Finding a high-quality monitor without breaking the bank is a savvy shopper’s dream, and Best Buy’s open box deals are one of the best-kept secrets for scoring incredible tech for less. These are simply returned items that have been inspected, tested, and repackaged, often at a steep discount, but they come with the same warranty as new products. This means you can get a premium display with features like high refresh rates, adaptive sync, and vibrant IPS panels for a fraction of the price. In this roundup, we’ve sifted through the current Best Buy open box inventory (and their online equivalents) to bring you the top 10 monitors that offer the absolute best value, performance, and reliability for your money.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Buy Open Box Monitors Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Philips 221V8LB Monitor
This Philips monitor is a standout for anyone needing a reliable, no-fuss secondary display. It combines a smooth 100Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync for tear-free scrolling and video, all in a compact 22-inch package that fits perfectly beside a laptop or main screen. The Full HD resolution is crisp for text and images, and features like LowBlue mode and a 4-year warranty add serious long-term value.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 100Hz refresh rate for smoother motion than standard 60Hz
✓ Adaptive Sync (FreeSync compatible) for fluid visuals
✓ Full HD 1920×1080 resolution with IPS panel
✓ LowBlue mode to reduce eye strain
✓ VESA mount compatibility and 4-year warranty
Why We Recommend It
It’s the complete package for a secondary or budget primary monitor. You get a higher refresh rate than most competitors at this price, solid build quality from a trusted brand, and a warranty that gives real peace of mind. It performs exactly as advertised without any flashy gimmicks.
Best For
Students, remote workers, or anyone needing an affordable, high-quality second monitor for documents, web browsing, and casual media. It’s also great for a child’s first computer setup due to its durability and simple design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with 100Hz refresh and Adaptive Sync
- Strong brand reliability and 4-year warranty
- Clear Full HD picture with good viewing angles
- Simple, clean design with easy setup
Cons:
- 22-inch size is small for a primary display
- Not ideal for color-critical professional work
- Speakers are basic (not a primary use case anyway)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Does exactly what I need it to. I needed a smaller second monitor for my MacBook Air. Screen quality is good. It functions as intended and connections are easy to use. Love that it has an on/off button. I haven’t noticed any color issues. I would not recommend this monitor for a designer, but as a copywriter, it gets the job done. I generally need a second screen to research what I’m writing and this has been wonderful for that. It’s a great value for what you get. No complaints other than I wish I had a bigger space to have a bigger screen size, but that’s more of a me problem. LOL I would def buy this brand again. I don’t even remember assembling it which tells me it must have been very easy.
Customer Review: The monitor works as intended. Decent screen and graphics appear just fine. Great for a 2nd monitor, which is why I purchased it.
2. Amazon Basics 27-Inch IPS Monitor
This monitor is the king of budget multi-monitor setups. Leveraging AOC’s panel technology, it delivers surprisingly good color and clarity for its ultra-low price point. The 27-inch size provides ample screen real estate, and the inclusion of built-in speakers and multiple inputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA) makes it incredibly versatile for any workspace.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 27-inch Full HD IPS panel with AOC technology
✓ 75Hz refresh rate for smoother motion
✓ Built-in speakers (a rare bonus at this price)
✓ Multiple connectivity: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA
✓ VESA compatible and includes adjustable stand
Why We Recommend It
For sheer bang-for-buck, it’s almost unbeatable. You get a large, credible 27-inch screen from a known brand’s tech lineage, with refresh rates and features that surpass typical budget monitors. It’s the go-to recommendation when someone says, “I need three monitors but my budget is tight.”
