Monitors Buyers Guide
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Monitors Buyers Guide
Every computer
user needs a computer
monitor that suits their needs. Whether that’s for use with a
PC, a
laptop, or
even a tablet,
having the right monitor can change the entire user experience. Some
people might prioritise a
large screen size, while others would prefer
a
crisp 4K display. You might be wondering “what monitor should I
get?” and this Monitor Buyer’s Guide will highlight the different
benefits available with modern monitors, will provide plenty of features
to consider for your new monitor, and will hopefully answer the
questions you have about buying a monitor.
Features & Benefits
Monitor Screen Size
Our computer monitors come in a range of sizes. The screen size of a monitor is the distance measured in inches from one corner of the screen's viewable area to the corner diagonally opposite. This does not include the bezel (this is the edge around the viewable screen). A screen size around 21.9” and smaller would be considered for a home user with limited desk space. A PC monitor of this size would serve well for basic functions. The most popular size for monitors is in the 22”-23.9” and 24”-26.9” categories. These sizes are ideal for use in the office or at home. Many monitors of this size are very affordable and still provide a good viewing experience. Screens that are in the 27”-28.9”, 29”-31.9”, or 32”+ ranges would be considered large screens with typically better pictures. 27 inch monitors are extremely popular and these large screens are often used by web designers, video or photo editors, gamers, and any professionals that require a good visual format. Once you go bigger than 32 inch monitors you can get an Ultrawide monitor screen. Ultrawide screens are ideal for professionals that rely on high-resolution visuals as these screens are often in 4K Ultra HD format. The standard aspect ratio for a computer monitor is 16:9 because this ratio fits most video and visual content best – this is measured as the width of the monitor : height of the monitor. Ultrawide screens typically have a 21:9 aspect ratio and provide wider, clearer viewing.
Flat Screen vs Curved Screen
Many new monitors are designed with a curved screen and provide an immersive viewing experience. The wide, enveloping screen keeps the viewer focused on their work and away from distractions. Curved screens are considered easy on the eye by providing better viewing angles to prevent tiring your eyes out, and can therefore inspire more productivity. Curved monitors have also become popular in our Gaming Monitors as they provide a wide peripheral view on the screen, almost imitating a 3-dimensional view. Curved is great if you're sitting in the middle in front of the screen. While they are excellent for gaming, they may not be ideal for work/graphics as the curve might distort the design. A flat monitor screen is still the most common monitor screen you’ll find. The flat screen is simple, efficient, and practical so we wouldn’t expect the flat screen to be going anywhere anytime soon. Curved and flat screens can both be mounted if they have a VESA compatible mount on the back, but the curved screen might not be ideal mounted against a flat wall.
Ports & Connectivity
Monitors of different models will have different ports and connectivity. Some older models might still use VGA or DVI but these interfaces have become very uncommon in new models. These ports are instead replaced by the likes of HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort. See below for a list of the most common ports and connectivity on monitors: HDMI – This is used to connect your monitor to a computer or laptop and transmit digital video and audio to your monitor USB-C – This connection is used to connect your monitor to a laptop to transmit pictures and audio. USB-C also has charging capabilities so this can also serve to charge your laptop from the monitor. DisplayPort – A DisplayPort is similar to HDMI and transmits digital video and audio to your monitor from a laptop. DVI – This is an old connection that can only transmit digital video, it does not carry audio. VGA – VGA came before HDMI and is found on lots of older technological devices like monitors, laptops, TVs, projectors, etc. VGA transmits audio and video from a device to your monitor. Mini DisplayPort / Thunderbolt – The mini DisplayPort is being phased out in place of the USB-C, but is a high functioning transmitter of audio and video from a source to the monitor. Mini HDMI – This connection is mostly found on small laptops and tablets so is, therefore, less popular than others, but acts the same as an HDMI connection. If you cannot find a cable to match an interface on each of your computer and your monitor, you will likely find a cable adapter to help you connect them instead.
