In an era dominated by digital interfaces, selecting the perfect computer monitor is no longer just about size and resolution. With a multitude of options flooding the market, the quest for the ideal monitor hinges on understanding the nuanced features that cater to specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re an avid gamer seeking high refresh rates, a creative professional demanding color accuracy, or a multitasker craving ergonomic flexibility, the choices can be overwhelming. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to dissect the key features that define a monitor’s performance, ergonomics, connectivity, and specialized functionalities, empowering you to choose a display that perfectly aligns with your unique requirements.
Here are some features to consider when choosing a computer monitor:
- Monitor type: IPS is the market leader, VA is best for high contrast. OLED is a premium option but expensive.
- Size: Very dependent on personal preference and setup.
- Resolution: 1440p is recommended, 4K is an affordable upgrade.
- Refresh rate: 144Hz is becoming the standard, go higher for action-packed entertainment.
- Adaptive sync: A must-have feature for gamers.
- Stand: Look for height and tilt adjustment, plus VESA mount support.
- Additional features: Look for USB-C for bonus functionality.
Now, let’s go into more detail about each feature….
Types of Monitors
The technology available in today’s computer monitors is more complex than ever, but there are still only a small number of classifications between different types. Each one is described by the kind of technology that is used on the light panel. Almost every available monitor today can fall into one of these groups. The type of panel used will go a long way in informing you about the best use case for that particular monitor—and if it is the right fit for you.
In-Plane Switching (IPS)
IPS is the most commonly used and preferred type of computer monitor, providing a bright color display and sharp details. The color-matching performance has a broad scope, ranging from just average to completely amazing. IPS computers can also support the best features for gaming, including fast pixel responses and high refresh rates.
The downfall of most IPS monitors is a lack of contrast and a truly rich black, which can make images with a lot of shadows appear murky. This is accentuated when viewing in a dark environment, such as a gaming den or home theater room.
Here is an example of an IPS monitor:
Asus ProArt Display PA328QV 31.5″ 16:9 WQHD IPS LED HDR10 Monitor
Vertical Alignment (VA)
Increasing in popularity recently, VA monitors have become an option due to high brightness and vivid colors, which are comparable to IPS monitors. VA monitors also have a better contrast ratio and darker black levels for overall better image quality. When used for gaming, VA monitors can offer excellent motion clarity and above-average view angles, particularly vertically. However, they do tend to suffer when viewed from a side angle. IPS monitors tend to have better motion clarity at most price points. VA technology is more commonly used in TVs than PC monitors.
Here is an example of a VA monitor:
Samsung Odyssey Ark 55″ 16:9 4K Curved VA Mini-LED HDR Gaming Monitor
Twisted Nematic (TN)
TN displays consist of a panel of liquid crystals that are sandwiched between two polarizing filters. When an electrical current is applied, the crystals twist and allow light to pass through. TN panels are generally the least expensive option available in the market. They have very fast pixel response times, which improves motion clarity.
However, TN displays do have limitations in contrast, view angle, and color performance that make them less suitable for everyday use. TN monitors are best suited for dedicated gaming setups. BenQ’s Zowie line is a good example of an affordable screen that can help improve gaming performance.
Here is an example of a TN monitor:
BenQ ZOWIE XL2540K 24.5″ Full HD 16:9 240Hz TN LCD eSports Gaming Monitor
Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED)
OLED uses organic pixel elements that emit their own light. OLED technology is known for its excellent contrast and black levels as the OLED pixels that are turned off emit no light at all. These displays surpass other panel types in color performance and have best-in-class motion clarity. Additionally, viewing angles are superb.
However, OLED panels aren’t as bright as the competition at the top end. Over time, OLED displays may suffer permanent image retention (also called ghosting), although this takes many thousands of hours. Furthermore, the technology is very expensive in PC monitors.
Here is an example of an OLED monitor:
LG 27EQ850-B UltraFine 26.9″ 16:9 4K Ultra HD OLED Pro HDR Monitor
What is the Ideal Monitor?
When it comes to image quality, OLED is the clear winner. Although, it can be quite expensive and is usually targeted towards a specific audience that values uncompromised performance over cost.
On the other hand, IPS is the most popular display technology and can provide an excellent viewing experience when paired with the right combination of other specifications. For most people, IPS is the way to go, but a monitor with a VA panel might be a better choice if you do not view it from an angle and want improved image quality while watching movies and TV shows.
Other Considerations
Mini-LED Technology
Mini-LED technology is available in some monitors. This is not a different type of panel technology, but rather a backlight array. It can be found in both IPS and VA monitor types. OLED panels create their own light, so the Mini-LED backlight is unnecessary.
Mini-LED uses an array of independent LED lighting zones behind the display panel to accurately control the backlight. When compared to similar monitors that lack the technology, a Mini-LED monitor offers a significant improvement in contrast. However, Mini-LED has some drawbacks. The backlight zones can cause bright halos to appear around objects, which is known as blooming. This issue is most noticeable in a dark room. Additionally, Mini-LED is expensive to manufacture, so it is only found in premium monitors.
The number of Mini-LED lighting zones matters. A basic Mini-LED monitor like the Sony InZone offers 96, while the over-the-top Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX has more than 1,000. More zones mean better overall contrast and less blooming.
