types of computer display screens pricelist

Manufacturers have discontinued their lines of bulky CRT monitors in favor of slimmer, brighter LCD monitors. Many monitors are designed to double as TV and movie screens or computer displays. Selecting the right LCD monitor depends a lot on how users intend to use the product, be it for working, playing games or watching movies.

A budget-priced LCD monitor can be purchased for about $100to $200. This type of LCD monitor is a low cost way for students or general-purpose users to upgrade from an old CRT unit. Expect a 15- to 20-inch screen, either standard 4:3 or widescreen format, with a maximum resolution of up to 1600 x 900. Even budget monitors should have a response time of at least 12ms, fast enough to play video games or watch DVDs. An example of an inexpensive monitor is the Acer V173b, a 17-Inch LCD monitor with 1280 x 1024 maximum resolution available for a shade under $100. The HP 2009M[1] is available for about $150and offers a 20-inch HD screen with a maximum resolution of 1600 x 900.

Business or home office users should look for a monitor that offers a high brightness rating and is easily adjustable for comfortable viewing over long periods of time. Expect wide viewing angles and units with swivel, tilt and pivot settings. These types of monitors are available for about $200to $500. An example of a business monitor is the HP L2245wg available for about $250. The 22-inch wide aspect screen offers a 160-degree viewing angle, tilt, pivot and swivel options as well as anti-glare and anti-static features.

Video gamers require a monitor with a large, bright screen, accurate colors and plenty of connectivity options. Look for a full HD screen that can be connected to Blu-ray and DVD players as well as video game consoles. Expect to pay $400to $1,500and above for this type of monitor with a 24- to 30-inch screen. The Dell Ultrasharp 2709W costs about $700and offers a 27-inch WUXGA full-HD screen with 1920 x 1200 maximum resolution and high brightness rating.

For editing or watching movies, users need a monitor that delivers crisp images with accurate black levels and flesh tones. Look for a 24- to 30-inch widescreen unit with a fast pixel response time and multiple connectivity options. An HDMI connection preserves HD content from a Blu-ray player or HDTV signal without degradation. Expect to pay $500to $1,800and up for a monitor suitable for viewing movies. The Dell UltraSharp 2408WFP is a 24-inch WUGA 1920 x 1200 display available for under $600,while the Gateway XHD3000 costs about $1,000and offers a 30-inch HD screen with many home theater style features as well as 6 video inputs and 6 USB ports. For Mac users, the Apple Cinema HD 30-inch Display[2] costs about $1,800and offers an optimal resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a wide 178 degree viewing angle.

Manufacturer such as Hewlett-Packard[3] offer closeout and refurbished monitors at discounted prices, as well as discounts for some government and education employees.

End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It"s especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet.|| Posted November 11 2013

Computer monitors are a must-have for PC users and hardcore gamers. Consumers may be looking at computer monitor buying guides and wondering just how much a typical computer monitor costs and the overall price range of displays.

Modern computer monitors can fluctuate wildly when it comes to price, with some models as cheap as $50 and others costing $1000 or more. In the past, the first computer with a screen was astronomically expensive, but thankfully monitor technology become more accessible, bringing the price down throughout the decades. The average computer monitor costs around $200 – $300. There are some features and functionalities that can severely impact the price so be sure to do some research so you make sure you’re getting the best cheap monitor if you have a lower budget.

There are a number of features and functionalities that can increase the overall price of a computer monitor, and that’s without adding accessories to your monitor like a webcam or monitor arm if you know how to mount a monitor.

Generally speaking, LCD displays are the cheapest type of modern computer monitor. LED displays, which are based on the same technology as their LCD cousins, tend to be slightly more expensive while OLED displays are the most expensive of all. The latter being due to the high-priced components that make up the OLED technology.

Modern computer monitors can boast resolutions as high as 8K, offering stunning and true-to-life visuals and graphics. 8K, and even 4K, displays feature newly adopted technological advancements. As such, the higher the resolution, the costlier the monitor. If you are looking to snag a high-quality monitor on the cheap, go for an HD display with a 1080p resolution.

If you are using your PC to stream content or to play graphically intensive games, then the refresh rate is an incredibly important consideration. The refresh rate indicates how often your monitor refreshes the screen. As for price, monitors with ultra-high refresh rates, above 120Hz, tend to be more expensive than displays with refresh rates of 75Hz or less.

The overall size of a computer monitor, and its width, can impact the overall price. Typically, ultrawide monitors and displays that are larger than 34-inches tend to be on the expensive side. This price continues to increase as the monitor size increases. Get the size that may cater better to your needs if you need the monitor for a specific task, like the best size monitor for gaming should help make your gameplay more efficient. Ultrawide monitors and larger-than-average monitors can significantly increase the viewing angle, which can be a useful benefit.

Certain monitors include additional features that can impact the price. These can include USB hubs, integrated stereo speakers, microphones, ergonomically designed frames, and more. Some monitors also include robust cable management systems, making for a tidy setup. We recommend making a “must-have” list of features before settling on your final purchase.

Who this is for: A dual-monitor setup is usually the best option if you want to have a bunch of app windows open at once. But an ultrawide model might be a better choice if you need a ton of unbroken horizontal space, or you don’t want monitor bezels in between windows.

