Where to buy monitors for under $80: Best discount stores

Finding an affordable computer monitor in the United States is possible without spending $100 or more, but buyers need to be realistic about what this budget can deliver. Several retailers offer new 1080p monitors around $70–$80, while refurbished and open-box marketplaces provide access to larger screens and better features for less. The best places to shop depend on whether you prioritize a new product, warranty coverage, screen size, or gaming performance. This guide explains where to buy monitors for under $80, identifies retailers worth checking, and shows what to inspect before placing an order.

Quick answer: where should you shop?

For a new monitor, start with Walmart and ViewSonic’s official US store. Both have identifiable 22-inch Full HD options around the $74–$80 price range.

For more screen size or better specifications, check Best Buy’s open-box inventory, Walmart Restored, and eBay Refurbished. These channels can offer 23.8- or 24-inch monitors below $80, but condition, warranty, and availability vary.

Prices checked November 2, 2026. These are observed item prices before applicable sales tax. Open-box and refurbished inventory can change by location and seller.

My recommendation: Buy new from Walmart or ViewSonic when possible if you need a straightforward primary monitor. Consider Best Buy or certified refurbished listings when you want a larger screen or a better feature set without exceeding the budget.

The best retailers for cheap computer monitors

Not every retailer offers the same advantages when shopping for a monitor below $80. Some focus on new entry-level displays, while others have better deals through open-box, refurbished, and clearance inventory.

Walmart — Best place to find a new monitor under $80

Walmart is one of the first places worth checking because it carries inexpensive monitors through its own onn brand and other manufacturers.

One particularly relevant option is the onn 22-inch Full HD 100Hz Office Monitor, listed at $74.

Its main specifications include:

• 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution.

• 100Hz refresh rate.

• HDMI connectivity.

• Included 6-foot HDMI cable.

• Office-oriented design.

This is a reasonable starting point for everyday computing, schoolwork, web browsing, and casual gaming.

Walmart also lists other low-cost brands, including KOORUI and Sceptre. Some 24-inch Full HD models occasionally approach the $80 mark, although the seller and actual shipping cost should be checked.

One advantage of Walmart is the ability to compare online delivery with local store pickup. That can be useful when a monitor is needed quickly.

Best for: Buyers who want a new, inexpensive monitor from a familiar retailer without relying on refurbished inventory.

Watch out for: Third-party Marketplace listings. Check whether Walmart or an outside seller handles the transaction, and review the return terms before ordering.

ViewSonic — Best manufacturer-direct option

Buying directly from a monitor manufacturer can make warranty verification and product identification easier.

ViewSonic’s US store offers the VA2247-MH for $79.99 in the configuration checked.

Reference model: ViewSonic VA2247-MH

Important features include:

• 22-inch display with a 21.5-inch viewable area.

• 1920 x 1080 resolution.

• Up to 100Hz refresh rate according to the current US product listing.

• MVA panel technology.

• AMD FreeSync support.

• HDMI 1.4 and VGA inputs.

• Integrated 2W stereo speakers.

• 100 x 100mm VESA mounting compatibility.

• Three-year limited warranty.

This monitor is particularly interesting because it includes features that are sometimes missing from inexpensive office displays, including integrated speakers and VESA mounting.

The manufacturer also lists flicker-free technology and a blue-light filter.

A notable advantage is the three-year limited warranty on parts, labor, and backlight, subject to ViewSonic’s terms.

At $79.99, however, the monitor leaves almost no room for sales tax if $80 is a strict total-spending limit.

Best for: Buyers who want a new display with manufacturer-direct purchasing and clearly identified warranty coverage.

Watch out for: The 22-inch size. It is smaller than a typical 23.8- or 24-inch monitor, and the MVA panel is not equivalent to an IPS panel in every viewing situation.

Best Buy — Best place to look for open-box monitors

Best Buy is worth checking when a new monitor costs just above your budget.

The retailer sells open-box displays that have been returned and subsequently offered at reduced prices.

One example is the HP M22f, a 21.5-inch IPS Full HD monitor.

Its main specifications include:

Best Buy’s open-box listings have shown this model around $69.99 and above, depending on the condition and location.

The open-box condition matters:

• Excellent: Generally the closest to a complete, clean retail-return condition.

• Good: May show some signs of handling or missing packaging.

• Fair: May have more noticeable cosmetic damage or missing accessories.

These conditions should always be checked on the individual listing.

Another advantage is that Best Buy often allows open-box products to be picked up locally. This gives shoppers an opportunity to inspect the packaging and condition before taking the monitor home.

Best Buy’s standard return policy applies to qualifying open-box and refurbished items sold directly by the retailer. Its return periods and exceptions can change, so check the order-specific terms. Marketplace sellers may have different arrangements.

Best for: Buyers who want a discounted monitor from a recognizable retailer and have a nearby store for pickup.

Watch out for: Missing stands, damaged packaging, scratches, and unavailable accessories. Also, open-box inventory varies considerably by ZIP code.

