The Best Monitors Buying Guide
From Purpose to Size to Picture Quality: Your Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Monitor!
A monitor is an essential component for using a computer, which has become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Even if you’re using a laptop with its built-in display, many people opt for an external monitor when they need a larger screen or want to boost productivity with a dual-display setup.
Since the monitor is the device your eyes will be focused on most closely and for the longest time while using your computer, it’s crucial to choose one that’s both comfortable for your eyes and helps improve your work efficiency. Additionally, monitors are one of those IT devices where the best choice varies significantly depending on your intended use and preferences, making it essential to select one that matches your specific needs.
Let nosearch guide you through choosing the perfect monitor that’s right for your eyes and productivity, one step at a time.
Chapter 1.
Monitor Screen
ScreenSize / Aspect Ratio / Panel Type
When choosing a monitor, the first and most important decision is screen size. While TVs are trending toward increasingly large sizes, from 65 inches to over 80 inches as standard, monitors haven’t followed the same trend toward super-sizing.
This is primarily because, unlike TVs which are typically viewed from at least 3-6 feet away, monitors are used at a desk at close range, limited by both human field of vision and desk space constraints.
Additionally, optimal screen size depends on the type of work you’ll be doing and your computer’s specifications.
1. Screen
Size27 inches is most popular
24 inches for better visibility
32 inches for those who prefer larger screens
Monitor Size Measurement
Monitor size is measured diagonally in inches. While the actual viewing area is determined by multiplying width and height, the standard measurement is the diagonal length of the screen, measured in centimeters (cm) or inches. *1 inch = 2.54 cm
Most Current Monitors Range from 24 to 32 Inches
While 17-20 inch monitors were once the norm, today’s most popular monitors range from 24 to 32 inches. In fact, 70% of monitors currently sold fall within this range.
For personal use, unless you need a secondary display (21 inches or smaller) or a TV replacement/conference room display (35 inches or larger), we recommend choosing a monitor between 24 and 32 inches.
27 Inches: The Sweet Spot for Most Users
Once you’ve narrowed down the size range, you’ll need to choose a specific size based on your primary use case. For most users without specific requirements or size preferences, 27 inches is the recommended choice.
It offers ample screen space without being too expensive, providing the best balance between size and cost.
It’s currently the most focused size segment for manufacturers, offering the widest variety of products with different prices, picture qualities, designs, and features. While first-time users might initially find it large, most adapt within a day or two, and it’s perfectly viewable from 20 inches away.
24 Inches: Ideal for FPS/MOBA Games
For tasks requiring concentrated viewing of the entire screen, the 24-inch size is recommended.
While 27 inches works fine for general use, a smaller screen can be advantageous when you need to see and react to the entire display quickly.
This is particularly true for games like PUBG or LOL (*FPS/RTS games), and is why 24-inch monitors are often used in professional gaming tournaments
*FPS games: First Person Shooter games (like Sudden Attack, PUBG) *RTS games: Real-Time Strategy games (like LOL, StarCraft)
However, many casual gamers prefer 27 inches or larger for better immersion rather than optimal visibility and response time.
32 Inches: Perfect for Multitasking and Multimedia
For users who need to work with multiple windows or view content across a wider field of view, 32 inches is recommended.
This size is particularly well-suited for movie watching, video editing, and *RPG games. The larger size allows for more comfortable viewing of content and graphics, while improving productivity through the ability to display more windows and information.
*RPG games: Role Playing Games (like Lost Ark, Blade & Soul)
A 32-inch monitor can also be beneficial if your desk allows for viewing distances of 24-28 inches or more, or if you need larger text settings due to vision requirements. If budget and space allow, the satisfaction level typically increases significantly with a 32-inch screen.
Consider Dual Monitors for Increased Productivity
Connecting two or more monitors to a single computer is called dual or triple monitor setup, depending on the number of displays.
With monitor prices generally decreasing and setup requiring just a simple cable connection, this configuration has become increasingly common in both homes and offices for improved productivity.
Optimal Dual Monitor Configurations
When considering a dual monitor setup, check your desk width alongside screen size. The most popular dual monitor size is 27 inches (width of about 24.4 inches each).