Why we like it: The Dell P3421W has a sturdy adjustable stand, lots of ports (including a USB-C port that can handle power, display, and data over a single cable), and a three-year warranty. And it has a built-in KVM switch that allows you to easily swap your keyboard, mouse, and video between two computers. The 1440p display has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is great for typical office work, web browsing, and casual gaming.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If you use your display in direct sunlight, this monitor might not be bright enough for you. It can also provide 65 W of power over USB-C, but some laptops require more. If you have a laptop with an Nvidia GeForce RTX GPU or an Intel Core i7 processor, you might need to keep the laptop plugged in to a separate charger or use a Thunderbolt dock that can provide the extra power.

Most ultrawide monitors are also curved. This design helps minimize viewing-angle problems—when you’re sitting centered, things on the far edges of the screen won’t look as washed out as they would on a flat display of a similar width. But this also makes ultrawide monitors inaccurate for precision tasks requiring straight lines, such as drawing, photo editing, or similar design work.

Working from home has become the new normal for many people, so finding the best computer monitor is more important than ever. After all, you want to see the best visual quality from your coworkers" best webcams, right? And while many PC components are still enduring depressing shortages, performing a screen upgrade is one of the most accessible and impactful changes you can make to your gaming rig at the moment.

Before we get into our primary list of picks, here is an amazing deal on one of our favorite tested monitors below. Sure, it"s more of a TV than a monitor, but it"s hard to pass up a big OLED screen for $600 (after an admittedly annoying $200 mail-in rebate).

Just know that to get the last $200 off, you"ll have to deal with an old-school rebate (where you have to mail in the original UPC). Other features include 10-bit color / 98% DCI-P3 / 130% sRGB, and a KVM feature with USB Type-C to control multiple devices. Check out our Aorus FO48U review to see why we gave it our Editor"s choice award.

Earning a 5-star rating from Tom"s Hardware, the Samsung Odyssey G7 32-inch is the best computer monitor. For gamers, it boasts the strongest curve currently available, 1000R, for incredible immersion, along with speedy gaming numbers. The 240Hz monitor has a 1ms (GTG) response time and put up a 5ms response time score in our testing, beating some 165Hz screens by 2ms. In addition, benchmarking showed input lag at 20ms, a full 6 to 10ms faster than some 165Hz screens we’ve tested, including the Dell S3220DGF also on this page.

This is also a strong work monitor. Its 32-inch panel offers plenty of height for productivity, like working on long spreadsheets in a way that’s easier than on a 32-inch ultrawide. And at a 2 to 3-foot viewing distance, we don"t have any distortion issues with that dramatic curve. Just be sure to bring your own audio because, despite the price, there are no speakers here.

The Dell S3222DGM is the best gaming monitor for many gamers. This follow-up to the highly-rated S3220DGF(opens in new tab) boasts a 32-inch VA(opens in new tab) panel, QHD resolution and 165 Hz refresh rate with Adaptive-Sync(opens in new tab) support. Other perks in its favor are 85 percent coverage of DCI-P3 and a display curve with an 1800mm radius.

However, Dell really knocks it out of the park with the S3222DGM"s contrast ratio(opens in new tab). VA panels are known for their excellent contrast, but the S3222DGM is rated at an impressive 3,000:1, easily blowing away IPS competitors. But our sample managed to better that figure by a third, coming in at 4,000:1 in instrumented tests.

This 32-inch monitor offers plenty of vertical screen real estate without the need for scrolling and 1440p resolution(opens in new tab), the current sweet spot between image quality and gaming performance. And while the S3222DGM is targeted primarily at gamers, we found that it is also great for general productivity and anything in between.

With a 1ms (GTG) response time and 144Hz refresh rate, the LG 27GN950-B is the best computer monitor for 4K gaming. If you’ve got the graphics card, ideally one of the best graphics cards, you need to handle 144 frames per second (fps) at 4K; this monitor will ensure that power doesn’t go to waste. In our testing, the monitor showed a 7ms response time, keeping up with pricier 4K, 144Hz screens, like the Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ, and even beating some when it came to input lag. Plus, FreeSync Premium Pro and G-Sync Compatibility will fight screen tears for those times when framerates drop below 48 fps.

eSports players and hopefuls rely on the fastest peripherals available to attenuate the delay between deciding on in-game action and when that action happens on screen. 360 Hz is the fastest refresh rate PC monitors have today, and the MSI Oculux NXG253R is the fastest of them all. Yes, the NXG253R is the fastest display we’ve ever tested, making it the best computer monitor for eSports you can buy.

If you want an affordable screen with many pixels, the Samsung UR59C is the best budget 4K monitor for you. The VA panel delivers contrast (2590.5:1 after calibration), making everything from photos to videos to games look better. This is clearly not a high-end gaming monitor with a 60 Hz refresh rate, 4ms (GTG) response, and noFreeSync or G-Sync. But casual gamers can make do, thanks to the combination of high pixel density and high contrast, keeping games looking realistic.

Curves are generally more effective on ultrawide screens, but the UR59C’s 1500R curvature was effective and beneficial for this 32-incher, such as when multitasking with multiple windows. And if you don’t mind calibrating, you can get rid of the UR59C pesky color errors, which, unfortunately, were visible out of the box. Our calibration settings reduced the error from 4.3dE to 0.9dE.

Making HDR pop over SDR is all about contrast, and for the ultimate contrast, there’s nothing better than OLED. The Aorus FO48U’s massive OLED panel not only delivers immeasurably high contrast, but we recorded 107.7% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space and near-flawless grayscale tracking. As a result, you get a rich image that’s also accurate out of the box. However, it’s not as bright as a premium LCD (399 nits with HDR, according to our testing).

