Looking to upgrade your monitor without burning a hole through your wallet? This 27-inch LG UltraGear 1440p gaming display may be just what you need, and now’s a solid time to buy one because we haven’t seen its price this low in almost a year. It’s now on sale for $166.99 on Amazon, which is 33% off its original $249.99—a huge discount!
The LG UltraGear 27GS60QC-B is a stunning 27-inch display that delivers exceptional performance you can rely on. It has a crisp “sweet spot” 2560×1440 native resolution, which is great whether you’re gaming or streaming Netflix. Add in the fast 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time and you have a liquidy smooth visual experience that’s lag-free even during the most action-packed scenes and games.
This monitor has a nice 1000R curvature that bends around your vision, easing eye fatigue and making for more comfortable sessions whether you’re gaming, tackling work projects, or just mindlessly browsing the web and doomscrolling on social media. Other nice features include HDR10, AMD FreeSync, and a sleek “borderless” bezel. It also has both DisplayPort and double HDMI ports, plus a 3.5mm audio jack.
We’re always happy to see 4K monitors go on sale, especially when they’re from a brand as reputable as LG. Right now, you can score this 27-inch LG 4K monitor for just $179 on Amazon (was $249.99) thanks to this 28% discount that’s lingering after Prime Big Deal Days.
The 27-inch screen is about the perfect size for any home office that only has a modestly sized desk, and it’s still big enough to enjoy the crisp 3840×2160 resolution in 16:9 aspect ratio. The IPS panel delivers beautiful, color-accurate images that’ll serve you well whether you’re churning through spreadsheets or streaming Netflix, and it’s made all the better with HDR10 that brings those colors fully to life.
Other great bits about the LG UltraFine 27US500-W display include its “virtually borderless” bezels (excellent for multi-monitor setups), the on-screen controls that let you split the display or adjust settings via mouse clicks, and connectivity via double HDMI and a DisplayPort. The included stand isn’t that great—it can only tilt a bit—but it does have a VESA 100×100 mount so you can put it on a monitor arm instead.
It’s rare that you’ll be able to grab a stunning 4K monitor from a top-tier brand at a price like this, so if you’re looking to upgrade your display setup on the cheap, take advantage of this. Get the LG UltraFine 27US500-W for $179 before this deal expires! Or read our roundup of the best monitors for a home office to explore more options.
A 27-inch 4K IPS monitor from LG for just $179? Yes, please!
Any monitor can be used for PC gaming, but a display built for productivity will likely leave you underwhelmed. Limited contrast, blurry motion, and slow refresh rates still hold basic productivity monitors back in games. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of excellent gaming monitors available at a wide range of price points—and the best of them embrace cutting-edge technology unavailable in any other PC display.
The following are the best gaming monitors we’ve tested throughout this year and last. If you want to learn more about what we look for in a good gaming monitor and how we test them, scroll further down the page.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitors reviews and buying advice: We’re PCWorld, after all. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
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Who should buy the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED?
If you’re looking for a high-performance gaming monitor, the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED should be at the top of your list.
This 26.5-inch display delivers stunning 4K resolution with an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate in a cutting-edge OLED panel, making it an excellent choice for gamers who want both visual clarity and fluid motion. With its 240Hz refresh rate, the MSI is built for fast-paced gaming yet maintains the deep contrast and vibrant colors OLED monitors are known for. It also supports Adaptive Sync for smooth frame pacing.
MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED: Further considerations
But wait, there’s more! The QD-OLED panel offers excellent contrast and color accuracy, which makes it a solid pick for creative professionals and anyone who enjoys watching HDR movies. Connectivity is another plus, with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1a, and USB-C inputs, as well as 98 watts of USB Power Delivery for charging laptops or tablets. While the design is a bit plain, the stand is sturdy and fully adjustable.
Priced at $1,099.99, the MSI MPG 272URX is more expensive than 1440p OLED alternatives, which can be found for under $800. But if 4K clarity and a fluid 240Hz refresh rate are what you’re after, this monitor is worth the investment.
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Who should buy the Pixio PX248 Wave?
The Pixio PX248 Wave is a great budget monitor for gamers who want more than a no-frills display. The PX248 Wave stands apart from the budget pack with a colorful, stylish design, and solid motion performance, all available at an enticing price of $159.99.