While two 27-inch monitors placed side by side might slightly exceed a standard 47-inch desk width, angling them slightly inward for better viewing typically resolves any space issues.
If you’re interested in using a 32-inch display, consider pairing it with a smaller monitor. This works well because it’s difficult to view both screens simultaneously in a dual setup, and users typically designate one as primary and one as secondary.
Therefore, for dual monitor setups, we recommend either: ① Two 27-inch monitors ② One 32-inch + one 24-27 inch monitor
(Using the 24-27 inch monitor in portrait orientation can be particularly convenient for web browsing and document work)
Match Pixel Pitch for Different-Sized Monitors
When using different-sized monitors, whether due to desk space constraints or combining new and existing monitors, try to match the *pixel pitch to minimize visual discrepancies between displays.
Pixel pitch varies with screen size and resolution; the most recommended combination is a 32-inch QHD with a 24-inch FHD monitor, though any combination with similar pixel pitch will work well.
*Pixel pitch: The distance between individual pixels on the monitor’s screen.
Choose Thin Bezels for Clean Dual Monitor Setup
Bezel refers to the monitor’s border frame. Recent monitors specify both inner and outer bezel measurements, which together make up the total bezel width. Thinner bezels reduce the gap between monitors, creating a more unified viewing experience.
However, some manufacturers only list outer bezel measurements, so we recommend checking user reviews with powered-on screens to verify the inner bezel thickness before purchasing.
2. Monitor Aspect Ratio
16:9 optimized for most content
21:9 recommended as dual monitor alternative
While monitor size is measured by diagonal length, the actual viewing area is determined by multiplying width and height. Therefore, when choosing a size, it’s important to consider the aspect ratio, which represents the proportion of width to height.
Currently, most monitors use 16:9 as the standard ratio, but recently, ultrawide monitors with extended width ratios like 21:9 and 32:9 are becoming increasingly popular.
16:9 is the Most Common Aspect Ratio
Most 24/27/32-inch Monitors are 16:9
The most popular 24/27/32-inch monitors typically have a 16:9 aspect ratio.
16:9 has been the standard ratio since the beginning of digital broadcasting, and most content including TV shows, games, and videos are optimized for this ratio, making it the most versatile choice for general monitor purchases.
21:9 Has Wider Width & Larger Diagonal
But Shorter Height & Smaller Area
The 21:9 monitor, commonly known as ultrawide, extends the width from the standard 16:9 ratio.
Rather than simply adjusting the ratio while keeping the same size, these monitors are typically 2-3 inches larger diagonally to maintain adequate height while increasing width.
For example, if you were to convert a 27-inch (about 69cm) 16:9 monitor directly to 21:9, while the width would increase, the height would become uncomfortably short.
That’s why 21:9 monitors typically come in 29/30-inch or 34-inch sizes, with 29/30-inch being equivalent to 27-inch 16:9, and 34-inch comparable to 32-inch 16:9.
However, since the width increase is proportionally larger than the size increase, 21:9 monitors are characteristically wider but shorter than equivalent 16:9 monitors, with total screen area being similar or slightly smaller.
Ideal for Multitasking/Timeline/Movie Viewing
Also a Good Alternative to Dual Monitors
Due to their wider but shorter characteristics, 21:9 and 32:9 ultrawide monitors have clear advantages and disadvantages.
Their main strength is multitasking on the wide screen, comfortably fitting 3-4 windows side by side without scaling down, whether it’s web browsers, Excel/PowerPoint documents, or messenger apps.
They’re particularly efficient for timeline-based work like video editing, allowing you to view more of the timeline without frequent scrolling.
Plus, since most movies are filmed in a ratio similar to 21:9, you can watch them without letterboxing (black bars on top and bottom).
Therefore, ultrawide monitors are recommended if video editing or movie watching is important to you, and they can be a great alternative if your desk is too narrow for a dual monitor setup.
Recommend 16:9 for General Use
However, for general purposes, we recommend standard 16:9 ratio monitors.
Most games and content (except movies) are still made for 16:9, which means you might have unused areas on a 21:9 screen that could be distracting. YouTube only supports 16:9, and it’s difficult to utilize 21:9 displays effectively for Netflix content or console games like PlayStation or Nintendo Switch.
