Shopping Computer Monitors and Displays

Computer monitors and displays connect to desktop PCs and other devices so you can view content. The type of monitor to buy depends upon the types of work you do on your computer. After deciding on a screen size, look for features such as design, panel, resolution, and connectivity.
 

Types of Computer Monitors

For basic computing tasks, consider a Full HD monitor with a screen size between 19 and 24 inches. Pair work and entertainment PCs with bigger displays, to take advantage of the extra screen real estate. To keep up with high-intensity video game actions, opt for gaming monitors. These have very high resolutions, fast response times, high refresh rates, and wide viewing angles. Whether you need a display at home or in the office, consider widescreen computer monitors for maximum production. These have an aspect ratio 16:9 or 16:10, display dimensions that let you open multiple apps side-by-side, and make movies and games look cinematic.
 

Ultrawide monitors have an aspect ratio of 21:9. They can accommodate even more windows, and they make video games more immersive. Touchscreen monitors feature touch-enabled screens that allow gestures such as swiping, tapping, and pinch-to-zoom. Consider smart display clients when looking for touchscreen monitors for work. These are all-in-one desktop computers running Windows and other operating systems.

Computer Monitor Panel Types and Resolution

The majority of computer displays use LCD panels. For brighter images, look for an LED monitor, which is an LCD panel with light-emitting diode backlighting. An LED computer monitor is thinner than a regular LCD panel and uses less power. The three types of LCD panels used for monitors are TN, VA, and IPS, each with distinct benefits:

• TN panels have high refresh rates and fast response times.
• VA panels offer good viewing angles and the best contrast.
• IP panels render vibrant colors with excellent contrast and impressive viewing angles.

The stellar responsiveness of TN panels makes them ideal as gaming monitors. For the best image quality, choose an IPS computer monitor. An HD computer display has a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. This is the minimum resolution to look for in a monitor to enjoy crisp text and images as well as vivid colors. For 20-inch and larger monitors, opt for Full HD or 1080p resolution to make images look sharp. Quad HD (1440p) and Ultra HD (4K) models deliver sharper images and are best for multimedia editing and gaming. For health care offices, medical diagnostic displays feature such high-resolution panels and boast high color accuracy.

What's the Benefit of a Curved Computer Monitor?

A curved monitor keeps its entire screen within your field of view. Flat monitors measuring 27 inches and wider look imposing when you're sitting close to them, and you have to move your head to see the edges. A monitor with curved sides, however, brings its edges closer to keep you in the sweet spot while reducing glare and without sacrificing image quality.

Whether you're looking for computer monitors and displays to stream movies, play video games, or multitask at work, you can find the right model among B&H Photo and Video's selection of new and used computer monitors.