Aorus’ OLED monitor is fit for high-speed HDR gaming on both PCs and consoles, thanks to DisplayPort 1.4 with Display Stream Compression (DSC) and HDMI 2.1, respectively. The monitor held its own against 120Hz and 144Hz rivals in our speed tests, only falling 4ms behind its OLED gaming rival, the Alienware AW5520QF. Unfortunately, you don’t get Dolby Vision or support for the 50p and 24p TV formats, but the monitor has two 15W speakers and one 20w speaker for outstanding audio quality.

Asus has gone all out with the ProArt PA32UCG, combining 1152 dimming zones in its full-array Mini-LED backlight. A quantum dot film covers a considerable color gamut, almost 78% of Rec.2020. And it is the brightest monitor we’ve ever tested at over 1700 nits peak. To that, it adds precise out-of-box accuracy for every color mode in use today. Though it includes many calibration options and a bundled colorimeter, it’s ready for work or play, with no tweaking necessary.

A lot of us are finding ourselves working in tight spaces these days. If you’re looking to add another screen to your space, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14 is the best portable monitor. Its most standout feature is a critical one: a reliable, strong kickstand that’s easy to use, thanks to two flip-out feet. While many portable monitors are stuck with flimsy sleeves that double as stands, you can intuitively prop up the ThinkVision M14 at a -5 to 90-degree tilt or even in portrait mode. Unfortunately, its travel case isn’t as tough.

According to our benchmarks, with 244 nits max brightness and 98% coverage of the sRGB color space, the ThinkVision M14 is perfect for surfing the web or watching a movie in SDR. USB-C connectivity, meanwhile, means it won’t run out of battery when plugged into a laptop. It can also deliver as much as 65W of power to a device if plugged into a wall adapter. But those whose PC or device, such as a Raspberry Pi, doesn’t have a USB-C port with DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode and USB PD 2.0 or better will be out of luck.

However, the XG17AHPE is as expensive as it is unique. In fact, you can buy a much larger desktop-sized monitor with the same amount of speed for cheaper than this, over $400 17.3-incher. And the origami-style cover Asus includes isn’t sufficient for protecting this expensive piece of hardware or providing a reliable stand.

The HP Omen X 65 Emperium is the best computer monitor to replace your living room TV. First, it’s massive. It also comes with a remote and powerful audio that’ll fill your space, thanks to four 4-inch woofers, two 1-inch tweeters and a pair of passive radiators. The inclusion of Nvidia Shield means access to the apps you’d want on a smart TV, including Netflix and YouTube, plus access to hundreds of free games.

This is also a top-of-the-line gaming monitor. It fell just 1ms behind smaller 144Hz rivals in our response time test and even beat a 144Hz alternative during input lag testing.

If you want something a little smaller and cheaper, theAlienware AW5520QF is excellent and offers even higher contrast with its OLED panel but is much dimmer than the Omen X 65 Emperium.Round up of today"s best deals

23.8" LED-backlit LCD monitor / FHD (1920x1080) resolution IPS display / 178° (H) 178° (V) viewing angle / 250 cd/m² brightness / 5ms (GTG) response time (in FAST mode) / 1xUSB‑C input (video/audio/60W charging capability), 1xDisplayPort (in), 1xDisplayPort (out) with MST, 1xHDMI, 1xUSB‑C output (data/15W charging capability), 3xSuperSpeed 10Gbps USB Type A ports / 1xDisplayPort, 1xUSB-C to USB Type A cable included / 3 year system/panel warranty

You use it for work. You use it for gaming. You use it to access Netflix, YouTube, and your ex’s HBO account. It’s your computer monitor, and opting for a model that fits you and your needs is crucial. Whether your old display has died or you’ve decided that you need to upgrade to take advantage of the latest software, buying a new monitor is a big decision.

Not everyone is looking for the same thing, however. Some buyers are looking for a great display, while others put features and connectivity at the forefront. With so many great options out there, it’s easy to get confused, which is why we’ve put together the convenient buying guide below.

How big is big enough? When it comes to computer monitors, you want something that can fit comfortably on your desk while giving you plenty of screen real estate. While in the past sub-20-inch monitors were commonplace, today, unless you’re really constrained for space, there’s no real need to buy anything under 22 inches. For most, 24 inches is going to be a baseline, as you can pick up a number of screens at that size for around $100, and they look fantastic at 1080p.

For those who want more than that, though, there are plenty of sizes to choose from. Monitors that stretch 27 inches diagonally are increasingly popular, and there are plenty of options beyond 30 inches that are affordable. If you want to go extreme, we’ve even tried some great computer monitors that get close to 50 inches, like Samsung’s CHG90.

While you’ll need to sit well back from those, there’s no denying that they look amazing. They give you the same screen as multiple smaller monitors without a bezel dividing them down the middle. They tend to be rather expensive, though, and if you go really wide, you’ll struggle to find media that can display at close to its native resolution, leaving the picture to either look stretched or surrounded by black.

Anywhere between 24 and 30 inches is going to be perfectly fine for most users. They let you make the most of modern resolutions and color clarity, and they also fit a couple of different web pages open at the same time without needing to use two monitors, which is handy for many professionals. They don’t tend to be too expensive at that size, either, unless you opt for the top-end models.

Today, all the best screens are still LCD monitors that use LED technology for a slim product that saves energy while providing ideal backlighting. We’ve been waiting years for OLED technology to make the transition to PC monitors, it isfinally beginning thanks to brands like LG, but the technology is still relatively rare.

