Gaming Monitor Gloss Test: Beat Surface Reflections

Picture this: you’re in a tense 1v1, the last two squads in Warzone. The highveld sun hits your screen at just the wrong angle, turning it into a high-definition mirror. Suddenly, your own reflection gets you fragged. If you’ve ever lost a firefight to glare, you know the pain. This is the core of the great gaming monitor gloss test—finding a display that lets you see the enemy, not yourself. Let's help you beat surface reflections for good.

The Great Debate: Glossy vs. Matte Gaming Monitors

Choosing a new monitor isn't just about refresh rates and resolution. The screen's surface finish plays a massive role in your day-to-day gaming experience. It’s the final barrier between your eyes and the vibrant world inside the game, and the choice between glossy and matte can make or break your immersion. So, which side are you on in the battle to beat surface reflections?

Why Go Glossy? The Case for Vibrant Colour ✨

A glossy screen is like an unfiltered window. It has no extra layers to diffuse light, so the image you see is incredibly crisp, with deeper blacks and more vibrant colours. For story-driven single-player games or cinematic experiences, a glossy monitor can feel more immersive and "premium." The downside? It's a magnet for reflections. In a brightly lit room, every lamp, window, and light source becomes a potential distraction.

Alienware AW3225DM - 32" Curved Gaming Monitor / 180Hz Refresh Rate / QHD (2560x1440) / 1ms (GTG Extreme Mode) Response Time / AMD FreeSync / AW3225DM

R7499.00In Stock

Dahua LM27-E231 27inch Gaming Monitor, 165Hz, 1ms, Adjustable stand, 100% sRGB, FPS/RTS Gaming Modes / DHI-LM27-E231

R3199.00In Stock

Dell SE2425HM Monitor 210-BQZT / FHD (1920 x 1080) Resolution / 5ms Response Time / IPS level Display / 178° Horizontal and Vertical Viewing Angles / SE2425HM

R1999.00In Stock

MSI MAG 32C6X 31.5-inch 1920 x 1080 (FHD) Computer Monitor, 250Hz, Adaptive-Sync, HDR Ready, HDMI, VGA Port, Display Port,VESA Mountable, Tilt, 1ms, Black / 9S6-3DD41M-027

R5999.00In Stock

Dahua LM27-A200V 27" Monitor / FHD 1920 x 1080 / 100Hz Refresh Rate / 5ms Response Time / DHI-LM27-A200V

R2499.00In Stock

AOC 27G42E 27" 180Hz Ultra-Fast Gaming Monitor, 1920 × 1080 (FHD), 0.5ms, Fast IPS, Adaptive Sync, 3-Sided Frameless Design, Black / 27G42E

R3199.00In Stock

Why Go Matte? The Anti-Glare Champion

Matte monitors are the go-to for most competitive gamers and anyone with a less-than-ideal lighting setup. They feature an anti-glare coating that scatters ambient light, drastically reducing distracting reflections. This means you can focus on your crosshair, not the ceiling fan. While some purists argue the coating can slightly soften image quality or colour pop, modern matte displays are so good that the difference is often negligible for most users. When you're exploring the full range of PC monitors, you'll find matte finishes dominate the esports scene for this very reason.

How to Beat Surface Reflections on Any Monitor

Even with the perfect monitor, your environment matters. Winning the war against glare often involves optimising your space. Here are a few practical tips that work for both glossy and matte screens.

First, consider your positioning. Can you angle your desk so that the main window is to the side of your monitor instead of behind you? This simple change can eliminate the most direct and harshest reflections. Second, control your lighting. Blackout curtains are a gamer's best friend, but even simple blinds can give you the control you need to kill glare during the day. For night sessions, use biased lighting—a soft light source behind your monitor—to reduce eye strain and minimise reflections. You don't need to break the bank for a comfortable setup; there are fantastic gaming monitors under R5000 that perform brilliantly when paired with a smart room layout.

{{//TipBox title:"Quick Glare-Busting Tip 💡" , Calibrate your monitor! Try dropping your brightness slightly and increasing the contrast. This can make bright reflections less distracting without crushing the dark details in your game. It’s a zero-cost way to beat surface reflections on your current setup. }}

Our Verdict: What’s the Right Choice for You?

So, after our gaming monitor gloss test, what's the final call? It’s personal. 🚀

There is no single "best" option—only the best option for your gaming den.

• Choose GLOSSY if: You have a dedicated gaming room where you can control the lighting completely. You prioritise the most vibrant colours and sharpest possible image for cinematic experiences.
• Choose MATTE if: You game in a multi-purpose space like a lounge or bedroom, have bright windows, or play competitive titles where seeing every detail without distraction is non-negotiable.

Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment where your focus is 100% on the game. By understanding the trade-offs and optimising your space, you can ensure victory is never lost in your own reflection again.