LCD vs LED Panel Types
What is LCD? LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display - it is a flat screen that uses a backlight against liquid crystal technology to create a display. The contrast on an LCD monitor is usually low and is becoming less popular as new technologies are developed in monitors. What is LED? LED stands for Light-Emitting Display – it uses a backlight illuminated with LED lights, and would be more popular than LCD monitors because they result in a flatter screen. The images are usually very bright and powerful on both LED and LCD, but the downside is that having a backlight means the screen needs to be thick. Also, some people might notice an off-putting brightness on the panel when using an LCD/LED monitor, and a lack of detail in dark areas of the screen. This is where OLED comes in.
OLED Panel Type
What is OLED? OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode because it emits its own light without using a backlight and, due to this, the images can be controlled by individual pixels. This means that the contrast is high on OLED monitors, enabling brighter colours and a deep black that contributes to the vivid picture and excellent viewing. OLED screens are much more environmentally friendly than LED/LCD screens, as well as being much flatter. The biggest downside to OLED monitors is that they are more expensive than LCD and LED monitors due to their quality picture, and there is speculation on the life span of OLED panels. Nevertheless, OLED screens are considered the superior monitor.
Screen Resolution
The screen resolution of a monitor refers to the visual dimensions in pixels of a display. Basically, the more pixels per inch on a screen means there will be a clearer and sharper image and this is reflected in the most popular types of High Definition monitors Full HD – Refers to images with 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution (1080p). Full HD is standard resolution now for television, monitors, and most HD videos. This has overtaken HD (High-Definition) which ran on 720p. QHD – Stands for Quad High Definition and is 2560 x 1440 pixels with a ratio of 16:9 (1440p). QHD offers 4 times more definition than standard 720p HD therefore it is noticeably clearer than Full HD WQHD – Stands for Wide Quad High Definition and measures 3440 x 1400 pixels (1440p). WQHD works the same as QHD but is for wide-screen use UHD 4K – Stands for Ultra High Definition and 4K resolution refers to around 4000 pixels, and has 4 times as many pixels as Full HD
Monitor Mount
Consider an ergonomic setup using a monitor mount. This most commonly comes in the form of monitor arms which are often adjustable by height and angle. There are different types of mounts available – wall mounts, desk clamp mounts, etc. To be able to attach a monitor arm to your screen, you will need to have a VESA compatible mount on the back of the monitor. Specific hole patterns are always stated in monitor specs - 100mm x 100mm is the most common one. The use of monitor arms is very popular in a dual-monitor setup – where 2 monitors are being used to display from the same laptop/computer. This makes 2 screens available from the same device so that you can simultaneously work independently on both. You should also be able to duplicate the display on each screen, which might be helpful for a user teaching or training someone. This can be replicated in other multi-monitor setups, such as a 3-screen setup, or even a 4-screen setup. If a mount isn’t suitable for you, consider a monitor stand. Monitor stands come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit many different monitor models. Both mounts and monitor stands are there to help keep your monitor within your eye-line and to ergonomically prevent strain on your back and neck.
Touchscreen Monitors
When purchasing a computer monitor you might consider a touchscreen monitor, so what are the benefits of using a touchscreen monitor for your PC? The traditional monitor/computer setup includes the use of a separate keyboard and mouse, but a touchscreen monitor would remove the need for separate attachments – you can just use the screen as your keyboard and mouse. They are arguably easier to navigate because you’re not moving a cursor around using a mouse or trackpad – just touch the screen where you need to. Touchscreens would be popular with creative professionals in photo-editing, video-editing, and design because they can maximise their viewing of the screen and magnify easily. Touchscreens are also said to help navigate through Microsoft Excel files. There are downsides to touchscreens, namely, they are often more expensive and you need to be active in the upkeep and cleaning of your touchscreen device.