Additionally, the shorter vertical height compared to familiar 16:9 displays might feel restrictive, and since 21:9 products cost about $100 more with identical specifications, it might be better to invest that difference in other features like picture quality.
16:10 Ratio Worth ConsideringFor Monitors Under 24 Inches
For smaller monitors under 24 inches, the 16:10 ratio is worth considering. Compared to 24-inch 16:9 monitors, it offers slightly more vertical height, making it easier to view information when web browsing or doing office work.
3. Monitor Panel Type
Flat vs. Curved Preference Varies by
UserRecommended to Check in Person Before Buying
Consider Curved Displays for
Ultrawide or 32+ Inch Monitors
Monitors are divided into flat and curved types based on panel shape.
The choice between flat and curved is highly subjective and varies by user preference.
Curved monitors were developed to address the varying distances between your eyes and different parts of the screen that occur with flat monitors, where the distance to the center differs from the edges.
While research has proven the viewing benefits of curved monitors, this is theoretical, and many users report finding curved displays awkward or uncomfortable.
Conversely, as larger screens require greater viewing distances, curved displays are often preferred for monitors 32 inches and larger. Curved models are also popular in 21:9 or 32:9 ultrawide monitors, which are wider than standard 16:9 displays.
In conclusion, while curved displays are worth considering for ultrawide or 32+ inch monitors, first-time buyers should try to visit a store to personally compare flat and curved displays before making a decision.
Curvature Options Range from 1000R to 1800R
Curved monitors vary in their degree of curvature, measured in units like 1000R, 1500R, and 1800R.
The curvature number represents the radius (in mm) of the circle that would be formed by extending the monitor’s curve, with smaller numbers indicating a more pronounced curve.
Typical curved monitors range from 1000R to 2000R. While 1500R/1800R models were previously most popular, 1000R models offering greater immersion are now trending.
Note: While “curvature” technically refers to the degree of curve, the numbers 1500, 1800 actually represent the “radius of curvature.” However, monitor specifications typically use “curvature” for simplicity.
Chapter 2.
Monitor Picture Quality
Resolution / Refresh Rate & Response Time / Color Quality / Panel Type
Even the largest monitor won’t be satisfying if the picture quality isn’t up to par for high-end gaming and movies or your specific work requirements. Beyond basic brightness and clarity, newer quality metrics like “smooth motion” and “eye comfort” are becoming increasingly important factors in evaluating display quality.
A good quality monitor delivers sharp, fast, smooth images with accurate and rich colors. While monitor prices can vary by 2-3 times based on picture quality, certain features may be more or less important depending on your specific needs.
Let’s explore what makes good picture quality and determine which features are most important for your needs.
1. Monitor Resolution
Consider QHD for 27 inches or larger
Choose based on computer specs for gaming
Higher Pixel Count Means Higher Resolution
The images we see on monitors are made up of countless tiny dots called pixels. Resolution refers to how many pixels make up an image, indicating how precisely and clearly the monitor can display images.
1920×1080 / FHD / 2K / 1080p
All Mean the Same Resolution
Resolution is typically expressed as width × height in pixels. For example, 1920 x 1080 means there are 1,920 pixels horizontally and 1,080 pixels vertically.
For 16:9 monitors, there are three main resolutions currently available:
① FHD: 1920 x 1080 (about 2 million pixels)
② QHD: 2560 x 1440 (about 4 million pixels)
③ UHD: 3840 x 2160 (about 8 million pixels)
QHD monitors have twice as many pixels as FHD, and UHD has four times as many, allowing for correspondingly sharper image display.
Resolution can be expressed in several ways:
① Based on horizontal pixels: around 2,000 pixels is called 2K, around 4,000 is 4K
② Based on vertical pixels: 1,080 pixels is 1080p, 2,160 pixels is 2160p
Therefore, FHD / 2K / 1080p all refer to 1920×1080 resolution.
Up to 27 inches: FHD, 27-32 inches: QHD
32 inches and above: Consider UHD
Higher resolution means sharper picture quality, but to effectively view high resolution, you need a larger screen size.
Smaller screens can display clear images with relatively lower resolutions, and excessive resolution can actually make text and icons too small to read comfortably. Conversely, larger screens need more pixels for high resolution, and if the resolution is too low relative to size, individual pixels become visible and distracting.