Best For
Building a multi-monitor office or study setup on a tight budget. It’s also perfect for students, casual streamers, and anyone who wants a large, capable display without any high-end gaming aspirations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible price for a 27-inch IPS monitor
- Good color reproduction and viewing angles
- Convenient built-in speakers and multiple ports
- Easy to set up and mount
Cons:
- Not suitable for competitive gaming (75Hz limit)
- Stand is basic and not highly adjustable
- Picture quality good, not great (as expected for price)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I ordered this as a second screen because my other one recently pooped out. However, I was a little skeptical because it was a fairly reasonable price. Received it today and was eager to get it put up and I have to say that I am overly impressed with the quality of this monitor. It does come with HDMI cord and a stand however I mounted mine to a desk mount and it went up with ease. The Picture is clear! What a great picture quality. I am also half blind so the clarity means a lot to me. I am half tempted to replace the other screen with one of these bc of that reason. Overall I recommend!
Customer Review: For the price, this is a really solid monitor. Getting a 27-inch display for $89.99 is hard to beat, and it delivers exactly what you’d expect for everyday use. The screen looks good, colors are nice, and it’s perfectly comfortable for long sessions of work, browsing, or watching videos. I wouldn’t recommend this monitor for gaming, especially if you’re looking for high refresh rates or ultra fast response times. That said, for everything else office work, streaming, general productivity it performs very well. If you’re building out a multi monitor setup and need a second, third, or even fourth screen, this is an excellent option. Reliable, affordable, and gets the job done without any fuss. Definitely a good buy at this price.
3. Acer KB220Q 21.5-Inch Monitor
This Acer monitor proves you don’t need to spend much for a smooth, modern experience. Its “Zero-Frame” design minimizes bezels for a sleeker look, while the 100Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync support provide noticeably smoother gameplay and video playback than standard 60Hz panels. It’s a fantastic entry point into high-refresh-rate computing.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 100Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync (FreeSync)
✓ Ultra-thin Zero-Frame bezel design
✓ Full HD 1080p resolution with 99% sRGB
✓ Fast 1ms VRB response time
✓ Tilt adjustment and HDMI/VGA connectivity
Why We Recommend It
It’s the best value if you want a smoother desktop experience without gaming monitor pricing. The 100Hz refresh is a game-changer for general use and light gaming, and Acer’s build quality is consistently reliable. You’re getting premium features at a bargain-bin price.
Best For
First-time buyers, budget-conscious gamers playing less demanding titles (MOBAs, indie games), and anyone who wants a snappier, more responsive feel for everyday computer use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent price for 100Hz + Adaptive Sync
- Sleek, modern zero-bezel design
- Good color coverage (99% sRGB)
- Very low motion blur with 1ms VRB
Cons:
- Small 21.5-inch screen size
- No height or swivel adjustment on stand
- Speakers not included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This was a good price, shipped quickly and in perfect condition when we opened the box. We installed one of the two we received and it worked perfectly. We plan to install the other when it is needed.
Customer Review: Es bajita pero el muy funcional, tiene buen tamaño y la calidad es buena. Muy buena relación costo/beneficio
4. Sceptre E225W-FW144 22-Inch Gaming Monitor
This monitor brings a true 144Hz refresh rate to the budget gaming space, offering super smooth gameplay for fast-paced titles. Its thin bezels and built-in speakers make it a practical choice for a secondary gaming display or a compact primary setup. While the panel is a TN type (faster but worse viewing angles/color than IPS), the performance-per-dollar is exceptional for competitive gamers.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gaming
✓ 1ms response time to reduce motion blur
✓ AMD FreeSync support
✓ Thin bezel design for multi-monitor setups
✓ Built-in speakers and multiple inputs
Why We Recommend It
If your priority is high frame rates and low input lag for gaming on a tight budget, this is the pick. 144Hz at this price point is rare, and Sceptre has a track record of making capable budget gaming displays. It’s a no-brainer for a secondary monitor dedicated to games.