One aspect of PC monitors that you do need to consider, though, is resolution. While 1080p was once the gold standard, today, it’s just the baseline. If you’re happy to spend a little more, there are a few other options worth considering, especially if you want to improve screen space or gaming visuals. Resolution isn’t the be-all and end-all of monitor features, though. In fact, too much resolution on too small of a screen can often be annoying because it shrinks all images down and forces you to enlarge everything to easily read it.

1080p: If you want reasonable clarity, but want to save on cost or focus on other, more important features, 1080p is where it’s at — as long as the monitor you’re buying isn’t extremely large. 1080p is ideal for 21-inch to 24-inch displays. These monitors offer great picture quality, and now that they are competing with 4K, the prices are rock-bottom. If you want to go larger than 24 inches, though, you should consider 2,560 x 1,440 resolution at the least and perhaps 4K.

1440p: The oft-forgotten stepchild in the gradual marriage of consumers and 4K, 1440p is still the suggested resolution for gamers, as it offers a noticeable improvement in visuals over 1080p but doesn’t overly tax your graphics card. It’s also far more affordable if you’re interested in extra features like high refresh rates. It is also commonly referred to as Quad HD/QHD.

4K/Ultra HD (UHD): 4K is the resolution that the industry is most keen to drive consumers towards. It looks much more detailed than 1080p with 3,840 x 2,160 pixels, and prices have come down substantially in the past few years. That said, gamers will need a powerful graphics card to run a system at this resolution, and finding affordable monitors with full suites of frame synching support or high-refresh rates is still difficult. There is plenty of 4K media out there to enjoy, though, whether you’re streaming or using UHD Blu-rays.

5K:This resolution made headlines when Apple debuted it on its iMac, but it’s far from a common resolution even years later. Dell’s UP2715K is a great-looking display, but we would recommend many high-end 4K monitors before it, as you won’t be able to see too much difference between them.

While the above are the most common resolutions you’ll find on monitors, some fall into more niche categories. The best ultrawide monitors offer unique aspect ratios and resolutions with broad horizontal pixel counts, but less on the vertical dimension.

Several other aspects of a monitor’s display contribute to just how awesome of an image it can produce. Here are other factors to consider for your next monitor purchase:

Aspect ratio: The aspect the screen shows images in (length compared to height). A common standard, and your best bet, is 16:9. It works with plenty of content, and it’s great for movies or games. Some fancy monitors like to stretch things out with ratios like 21:9, but that is more suitable for unusual work situations or hardcore gaming. Another common format, 16:10, provides slightly more vertical space for viewing multiple open documents or images. 3:2 is becoming more commonplace in laptops for better web viewing, but that’s rare on stand-alone displays.

Brightness: High-end monitors these days have brightness around 300 to 350 cd/m2. Extra brightness may be handy if you work in a well-lit room or next to large windows. However, too much brightness is a recipe for eye strain. As long as brightness options reach 250 cd/m2, your monitor is good to go. That said, if you want one with HDR support, the more peak brightness, the better to best take advantage of that technology.

Contrast ratio: Contrast ratios tell you the difference between how white and how black a monitor screen can get. Higher contrast ratios are a good sign because that means colors will be more differentiated. However, multiple measurements for contrast ratios exist, and stated specs aren’t very reliable, so take it all with a grain of salt.

HDR: High dynamic range, or HDR, is a recent addition to the PC monitor space and can have a dramatic impact on visuals. However, most PC monitors lack the brightness needed to take full advantage of it, and even the best ones don’t look as good as they should. Keep in mind there are a variety of HDR versions to consider, like HDR10+, for more advanced content.

Refresh rate: Rated in hertz (Hz), a monitor’s refresh rate is how often it updates the image on your screen. While most support up to 60Hz, some displays now offer much higher refresh rates. That can result in smoother movements on your desktop and support for higher frame rates in games, which can make a big difference in high-paced titles by reducing your input lag. 120Hz to 144Hz is a great range to target, but you could opt for the fastest screens out there with up to 240Hz support. Just make sure you have a high-powered graphics card to back it up.

Response time: Response time indicates how quickly the monitor shows image transitions. A low response time is good for fast-paced action video, twitchy gameplay, and similar activities. Response times are measured in milliseconds, with the best screens able to switch pixels at only a couple of milliseconds, but not everyone needs such fast reactions.

Viewing angle: Viewing angle isn’t as important for a monitor as it is for a TV screen, but if you like to watch shows on your computer with groups of friends, aim for a larger viewing angle so people at the sides can see easily. Anything above 170 degrees is good news here.

The type of panel used to make your new display can have a major impact on what it looks like and how it performs. They all have their strengths and their weaknesses, making them better suited to different sorts of PC users. While manufacturers have made valiant attempts to bridge the gaps between the types, each tends to still have its evangelists, and depending on what you spend most of your time doing while on your PC, you’ll likely want to opt for one over the other. There can be a cost to pay for certain features, though.

TN: The most common panel type, Twisted Nematic (TN) displays offer good visuals and some of the fastest response times, making them great for gamers. But colors can look a little washed out, and viewing angles aren’t great. Displays with TN panels tend to be the most affordable.

IPS: Displays with IPS panels tend to be the most expensive of the bunch, but what you get for your money is much richer colors and clear viewing angles that are near horizontal. The downside of IPS panels is that they don’t tend to have as fast response times as TN displays, so some consider them inferior for gaming. There are, however, gaming IPS displays, like the fantastic Asus PG279Q, which make good ground on their TN counterparts. Some IPS monitors suffer from quality control issues, though, and most IPS displays have a telltale glow when displaying dark images due to backlight bleeding.

