How to Buy a PC Monitor: A 2022 Guide

–Monitor’s Main purpose: gaming, professional or general

Before stepping into the market to buy a PC monitor, be clear about its purpose. It has a lot to do with functions, screen sizes, connectivity options, specs, etc. So, if you do not know what you will do with your PC, you can invest in the wrong product.

Moreover, getting a monitor with a purpose will give you direction and smooth the purchasing process. Some brands have good gaming monitors that work best for professional work purposes. However, others cannot offer a high refresh rate or color accuracy, leading you to fall into the general use category. So, first, you must discover your work demands to get the right monitor.

–The higher the resolution, the better the picture

The monitor is a device that shows you the final output, so it better be equipped with exceptional built-in display functions. The most important one among others is screen resolution.

Resolution implies a number of pixels present on the screen that creates a picture. Yes, you guess it right. The more pixel density your screen can offer, the better your performance will experience. Besides, many latest/advanced monitors are coming out with 4K and 5K resolution that gamers, graphic designers, and all the professionals working with visually demanding tasks are loving.

-Refresh rates: Bigger is Better.

Refresh rate indicates the number of times/secs your monitor display can produce or refresh an image. The refresh rate is measured in Hz. Also, the nature of the refresh rate is similar to screen resolution; the higher the number, the better the display will be.

Gamers, video editors, and other professional users prefer at least a 120hz to 144Hz refresh rate because every frame count matters when we are involved with fast-paced actions. 120Hz and higher can provide you with a satisfactory speed with quick refreshes per second for smooth display performance. In simple words, if your monitor specs a 30Hz refresh rate, the display function with a speed of a turtle. However, 60Hz will be slightly better and manageable with regular tasks (general use).

Monitor resolutions

The monitors with different screen resolutions vary with other functions and prices. The more advanced resolution gets, the more price it will charge. Here is a detailed discussion of different monitor resolutions and their importance in the monitor world.

But you should be clear beforehand about your needs and work demands to invest in the right product.

• 5K Resolution

5K is the latest resolution configuration we have on the monitor. 5K means there will be 5000 pixels wide on the screen responsible for creating pictures. The display will be more sharp, fast, clear, and the colors will be vibrant as compared to 4K. 5K is definitely the future of monitors, especially for 3D modeling, photo, video editing, etc.

• 4K Resolution

4K resolution, which means 4000 pixels wide on the screen, is the latest display configuration in monitors. It is the most common type nowadays, and it makes the HD look so much better, fresh, and more attractive.

Moreover, the image depth, color quality, and contrast on 4K resolution look like a dream come true, especially when dealing with color-sensitive content.

• Ultra HD (UHD) resolution

Ultra-High resolution is another Ultra HD or 4K resolution, having horizontal and vertical pixels of 3840 by 2160. People refer to 4K resolution as Ultra HD in the cinematic world as it is four times better than HD.

• Quad HD (QHD) aka Wide Quad HD (WQHD)

We get to see a standard resolution on entry-level or budget PC monitors. Quad HD, aka QHD monitors, refer to 2560 by 1440 pixels in a 16:9 aspect ratio. Also, it makes satisfactory displays for regular use, casual gaming, or streaming. Besides, they are budget-friendly monitors compared to 4K.

What resolution do I need for gaming?

Suppose you are a gaming enthusiast and buying a PC solely for gaming. In that case, you need to get your hands on at least a 4K resolution monitor. It will deliver a crystal-clear image with balanced toning, high color accuracy, and a better contrast ratio to highlight the deep blacks.

Gaming monitors: Which features matter?

Usually, the gaming monitors come with all the necessary features to enhance your overall gaming experience. But a high refresh rate to eliminate ghosting and high screen resolution to produce clear and subtle images should be a top priority. Gamers also prefer large screen sizes and IPS display panel technology to enjoy wide viewing angles.

Besides, AMD Free Sync support to reduce screen tearing, low input lag, high response time, and VRR support are other impressive features a monitor could have.

Moreover, gaming monitors should come with a 4K webcam, impressive graphics, excellent built-in speakers, and a fully ergonomic stand to ensure comfortability during gaming sessions.

What should my gaming monitor’s refresh rate and response time be?

For regular gaming, 5ms and low response times are considered the best. However, professionals who love playing tournaments or pairing gaming consoles to have proper gaming sessions prefer a 1ms response time. The best thing about low response time is no blurring or ghosting on screen that makes the smooth display ready for all types of fast and regular games.

Furthermore, a refresh rate of 144Hz on a 1080p resolution monitor can make a suitable gaming device. However, the ideal configurations for professional gamers would be 122Hz at 1440p or 240Hz at 1080p monitor.

Which monitor features matter for general use?

When buying a PC monitor for regular use like streaming movies, working on spreadsheets, or creating presentations, you can settle with an entry-level monitor. It would house basic features that will suffice for running the routine tasks. Some necessary features that your entry-level monitor should have been:

• Suitable screen size
• 1080p resolution
• Height adjustability
• HDMI and USB port
• Rich color pallet
• Affordability

Best Monitors for 2022

Here is a list of top monitor brands of 2022 that are planning to launch new monitors with advanced technology to enhance the user experience.

Samsung

After the success of smart TVs, Samsung has been leading the monitor market for years. The brand has various monitors that cater to different buyers’ needs, even the pickiest ones. From visually demanding displays to the higher refresh rate for less ghosting, Samsung integrates advanced technology to produce high-quality products.

AOC

AOC primarily focuses on enhancing the display performance because it sets the foundation of user experience. AOC is a brand for beginners because the good quality monitors promise durability and configuration customization for later use.

Hence, you can find a range of general monitors perfect for everyday use at affordable prices.

