I was a graphic designer in a former life, and I still do a lot of photography for keyboard reviews. So, despite being a PC gamer, I prefer color-accurate IPS panels over speedier VA panels.

But today you can get the best of both worlds for cheap. Dell is currently selling a fast 27-inch IPS gaming monitor for just $170. (That’s over 40 percent off its MSRP of $300!)

We’ve featured the Dell G2724HD monitor before — in fact, it scored an Editors’ Choice in our review. With a 27-inch 2560×1440 screen that refreshes at an impressive 165Hz, it’s great for showing off extra detail in new 3D games without breaking the bank.

And as I said, the high-quality IPS panel means it’s great for working with photos, video, or even just reading a lot of text. It’s the whole package, and it was a good deal even at its $300 retail price.

With just one HDMI port and two DVI ports, it’s a little light on extras. This monitor doesn’t have any USB ports or even a headphone jack. And it’s still a budget model, so no matter how good it looks, don’t expect it to blow away any of the OLED alternatives.

But it does make for a solid thrifty companion to any gaming desktop. And with standard VESA mounting, you can add a monitor arm to make this thing an excellent second (or third?) display in a workstation setup.

Dell puts this display on sale on a pretty regular basis, but it rarely gets any cheaper than this. If you’re ready for a fast gaming monitor that won’t break the bank, get this Dell monitor while it’s at this price.

Get this Dell IPS gaming monitor for just $170Buy now at Dell.com

Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer, PCWorld

Michael is a 10-year veteran of technology journalism, covering everything from Apple to ZTE. On PCWorld he’s the resident keyboard nut, always using a new one for a review and building a new mechanical board or expanding his desktop “battlestation” in his off hours. Michael’s previous bylines include Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and he’s covered events like CES and Mobile World Congress live. Michael lives in Pennsylvania where he’s always looking forward to his next kayaking trip.

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