A curved screen can provide a more immersive experience, especially when it comes to certain games (racing games are a favorite for curved ultrawides). This largely benefits single-player games where a user will be comfortable sitting at the center of the screen.

They have a narrow field of view, and aren’t that great for group watching. Fortunately, this is less of an issue on monitors, which tend to have an audience of one.

There are a few different ports you should look for on your monitor. Where VGA and DVI were standards of yesteryear, today, new displays ship with HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C connections most commonly. To make things more confusing, each of those has its own multitude of generations, which you need to be aware of if you’re planning on running a high-resolution or high refresh rate display.

To run a display at 4K resolution, you’ll need to use HDMI 1.4 at the very least, though HDMI 2.0 would be required if you want to support a refresh rate of 60Hz, which should be a bare minimum unless all you do is watch movies on it (with HDMI 2.1 being the newest version of the standard). If you want to do high refresh rate gaming, especially at higher resolutions, DisplayPort 1.4 monitors can handle up to 8K at 60Hz and 4K at up to 200Hz, so they’re better suited than HDMI in that regard. DisplayPort 2.0 is also on the way.

The slightly older, DisplayPort 1.2 connector can handle 1440p and 1080p at high refresh rates, too, so if you’re not opting for 4K, that port option should suffice for lower-resolution monitors. USB-C is an option, as it can support up to 4K resolution, but it’s not as capable as DisplayPort connections.

The most common computer monitors are compact enough to sit on a table, desk, or stand. However, if you’re in the market for an enormous monitor, the most space-efficient choice is to mount the monitor onto a wall, thereby freeing up precious floor space. In this case, look for monitors thatcome with VESA standard mountingoptions or which are compatible with them. That way, you’ll have a larger selection of mounting arms from a variety of manufacturers to choose from, rather than being limited by specific mounting options.

You’ll find a built-in webcam especially useful not just for quick communication, but also for extra protection when logging in, with features like facial recognition. However, if a monitor lacks a built-in webcam, that shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. In fact, we suggest buying a monitor and then picking out a separate webcam, which is easier to mount and adjust and can be taken offline for privacy whenever you want. Plus, upgrading or replacing a standalone webcam is a lot easier than changing a built-in camera feature.

Like other tech items, monitors have been subject to supply chain issues that make many models unavailable and tend to drive up prices. However, you can still find a good deal if you’re flexible about your choice of model and can take the time to shop around. Here are some things to consider before you buy.

The 16:9 aspect ratio of 1080p monitors is great for video content but not necessarily as well-suited for scrolling up and down through documents. If you find yourself using Gmail, Facebook, or Microsoft Word for most of the day, a monitor with a more square resolution of 1920x1200 (which has an aspect ratio of 19:10) may be more useful because you’ll have more screen real estate at the top and bottom to work with. These are not as common as 1080p monitors but can still be found at most online retailers. Note: 4K monitors, which measure 3840x2160, maintain the 16:9 aspect ratio of 1920x1080 monitors.

Almost all new monitors tilt up or down for a quick adjustment. For extra flexibility, look for a monitor that lets you adjust the height as well. Such models may also be able to rotate 90 degrees, from landscape to portrait mode, which is especially useful for viewing a larger portion of web pages or text documents.

Many monitors come with a three-year warranty on parts and labor, but others have only one year of coverage. It’s worth looking for the longer coverage, especially if you’re purchasing a more expensive model. Another consideration is the manufacturer’s defective-pixel policy. Some consider a certain number of stuck or dead pixels acceptable; others will replace a monitor during the warranty period if it has even a single faulty pixel.

Perhaps you’re in the process of picking out a desktop or notebook PC, or already have a laptop computer but aren’t exactly satisfied with the amount of screen real-estate it provides—either way, it’s time to get the 411 on the expansive world of computer monitors so you can find out what product(s) will fit your exact needs.

Formerly known as video display units (VDUs), the earliest monitors first implemented lights for computer engineers to be able to monitor the power state of their components and know whether their devices were working properly or not. As technology has advanced, computer monitors have come a long way in relation to what they can display and how they go about doing so.

To put it simply, the monitor you need to purchase is reliant on what you will mainly be using your computer for, and this can be broken down into three overarching categories: general/business use, professional visuals, and gaming. Not every monitor is created equal, as certain physical features and integrated technologies on a certain product may provide the best results for running gaming applications as opposed to office tools or professional graphic-design/video-editing programs.

On the surface, screen size may seem to be the only difference between monitors besides brand. Before we get into everything that’s going on behind each display and what your PC may need in order to get the right results, it’s best to introduce the types of monitors as well as the various shapes and sizes they come in.

If you decide to cut costs and go for a lower-end monitor the color(s) you may have had in mind when finishing up a project could turn up quite differently on other screens. Of course, you’ll need to already have a machine that can run programs like Adobe Photoshop or Apple’s Final Cut Pro.

As will be covered in its own section below, gaming monitors may also include “adaptive syncing” technology that virtually eliminates tearing and stuttering by having the monitor match the refresh-rate of frames being pushed out by your graphics card.

Screen size (diagonal measurement) and aspect ratio (width by height) are essential to understanding the unique resolutions you get with ultrawide-display monitors—and we’ll be covering more of that along with the features that absolutely need to be considered when you’re in the market for a new monitor.