Therefore, it’s best to choose resolution based on screen size. If you want high quality and budget allows, choose FHD for 24-27 inch monitors, QHD for 27-32 inches, and UHD for 32 inches and above.
However, about half of monitors currently sold are FHD, and prices increase significantly from QHD up, so FHD is fine if you’re not particularly sensitive to image quality. (27-inch QHD monitors typically cost $100-200 more than FHD)
FHD Resolution is Standard for 27-inch
Recommend QHD, UHD for High-Quality Videoor Graphics Work
Once you’ve chosen your screen size, select resolution based on your primary use and preferences.
For general use including office work, web browsing, and video watching, 24/27-inch FHD or 32-inch QHD is sufficient. However, since many platforms like YouTube and Netflix now support 1440p (QHD) and 2160p (UHD), choosing a higher resolution could be a worthwhile investment if you primarily watch high-quality video content.
For video editing or design work, choose based on your work requirements. For high-resolution video work, it’s best to match your monitor’s resolution to your content, and higher resolution monitors allow for more precise photo and image editing
Choose Gaming Monitor Resolution
Based on Computer Specifications
| – | Fortnite | Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | League of Legends | Counter-Strike 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-7300U / AMD Ryzen 3 3300U | Intel Core i5-6600K / AMD Ryzen 5 1600 | Intel i5-3300 or better | Intel Core i5-7500 / AMD Ryzen 5 1600 |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GTX 960 / AMD R9 280 | NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 580 | NVIDIA GTX 560 / AMD Radeon HD 6950 | NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 580 |
| RAM | 16 GB | 12 GB | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 40 GB | 125 GB | 16 GB | 85 GB |
| DirectX | DirectX 11 | DirectX 12 | DirectX 11 | DirectX 11 |
For gaming monitors, consider your computer’s specifications.
Unlike static content like photos or movies, games change the entire screen content during play, requiring the graphics card to process and create new frames in real-time.
For example, there’s a difference of about 1.7 million pixels between FHD and QHD. If your computer isn’t powerful enough to handle this additional processing, you might experience screen tearing or stuttering.
Therefore, for gaming monitors, check what resolution your computer can handle smoothly and choose accordingly.
2. Refresh Rate
144Hz or Higher for Gaming
60Hz is Sufficient for General Use
Refresh Rate Determines Motion Smoothness
Refresh rate indicates how many images a monitor can display per second, measured in Hz (Hertz). Higher refresh rates result in smoother motion on screen.
What we see as video is actually a series of still images (frames) shown in sequence. If a monitor’s refresh rate is lower than the video’s frame rate, it can’t display all frames quickly enough, resulting in choppy playback.
60Hz is Enough if Not for Gaming
Refresh rate became a crucial spec after high-end games emerged, but it’s not important for non-gaming use.
Current monitors all have at least 60Hz refresh rates, which is sufficient for most purposes – providing smooth mouse movement and web browsing, and perfect for high-quality movies and shows.
In fact, most video content, including movies, is filmed at 60 frames or less, and YouTube only supports up to 60 frames, so even a high refresh rate monitor will display the same video quality as a 60Hz monitor.
However, users accustomed to high refresh rates might notice less smooth motion even in basic web browsing when switching to a lower refresh rate monitor.
144-165Hz Recommended for Gaming
Unlike pre-recorded video, games don’t have fixed frame rates, so higher refresh rates mean smoother character movement.
That’s why refresh rate is crucial for gaming monitors – so much so that many gamers won’t visit PC cafes without 144Hz monitors due to the noticeable performance difference.
Current monitors range from 60Hz to 360Hz, with 144-165Hz being most common for gaming. While higher is better for gaming, refresh rates above 165Hz like 240Hz require high-end graphics cards and powerful computers to utilize fully. Also, higher refresh rates offer diminishing returns relative to their price increase.
For gaming monitors, we recommend 144-165Hz, or higher if your computer specs and budget allow.
Choose Gaming Monitors with
FreeSync/G-Sync
When buying a gaming monitor, consider FreeSync and G-Sync features alongside refresh rate.
FreeSync/G-Sync are variable refresh rate technologies that adjust the monitor’s refresh rate in real-time to match graphics card output, enabling smoother gaming without screen tearing or stuttering.
