The importance of a good computer monitor cannot be overstated. A good monitor, whether you’re a gamer desires for top-quality graphics, a creator looking for better color reproduction, or someone working from home who just wants more done with less strain on your eyes. However, sometimes shopping for the perfect monitor can feel like being lost in a tech jungle.
Fear not, we are the roads already traveled for you. Through hours of research, we found what the best computer monitors are and put them into this specific buyer’s list. We looked at everything from pixel-perfect resolution and accurate color, all through available input types down to the stand’s degree of flexibility.
What to Look for When Buying a Gaming Monitor
First, there is resolution – do you know 4K monitors? What a crowd favorite these are – for good reason, too. They offer a higher pixel density which results in better text and images. They offer amazing screen outputs, as powered by the surge in the quantity of multi or dual-screen capable computers. Your first stop, if an upgrade is in your future, should be 4K.
Monitor manufacturers have had to up their game in this age where laptops rule as the main place the work gets done. This is why they’ve slapped a DisplayPort or Thunderbolt-capable USB-C connector on their lineup of products. It sends signals to your monitor and powers your laptop, hence reducing the cluttering of cables. But be sure to check that the output on your monitor is compatible with how much power your laptop needs.
To creatives, especially in photo/video editing – color precision is everything. Even if a monitor arrives in perfect calibration from the factory, its color accuracy can change over time. This is where a calibrator comes in handy. In addition, you must also analyze the audio quality. Most monitors have low-quality speakers. Accordingly, invest in or even opt for a somewhat reasonable desktop soundbar.
Dell UltraSharp U2723QE
Best Computer Monitor Overall
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In return for an under $500 investment, you will gain an all-powerful, feature-packed monitor, the Dell U2723QE. It’s more than just a monitor; it’s a fully-featured command center with the most ports available on the market and a wide variety of comfortable modifications. You can charge your laptop directly through its USB-C display connection. Or, even greater, think about the smooth, interruption-free work you can do thanks to the built-in Ethernet port—especially if your workplace internet is playing hide-and-seek. The price tag is a bit steep, but you know what they say about how you get what you pay for.
You will get a stunning 27-inch 4K (UHD) display, where each pixel bursts with vibrant colors and crisp details. The contrast levels are so good to regular IPS screens that you’ll be surprised. But the lack of a webcam is the downside if you have a mind to use a PC monitor for video calls or meetings. However, it’s not something common you can’t usually find on monitors. Moreover, it’s among the pioneering duo to showcase the IPS Black – LG’s latest innovation in in-plane switching (IPS) technology.
The U2723QE is a great monitor, but its high price makes it less than ideal if you want to purchase multiple displays for your business or office. But think of it as the ideal partner for individuals in leadership or analytical responsibilities, particularly those who have to juggle artistic stuff as part of their daily routine. The screen isn’t designed for graphical work but is adequate for quick media editing tasks.
ASUS ProArt PA279CV
Best Value Computer Monitor
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This display will suit many users because of a great compromise between affordability and performance. In the first place, it’s a wide 27-inch 4K monitor which means you’ll have a big screen to work with and ultra-sharp visuals. You can watch movies without leaving the comfort of your chair. Moreover, this monitor’s in-plane switching (IPS) panel allows for wide viewing angles and accurate color rendition.
You may be wondering, “But what about gaming?” The ASUS ProArt PA279CV is fine in that regard, too, as it features Adaptive Sync VRR. However, it’s possible that serious gamers won’t be satisfied with its only 60Hz refresh rate. This may not be the best gaming monitor, but it should serve you well elsewhere.
In particular, I appreciate the ability to link many devices to this monitor thanks to its connectivity options. DisplayPort over USB-C is included and can supply up to 65W of power. In other words, you can fill your laptop’s juice while doing some work simultaneously. There is also a built-in USB 3.1 hub so you can even connect your laptop to other devices. The ASUS ProArt PA279CV isn’t a flawless display, but it’s better than most. Because of its low refresh rate, it’s not the ideal option for gamers. But if you want a reliable, all-purpose display that is accurate and spacious, then this one is worth your consideration.
Samsung Odyssey G7
Best Curved Gaming Monitor
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Looking for an adventure in gaming that will get your pulse racing? This monitor from Samsung has a 32-inch QHD display that will make your games look stunning. With an incredible 240Hz refresh rate and only a 1 millisecond response time, lag and ghosting are the past for now. That translates into some astonishingly smooth, crisp, and high-res gameplay that you are going to experience.
However, the Odyssey G7 also comes equipped with a new 1000R curvature that sets it apart from everything else in its category. We are talking about the top-of-the-line gaming monitor, featuring that gentle curve hook that is designed after human eye curvature. Imagine not just playing the game but living it – the comfort and immersive gaming satisfaction this curve provides is truly next-level.
What’s more is that thanks to the QLED technology baked into this model, you have 100% sRGB color reproduction and 125% sRGB coverage for more realistic-looking titles. Couple that with NVIDIA G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium Pro support – you can get down and dirty without having to worry about screen tearing.
LG 38WN95C-W
Best Large-Screen Monitor for Creators
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The LG 38WN95C-W is a wide-screen monitor with a curved display that provides abundant horizontal room. Think about how much more you could accomplish without the bezel separating your two screens on a dual monitor setup. This LG display features a 21:9 aspect ratio with a resolution of 3840×1600. That’s way broader than most screens’ common 16:9 or 16:10 aspect ratios.