Fairly new to the consumer market, the curved-screen craze that started around 2014 with Samsung and LG TVs has made its way to computer monitors. Just like ultrawide monitors, curved monitor displays have extended left-and-right width that curves in towards the viewer. Since its inception, the main purpose of this feature has been to provide more immersion. Ultimately, these monitors can present a higher sense of depth that traditional flat-panel displays cannot.

In a nutshell, high dynamic-range (HDR) content uses the latest color-range technology to simulate true-to-life colors on screen. First used within the field of photography, HDR tech revolves around improving contrast quality, producing darker blacks and purer whites. HDR monitors work great with both professional visual and high-quality gaming applications. Of course, your specs should be up to par and meet the latest minimum requirements for these applications—and to get truly high-speed gaming, you should try to find an HDR monitor with a low response time.

It’s 2019 and the majority of screens you see out in the wild come with touch functionality – but these functions remain relatively rare in the monitor world. Generally, all monitors come with integrated, physical-hardware controls to adjust screen and picture settings. Some touchscreen monitors step it up by providing you with an on-screen, touchable overlay. Most importantly, touchscreen monitors are commonly used for compatible educational and commercial applications. Whether it’s an interactive learning app to help 4th grade students or a POS (point-of-sale) device at a sports stadium’s concession stand, touchscreen monitors may require specific hardware and software to properly work.

On the surface, PC displays are just screens that present various images—but clearly there’s way more here to consider than meets the eye. Now it’s time to go inside the monitor to see how a computer’s display hardware works.

The differences between LCD and LED technology are huge factors in determining what works for your end-goal and budget, and they’re the most common acronyms you’ll come across on computer monitor product pages.

Liquid-crystal display (LCD) technology was first on the scene for TVs but didn’t come to computer monitors until the mid-90s. The name comes from the fact that these displays have screens that consist of two pieces of glass that house liquid in between them. From there, the screen is divided into thousands upon thousands (sometimes millions) of rows and columns, better known as pixels (a term coined in the 1960s to abbreviate “picture element”).

Now, the hardware parts that push out the picture you see on your LCD-monitor screen are known as cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs). These lamps give your LCD monitor a lifespan of about 30,000 hours. Because the technology is older, these products are usually thicker and heavier. Few of them support resolutions above Full HD (1920×1080, width by height), and the color-contrast range may also be limited at times. If you’re concerned about your environmental footprint, the mercury pollution that these monitors may emit is something you will need to properly address at the end of the product’s lifecycle.

On the plus side, LCD displays come at a lower price point and do not suffer from burn-in, a negative effect that occurs if you leave your screen on and the last image displayed remains lightly on the screen—even when it’s turned off.

Technically, LED displays are also LCD monitors since they have the same liquid between their two-piece glass screens. The difference lies within the hardware that’s used to shoot out the image. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used in place of a LCD display’s fluorescent lamps. Because of this, LED monitors are brighter and consume less power than LCD screens, ultimately boasting a lifespan of about 50,000 hours.

The technology for light-emitting diodes first came about in the early 1960s and were initially only able to produce red color. Of course the color capability of these diodes has evolved, but the efficiency and high level of performance has been consistent. On paper, LED monitors come at a higher price point because of their impressive color contrast and picture quality. If you’re looking for a screen to game on, you’ll have to go LED for the noticeably faster response time compared to LCD displays.

LED technology also makes the majority of these products thinner and lighter for quick and easy portability and installation. The one thing you’ll also have to look out for is that LED monitors have a higher risk of burn-in, so make sure to have a screensaver or turn them off when not in use.

Now that we’ve got an understanding of liquid-crystal displays and the two types of backlighting tech behind them, it’s time to get into the different panel types that LCD monitor screens have and how they relate to your computing needs. Just because certain panel types cost more than others does not mean that more expensive is generally better. It all comes down to which panel type’s features can best serve the tasks of general use, gaming, or professional video/image-editing applications, which will in term depend on color-reproduction technology, viewing angles, response times, and refresh rates.

If you’re a hardcore PC gamer, then twisted-nematic (TN) panels may be your first screen of choice. TN-panel computer monitors boast the highest refresh rates and fastest response times. Being one of the oldest display technologies, TN panels produce picture by utilizing translucent nematic liquid crystals within glass plates, a color filter and two lined filters (one vertical, the other horizontal). Due to the polarizing effect that occurs within TN panels, these types of monitors have the poorest color presentation and viewing angles. On the other hand, these displays are the most-affordable monitors, making them perfect for gamers who have already shelled out a lot of cash for their gaming battlestation.

Again, TN panels should be your panel of choice if you’re looking to get the highest performance from your gaming PC. As of writing, TN panels are the only types of monitors that can support a refresh rate of 240Hz, which means if your system and graphics card can generate and push out 240fps, the monitor in turn will match and refresh 240 frames per second, creating the fastest and smoothest visual gaming experience on the market.

Compared to TN panels, in-plane switching (IPS) panels house and emit the best viewing angles and most accurate colors. IPS panels were specifically designed to make up for the limitations of traditional TN panels. Perfect for graphic-design artists or cinematographers, IPS computer monitors have their inner crystal liquids adjust their alignment on a single plane (hence the name) to show accurate, true-to-life colors from any viewing angle.

Unfortunately nothing is truly perfect, as most entry-level IPS monitors do not have the same quick response times and refresh rates that TN-panel PC monitors have. Also, because of their high image-color quality and superior viewing experience, IPS monitors generally come at a higher price point than TN panels. Nevertheless, with the right adaptive-syncing technology (see G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync below) and computer specs, an IPS monitor could potentially be the best solution for great-looking, high-performance gaming.