FreeSync (AMD) and G-Sync (NVIDIA) offer similar benefits but use different graphics cards. FreeSync is more common as it’s free to implement, while G-Sync requires additional hardware, making it less widespread.
While most gaming monitors include these features, some high-refresh-rate premium models surprisingly don’t, so check before purchasing.
3. Response Time
Choose 1-4ms for Gaming
Not Important for Other Uses
Response Time Determines Clean Motion Without Ghosting
Response time measures how long it takes for a monitor to display signals from the graphics card, and along with refresh rate, it’s particularly important for gaming monitors. Measured in milliseconds (ms, 1/1000 second), lower numbers mean faster response times, resulting in clearer motion without ghosting.
To display moving images, graphics cards send signals to change pixel colors dozens of times per second. Slow response times mean the monitor can’t change quickly enough, causing motion blur as previous frames remain visible.
5-8ms is Sufficient for Non-Gaming Use
Current monitors have response times from 0.3-14ms, with most falling between 1-8ms.
Response time is typically measured using *GTG methodology, though some manufacturers use different methods like MPRT or BTB, or don’t specify their measurement method.
Some also implement *OD (Over Driving) technology and advertise enhanced figures without disclosure, making it difficult for consumers to compare accurately.
*GTG: Grey To Grey, measuring time to change from light grey (10% shade) to dark grey (90% shade) *OD: Over Drive, temporarily increasing voltage to improve response time
However, response time operates at 1/1000 second intervals, hardly perceptible to humans. With recent monitors’ improved response times, like refresh rate, it’s only crucial for gaming.
A standard 60Hz monitor theoretically only needs about 15ms response time for smooth playback, and over 90% of current monitors have response times under 5ms, with even 6-8ms being perfectly fine for actual use.
For non-gaming monitors, we recommend standard 5-8ms products.
1-4ms Recommended for Gaming
However, response time has become as important as refresh rate for gaming monitors, due to the popularity of fast-paced games like PUBG and Overwatch where split-second reactions matter in 200-300+ FPS gameplay.
Professional gamers can actually distinguish differences in enemy detection speed based on response time.
For clean gaming without motion blur, we recommend 1-4ms response time products.
Check Both Refresh Rate and Response Time
for Smooth Motion
Refresh rate and response time both determine smooth motion display and are closely related – neither can be poor for optimal performance.
While high refresh rate monitors usually have fast response times, some monitors have fast response times but low refresh rates, so check both when buying a gaming monitor.
4. Monitor Color
QualityFor General Use,
RecommendsRGB 100%, Contrast Ratio 1,000:1
Monitor manufacturers often emphasize vibrant colors and accurate color reproduction in their advertising. Indeed, clear and accurate color representation is one of the most important aspects of good picture quality.
The ultimate goal of displays like monitors and TVs is to replicate real-world visual experiences, and color reproduction remains one of the biggest challenges in bridging the gap between human vision and screen display. This is why new color technologies continue to emerge.
Let’s examine the key factors that determine good color quality: color gamut, contrast ratio, brightness, and HDR technology.
Color Gamut Determines Vivid and Rich Colors
Ever notice how movies that look vivid on TV appear washed out on your monitor? This usually happens due to low color gamut, making it one of the most crucial factors in monitor color reproduction.
Color gamut, also called color space or color volume, indicates what percentage of visible colors a monitor can display. It’s typically specified in four standards – sRGB / NTSC / DCI-P3 / Adobe-RGB. For example, “sRGB 90%” means the monitor can display 90% of the colors in the sRGB color space.
Each standard’s specifications include more pure colors toward the outer edges of their color space, so higher percentages enable more vivid and rich color display.
Recommend sRGB 100%, NTSC 72% Products
Lower Specs May Look Washed Out
Monitors typically use sRGB measurements, sometimes listing 2-3 standards. For general use including movie watching and gaming, we recommend products with around sRGB 100% or NTSC 72%. sRGB is the web standard for internet/monitor use, and sRGB 100% is roughly equivalent to NTSC 72%.
Products below sRGB 90% or NTSC 70% may appear washed out. Be careful, as some manufacturers might hide low color gamut by omitting specifications or only emphasizing other features like panel type or resolution.
