any HDMI monitor work with Nintendo Switch?
Generally yes, any monitor with an HDMI port will be compatible with the Nintendo Switch when docked. Make sure to use the original Nintendo Switch dock or an officially licensed third party alternative for best results.
Should I get a monitor with 144Hz refresh rate for my Switch?
A 144Hz gaming monitor can provide a noticeably smoother and more responsive experience compared to a standard 60Hz monitor. However, it is not essential since Switch games run at 60 frames per second maximum. It comes down to your budget and preference for higher refresh gameplay.
What’s the difference between a TV and a monitor for Nintendo Switch?
Monitors tend to have faster response times and lower input lag compared to TVs, which results in a more responsive gaming experience. Monitors also usually have a smaller screen size than TVs. Ultimately, both are viable display options for Switch – it just depends if you prioritize responsiveness or maximum screen size.
Do I need a monitor for handheld Nintendo Switch gaming?
No, you do not need a monitor when using the Switch in handheld mode. The Switch’s built-in 6.2 inch 720p LCD display is specifically designed for on-the-go gaming. However, connecting to an external monitor can provide a more immersive experience when the Switch is docked.