Frequently Asked Questions |
| 1 - How do I measure a monitor screen size, and what size do I need? |
| The screen size of a monitor is the distance measured in inches from one corner of the screen's viewable area to the corner diagonally opposite. This does not include the bezel (this is the edge around the viewable screen). A screen size around 21.9” and smaller, or in the 22”-23.9” and 24”-26.9” categories would be considered for a home user with limited desk space. These sizes are ideal for use in the office or at home. Screens that are in the 27”-28.9”, 29”-31.9”, or 32”+ would be considered large screens with typically better pictures. 27 inch monitors are the most popular monitor screen size and are commonly used by professionals, students, gamers, and regular computer users. |
| 2 - Are curved monitors better than a flat monitors? |
| Curved screens are considered easy on the eye by providing better viewing angles to prevent tiring your eyes out, and can therefore inspire more productivity. Curved monitors have also become popular for use in gaming as they provide a wide peripheral view on the screen, almost imitating a 3-dimensional view. A flat monitor screen is still the most common monitor screen you’ll find - it is simple, efficient, and practical. In the argument of flat screen vs curved screen, a big difference is in the installation process and the difficulty in finding some brackets and fittings for a curved screen. Curved screens are typically more expensive. |
| 3 - What is screen resolution, and what is a good resolution for a monitor? |
| The screen resolution of a monitor refers to the visual dimensions in pixels of a display. Basically, the more pixels per inch on a screen means there will be a clearer and sharper image and this is reflected in the most popular types of High Definition monitors which are, in order of least to most pixels, Full HD, QHD, WQHD, and UHD 4K. While many users will agree that Full HD or QHD (Quad HD) provides a perfectly clear picture for them, others might opt to spend more on a UHD 4K (Ultra HD in 4K) screen – it’s all about personal preference, but Full HD continues to be the most popular and affordable option. |
| 4 - What should I look for when buying a monitor? |
| If you are buying a computer monitor screen you should consider what size screen you need. If you can work well with a standard size screen then opt for that, but if you work with graphics or video editing you might need to spend more on a larger screen. Also, consider the screen resolution and picture quality panel types. The higher the resolution of a screen the better images you will get but this is again reflected in the price. With panel types, choose between common LCD/LED or OLED. Some users might consider a curved screen for a more immersive experience, or perhaps a touchscreen monitor for professional use. |
| 5 - What brand of computer monitor is best? |
| There are plenty of monitor brands to choose from. It’s hard to say whether one brand is better than another because every model has different attributes. A particular Dell monitor that you have used before might have been clearer than an HP monitor, but maybe the HP monitor was an older model with older specifications. To choose the right computer monitor for you, read the specifications of the monitor to find out about picture quality, size, and resolution, and see how this model compares with your budget. For a decent-quality budget, monitors consider an ASUS monitor, Viewsonic monitor, or AOC monitor. We also stock monitors by HP, Dell, Lenovo, Iiyama, Samsung, BenQ, LG, Acer, HANNspree, etc. |
| 6 - How does a monitor work with a laptop? |
| In most situations you can connect your laptop to your computer monitor so that the picture is displayed on the monitor – the only reason this would not be possible would be if you do not have the correct cable to accomplish this, or if your laptop needs to update its software to be able to connect to the external hardware. Typically a user would require their laptop to have any one of these ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, in some circumstances USB-A, and less commonly VGA. You would then need to check if your monitor has any of these ports also, and then find a cable that will link two of these ports together to transfer pictures and sound to the monitor. The most common example of this would be using an HDMI to HDMI cable to extend the display. If you cannot find the exact cable, try a cable adapter instead. |
| 7 - How much does a good computer monitor cost? |
| Depending on the user’s requirements for their monitor, a decent middle-range monitor would normally cost in the range of €200-€400. ViewSonic, AOC, and ASUS would be popular budget-friendly brands of monitors. If you require your monitor to be higher spec then the price usually goes up with that. For a 4K display on your computer screen, the budget would be around €500+. These screens can exceed €1000 depending on the spec and function, and would be most sought after by image and video editing professionals and graphic designers. |
| 8 - What is an Ultrawide monitor and is an Ultrawide monitor good for work? |
| Ultrawide monitors are ideal for professionals that rely on high-resolution visuals as these screens are often in 4K Ultra HD format. The standard aspect ratio for a computer monitor is 16:9 because this ratio fits most video and visual content best – this is measured as the width of the monitor: height of the monitor. Ultrawide screens typically have a 21:9 aspect ratio and provide wider, clearer viewing. Ultrawide monitors are ideal for professionals who, instead of using a dual or triple monitor setup, can have open several tabs and programs across an ultrawide screen. Ultrawide screens are also becoming increasingly popular with gamers for a more immersive experience. |
Monitor Accessories
Monitor Arm
Monitor arms are often adjustable by height and angle. To be able to attach a mount or monitor arm to your screen, you will need to have a VESA compatible mount on the back of the monitor. Specific hole patterns are always stated in monitor specs - 100mm x 100mm is the most common one. The use of monitor arms is very popular in a multi-monitor setup – where 2 or more monitors are being used to display from the same laptop/computer. In this case, the user would normally extend their screen – meaning that there are 2 or more screens available from the same device so that you can simultaneously work independently on both. Monitor arms are an essential ergonomic accessory for your office.