LG

LG has a broad range of monitors for office use. LG monitors come with great ergonomic support and integrated eye care technology that keeps you fresh and healthy even after long screen hours. Also, LG produces great 4K and ultrawide monitors that can excite gamers out there, so it can be a brand for high-end monitor purchasing in 2022.

DELL

Dell does not need any introduction since it has been serving the PC market for decades. Dell monitors have exceptional build quality and built-in functions that catch professional users’ attention.

Furthermore, Dell monitors, irrespective of the screen size, deliver accurate colors with stunning image depth to execute color-sensitive content. The gaming features and ergonomic support are also worth noticing.

ASUS

ASUS is now competing with LG monitors regarding display quality and comfort. Apart from excellent ergonomics, ASUS integrates eye care and flicker-free technology in their monitors to protect you from eye strain. Besides, higher pixel density and wide color gamut coverage make them stand out among rivals.

HP

Whether an entry-level monitor or a professional, HP has everything for everyone. HP is one of the few brands present in the industry from the start of monitors production, so it knows how to do the job. Therefore, you can find some fantastic configuration combos in a range of screen sizes to match your requirements.

BenQ

The year 2022 will be the year for BenQ monitors. The brand is leading a monitor market with the terrific build quality, attractive design, affordable price tags, and captivating display performance. Their range of IPS monitors is winning the hearts of gamers and professionals using heavy software. It has also been in demand as an external monitor for Apple devices.

Acer

If you are looking for a long-lasting monitor, go for Acer. Acer monitors are worth every penny they demand because their display quality, technology, and other related factors won’t disappoint you in the long run. Also, the configuration update won’t affect the overall performance it claims to offer, so it is a fair deal to make.

MSI

MSI may be a new name in the monitor industry. Still, it has made its identity being the best monitor brand due to exceptional offerings. MSI monitors come with excellent graphics, and a high refresh rate automatically prepares the device for gaming. Also, the smooth, crisp, and clear display also provide immersive streaming and working experience.

Philips

Getting your hands on the Philips monitor is not a bad idea, even in 2022. Philips has a huge range of screen sizes, display panels, and other built-in functions that give you plenty of reasons to make the final purchase.

ViewSonic

ViewSonic is one of the leading brands in the industry that focuses on innovation to boost the user’s creativity and productivity. You will find portable monitors with rich connectivity and flexible displays for home and office use.

Moreover, the best ViewSonic monitors offer stunning resolution and rich color production on screen, making the monitors an ideal choice for streaming, gaming, and visually demanding content.

Sceptre

Sceptre should be a go-to place for beginners and mid-level users because the brand produces great products while keeping affordability at stake. After the success of the smart TV product line, the brand has been polishing its monitors while integrating the mix of the latest technology.

Lenovo

Lenovo has come a long way. Starting from struggling and competing with famous brands like HP or Dell, the brand has made some noticeable updating in their monitors. From borderless designs to major ergonomic updates, Lenovo pays attention to every detail that benefits users.

Lenovo monitors are decent, affordable, and versatile for different purposes without compromising the quality.

Viotek

When we hear about the Viotek, its incredible gaming monitor range pops up in mind. You can find compelling monitors equipped with the latest gaming features and excellent build quality with appealing price tags.

Gigabyte

Gigabyte is a decent monitor brand with a great variety of entry-level, mid-level, and professional monitors. Gigabyte monitors come with HDR support and plenty of connectivity inputs, impressive gaming features, and compelling hardware, making them the best external monitor to consider.

Buying Guide of monitors

Best external monitor for MacBook pro

Working on a MacBook Pro gives luxurious vibes, but it can be exhausting considering its limited screen size. So, it is wise to spend on the best external monitor for MacBook pro to boost your productivity and enjoy the most out of it.

Having an external monitor can save you the headache of providing a dedicated space to your system. With flexible connectivity and excellent display performance, you will undoubtedly experience a rich and seamless experience.

Best Ultrawide Monitor for Productivity

Ultrawide monitors have had a rising demand recently because they provide enough room to enhance productivity. Such monitors offer 33% more screen space that gamers, photo/video editors, influencers love to have for obvious reasons.

The best ultrawide monitor for productivity features around a 21:9 aspect ratio, ensuring stunning image depth while maintaining color accuracy and other functions intact.

Best Monitor with Built-in Speakers

The best monitor with built-in speakers will be a complete entertainment deal, especially for gamers. A combination of a good streaming-friendly display, exciting features, and a pair of compelling speakers would be like a dream come true.

Best 144Hz Monitor Under 300

Imagine getting the best 144Hz monitor under 300. Many famous brands integrate such deadly specs combo in their monitors to make the devices accessible to as many users as possible despite their strict budget limits.

It will open doors to lots of entertainment and gaming for beginners and professionals without breaking your bank.

Best Monitor for Xbox Series S

Brands are now making categories based on special features, specs combos, configurations so that the right product reaches its target market without any hassle. So, if you are a gamer and already invested in gaming consoles, get your hands on the compatible monitors to have smooth gaming.

 The best monitor for Xbox series S comes with all the advanced gaming features that enable one-click game mode to take your gaming exp to the next level.

Best 4K TV As A Monitor

You can transform your 4K TV into a PC monitor and execute your everyday or professional tasks. The smart 4K TV is blessed with exciting features and wireless connectivity that supports different channels for quick access. Besides, 4K TVs can make great external monitors with widescreen and stunning viewing angles for MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, etc.

Best TV Monitor

Suppose you are thinking of getting a TV and monitor separately. Why not invest in an all-rounder TV that can transform into a monitor when needed?

TVs offer stunning display performance, built-in speakers, an OS platform, and a huge screen; it would not be disappointing to get the best TV monitor for your new setup.