Here is an example of a Mini-LED monitor:
ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX 32″ 16:9 4K UHD 144Hz IPS Mini-LED Gaming Monitor
Monitor Size
When it comes to monitors, the most popular sizes are typically 24, 27, or 32 inches. While some may think that bigger is always better, it is important to consider how the size of a display fits within your field of view. This means that you should be able to see all parts of the screen without having to strain your eyes or move your head around too much. Ultimately, the size of your monitor is a personal preference. Smaller displays work well for multi-monitor setups, while larger displays offer wider viewing angles and the ability to view your entire workflow on one screen.
Ultrawide monitors are becoming increasingly popular and are widely available in the market. They are generally categorized as having a 21:9 aspect ratio. A 34-inch ultrawide monitor is as tall as a 27-inch screen but seven inches wider, offering a 25-percent larger display overall. This makes it an ideal choice for people who want more display space, but do not want to deal with the complexity of a multi-monitor setup.
Here is an example of a ultra wide monitor:
LG 38WN95C-W 38″ Ultrawide 21:9 QHD+ 144Hz IPS Curved Monitor, 3840×1600
In addition to offering more viewing space, the ultrawide aspect ratio is perfect for movies and some games, providing an immersive viewing experience. Although ultrawide monitors can be more expensive, they are a more affordable alternative to buying two high-quality monitors.
Monitor Resolution
Most budget monitors have a native resolution of 1080p (1920×1080). This is suitable for 24-inch monitors. However, on larger displays, the lack of sharpness becomes quite noticeable. For 27-inch and 32-inch models, a resolution of 1440p (2560×1440) is preferable. For gaming purposes, this resolution is nearly essential, but it is worth noting that the PS4 and PS5 do not support it. PC gamers will benefit from the crisper details offered by this resolution.
For larger monitors, 4K (3840×2160) resolution is ideal. While the added sharpness is not a must-have, it is particularly useful if you work on minute details or large amounts of information all at once, requiring you to zoom out. 4K resolution will bring out the finest details in movies and games, making them look incredibly sharp.
Price is a crucial factor when choosing a monitor. Lower resolutions mean lower prices, but the price gap has narrowed in recent years with 4K monitors becoming increasingly more affordable.
Here is an example of a 4K monitor:
BenQ MOBIUZ EX480UZ 48″ 16:9 4K 120Hz OLED HDR Gaming Monitor
Monitor Refresh Rate
A monitor’s refresh rate refers to the frequency at which it can update the displayed image every second. While many monitors come with a 60Hz refresh rate, 144Hz is quickly becoming the new standard. Some models offer higher refresh rates, like 240Hz or 360Hz, with premium 500Hz options also available. Higher refresh rates offer a smoother visual experience, especially when the displayed images are in motion. They also reduce input lag by displaying new images more frequently. As the refresh rates go higher, the benefits become more noticeable.
For those who primarily use their monitors for productivity, a 60Hz refresh rate is sufficient. However, if you are into fast-paced movies, graphics, or games, you will find the upgrade to 144Hz to be quite noticeable. Higher refresh rates offer a luxury for premium entertainment options and can provide a competitive advantage for serious gamers, but they are not exactly a must-have.
Here is an example of a monitor with a high refresh rate:
BenQ MOBIUZ EX240 23.8″ 16:9 Full HD 165Hz IPS LED HDR Gaming Monitor
Adaptive Sync
Adaptive Sync is a feature that enables a PC’s video output to synchronize with the refresh rate of a display. This ensures smooth frame pacing, preventing hitches, hesitations, and tearing, provided that the PC’s hardware is up to the task. This feature is a must-have for PC gamers, but it is also present in many budget monitors.
There are two common standards for Adaptive Sync based on video card manufacturers: AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync. These are designed to work with their respective video cards, so it’s important to pay attention to the monitor’s supported standards. Additionally, there’s a third-party standard called VESA AdaptiveSync, which is supported by AMD, Intel, and Nvidia in their latest graphics solutions. However, the functionality may be more limited than using the company’s in-house standard. Adaptive Sync is commonly associated with gaming, but has no real price premium attached to it, and is a feature that will improve your experience.
Here is an example of a monitor with Adaptive Sync:
ASUS ROG Strix XG27AQ 27″ 16:9 WQHD 170Hz HDR IPS LED Gaming Monitor
Additional Monitor Features
When it comes to extra features offered by monitors, there is not much that differentiates one from another. If you are looking for a device that can play music or audio, some come equipped with built-in speakers. Most people prefer to use headsets or headphones for best audio quality. Make sure you choose wisely to get the most out of your audio experience. A few models may offer a remote control, but such features are not common. There is one exception that stands out: a monitor that comes with a USB-C port. This can be used to charge a device like a laptop or can be used as a USB-C hub to extend the connectivity of your computer.
Here is an example of a monitor with a USB-C port:
HP E24u G4 23.8″ 16:9 Full HD USB Type-C IPS Monitor
Monitor Ergonomics
When it comes to monitor ergonomics, having an adjustable stand is crucial. Monitors come with a variety of stands: some have fixed plastic bases with no adjustment, while others have complex monitor arms that allow for almost any angle and orientation. Getting a stand that, at the very least, adjusts for height and tilt enables you to position the monitor at the most comfortable viewing angle.
If you intend to use the monitor as a second display, look for stands that also have swivel (horizontal angle adjustment) and pivot (90-degree rotation) features. When purchasing a monitor, check that it has a 100x100mm VESA mount. This will allow you to add a third-party monitor stand or arm later. Most monitors available today have this feature, but some budget models may not.
Ready to go even deeper? Be sure to check out our full selection of monitor articles, including the best monitors for photo editing, and our deep dive into OLED technology.