The size of this screen, however, is not its only selling point. It has many traits that set it apart from others. You can easily connect your laptop because it supports Thunderbolt 3 through USB-C and can supply up to 94W. Moreover, this 144Hz monitor ensures everything, from media visuals to video games, seems crisp and clear. Speaking of games, the 38WN95C-W is compatible with Nvidia G-Sync and has FreeSync Premium Pro. The adaptable refresh rate will prevent any shredding on the screen, even if you are in intense battles.
HDR content, including games and movies, will appear great on a display certified at the DisplayHDR 600 level. This monitor will meet your needs for accurate color reproduction. The sRGB gamut is fully covered (100%), and DCI-P3 coverage of 98% with a rapid response time of 1 ms. If you need a monitor with a large display, many useful extras, and top-notch performance, go no further than the LG 38WN95C-W.
Asus VA24DCP
Best Budget Computer Monitor
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Are you a space-savvy worker, a fan of compact screens, or have a very short budget? Perhaps you’re someone who values essentials over frills like an adjustable stand, this 24-inch monitor is your perfect match. You will get the luxury of a screen much larger than the biggest laptop without the desk-hogging footprint of a 27-inch monitor.
You will get crystal-clear visuals on this 24-inch screen right on your desk. That’s what you get with the Asus VA24DCP, a 1080p monitor that packs a punch despite its budget-friendly price. With an integrated USB-C port with good 65W charging, this sleek monitor is a good choice for notebook users in need of a larger display. The Asus VA24DCP features commendable color accuracy and contrast, so you can look at it for office work and a Netflix binge session. An HDMI port that ensures desktop users and those with older laptops aren’t left out of the fun.
Regarding budget monitors, you might have to kiss a few fancy features goodbye. But let’s face it; these luxuries don’t exactly make or break your daily tech journey. In that sense, trading them off in favor of affordability isn’t a bad deal. But the speakers on this budget monitor are not the quality you might expect. You must think again if you plan to rock out to your favorite tunes or experience cinematic audio while watching movies.
Gigabyte Aorus FO48U 4K
Best OLED Monitor for HDR Gaming
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Gigabyte Aorus FO48U is an OLED titan, engineered to serve up a contrast that is nothing short of breathtaking. You will see your HDR content coming alive in a way. With an OLED panel boasting an astronomical contrast ratio and covering an impressive 100% DCI-P3 color spectrum, this monitor delivers an image that’s not just vibrant but incredibly accurate straight off the bat. While it might not outshine some of the premium LCDs in terms of brightness, its performance is still a spectacle to behold. Grayscale tracking? Practically flawless. Your visual experience? Phenomenal.
You will experience vibrant colors and lightning-fast action, and that’s what you get with the Aorus FO48U. This monitor is a feast for the eyes and a speedster tailor-made for high-octane HDR gaming on your gaming PC. With DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1, it keeps pace with the fastest monitors. Though it doesn’t support Dolby Vision or the 50p and 24p TV formats, it more than compensates with a sound experience that’s pure bliss. With the three integrated speakers of two 15W and a 20W subwoofer, you will have great sound alongside great visuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between TN, VA, and IPS panels?
TN panels are budget-friendly speedsters – they’re typically more affordable and boast quick response times. However, they might not hit the spot regarding color representation and viewing angles. Now, the VA panels are the artists in the group. They deliver superior color and contrast but could be slightly slower in response time. Last but not least, we have high-end IPS panels. These showstoppers have the best color and viewing angles, but they come with a higher price tag.
What’s a good refresh rate for gaming?
For the gaming enthusiasts among us, it’s vital to have a monitor that can keep up with the pace. A refresh rate of at least 120Hz is a game-changer, literally! On the other hand, if gaming is more of a casual pastime for you, a 60Hz monitor will serve your needs perfectly.
Do I need a 4K monitor?
For those who crave lifelike graphics and stunning detail, a 4K monitor is a great choice. These monitors provide a four times standard HD resolution, offering a breathtaking visual experience. A 4K monitor’s picture quality is unmatched but costs several times as much as a standard panel. Because of this, you should budget for a slightly higher price.
However, if your primary monitor usage revolves around work or web browsing, a 1080p monitor should suffice. These monitors offer a resolution ideal for everyday tasks like editing documents, surfing the web, or streaming your favorite shows. Not to mention, they are usually more budget-friendly compared to their 4K counterparts.
So here’s the scoop, the perfect monitor for you? It’s all about what you’re into. The dazzling allure of 4K might be just the ticket for hardcore gamers and movie buffs, while a 1080p display has your back for the workaday world and some chill entertainment time.
What kind of ports do I need?
Almost all monitors out there have your back, boasting HDMI and DisplayPort connections. But, if you’re a proud owner of a cutting-edge laptop, you might want to consider a monitor equipped with USB ports or even a sleek USB-C port.
How much should I spend on a monitor?
When it comes to investing in a computer monitor, it’s not about how much you spend. It’s about finding the right fit for your needs. Think size, resolution, refresh rate, and color accuracy.
For those on a budget, you can snag a decent full HD monitor for under $200. If you’re a professional designer or a hardcore gamer, you might want to splash the cash on a 4K or even 8K display with a high refresh rate. These can run upwards of $1000, but their performance is top-notch.
Remember, it’s not just a purchase; it’s an investment in your productivity and enjoyment. Before you go shopping for your brand-new computer monitor, let’s take a moment to reflect. What is it that you truly desire from your next monitor? What features would satisfy you with the best results? Let’s ensure that every penny of your hard-earned money is invested wisely and brings you joy.