Best For
Budget gamers, especially those playing fast-paced shooters or esports titles. Also ideal for users wanting a high-refresh-rate experience for general use who don’t need perfect color accuracy.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely affordable 144Hz gaming monitor
- Very fast 1ms response time
- Good for competitive gaming on a budget
- Thin bezels and includes speakers
Cons:
- TN panel has poorer colors/viewing angles than IPS
- 22-inch size is small for modern gaming
- Build quality is basic
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Picked up this Sceptre 22-inch gaming monitor as a second monitor, and it’s been a great addition to my setup. Setup was quick and easy, and it paired perfectly with my main display. The screen is clear and bright, with good color for the size and price. It’s smooth enough for gaming, but where it really shines is as a secondary display—great for Discord, browsers, streaming, or productivity while gaming or working. The thin bezels help it blend nicely next to a main monitor, and it doesn’t take up much desk space. Build quality feels solid for a budget-friendly monitor. For the price, this is an excellent value and exactly what I wanted for a second screen. No complaints so far.
Customer Review: Purchased this for my son in college it came in the next day it was easy set up great quality with great picture and sound great price has different adjustment options perfect size for his college dorm he uses it mostly for gaming the size is quite big this one I definitely recommend and you can get a warranty if you chose too even then still a great price!!
5. Sceptre C275B-FWT240 27-Inch Curved Monitor
This is the monitor for gamers who want immersion on a budget. The 1500R curved 27-inch screen pulls you into the action, and the staggering 240Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth motion in fast-paced games. It’s a feature-packed package with FreeSync, good color coverage, and built-in speakers, all at a price that defies its spec sheet.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 240Hz refresh rate for ultimate smoothness
✓ 1500R curved 27-inch VA panel
✓ 99% sRGB color gamut
✓ AMD FreeSync support
✓ Dual HDMI and DisplayPort inputs
Why We Recommend It
You simply cannot find a curved 240Hz monitor at this price. It offers an immersive, high-refresh experience that was reserved for high-end setups just a few years ago. The curvature makes the large screen feel more natural, and the specs are perfect for enjoying modern games at high frame rates.
Best For
Gamers on a budget who want a large, immersive, high-refresh-rate experience. Perfect for racing sims, first-person shooters, and any game where smooth motion and field of view matter.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable price for 240Hz curved gaming
- Large 27-inch screen with immersive curve
- Excellent motion clarity for competitive play
- Good connectivity options
Cons:
- VA panel has slower response times than IPS/OLED (some black smearing)
- Built-in speakers are weak
- HDR is basic and not truly impactful
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Loving it! No problems at all and came in perfect condition. Picture quality is amazing, and it’s WAY bigger than my laptop screen. A lot more immersive for sure. The sound quality of the speakers sucks, but that isn’t a problem for me as I use a headset. Plug and play with either display port or hdmi. Has a lot of little tweak settings on it’s built in menu for picture. Honestly just an overall great purchase for the price. 240hz feels crazy compared to 60hz.
Customer Review: nice curve screen, has speakers and an audio output jack , makes it easy to connect an external speaker, 2 hdmi inputs, I can connect a computer and a dvd/blue ray player, very convenient
6. Acer KB242Y 23.8-Inch IPS Monitor
Acer’s KB242Y is a sweet spot for a primary or secondary IPS monitor. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything from cursor movement to video scrolling feel incredibly smooth, while the IPS panel ensures colors stay accurate from wide viewing angles. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for work, media, and light gaming without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 120Hz refresh rate for fluid motion
✓ Full HD IPS panel with 99% sRGB
✓ Adaptive-Sync (FreeSync) support
✓ Ultra-thin Zero-Frame bezel
✓ 1ms VRB response time
Why We Recommend It
It hits the perfect balance between price, performance, and panel quality. The IPS panel gives you better colors than TN panels, the 120Hz is a huge upgrade over 60Hz, and Acer’s reliability is well-established. It’s our top pick for a smooth, color-accurate daily driver.