Walmart Restored — Best for inexpensive refurbished monitors

Walmart Restored is another strong option when you want more screen size or additional features without paying the full price of a new monitor.

Its refurbished inventory includes displays from Acer, Dell, Lenovo, Samsung, HP, and other brands.

Examples found in the US listings include:

These listings illustrate why refurbished shopping can be attractive. A buyer may find a larger business-class screen or a display with a better stand for less than the price of a basic new monitor.

Walmart separates its Resold products into different conditions.

Its Restored Premium category includes professionally refurbished products with at least a one-year warranty and a 30-day return period, subject to listed exceptions.

Restored Like New, Good, and Fair products have a stated 90-day free return period, but buyers should contact the seller to confirm the warranty.

This distinction is important. Not every refurbished monitor sold through Walmart comes with the same warranty.

Best for: Buyers who want a larger display or a recognized business-monitor brand at a reduced price.

Watch out for: Older models, missing accessories, cosmetic damage, and seller-specific warranty terms.

eBay Refurbished — Best for finding a larger screen below $80

eBay can be useful when traditional retailers have limited under-$80 inventory.

Its Certified Refurbished category is particularly worth considering because qualifying products are professionally inspected, cleaned, and refurbished by the manufacturer or an approved vendor.

An example available during research was the Samsung LF24T350FHNXZA-RB.

Reference listing: Samsung LF24T350FHNXZA-RB, Certified Refurbished

The listing included:

• 24-inch display.

• 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution.

• 75Hz refresh rate.

• $69.99 item price.

• Free shipping.

• Two-year Allstate warranty.

• 30-day free returns.

The listing was offered by Verdi Commerce, a seller with a displayed 99.7% positive feedback rating.

This is a good example of how refurbished shopping can provide a larger screen while keeping the price comfortably below $80.

However, this particular offer should not be treated as permanently available. eBay inventory and seller listings change frequently.

Also, do not confuse Certified Refurbished with an ordinary used listing. The certification category has more specific condition and warranty requirements.

Best for: Buyers comfortable purchasing refurbished electronics who want more choice in established monitor brands.

Watch out for: Seller identity, exact model number, included stand, warranty documentation, shipping conditions, and return terms.

What to check before choosing where to buy monitors for under $80

Finding a low price is only part of the purchase decision. A cheap monitor is not a good deal if it does not support your computer, has an unsuitable screen, or arrives with damage.

Choose Full HD resolution whenever possible

For a primary desktop monitor, Full HD (1920 x 1080) is a sensible minimum target.

At this budget, most new monitors around 22 inches offer Full HD resolution.

Avoid buying an older display simply because it has a larger advertised screen size. A 19-inch monitor with a 1440 x 900 or 1280 x 1024 resolution may be less useful than a 22-inch Full HD display.

Resolution is especially important for:

• Reading documents and websites.

• Watching videos.

• Using multiple desktop windows.

• Everyday productivity.

• Casual PC gaming.

A refurbished 24-inch Full HD monitor can be a good alternative if a new 22-inch model is the only option within your budget.

Decide between IPS, VA, and older TN panels

Panel technology influences viewing angles, contrast, and the overall image.

For general office use, IPS is usually a sensible target.

However, a good VA monitor can be useful for watching movies or working in a room with controlled lighting.

Do not choose a monitor solely by the panel label. Older IPS displays can still have disappointing brightness or color coverage.

Check the refresh rate

An inexpensive monitor does not have to be limited to 60Hz.

Several budget options now offer 75Hz or 100Hz refresh rates.

Higher refresh rates can make scrolling, cursor movement, and supported games appear smoother.

At under $80, the most realistic new-monitor target is usually 75–100Hz.

A refurbished or clearance model might offer more, but verify the exact model and available input specifications.

Remember that the graphics card must also produce enough frames to take full advantage of the monitor’s refresh rate.

Verify HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity

Check that the monitor has an input compatible with your computer.

Most modern budget monitors include HDMI, but some older refurbished models rely on DisplayPort or VGA.

For a basic PC connection, HDMI is usually convenient.

If your computer has a DisplayPort output but the monitor only has HDMI, a suitable adapter may be needed.

Also check the included cables. A listing may not include an HDMI cable, even when the monitor supports HDMI.

Spending another $8–$15 on a cable can push a purchase beyond an $80 budget.

Look for adjustable stands and VESA mounting

Many inexpensive monitors have basic tilt-only stands.

That can be perfectly acceptable for a secondary display, but it is less convenient when you need to adjust screen height.

Consider:

• Tilt adjustment.

• Height adjustment.

• Swivel functionality.

• VESA mounting compatibility.

• Stand stability.

VESA mounting is especially useful when using an inexpensive monitor as part of a dual-screen setup.

However, confirm the VESA pattern and monitor weight before purchasing an arm. Not every inexpensive display supports standard VESA mounting.

Consider brightness and built-in speakers

Budget monitors commonly make compromises in brightness and audio.

For a screen near a bright window, a dim display may be difficult to use comfortably.

Compare the rated brightness in nits and consider your room lighting.