Coming about in the 90s, vertical-alignment (VA) panels have their liquid crystal cells rest in a vertical position when the display is not in use—once voltage is applied to the display, the crystals shift to a horizontal orientation to let light, and ultimately your picture, through. Similar to IPS panels, VA computer monitors were made to provide an alternative option to the forerunner TN-panel monitors.

With decent refresh rates (not quite TN-level in most instances), VA monitors have better color contrast and image depth with their more versatile pixels. Having a higher bit depth means more colors can be used on each pixel. Though VA monitors have better viewing angles than TN panels (generally not as much as IPS), their slow response times make them better as a general-use device for home streaming or office-work applications.

Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology, which is found on many recent televisions and smartphones, is currently in the works for computer monitors. OLED screen technology consists of carbon-based materials that emit light when powered with electricity. Overall, OLED displays do not require a backlight or filters to produce their colors and moving images. They are also great for manufacturers because they are easy to make and are physically light for easy exporting and delivery.

The main attraction of OLED monitors will be that each of the display’s pixels will have their own light source to ultimately produce blacker blacks and truer colors across the board. 2019 may be the year we hear more about this tech for computer monitors, so make sure you check back here for any updates.

Now’s a great time to introduce monitor screen aspect ratios and how they relate to screen resolutions. By definition, aspect ratio is a display screen’s width in relation to the screen’s height. For example, some of the first television sets sold were near-square screens with a slightly larger width than height, making a 4:3 aspect ratio. Now, computer-screen resolutions (though absolutely similar to aspect ratio) are measured and portrayed in width by height pixels.

In 1987, the world was first introduced to monitors that housed 4:3 screens with a 640×480 resolution. As of writing, most computer monitors use widescreen ratios and Full HD resolutions, with the most popular being 16:9 at 1920×1080 pixels. By doubling up the width + height dimensions within an aspect ratio, you can get sharper resolutions (clearer visuals) due to more pixels being packed into the same aspect ratio. Of course, these aspect ratios and resolutions have also evolved due to more variations, such as curved displays and UltraWide monitors.

If you’re looking to game and get the best performance (graphics card output of frames per second & a monitor’s refresh rate) it needs to be noted that higher resolutions will require more graphics-processing power. Though 4K gaming is not impossible you’ll most likely need a system that runs and implements the power of two graphics cards to one display. If you’re on a budget or want the smoothest gaming experience, it’s best to stick to a resolution of 1920×1080 (maybe 2560×1440, depending on the capabilities of your PC’s components).

The standard for connecting devices to high-definition TVs, High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cables also work well in connecting your computer to your monitor. As of writing, the latest standard of HDMI 2.0 will give you a maximum 4K picture at a 60Hz refresh rate with the right components and display. Of course, HDMI is also able to carry over the audio signal from your computer to monitors with built-in speakers.

Digital Visual Interface (DVI) connectors are starting to become legacy tech, but on paper have the same video-output capabilities as the first-generation of HDMI. You’ll need a separate audio cable (or HDMI adapter to the end that goes to your monitor) to get audio from your PC, but DVI can support up to 1920×1080 resolutions at a max refresh rate of 144Hz with the right components and display monitor.

Being the only analog video connector of the four main types (the rest are digital), Video Graphics Array (VGA) cables are now considered legacy technology. In this day and age, you’ll really only need to use this port if you’re stuck with or need to access older display devices.

Screen tearing has been an ultimate annoyance for gamers for quite some time. Screen tearing occurs when the frames-per-second (FPS) being pushed out by your graphics card does not match the refresh rate (frames being presented and refreshed within a second) of the display. The ugly lines that tear your image are basically the result of frames trying to catch up with another.

For some years now, games have implemented a selectable vertical-sync (V-Sync) feature that adjusts FPS and refresh rate but with the downside of increased input lag and FPS-performance dips. More recently though, the fine folks over at NVIDIA and AMD have developed a monitor-feature now known as “adaptive refresh technology” that properly addresses this age-old issue.

Along with plenty of monitor accessories to choose from, one of the main things that needs to be addressed is how and where you’ll be viewing your monitor. Classically, monitors have been left connected to their included stands and placed on desks. This will usually work in the majority of scenarios, but not all spaces are exactly the same. Unless it’s a really old model, today’s monitors come with VESA-mounting capabilities. This opens up the door to clearing desk space and creating unique computing stations.

Lots of monitors come with built-in speakers, and you’d be surprised by the power, quality, and accuracy of sound these built-in devices are able to provide. If your monitor doesn’t come with built-in speakers, the only options left are the ports that are on the device. HDMI, USB and an audio-out jack can give you the option to connect to compatible speakers or headphones. Ultimately, if your monitor does not come with any options for playing audio, you’ll have to go through your computer or laptop’s audio-compatible ports.

If keeping your carbon footprint low is important to you, stay on the lookout for eco-friendly badges on certain monitors. From adding power-saving features to using organic and recyclable materials, many manufacturers share your goal of keeping our Earth cleaner for a brighter future.

As you can see, there’s a lot to learn in the ever-changing world of monitors. Hopefully the information you’ve gained here will help you visualize how you want your final setup to function. Of course, it is recommended that you check any available reviews and specifications before making your final purchase—and as with anything found on Newegg Insider, make sure you check back here for the latest updates.

Besides all that, if you need a little push to get started, you can start your search by checking out the consumer, business, and gaming monitors Newegg has to offer.