Best For
Home office workers, students, and general users who want a noticeably smoother and more colorful experience than a basic 60Hz monitor. Also great as a secondary display for a high-end rig where color coordination matters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great 120Hz refresh rate for smoothness
- Quality IPS panel with good color (99% sRGB)
- Adaptive Sync for tear-free gaming
- Sleek zero-bezel design
Cons:
- 23.8-inch size is standard, not large
- Stand is basic with tilt-only adjustment
- No built-in speakers
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I picked this up as a secondary monitor, and it has been a great addition to my desk setup. The image clarity is excellent. Text is sharp, colors are clean, and it is easy on the eyes even after long work sessions. For email, documents, spreadsheets, and keeping reference material open, it does exactly what I need without any fuss. The 27-inch size is perfect for a second screen, giving plenty of space without overwhelming the desk. Setup was quick, the stand is stable, and it paired seamlessly with my primary monitor. For the price, this is a very solid option if you want a clear, reliable secondary display.
Customer Review: Perfect value for money. Outfitted an entire office and classroom with these monitors. Very reliable. Plug it in, it turns on. It is very light for its size. Dual arm mounts would be no problem. Screen has some kind of anti-glare material.
7. Acer KB272 27-Inch IPS Monitor
Step up to a larger 27-inch screen without sacrificing smoothness. This Acer KB272 offers the same excellent 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync as its smaller sibling, but in a more immersive size. The IPS panel ensures consistent colors across the bigger canvas, making it ideal for multitaskers, movie watchers, and gamers who want a bigger field of view.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 27-inch Full HD IPS display
✓ 120Hz refresh rate with Adaptive Sync
✓ 99% sRGB color gamut
✓ Fast 1ms VRB response time
✓ Tilt adjustment and HDMI/VGA ports
Why We Recommend It
It’s the logical upgrade for anyone wanting a larger, smoother screen. The 27-inch form factor is the current sweet spot for productivity and entertainment, and combining it with 120Hz and an IPS panel at this price is a winning formula. You get more screen real estate without the premium cost.
Best For
Multitaskers, streamers, and casual gamers who want a big, smooth, colorful experience. Excellent as a primary monitor for a budget gaming or general use PC.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 27-inch screen with 120Hz smoothness
- Good IPS colors and viewing angles
- Adaptive Sync eliminates screen tearing
- Great value for size and features
Cons:
- At 27 inches, 1080p resolution can show pixels up close
- No height adjustment on stand
- Speakers not included
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I picked this up as a secondary monitor, and it has been a great addition to my desk setup. The image clarity is excellent. Text is sharp, colors are clean, and it is easy on the eyes even after long work sessions. For email, documents, spreadsheets, and keeping reference material open, it does exactly what I need without any fuss. The 27-inch size is perfect for a second screen, giving plenty of space without overwhelming the desk. Setup was quick, the stand is stable, and it paired seamlessly with my primary monitor. For the price, this is a very solid option if you want a clear, reliable secondary display.
Customer Review: Perfect value for money. Outfitted an entire office and classroom with these monitors. Very reliable. Plug it in, it turns on. It is very light for its size. Dual arm mounts would be no problem. Screen has some kind of anti-glare material.
8. LG 24U411A-B 24-Inch IPS Monitor
LG brings its reputable build quality and eye-care tech to the budget segment with this 24-inch model. The 120Hz refresh rate and IPS panel provide a smooth, colorful experience, while features like Reader Mode and Flicker Safe technology prioritize visual comfort during long sessions. It’s a no-nonsense, reliable workhorse from a top-tier brand.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 24-inch Full HD IPS panel with 120Hz
✓ HDR10 support for enhanced contrast
✓ LG’s Reader Mode and Flicker Safe tech
✓ Virtually borderless 3-side design
✓ VESA mount compatible
Why We Recommend It
LG’s reputation for consistent quality and thoughtful ergonomics (like the on-screen control) makes this a safe, high-value bet. The HDR10 is basic but adds a touch of vibrancy, and the eye-care features are genuinely useful for all-day comfort. It’s a polished package.