Built-in speakers are another feature that can be convenient, but they generally should not be a major purchasing priority under $80. External speakers or headphones often provide better flexibility.

Should you buy a new, open-box, or refurbished monitor?

The condition you choose can have as much impact on value as the retailer itself.

For a primary monitor used every day, I would generally prefer new or certified refurbished.

An open-box display from a major retailer is another good option when the condition and return terms are clear.

Ordinary used monitors are best suited to buyers who can inspect and test the product before paying.

How to inspect a cheap monitor before keeping it

A low-cost display deserves the same basic inspection as a more expensive one.

When the monitor arrives, or when checking a local purchase, follow these steps.

1. Inspect the screen. Look for cracks, pressure marks, scratches, and dead pixels.

2. Display solid colors. Use white, black, red, green, and blue backgrounds to identify dead pixels and uneven backlighting.

3. Test every video input. Connect through HDMI and DisplayPort or VGA if included.

4. Check the refresh rate. Confirm that Windows or your graphics settings offer the advertised maximum refresh rate.

5. Inspect the stand. Make sure it is stable and includes all necessary screws and attachments.

6. Test the on-screen controls. Verify that brightness, contrast, and input selection work.

7. Listen for unusual noise. Check for buzzing or unexpected electrical sounds.

8. Keep the packaging. Retain the box and accessories until you are satisfied with the image and functionality.

For refurbished products, also save the warranty documentation and purchase receipt.

Do not wait until the return period is nearly over to discover a display problem.

Common mistakes when purchasing a monitor under $80

Buying the largest screen available without checking resolution. Screen size alone does not determine image quality. A smaller Full HD monitor can be more useful than a larger older display.

Assuming every refurbished monitor includes a warranty. Check the seller’s actual warranty terms, not just the refurbished label.

Ignoring shipping costs. A $72 monitor with a $12 delivery charge is no longer an under-$80 purchase before tax.

Choosing a 60Hz gaming monitor when a 100Hz alternative is available. Compare affordable refresh rates before deciding.

Buying a display without checking its stand. A cheap monitor may not offer height adjustment or VESA support.

Overlooking seller identity. A product listed by a third-party Marketplace seller may have different return and service conditions from one sold directly by the retailer.

Expecting premium HDR or color performance. Monitors under $80 are primarily entry-level or refurbished products. Do not expect high-end brightness, local dimming, wide color coverage, or premium gaming features.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a good monitor for under $80?

Yes. A new 22-inch Full HD monitor with a 75–100Hz refresh rate is achievable at this budget.

For a larger screen, consider a refurbished 23.8- or 24-inch model from a recognized manufacturer.

Is Walmart a good place to buy cheap monitors?

Yes. Walmart offers new entry-level monitors through its onn brand and also has refurbished listings through Walmart Restored.

Its online inventory provides a useful starting point for buyers comparing prices and specifications.

Does Best Buy sell monitors for under $80?

Yes. Best Buy’s open-box and refurbished inventory can include inexpensive Full HD displays.

For example, the HP M22f has appeared in its open-box listings below $80. Availability depends on location and condition.

Can I get a 24-inch monitor for under $80?

Yes, but refurbished and open-box products provide more options than brand-new monitors at this price.

Walmart Restored and eBay Refurbished are worth checking for 24-inch Samsung, Dell, Acer, Philips, and similar models.

Are refurbished monitors worth buying?

They can be, especially when the seller provides a documented refurbishment process, a clear condition grade, and a meaningful return period.

A certified refurbished monitor with a warranty can be a better purchase than an unknown used display.

Can I get a gaming monitor for under $80?

You can find entry-level gaming-capable displays, but the choices are limited.

Look for Full HD resolution, FreeSync or Adaptive-Sync support, and a refresh rate of at least 75Hz. Some refurbished monitors offer 120Hz or higher, but confirm their actual capabilities before purchasing.

Do not expect a premium 1440p, 240Hz, or OLED gaming experience at this price.

Is a 22-inch 1080p monitor good enough?

Yes. A 22-inch Full HD monitor provides a reasonable pixel density for everyday desktop tasks, browsing, schoolwork, and casual gaming.

It is especially practical when desk space is limited.

Should I spend $80 on a refurbished 24-inch monitor or a new 22-inch model?

Choose the new model if you prioritize unused condition, straightforward warranty coverage, and predictable accessories.

Choose refurbished if you want a larger screen, potentially better stand adjustment, or additional connectivity, provided the seller offers sufficient warranty and return protection.

Conclusion

The best place to buy a monitor for under $80 depends on whether you prefer a new product or are comfortable with refurbished equipment. Walmart and ViewSonic are good starting points for new Full HD displays, while Best Buy, Walmart Restored, and eBay Refurbished offer more opportunities to find larger screens at lower prices. Prioritize 1920 x 1080 resolution, a suitable panel, HDMI connectivity, and a clear return policy. At this budget, a carefully selected 22-inch new monitor or a certified refurbished 24-inch model can provide practical value without requiring a larger investment.