The computer monitor market has seen significant advancements in recent years, with the emergence of new technologies and improved features. Whether you’re a business user, content creator, multitasker, or gamer, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this article, we will discuss the various factors you should consider when purchasing a computer monitor and provide some recommendations for the best monitors in different price ranges.
Panel Type: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a monitor is the panel type. There are three main types of panels: TN (twisted nematic), VA (vertical alignment), and IPS (in-plane switching). TN panels are the cheapest option and are primarily used for gaming or office use. VA panels offer good brightness and a high contrast ratio, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. However, if color accuracy and viewing angles are important to you, IPS panels are the way to go. They deliver better color accuracy, picture quality, and wider viewing angles, making them ideal for content creators.
Screen Size, Resolution, and Display Format: The size, resolution, and aspect ratio of the monitor are also crucial factors to consider. While 24-inch displays used to be standard, larger screen sizes like 27, 32, 34, and even 42 inches have become popular in recent years. The choice of screen size depends on your personal preference and the intended use of the monitor. If you’re a content creator, a 4K monitor with a screen size of 27 inches or larger is recommended for optimal detail and clarity. However, if you’re working up close to the display, it’s best not to exceed 27 inches unless it’s a 4K monitor to avoid pixelation.
HDR: HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a feature that adds vibrancy to entertainment and gaming. When choosing a monitor with HDR support, it’s important to make sure it conforms to a base standard. Look for monitors with a DisplayHDR rating, with each tier representing maximum brightness in nits. The lowest DisplayHDR tiers (400 and 500) may disappoint you with a lack of brightness and washed-out blacks. If you can afford it, opt for a monitor with DisplayHDR 600, 1000, or True Black 400, 500, or 600 for the best HDR experience.
Refresh Rate: The refresh rate of a monitor refers to how quickly it can refresh the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate results in smoother motion and reduces motion blur, making it important for gaming. The minimum refresh rate you should consider is 60Hz, but ideally, you should aim for 80Hz or higher. Most 4K monitors top out at 60Hz, so if you’re looking for a higher refresh rate, you’ll need to go for a lower resolution or opt for a gaming display with DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI 2.1.
Inputs: The type of inputs available on the monitor is another factor to consider. The three main types of display inputs are Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, and HDMI. Most monitors built for PCs come with DisplayPort and HDMI inputs, while Thunderbolt inputs are mainly found on monitors designed for Macs. If you’re using a MacBook or a laptop with USB-C ports, make sure to check if the USB-C ports support DisplayPort or Thunderbolt to ensure compatibility.
Color Bit Depth and Gamut: Serious content creators should consider monitors with a higher color bit depth. A 10-bit monitor can display billions of colors, while an 8-bit panel can fake billions of colors through dithering. For most users, an 8-bit monitor that can display millions of colors will be sufficient. The color gamut of a monitor refers to the range of colors it can reproduce. Most monitors can cover the sRGB and Rec.709 gamuts, which are designed for photos and videos. However, for more demanding work, opt for a monitor that can reproduce wider gamuts like AdobeRGB, DCI-P3, and Rec.2020.
Console Gaming: If you’re a console gamer, it’s important to choose a monitor that can support the capabilities of your gaming console. Both the Xbox Series X and Sony PS5 can handle 4K 120Hz HDR gaming. Look for a monitor with at least 4K resolution, HDR support, and a high refresh rate to provide the best gaming experience possible.
Pricing and Parts Shortages: Due to supply and demand issues, monitor supply is still a bit tighter than pre-pandemic levels. Keep in mind that the prices mentioned in this article are based on suggested retail prices (MSRP), and you may have trouble finding monitors at the suggested price. Monitor prices may vary, so it’s important to do your research and compare prices from different retailers.
Best Monitors Under $200:
– Samsung T35F: This 27-inch 1080p monitor offers a good balance of size, refresh rate, and color accuracy. It’s suitable for business or light PC gaming and content work.
– LG 24GL600F: This 24-inch 1080p monitor is a solid option for those who prefer a smaller display or have limited desk space. It offers a high refresh rate of 144Hz with AMD FreeSync support, making it ideal for gaming.
Best Monitors Under $400:
– HP U28: This 28-inch 4K HDR monitor is a great option for content creators. It offers excellent color accuracy and a nice size for creative or business work.
– Gigabyte G27QC: This 27-inch 1440p curved monitor is a top pick for gaming. It has a quick 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, along with HDR support.
Best Monitors Under $500:
– LG 32UN650-W: This 32-inch 4K monitor is suitable for entertainment, creative work, and gaming. It offers HDR support and a high-quality IPS panel.
– ASUS ROG Swift PG256QN: This 24.5-inch 1080p monitor is fast, with a 360Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It offers excellent image quality and is ideal for gaming.
Best Monitors Under $1,000:
– ViewSonic ColorPro VP2786: This 27-inch 4K HDR monitor is a great option for content creators. It offers excellent color accuracy and is certified for soft-proofing by the print industry.
– Dell G3223Q: This 32-inch 4K HDR monitor is the best gaming monitor under $1,000. It offers a high refresh rate, HDR support, and compatibility with both FreeSync and G-Sync.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right computer monitor depends on a variety of factors, including panel type, screen size, resolution, HDR support, refresh rate, inputs, color bit depth, color gamut, and pricing. Consider your specific needs and use cases before making a purchase. The monitors mentioned in this article provide a range of options at different price points, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
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