Best For
Users who prioritize brand trust and eye comfort. Perfect for writers, programmers, and anyone spending 8+ hours in front of a screen who wants a flicker-free, easy-on-the-eyes display from a known manufacturer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Trusted LG build quality and reliability
- Excellent eye-care features (Flicker Safe, Reader Mode)
- 120Hz refresh for smoothness
- Clean, nearly borderless design
Cons:
- HDR10 is entry-level and not very impactful
- No built-in speakers
- Stand is very basic
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I saw a video about this monitor being available for $70 on black Friday pricing. By the time I got around to buying it, it was $85. I bought two of them, and I\’m very happy, but there\’s some caveats I think you should know. This monitor does exactly what it says on the tin… and no more. It has one HDMI and one VGA input (why?) and that\’s it. It takes in audio via HDMI and has a headphone out jack, and even has volume control on the control nub, but no speakers. It takes 19v power from a barrel jack, but you can swap that for a 20v supply from a USB-C brick with the right adapter (you want the 6.0×4.4mm barrel). The HDR is rubbish, the VRR works fine. The picture quality is plenty good but not remarkable. The settings are pretty minimal and sane out of the box, you\’ll tweak one or two of them and then never touch them again. The stand is a joke. Of the two of these I bought, one of them was missing the 2 required screws to mount the display to the stand. Fortunately, it has a 100x100mm vesa mount on the back, though it doesn\’t come with screws for that either. I put mine on monitor arms, and threw out the stands. Basically, if you need a 24″ 1080p 120Hz display, and nothing else, of good quality, for as cheap as possible, this is it. For everything else, you\’ll have to pay more.
Customer Review: The quality of the monitor has been really good. The picture is clear and sharp, and the colors look nice thanks to the IPS panel. The 120 Hz refresh rate also makes everything feel smoother when scrolling or watching videos. Overall, it feels like a solid, well-built monitor and the display quality is excellent for the price.
9. Amazon Basics 24-Inch IPS Monitor
Another strong showing from Amazon Basics, this 24-inch IPS monitor is the epitome of a reliable, no-frills display. It uses AOC technology for decent color reproduction, includes a 75Hz refresh rate for smoother-than-standard motion, and even packs built-in speakers. The adjustable stand and thin bezels add to its practical, modern appeal.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 24-inch Full HD IPS panel (AOC tech)
✓ 75Hz refresh rate
✓ Built-in speakers
✓ Adjustable stand (tilt) and VESA compatible
✓ Multiple inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA
Why We Recommend It
It’s a fantastic, jack-of-all-trades monitor that does everything adequately for an incredibly low price. The combination of IPS color, 75Hz smoothness, built-in speakers, and an adjustable stand at this cost is hard to find elsewhere. It’s the safest, most versatile budget pick.
Best For
First-time PC builders, secondary office displays, and anyone who wants a simple, capable monitor without needing high-end gaming specs. Great for dorms, kitchens, or spare rooms.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very low price for a full-featured 24-inch IPS
- 75Hz refresh is smoother than 60Hz
- Convenient built-in speakers
- Adjustable stand and thin bezels
Cons:
- Not for serious gaming (75Hz limit)
- Picture quality is good, not great
- Adjustment limited to tilt
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I recently bought the Amazon monitor, and it is just perfect when looking for great value and performance. The Full HD 1080P screen displays crystal clear and bright images perfect for both work and recreational use. 75Hz refresh rate ensures smooth transitions especially during gaming and video playing while VESA compatibility provides a range of mounting options. The built-in speakers that have rather good audio quality mean no need for external sound equipment. The sleek black appearance not only brings sophistication to my workspace but also fits perfectly with the monitor’s thin frame helping conserve space. Due to its cost-effectiveness, this monitor is one of the top picks in terms of functionality and price. I can definitely recommend this monitor to those looking for a reliable monitor display.