Choose Wide Color Gamut Products for
Professional Use/Superior Color
For professional work or superior color reproduction, consider higher color gamut options. Popular standards include DCI-P3 (common in Apple devices and modern displays) and Adobe RGB (suitable for photo/graphic editing and print work). These high color gamut products are called wide color gamut monitors.
While higher color gamut helps with accurate and precise professional work, avoid choosing over 120% just for better picture quality. Overly saturated or pale colors can strain your eyes and cause fatigue.
Contrast Ratio Determines Detailed Color Distinction
Contrast ratio indicates how many steps can be distinguished between the brightest white and darkest black. Even with high color gamut, low contrast ratio limits detailed color distinction within the same scene.
If dark objects in night scenes blend together or color scales in shopping sites are hard to distinguish, you likely have a monitor with low contrast ratio.
Recommend 1,000:1 for General Use
3,000:1 or Higher for Superior Quality
Current LCD monitors range from 500:1 to 5,000:1 contrast ratios, while OLED can reach 100,000:1 or higher. For general use, 1,000:1 is sufficient.
While contrast ratio varies by panel type making it difficult to use as a primary buying criterion, considering most modern TVs have ratios above 3,000:1, we recommend choosing 3,000:1 or higher for superior picture quality.
Note: This refers to static contrast ratio. Dynamic contrast ratio, which varies backlight brightness by scene, exists but can be ignored as its measurement standards are vague and less relevant to actual use.
Higher Brightness Enables More Accurate Color
Recommend 300cd/㎡ or Higher
Brightness, measured in cd(candela)/㎡, indicates screen luminance. Since monitors create images through light, higher brightness enables more accurate color and contrast reproduction. *1cd/㎡ = 1 nit = brightness of one candle in 1 square meter
Current monitors range from 200-1,000cd/㎡. For clear, colorful display even in bright rooms, we recommend products with 300cd/㎡ or higher brightness.
HDR Technology Provides
Realistic Picture Quality
HDR (High Dynamic Range) is increasingly common in displays including monitors, TVs, and phone cameras.
Simply put, HDR technology makes dark areas darker and bright areas brighter, allowing HDR-enabled monitors to produce more realistic images compared to standard SDR displays.
Check HDR Certification Rather Than
HDR Standards for Monitors
While HDR stands for “High Dynamic Range,” it encompasses brightness and color accuracy beyond just contrast.
HDR requires both HDR-produced content and supporting displays. HDR standards (HDR10, HDR10+, DOLBY VISION, etc.) define how content and displays store and interpret information.
For monitors, focus on HDR certification rather than standards. HDR certification, granted by *VESA, indicates performance grade based on brightness, color reproduction, dimming capability, and other criteria.
(*VESA: Video Electronics Standards Association)
Certifications include Display HDR and Display HDR True Black, with True Black certification indicating OLED panels with superior contrast through *local dimming technology.
(*Local Dimming: Ability to control brightness of specific screen areas individually)
HDR certification isn’t necessary for general office/web browsing use. However, for professional monitors or superior contrast and color in video/gaming/graphic work, we recommend products with VESA Display HDR 400 or higher certification.
5. Panel Types
IPS and VA Panels for Multipurpose Use
TN Panels Better for FPS Games
Focus on Specs Rather Than Panel Type
Match Panel Types for Dual Monitors
| – | OLED | IPS | VA | TN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viewing Angle | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| Response Time | Fast | Average | Slow | Fast |
| Contrast Ratio | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Average |
| Color Expression | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Average |
| Features | Thin design, expensive | Wide viewing angle, good overall balance | High contrast ratio | Fast response time |
Panel types broadly divide into LCD and OLED.
LCD panels further subdivide into IPS / TN / VA based on liquid crystal alignment, each with different color reproduction (color gamut, contrast ratio), response time, and viewing angle characteristics.
However, these are general characteristics – for actual picture quality assessment, it’s better to check specific specs rather than panel type. For example, even though TN panels typically have the fastest response times, a budget TN panel might be slower than an IPS panel.
OLED panels don’t need backlighting as each pixel produces its own light, delivering exceptional picture quality. They typically offer superior viewing angles, contrast ratio, and response times compared to all LCD panels, making them ideal for users wanting the best quality for gaming and content viewing.