Do you need a large, crisp image when working at your computer? Are you worried about the sticker shock that usually comes with high quality displays? Those days are over.

At Lenovo, we work hard to design computer displays that fit your budget and provide the higher resolution experience you deserve. No more grainy displays with washed out colors. No more boxy, limited visuals.

We have a large selection so you can find the perfect monitor for your needs. And no matter what screen size or image quality you prefer – or even where you intend to use it – Lenovo has all the most popular display sizes, and resolutions. Even if you are on the go Lenovo has portable monitors that attach to your laptop or plug into your laptop and give you a second screen to keep your productivity up.

Choose from an ultra-slim portable monitor to quickly set up and improve your multitasking even when on the go. Or for a more traditional option, we have displays in popular ranges like24 inches,27 inches,31 inches

Our wide selection also includes premium options at the right price:ultrawide monitorsthat can expand your productivity in amazing new ways; high performance 240hz monitors that accelerate response times and refresh rates when gaming; and1080p,1440p(orQuad HD) and4K monitorsthat bring visuals to the next level of clarity. At Lenovo, our monitors have it all.

Home monitors need to be versatile enough for a wide range of activities. When watching Netflix, you’ll want a widescreen monitor with powerful color quality and crisp resolution. When surfing the web at different times of day, the display should have adjustable brightness controls that match your lighting conditions.

The best home monitors maximize their real estate, with space-saving designs that don"t clutter your bedroom or home office. OurNear-Edgelessinfinity screens make the most of your viewing area, so you can take full advantage of the tremendous screen size. We pride ourselves on superb picture quality, with 99% sRGB color gamut on several models. When all these features are available at a competitive price, you simply can’t beat it.

For office life, you need a professional monitor with sound color accuracy and high resolutions. Often, companies rely on intense data and graphics applications to get work done, so your monitor needs to be able to handle those tasks.

LenovoThinkVision monitorsoffer incredible resolution, large screen sizes, and multiple ports so you can work more efficiently. Ourbusiness monitorsalso have handy features like touch screens, ergonomic stands, and quality cameras. Don’t let your monitor stand in the way of great work.

Select models are designed with AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync technology to work more seamlessly with your favorite brands of graphics cards. What’s more, select models with 1ms response times minimize stuttering and input lag for a silky smooth gaming experience.

Lenovo Legion is taking the PC gaming world by storm with a new and vast array of gaming PCs and gaming accessories. If you want to see every little detail in the moment, so you"re prepared for whatever comes your way, look to our LenovoLegion gaming monitors. Our Legion 4K, HDR, curved and 1ms options offer both visual brilliance and unparalleled response times

Check out ourThinkCentre Tiny linefor an array of professional monitors. These LED monitors are lightweight, slim, and have advanced In-Cell Touch panels for maximum quality. Best of all, they integrate easily with Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny desktops through a modular design that allows the PC to slip right into the back of the ThinkCentre Tiny display. With ThinkCentre Tiny, you can have a new desktop computer and monitor working together seamlessly in minutes

Buying an impressive computer displays doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Browse our inventory of options based on group, activity, connections, resolution, aspect ratio, and more to find the best fit for your lifestyle. With the right monitor complementing your PC, you can fully realize its potential as a business, gaming, or everyday machine.

Take a look around. You might just discover a dream monitor that you didn"t even know existed. It’s not often that you find1440p monitors,Full HDandHDR monitorsthat deliver cutting-edge performance for the money. Shop our monitor deals today — available exclusively at Lenovo.com.

Sometimes traveling for work is necessary and you can only bring your laptop but not your second screen. With a high-quality portable monitor you can take your second screen with you in a car, on a bus, or on plane. Theseportable monitorsmake sure that you keep your productivity even when you are away from you home office set up. You can have portable monitors that are stand alone or ones that connect to your device to make transport easier and ensure a seamless work space limiting your distractions and making sure you get everything you need done.

Trying to decide between all the types of displays, frames, and panels today’s modern computer monitor can offer? Here are a few common comparisons of monitor types that might help.

As monitor technology has evolved over the years, so have the types of inputs you’ll potentially use to connect your monitor to your PC and other devices. The most common way to connect your PC to your preferred display is by HDMI, but most modern monitors feature eitherHDMIorUSB Type-Cinput options to be easily compatible with today’s tech.

If you’re a gamer, you’ll most likely be in the market for aDisplayPort monitoras DP cables are generally preferred by gamers due to their greater bandwidth and ability to take advantage of top graphics card software.

Many monitor manufacturers, including Lenovo, also still offerVGA displays. VGA is a more dated method of connecting your PC and visuals but there are still plenty of PCs around that may require this input method.

Remember that Lenovo has you covered on all your computer monitor needs, so before you checkout, make sure you have the necessary tools to ideally arrange your desktop visuals.

Consider aLenovo docking station or USBhub to seamlessly connect all of your tech with just a single click or plugin every time. Whether you’re putting together your dream home office or just adding a new display to your office workspace, Lenovo offers adjustablemonitor armsto give you the perfect point of view every time,monitor mountsthat securely attach your display to a desk or wall, and evenmonitor standsthat provide a solid foundation and a little flexibility at the same time.

When you are making purchases for your gaming or office set up and your computer accessories and desktops if you are a member of theMyLenovo Rewards Programyou can earn points on every single one of those purchases. Once you have earned enough points you can turn around and use them to get a great discount on the pieces you want to upgrade your set up or accessories you need to take your gaming set up to the next level like gaming mice, keyboards, or mouse pads.

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