A computer monitor is a piece of computer hardware that displays images, graphic information, and video generated by a connected computer’s video card. Monitors are usually placed on stationary desks, also called screens, display screens, video display units, and video display terminals.
The variety of monitors available today is massive. If you are looking for a guide to buying a computer monitor, know that these display screens come in many types, so be careful before purchasing one.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a PC Monitor
Purpose
Before buying a display screen, determine why you are purchasing it in the first place. Depending on your purpose, you can choose one accordingly.
There are screens for business, everyday use, gaming, and running professional projects. Each differs in terms of its specifications and features.
You will fail to get a suitable screen without a clearly outlined purpose. Subsequently, before buying one, determine why you are buying it and then invest in one.
Resolution
Resolution is a critical consideration to keep in mind. The most popular standard resolution these days is 1920x1080. However, the higher the resolution, the sharper and better the experience of watching videos and playing games. When choosing a screen, heed the resolution and try for one supporting 4K.
Cost
It would be best to consider the monitor’s cost before buying one. The higher the screen specs, the more costly it will be.
A 24-inch screen will naturally be cheaper than a 32-inch one. As you go up the specification ladder, the cost of the screen increases. One key thing to remember is that the resolution has the highest impact on price, so be mindful. Before determining the cost, outline your requirements and then start looking. You can always compromise on the size but never compromise on the resolution.
Refresh Rate
Determining your screen’s refresh rate before buying one is vital. The refresh rate is the number of times a display screen refreshes and updates the entire information in one second. In gaming, refresh rate is related to quality; the higher, the better. Standard screens have a 60Hz refresh rate, whereas professional gaming screens have a higher refresh rate of up to 240Hz. However, a high refresh rate should be paired with the right graphics card.
Size
The size of the screen also plays a significant role in determining its cost. The bigger the screen, the better, but the more expensive it will be. Curved screens are also top-rated, as they deliver the perfect blend of resolution and size.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen monitors are a rarity but valuable, as they let you interact with programs flawlessly. Modern operating systems have specific features explicitly built for touchscreens, so choose a laptop with a touchscreen to make the most of your device.
Type of Monitor
Three types of screens are available: TN, IPS, and VA.
The TN screen is suitable for playing games as it has a much higher refresh rate. On the other hand, the IPS panel’s picture quality and viewing angle are outstanding. IPS panels are perfect for everyday work, such as picture or video editing and streaming movies. Certain people also prefer to play visually appealing games on IPS panel screens. TN screens are suitable for serious gamers. However, most everyday customers use IPS panels.
On the other hand, VA (Vertical Alignment Panels) are perfect for photographers, graphics designers, and video editors who want improved colours and viewing angles. VA panels provide higher response times than TN panels, which makes them perfect for casual gaming. However, they suffer from the problem of ‘ghosting.’
Response Time
A screen’s response time is when it takes to receive a signal from the CPU and react accordingly. Response time is measured in milliseconds and ranges from 1 ms to 6 ms. The rule with response time is simple: the shorter, the better. The response time does not affect a casual user but will involve an advanced gamer. If you have advanced usage or are a gamer, choose a screen with a shorter response time.
Brightness
The brightness of a screen is measured in nits or cd/m2. Most everyday screens come with a 250 cd/m2 brightness, enough for daily use. Select a 300–350 cd/m2 brightness for a high-end screen.
Input
It is also vital to choose the input on your screen. Previously, VGA or DVI were familiar input sources for screens, but now HDMI and DisplayPort are popular. The HDMI port is better for casual users, whereas the DisplayPort is for advanced users such as gamers and video editors.
Base
Among other technical aspects, the screen base is also crucial. Some commands only support tilting, but newer screens support tilting, swivelling, and adjusting. A swivel base is much better than a tilting one because it lets you adjust the screen according to how you view it, minimising neck and shoulder pain. Some screens are VESA-compatible and can be mounted on walls.
Eye Care Technology
The latest screens contain modern technology that reduces eye strain. Some companies prefer to emphasise eye care, and some do not.
When choosing a display screen, make sure that you select one with eye-care technology to protect your eyes and reduce their strain.
Best Monitors: Top 2
Huawei AD80HW
Specifications
- 23.8 In. IPS Display, 1920 x 1080 Maximum Resolution
- 1000:1 contrast ratio, 16:9 aspect ratio
- VGA
- Black Colour
- 1-Year Warranty
- New Condition
Features
The Huawei AD80HW is a 23.8-inch IPS technology display. With a high response rate and refresh rate of 5 ms and 75 Hz, respectively, it flaunts a 1000:1 contrast ratio and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Additionally, the VGA screen has vivid and precise colours and is a full-view display with a 72% NTSC colour gamut. It is also certified by TUV Rheinland, which improves eye care and reduces the strain on your eyes. The screen has 5.7-mm bezels and a 178-degree viewing angle. It also supports AMD FreeSync technology and VESA mounting standards.
ASUS ProArt PA247CV
Specifications
- 23.8-inch IPS LED Display, 1920 x 1080 Maximum Resolution
- 1000:1 contrast ratio, 16:9 aspect ratio
- USB-C
- 3-Year Warranty
- New Condition
Features
The ASUS ProArt PA247CV is a versatile, ergonomic, and ulterior screen with a 23.8-inch IPS LED display. It is perfect for creative professionals to perform daily video editing and graphic designing tasks. It is also factory-calibrated and Calman-verified to deliver the best colour accuracy.
The screen features a 5 ms response time and 75 Hz refresh rate, a 1000:1 contrast ratio, and a 16:9 aspect ratio. It supports USB-C and has the potential to bring out maximum user creativity. Its other features are ‘true colours,’ ‘high colour fidelity with expressive hues,’ ‘quick colour,’ ‘personalised editing experience,’ ‘’real’’-size artwork preview,’ ‘ASUS eye care technology,’ to protect your eyes,’ ‘ultra-low blue light technology,’ and ‘flicker-free technology.’
Conclusion
Computer monitors differ in what they provide. Aside from the variety they render, there are certain specifications you should be mindful of before you purchase one.
If you are satisfied with the screen-buying guide above, check out Laptop Outlet, they stock a wide range with plenty of variety. Browse through the options and choose the ideal one for you today!