When it comes to buying a monitor, size really does matter. With so many different sizes and specifications, finding the right monitor for your needs can be overwhelming. However, finding the perfect fit for your setup is crucial for an enjoyable and productive computing experience.
Whether you are a gamer, designer, programmer, or casual user, the monitor you choose can significantly affect your work or gaming experience. To help you choose the ideal monitor size, we have compiled a guide on the essential steps to consider when purchasing a monitor.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from deciding what you’ll use it for, measuring your space, considering the refresh rate, resolution, and inputs, determining your budget, comparing brands and models, to deciding whether to mount it or leave it on your desk. With these steps in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding your ideal monitor size.
Steps to choose the perfect monitor size
Decide What You’ll Use It For
Before purchasing a monitor, it’s important to determine what you’ll use it for. Are you a gamer, graphic designer, or an office worker who needs multiple windows open simultaneously? The purpose of your monitor will greatly affect the size you need.
For gamers, a large screen with high resolution is crucial. The bigger the monitor, the more immersive the gaming experience will be. A larger screen also means you can see the details of the game better, giving you a competitive advantage. Additionally, the monitor’s refresh rate is important as it will determine how smoothly the game runs.
A larger screen can give you more workspace to complete your designs if you’re a graphic designer. A monitor with high resolution will allow you to see your work in detail, and accurate colour reproduction is a must-have for print and digital designs.
Office workers who frequently work on multiple windows will benefit from having a larger monitor. This will enable you to open more windows and see them all simultaneously. Moreover, if you are in a shared space, having a larger monitor can allow you to set up two or more windows side-by-side so that you can collaborate easily with others.
Measure Your Space
Now that you know what you’ll be using your monitor for and have a rough idea of what refresh rate, resolution, and inputs you need, it’s time to measure your space. After all, you need to ensure your monitor fits in your available space.
Start by measuring the width and height of your desk. If you plan on using a monitor stand or arm, measure the space available for those. You’ll also want to consider other items on your desk, such as speakers or a keyboard.
Next, consider the distance between your eyes and the monitor’s placement. This is known as the viewing distance and is important for preventing eye strain and ensuring comfortable viewing. Ideally, the centre of your monitor should be positioned at eye level and about arm’s length away.
Don’t forget to also consider the room’s lighting and glare. A bright, sunny room may require a monitor with a higher brightness level to ensure the image is still visible. A room with a lot of windows may benefit from an anti-glare screen.
Overall, taking the time to measure your space and consider the viewing distance and lighting will help you choose a monitor size that fits physically and enhances your viewing experience.
Consider Refresh Rate, Resolution, and Inputs
Once you’ve decided on the monitor size you need, it’s time to consider the important technical specifications for your intended use.
First and foremost, consider the refresh rate. This is the number of times the monitor refreshes the image on the screen per second, measured in hertz (Hz). The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image, which is important for activities like gaming or watching videos. A higher refresh rate also reduces eye strain and makes it easier to work for long periods.
Next, consider the resolution of the monitor. This is the number of pixels that make up the image on the screen, measured in width x height. The higher the resolution, the more detail you’ll see in the image. A higher resolution is important for tasks like graphic design or video editing, where precision is crucial.
Finally, consider the inputs available on the monitor. If you plan to connect multiple devices to the monitor, make sure it has enough inputs to accommodate them. Also, consider whether the monitor has a built-in USB hub, which can be helpful for charging devices and connecting peripherals.
When shopping for monitors, you’ll find a range of specifications to choose from. Be sure to research and compare different models to find the one that best meets your needs.
Determine Your Budget
Once you’ve identified what you need from your monitor, it’s time to determine your budget. Remember that while you may be tempted to save money, a monitor is a long-term investment that should serve you for a while. That said, you don’t necessarily need to break the bank to get a good monitor.
Consider how much you’re willing to spend, but also think about the monitor quality you’re getting for that price. Higher-end models often come with better features and specs but may not be necessary for your needs. On the other hand, you may be sacrificing quality for affordability.
A wide range of monitors are available, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Typically, the larger the monitor, the more expensive it will be. You’ll also need to consider factors like the type of panel (IPS, TN, or VA) and the resolution.