However, their high price and limited model availability make them difficult to justify unless you’re serious about display quality.
If checking detailed specs is challenging, use panel type as a general guide:
① OLED: For high-end products with best quality and performance
② IPS: For general use, offering excellent viewing angles and color balance
③ VA: For video viewing, with good contrast and color
④ TN: For specific gaming genres like FPS
Note: When setting up dual/triple monitors, try to match panel types. Different panel types can create noticeable disparities in color and viewing angles.
Chapter 3.
Monitor Usability
Ports / Zero Dead Pixel Policy / Stand Features / Additional Features
1. Ports
HDMI and Display Port Most Common
Check Compatibility and Prepare Proper Cables
Different Ports Support Different Standards
HDMI and DisplayPort Most Widely Used
Monitors display computer-processed information through connection ports. Each port type has different connector shapes and supports different resolutions, refresh rates, and aspect ratios.
When monitor and computer ports differ in type or version, connection defaults to the lower specification. Current ports include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, DVI, and VGA, with HDMI and DisplayPort being most common.
| Port (Cable) | Resolution | Refresh Rate |
|---|---|---|
| VGA | 2048 × 1536 | 85Hz |
| DVI Single-link | 1920 × 1200 | 60Hz |
| DVI Dual-link | 2560 × 1600 | 60Hz |
| Version /Resolution | FHD 1920×1080 | QHD 2560×1440 | 4K UHD 3840×2160 | 5K UHD 5120×2880 | 8K UHD 7680×4320 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 1.4 | 144Hz | 75Hz | 30Hz | – | – |
| HDMI 2.0 | 240Hz | 144Hz | 60Hz | 30Hz | – |
| HDMI 2.1 (18Gbps) | 240Hz | 144Hz | 60Hz | 30Hz | – |
| HDMI 2.1 (48Gbps) | 240Hz | 240Hz | 144Hz | 60Hz | 30Hz |
| DP 1.0 – 1.1 | 144Hz | 75Hz | 30Hz | – | – |
| DP 1.2 | 240Hz | 165Hz | 75Hz | 30Hz | – |
| DP 1.3 – 1.4 | 240Hz | 240Hz | 120Hz | 60Hz | 30Hz |
| DP 2.0 | 240Hz | 240Hz | 240Hz | 180Hz | 85Hz |
① VGA: Analog format common in CRT era, rarely used now due to digital trend. Supports up to 2048×1536 resolution at 85Hz.
② DVI: Comes in DVI-D/DVI-I/DVI-A variants and single/dual channel versions. DVI-D dual-link most common today, supporting up to 2560×1600 at 60Hz.
③ HDMI: Popular for clean all-in-one transmission of video, audio, and data. Used widely in TVs, monitors, and smartphones. Versions from HDMI 1.0 to 2.1, with 4K support from 1.4 and 21:9 support from 2.0.
④ DisplayPort: Similar to HDMI for video/audio/data transmission. Available in standard and mini versions, from DP 1.0 to 2.0. Version 2.0 supports up to 8K at 85Hz.
⑤ USB-C: Handles video/audio/data like HDMI, convenient for laptops and smartphones without HDMI ports.
Check Specifications, Port Types, Numbers
and Prepare Matching Cables
Different ports have different shapes and specifications, so buying a monitor without checking can make desired connections difficult. Consider:
① Monitor and computer (graphics card) supported standards/port types/numbers
② Matching connection cables
For example, for dual monitors:
① Verify graphics card has two compatible ports
② If monitor has HDMI and graphics card has one HDMI and one DisplayPort, prepare appropriate cables.
Note: HDMI to DisplayPort adapters available if needed. Try to use same port types for consistent quality in dual setups.
Check for DP Alt Mode if Using USB-C
With increasing laptop use, note that even if a monitor has USB-C, you can’t connect unless the laptop supports *DP Alt Mode. Check for this before buying if planning USB-C connection.
*DP Alt Mode: Technology enabling data transfer, video/audio, and USB charging through one USB-C port (may be listed as “DP 1.4 support” or “DisplayPort support”)
Consider USB Hub Feature for Clean Desk Setup
USB hub functionality is useful with limited USB ports or difficult computer access. Helps manage cable clutter, and monitors with USB-PD output (65W+) can charge laptops while displaying.