Customer Review: A LITTLE BACKGROUND: I had already owned two small monitors, 24″ each, however recently I was rearranging some furniture in the room, of which both monitors were sitting on top of, and during the moving around one of the monitors fell off. Well one of the monitors became unreliable and so I started my hunt for a new one to replace it. NOW THE REVIEW: Right off the bat two things drew my interest in this 27″ monitor. 1. The thin beveled edges for a larger usable screen area, and 2. Easier access to the buttons for configuring the monitor.(i.e. brightness, contrast, etc.). Coming in a VERY close second with #2 is the cost, $99.99($100). Looking at the cost of other monitors small than 27″ was a lot more! So, 3 inches more screen area(than my previous monitors) and the features mentioned above for only a hundred dollars? …OK! I had purchase two 32in VIEWSONIC monitors not too long ago for another computer, and I really like the monitors, HOWEVER, the one and only draw back with those two monitors is the location of the buttons for configuring the monitor is in a very bad location to easily access and use, on the backside of the monitor. I cannot see what button I am about to press! Hold on!!! Wait a minute you might be saying right now… You might be wondering, if not asking, what about the screen resolution, what are things on the screen looking like?? Well that is a great question and my answer to that is, as it said, “a picture is worth a thousand words”…or in this case, $99.99! I have attach a picture with this review so see for yourself. MY CONCLUSION: GOOD QUALITY with a GOOD PRICE to Match! I would like to add one more thing. After my wonderful experience with this Amazon Basics product, I am VERY impressed with this line/brand! This brand is as good as the “big name” brands(ViewSonic, Samsung, LG to name a few.) from what I have observed. I have taken a look to see if Amazon Basics makes a 32in monitor, so far I have not seen one in my searching. Keep up the great job Amazon Basics, I have been so impressed that I have been searching your brand now whenever I am shopping computer accessories. I have two, Amazon Basics USB A 3.0 hubs I purchased before I bought the monitors.
10. Sceptre E248W-FW100T 24-Inch Gaming Monitor
Sceptre rounds out our list with a solid 24-inch gaming monitor that balances refresh rate and value. Its 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms Blur Reduction offer smoother motion than standard 60Hz panels, making it a noticeable upgrade for casual and mid-level gaming. The dual HDMI ports and DisplayPort provide flexible connectivity for multiple devices.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 100Hz refresh rate with 1ms Blur Reduction
✓ AMD FreeSync support
✓ Dual HDMI inputs and DisplayPort
✓ Built-in speakers
✓ Blue-Light Shift for eye comfort
Why We Recommend It
It’s a great middle-ground option for gamers who want better than 60Hz but don’t need the extreme 144Hz/240Hz of higher-end models. The 100Hz is a sweet spot for smoothness without a major price jump, and the connectivity options are excellent for a budget display.
Best For
Casual and mid-level gamers, as well as general users who want a slightly smoother experience than 60Hz. Also ideal for someone needing a monitor with multiple video inputs for a console and PC.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good 100Hz refresh for smooth casual gaming
- Excellent connectivity (2x HDMI, DP)
- Built-in speakers save space/money
- Eye-care Blue-Light Shift technology
Cons:
- Panel is TN ( poorer colors/viewing angles than IPS)
- 100Hz is good, but not for competitive esports
- Build quality is basic
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Great screen. Perfect for my gaming needs. Highly recommend!
Customer Review: This Monitor excells in Video , great for gaming or streaming from Fandango , Netflix etc…..I would definitely recommend this Monitor to anyone.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Buy Open Box Monitors
Essential Factors We Consider
When shopping for an open box monitor, we prioritize the same core specs as new models, but with an extra eye on value and risk assessment. Panel type (IPS for best colors/viewing angles, VA for contrast, TN for speed) is crucial. Refresh rate (60Hz, 75Hz, 100Hz+, 144Hz+, 240Hz) determines motion smoothness. Resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K) should match your GPU and screen size. We also check for Adaptive Sync (FreeSync/G-Sync Compatible) to prevent screen tearing, connectivity (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA), and ergonomics (tilt, height, swivel, VESA mount). For open box specifically, we factor in the discount percentage, the remaining manufacturer warranty (Best Buy typically offers the same 1-year warranty for open box), and the condition grade (like-new, very good, good) which indicates cosmetic wear.
