Amazon Basics 24" 100Hz Monitor Review: Best Budget IPS Display?
Looking for a budget-friendly IPS monitor that doesn't look like a relic from 2015? The Amazon Basics 24-inch 100Hz Monitor might be exactly what you need. At just $84.97 (regularly $89.99), this 1080p IPS display packs a 100Hz refresh rate, VESA compatibility, and built-in speakers — specs that used to cost twice as much just a few years ago. We tested it for a week to see if it's the best budget monitor for home offices, students, and casual gamers.
What Makes This Monitor Different?
The Amazon Basics 24-inch monitor is exactly what it looks like: a no-frills 1080p IPS screen aimed squarely at anyone who needs a decent second monitor, a first proper upgrade from a laptop screen, or a clean desk setup on a tight budget. The headline experience here is solid IPS color on a 24-inch panel running at 100Hz with FreeSync adaptive sync — a meaningful step above the 60Hz and 75Hz options that still dominate this price tier.
| Amazon Basics 24" Monitor — Full Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 24" (23.8" viewable) |
| Resolution | 1920 × 1080 (FHD) |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 100Hz (Max) |
| Response Time | 5ms (GTG) |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Contrast Ratio | 1500:1 |
| Ports | HDMI, VGA |
| Built-in Speakers | Yes |
| VESA Mount | Yes (100×100) |
| Stand Adjustment | Tilt only |
Design & Display: Minimalist and Functional
The monitor's design is refreshingly no-nonsense and clean. The bezels are reasonably thin, the stand is sturdy but basic, and the black matte finish fits into any workspace. The 24-inch IPS panel means colors stay consistent when you shift your viewing angle — relevant if you're sharing a screen, working in a bright room, or just don't always sit dead-center. The 16:9 aspect ratio and 1080p resolution are standard for productivity software, video calls, and general browsing. Nothing to configure, nothing to stress about. It just works.
The 100Hz refresh rate is a genuine upgrade over typical budget monitors. The difference between 60Hz and 100Hz is noticeable — smoother movement, less tearing, better response overall. FreeSync keeps frame delivery smooth when your GPU's output varies, which matters for anyone gaming on a mid-range system.
Built-in Speakers: Functional, Not Fancy
The built-in speakers deliver clean, clear audio performance — good enough for video calls, YouTube, and casual content consumption. They're not going to replace a dedicated sound system, but they mean one less cable run and one less thing to buy, which is exactly what a minimalist setup should be.
Who Is This Monitor For?
If you're a home office worker, student, or casual gamer who needs a functional monitor without any drama, this is a rational choice. The IPS panel, 100Hz refresh rate, and VESA compatibility make it a versatile option for anyone building a clean, budget-conscious setup.
If you're planning serious creative work that needs accurate color, or competitive gaming where you want 144Hz or above, look at something purpose-built for those tasks. This monitor doesn't pretend to be either of those things, and that honesty is refreshing.
- 100Hz refresh rate (smoother than 60Hz/75Hz)
- IPS panel with consistent colors and wide viewing angles
- VESA compatible for monitor arms
- Built-in speakers save desk space
- FreeSync support for smoother gaming
- Clean, minimalist design
- No DisplayPort or USB-C ports
- Stand only adjusts tilt, not height
- No HDR support worth mentioning
- Built-in speakers are basic (not premium)
- Not suitable for color-critical creative work
Amazon Basics 24" Monitor vs. The Competition
At $84.97, the Amazon Basics 24-inch monitor competes directly with monitors from Acer, ASUS, and HP in the same price bracket. What sets it apart is the 100Hz refresh rate — most budget monitors in this price range still ship with 60Hz or 75Hz panels. The IPS panel and VESA mount are also features that aren't always guaranteed at this price point.
User reviews are generally positive, with the monitor holding a 4.6 out of 5 star rating from 782 reviews. Most buyers appreciate the visual quality and easy setup, with the bulk of reviews being five-star. The monitor is often described as a great value for the price by users who needed a second screen or an upgrade from a laptop display.
Who Should Buy the Amazon Basics 24" Monitor?
The Amazon Basics 24-inch monitor is best for budget-conscious users who need a reliable, clean-looking IPS display for everyday work, study, and light gaming. If you need a second monitor for your desk setup, a first monitor for a dorm room, or just something that won't embarrass you in front of clients, this is a solid choice.
However, if you're a competitive gamer looking for 144Hz+, a creative professional who needs color-accurate displays, or someone who wants USB-C connectivity, you'll want to look elsewhere. This monitor doesn't pretend to be anything it's not — and that's exactly why we like it.
Bottom line: At $84.97, the Amazon Basics 24-inch monitor is a genuinely good value for anyone who needs a clean, functional IPS display. The 100Hz refresh rate, VESA mount, and built-in speakers make it a compelling option for minimalist desk setups.