Many recent monitors include this feature – worth considering for clean desk setup.
2. Stand Features
Choose Tilt / Swivel / Pivot / VESA Mount
Based on Use and Space
Adjust to Optimal Position
Without Additional Equipment
Stand features allow adjustment of the monitor panel’s position relative to its base to match user eye level and viewing angle. These features aren’t just fixed connections between stand and panel.
Higher-end and professional monitors typically include more adjustment options, which are useful for office work, content creation, movie watching, and gaming.
The four main stand features are:
① Tilt: The most basic feature, allowing up-down angle adjustment, included in most monitors. Helps maintain clear view when adjusting chair height.
② Swivel: Allows left-right rotation, useful for sharing screen content in office settings.
③ Elevation (Height): Adjusts monitor height. Helps prevent neck strain without needing separate monitor stands.
④ Pivot: Allows 90-degree rotation for portrait mode. Particularly useful for photo editing, web browsing, document work, and viewing vertical content like YouTube Shorts. Also beneficial in dual monitor setups when one monitor is vertical.
VESA Mount Options for Wall Mountingor Monitor Arms
Most monitors have four VESA holes on the back for mounting to walls or monitor arms, improving space usage and providing smoother adjustment than built-in stands.
While VESA holes follow standard specifications, sizes vary (75mm x 75mm, 100mm x 100mm, etc.) based on screen size and weight. Check both monitor and mount specifications before purchasing.
3. Light Reflection
Non-glare for Bright OfficesGlare
Anti-glare for Dark Environments
Light reflection is an often overlooked factor when buying monitors.
There are three main types:
① Non-glare: Panel surface is chemically treated with acid to significantly reduce light reflection. Ideal for bright offices or window-side desks, but may make colors appear slightly hazy.
② Anti-glare: Uses surface coating to reduce reflection. Has slightly more reflection than non-glare panels but better color clarity with less haziness.
③ Glare: No surface treatment, offering the most accurate and crisp colors but potentially difficult to view in bright environments due to reflections.
Therefore, we recommend non-glare panels for office use, while anti-glare or glare panels are better for darker environments or when precise color accuracy is needed.
4. Gaming Features
Check Various Gaming Support Features for Gaming Monitors
Key Gaming Features
Since gaming is a major reason for buying new or high-end monitors, manufacturers develop various technologies for gamers.
These features often focus on FPS games, helping players quickly spot and react to enemies:
① Input Lag Control: Reduces delay between keyboard/mouse input and screen display. Crucial in FPS games where split-second reactions matter.
② Black Equalizer: Improves visibility in dark areas by adjusting contrast, helping distinguish objects of similar dark colors. Particularly useful for spotting enemies in shadows.
③ Game Mode Support: Quickly optimizes monitor settings for different game genres (FPS, RTS, Racing), usually with convenient hotkey switching.
④ Crosshair Display: Adds an on-screen crosshair for better aiming in FPS games.
5. Eye Protection Features
Particularly Important for Extended Use
Flicker-Free Technology for Reduced Eye Strain
With increased screen time due to remote work and online classes, eye protection features are crucial. While short-term effects might be minimal, prolonged exposure to screen light can cause eye fatigue and cumulative damage.
“Flicker-free” is a key eye protection feature. Flicker, the subtle flickering in LED products including fluorescent lights, appears as horizontal lines when photographing screens.
Though imperceptible, it causes eye fatigue and strain, which is why many recent monitors include flicker-free technology.
Blue Light Filter to Prevent Retinal Damage
Beyond simple fatigue, blue light from monitors can potentially damage retinas. Research suggests blue light wavelengths can harm eye health and disrupt body rhythms.
Blue light filter features reduce these wavelengths, and most equipped monitors include convenient hotkeys to toggle this feature.
Other eye protection features include color weakness support and anti-glare technology.
6. Additional Features
Select Based on Specific Needs
When using a monitor with a PC, you need speakers for sound, and some monitors have built-in speakers. If you don’t need high-quality audio, these can save you $10-20 on separate speakers.
For conference rooms or shared spaces, a remote control can be very convenient.
Choose other additional features based on your specific usage environment.