Budget Planning
Set a realistic budget based on your needs. For basic office/secondary use, $80-$150 gets you a solid 24-inch 60-75Hz IPS monitor. For smooth general use and light gaming, budget $150-$250 for a 100-120Hz IPS panel. For dedicated gaming, expect to spend $200-$400 for high refresh rates (144Hz+) and better panels. The sweet spot for value in the open box market is often the $100-$200 range, where you can find last-gen models with premium features at steep discounts. Always compare the open box price to the current new price—sometimes the discount isn’t worth it if the new model is already cheap.
Final Thoughts
Best Buy open box monitors are arguably one of the best ways to upgrade your display without the new-tag premium. You’re essentially getting a fully functional, warranty-backed product that someone else returned, often for minor reasons like “it wasn’t the right size.” Our top picks represent the best balance of significant savings, proven performance, and reliable brands. Before you buy, inspect the specific listing’s condition notes and photos carefully, and confirm the warranty details. With a little patience and keen eyes, you can walk away with a phenomenal monitor that punches far above its price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does “Open Box” mean at Best Buy?
A: An “Open Box” item is a product that was purchased and then returned to the store. Best Buy tests it for full functionality, cleans it, and repackages it. It’s sold “as-is” with a discount, but it still comes with the full manufacturer’s warranty (and often a return policy). The condition is graded (e.g., Like New, Very Good, Good), indicating any cosmetic wear.
Q: Are open box monitors reliable and worth the risk?
A: Yes, they are generally very reliable. Best Buy’s open box program tests items for functionality before resale. The main “risk” is cosmetic—a small scratch or scuff—which is reflected in the condition grade and lower price. For electronics like monitors, the internal components are the same as new. As long as you buy from a reputable source like Best Buy and understand the condition, it’s an excellent way to save money.
Q: What warranty do open box monitors come with?
A: Best Buy open box items typically include the full, unexpired manufacturer’s warranty. This means if the monitor is 1 year old new, the open box version will have whatever time remains on that 1-year term. Always double-check the specific listing’s warranty details, but it’s usually identical to buying new. Best Buy also often offers a return window (e.g., 15 days) for open box items.
Q: How do I know the condition of an open box monitor?
A: Best Buy provides a condition grade and often photos. “Like New” means minimal to no signs of use. “Very Good” might have minor cosmetic blemishes. “Good” shows more noticeable wear. Read the description carefully for notes on screen condition (dead pixels, scratches), stand/box condition, and included accessories. When in doubt, call the store for more details before purchasing.
Q: Should I buy an open box monitor or a refurbished one?
A: “Open Box” generally means a returned item that was lightly used, while “Refurbished” means a defective unit was repaired by the manufacturer or a certified technician. Refurbished items often come with a new warranty (e.g., 90 days). Open box items retain the original manufacturer warranty but may have unknown usage history. For monitors, both can be great deals. Open box often has a steeper discount on recent models, while refurbished might be older models with a fresh warranty.
Scoring a fantastic monitor doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. As our roundup shows, Best Buy’s open box section is a treasure trove of high-performance displays—from smooth 120Hz IPS panels to immersive curved 240Hz gaming screens—all at prices that make new models look overpriced. Whether you need a simple secondary screen for spreadsheets or a high-refresh-rate beast for gaming, there’s an open box deal here that fits your needs and budget. Don’t overpay for a monitor. Check the current open box inventory at Best Buy today, use our list as your guide, and grab one of these top-rated displays before the best deals are gone!