Monitor Stand
Monitor stands come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit many different monitor models. They are designed to raise your screen up to your eye-line so as to prevent a strain on your neck and back from leaning over the screen, or crouching toward it. Monitor stands can come with storage space underneath for storing office stationery, paper, etc. and some have a built-in drawer for the same purpose. Also known as monitor risers, they vary in price depending on spec, and a standard monitor riser should cost around €30-€60. Monitor stands €60+ likely have been manufactured with more durable materials to a higher standard.
Monitor Screen Filters
There are 3 main types of monitor screen filters you can get which are Privacy screen filters, Anti-Glare filters, and Screen Protectors. Each of these filter types can come in a variety of sizes to suit a wide range of screen models. Privacy screen filters are used on monitors where the user wants to ensure that nobody around them can see their screen by distorting the picture to anyone not using the device, which can be vital to anyone working on confidential documents. For professionals traveling for work and working on their commute a privacy screen filter is a new essential. Anti-glare filters are used on the screen in rooms with harsh lighting to prevent glare on the screen and strain on the eye. Screen protectors are less popular for monitors but can be purchased to protect the glass of the screen from damage.
Webcams
There is a need for webcams now more than ever as people are working from home, or practicing hybrid working and need certain products so that they can keep in touch and maintain productivity. Thanks to apps like Microsoft Teams and Zoom people can keep in touch from anywhere that there is an internet connection – and the webcam is a vital piece of equipment to stay connected with your team, or classmates. Webcams can range from €20 up to upwards of €1000 – but the average user needn’t spend more than €60 on the device. For professionals regularly conferencing over camera, they might consider spending more on a higher spec and crisp picture quality webcam. Some monitors will already have a built-in webcam.
Speakers
Many monitors will have speakers built-in but it is not a guarantee so always check the specifications of your monitor of interest. PC speakers can be connected to your computer usually by a wired connection and can be an essential for a home office, or for use in-office. The vast majority of PC speakers are very affordable these days ranging mostly around €20-€50 for a decent pair. You will find that PC speakers costing more than €50 likely have a louder volume capability and a promise of clearer sound, but many users won’t require this or notice a huge difference between them.
Surge protectors
Surge protectors might seem like an afterthought when considering buying a computer monitor, but they are an essential for any office, home office, education setting, or anywhere that you might be working on important files that you need to ensure are protected in case of a voltage spike. Surge protectors are designed to allow multiple devices or appliances to be plugged into the sockets without the risk of a power surge damaging the appliances. They act as a safe extension lead for your devices, particularly for your computer, monitor, laptop, etc. Surge protectors can typically come with as many as 8 power outlets available but if you require smaller you can get less, or even single-socket surge protectors. The price of a surge protector ranges from around €20-€80 depending on how many outlets you need, cable length, and voltage.