Do some research on the average prices for monitors with the features you want, and set a budget accordingly. Be prepared to be a little flexible, but don’t let yourself get talked into spending more than you’re comfortable with.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are some options to consider. Refurbished monitors can often be a good way to save money, but be sure to check for any damage or wear before purchasing. You may also want to look at models that are a few years old, as they may have come down in price.
Remember, a good monitor is an investment that will last you for years. Determine your budget carefully, and don’t sacrifice quality for the price.
Compare Brands and Models
Once you have a better understanding of the type of monitor you need, it’s time to start exploring the various brands and models available. Remember that some brands have a better reputation for quality than others, so it’s important to research before making a final decision.
There are several factors you should consider when comparing brands and models. One of the most important is the monitor’s colour accuracy and consistency. This is particularly important if you’ll use your monitor for tasks requiring precise colours, such as photo editing or graphic design. Read reviews and look for professional opinions on colour accuracy when comparing different brands.
Another important factor to consider is the overall build quality of the monitor. You want to invest in a monitor that is built to last and won’t break down after just a few months of use. Some brands offer warranties that cover any defects in workmanship, so keep that in mind when comparing different models.
Input options are also an important factor to consider when choosing a monitor. Some monitors have more input options than others, and some even offer advanced features like USB-C or HDMI 2.1 connectivity. Check the input options on the monitor you’re considering to ensure that it will work with all of your devices.
Price is, of course, an important consideration when comparing different brands and models. However, remember that the most expensive monitor may not necessarily be the best fit for your needs. Consider your budget, and look for a monitor that offers the best features and build quality within your price range.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and research different brands before making a final decision. Look for reviews from other users and read up on any known issues or common problems with certain models.
Comparing different brands and models can be overwhelming, but it’s an important step in finding the right monitor for your needs. Take the time to research different options and consider the factors that are most important to you. With a little effort and careful consideration, you’ll find the perfect monitor to suit your needs and budget.
Mount-It or Leave It on Your Desk?
After deciding on the size and brand of monitor that suits your needs, you need to determine whether you will mount it or leave it on your desk. Each option has advantages and disadvantages; you should consider your work style and environment before deciding.
If you have a small desk, you might consider mounting your monitor on a wall or arm to free up space. A mounted monitor allows you to adjust its height and angle according to your needs, reducing neck and eye strain.
However, mounting your monitor requires a secure and stable surface, which might not be suitable for all workstations. Moreover, a mounted monitor can be costly and require professional installation, depending on the mounting mechanism.
Leaving your monitor on your desk might be the best option if you have enough space on your desk. A desktop monitor allows you to adjust its tilt and height, giving you a comfortable viewing angle. Additionally, a desktop monitor can be easier to access and less expensive than a mounted monitor.
Nevertheless, a desktop monitor can take up a lot of space, and you might need to adjust your workspace to accommodate it. Additionally, if you work with confidential information, you must ensure that your monitor’s screen is not visible to others.
An Overview
Choosing the right monitor size is a crucial decision when it comes to setting up a productive workspace or gaming setup. Your monitor size should cater to your needs and enhance your experience while working or gaming. It can be daunting to select the ideal monitor size, considering the variety of brands, models, features, and price ranges available in the market.
However, if you keep your requirements in mind, selecting the perfect monitor size can become much more manageable. Factors such as the purpose of use, available space, resolution, refresh rate, and budget must be considered before purchasing.
If you are looking for a monitor for casual work, a size range of 21-24 inches may suffice. For tasks that involve detailed visuals, like photo and video editing, you might want to go for larger screen sizes ranging from 27 to 32 inches.
Gaming monitors come in various sizes ranging from 24 to 49 inches. The monitor size should be determined based on the game genres you mostly play. Racing and simulation games generally require a larger display size, whereas first-person shooter games require a faster refresh rate.
While deciding on the size, you should also take into account your available desk or wall space, ensuring that the monitor fits perfectly and does not obstruct your work or gaming experience. A mountable monitor can help you save space and provide flexibility in terms of adjusting the screen angle.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect monitor size is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience while working, gaming, or simply browsing the web. By considering your needs, space, refresh rate, resolution, inputs, budget, and brand/model comparisons, you can narrow down your options and make an informed decision.
Don’t forget to also think about whether you want to mount your monitor or leave it on your desk. Remember that the right monitor size can enhance your productivity and satisfaction, while the wrong one can lead to discomfort and frustration. With this guide, you’ll be able to find your ideal fit and take your computing to the next level.