No one can deny the importance of a quality computer monitor. It is only the monitor that allows you to get the best experience out of working on your PC. Moreover, people everywhere spend so much time in front of their computer screens. So, not investing in a good monitor can wreak havoc with your daily tasks on your PC.
Today, the market is flooded with an overwhelming range of monitors. All this can leave many people confused as to what they should consider. However, there is a need to consider various features of this component before selecting one carefully.
Purpose
Before buying a computer monitor, analyse the purpose for which you will use it. If you are using it for home computing purposes like surfing the internet or social media, there is really no need to invest in a highly advanced monitor. But suppose you want to use it for a gaming experience. Then you need to pay attention to several aspects of the monitor, like resolution and pixel response time. Your monitor should keep up with the action of the game.
Do you want a monitor for professional use like video editing or graphic design? In that case, you will need to invest in a high-quality monitor, and you should make sure that your monitor has a large screen size, advanced image setting, and IPS panels.
Screen Size
The average screen size of a computer monitor range from 15’’ to 34’’. Large screen size will provide advantages like larger viewing angles and a wider choice regarding connection ports. However, sometimes a larger screen may not always be a realistic choice. A screen as large as 23’’ can also deliver a great cinematic viewing experience.
Resolution
A monitor with a high resolution will provide you with better picture quality. Ideally, 1920X1080 is considered a good resolution as it offers an optimal balance between picture and space quality. However, if you want to use the monitor for gaming or professional purposes, you need to invest in a monitor with an even higher resolution.
Panel Type
Many panels today come in the category of LCD panels. LCD panels are further classified into:
- Twisted nematic or TN Panels handle motion nicely and have quick response times. But they do not score well on colour production, viewing angles, and contrast ratios.
- In-Plane Switching or IPS Panels gives enhanced colour quality, colour accuracy, and viewing angles. But they are expensive.
- Vertical Alignment or VA Panels provide an enhanced colour production and viewing angles. But they also suffer from colour shifting.
Response Time
This feature is crucial for gamers. It highly impacts the action on the screen. Response time refers to how fast a pixel can show the colour change. A lower response time is considered good and a computer monitor having TN Panels offer the quickest response time.
Refresh Rate
Refresh rate refers to the number of times every second that the monitor refreshes the image on it. A higher refresh rate will enhance motion resolution. It means that images that are moving will become clearer and sharper. Ideally, 60Hz is recommended for a monitor.
Now that you are aware of all the necessary features of a monitor, you won’t find it difficult to purchase a good one that fulfils all your specific needs.