Pixio offers the PX248 Wave in four colorways: black, white, blue, and pink. The latter two are rather special, as only a handful of monitors — like the more expensive Samsung M8 Smart Monitor — offer similarly alluring colors. The stand matches the monitor’s colorway, and Pixio even offers an optional color-coordinated monitor arm for those who want to go all-in on a particular desktop vibe.
The monitor’s 24-inch Fast IPS display boasts a 200Hz refresh rate that delivers fluid motion. Image quality is reasonable, too, as the PX248 Wave delivers respectable color accuracy and coverage, making it suitable for both gaming and casual content creation. It has built-in speakers, too.
Pixio PX248 Wave: Further considerations
Despite its visual appeal, the PX248 Wave sticks to the basics with connectivity, which includes HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4. USB connectivity isn’t available. The included stand is also basic, as it only adjusts for tilt, and the menu controls could be more user-friendly.
Most competitors at this price point have a similar display panel wrapped in a more generic black, gray, or charcoal case. Pixio’s PX248 Wave manages to match them in image quality and beat them on looks, yet it stays on a budget.
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Who should buy the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B?
The LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B is the best big-screen curved gaming monitor for anyone who wants a premium immersive gaming experience.
The monitor’s class-leading 45-inch 5K2K (5120×2160) OLED panel helps to set the monitor apart, providing a resolution previously unseen in this size class. It’s a significant upgrade over lower-resolution predecessors, like the Corsair Xeneon Flex. The higher resolution pairs well with OLED’s excellent contrast and color performance. HDR performance is solid, with brightness comparable to other leading OLED monitors.
Motion clarity is good, as well. The monitor is a “dual mode” display, meaning it can achieve 5120×2160 at a refresh rate up to 165Hz, or 2560×1080 up to 330Hz. It also supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth gameplay.
LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B: Further considerations
The 45GX950A-B is expensive, and its aggressive 800R curve can feel “off” for productivity. The monitor also has limited USB connectivity. USB-C input is supported, but it only has two downstream USB-A ports.
But if your priority is unparalleled immersion backed by incredible sharpness and excellent HDR on a truly massive display, the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B is a winner.
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Who should buy the Gigabyte GS34WQC?
If you’re looking for the immersive experience of a curved, ultrawide monitor at a cost that won’t leave you hurting, this is it. The Gigabyte GS34WQC checks those boxes and then some. It has a sharp 34-inch display with a resolution of 3440×1440. That’s paired with good motion clarity driven by a 120Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 135Hz) and support for AMD FreeSync, ensuring smooth and consistent gameplay. Camera movements are detailed, and fast-paced action is easily tracked.
Beyond its motion clarity, the GS34WQC delivers great image quality that’s comparable to monitors twice its price. It has a Vertical Alignment (VA) panel instead of the more common In-Plane Switching (IPS). This provides improved contrast with deeper black levels and more convincing shadow detail in dark scenes. These qualities make it especially suitable for games with a dark, gritty presentation.
Gigabyte GS34WQC: Further considerations
The monitor’s design is plain, but functional. It has an ergonomic stand that provides height and tilt adjustment, but its assembly requires manual attachment of four screws, unlike competitors with tool-free clip-in stands. The GS34WQC compensates with an intuitive menu system that has extensive customization options, allowing gamers to tailor the visuals to their preferences.
Value, however, is where the GS34WQC really beats the competition. It’s not the least expensive budget ultrawide monitor, but it delivers better image quality and motion clarity than many competitors while keeping the price in check. Indeed, the GS34WQC is so good it makes $400-to-$500-dollar ultrawide gaming monitors more difficult to recommend.
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Who should buy the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG?
If you’re searching for the best gaming monitor for HDR, look no further than the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG. It has an LG WOLED panel that delivers stunning HDR without breaking the bank.
The XG27AQDMG’s third-generation LG WOLED panel provides exceptional HDR brightness that outperforms QD-OLED competitors and closes the gap with Mini-LED monitors. It can hit a maximum sustained brightness of 724 nits in a 10 percent window, which is enough to deliver punchy HDR highlights and detail across luminant areas of a game or movie. This pairs well with OLED’s deep, inky blacks and wide color gamut, which covers 96 percent DCI-P3 coverage. Put simply: It looks exceptionally immersive and realistic.
Gamers will appreciate the high refresh rate of up to 240Hz, which is paired with Adaptive Sync technologies like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync for fluid, tear-free gaming. The refresh rate is lower than some QD-OLED competitors, which achieve up to 360Hz. On the other hand, though, the XG27AQDMG provides motion clarity far better than Mini-LED gaming monitors, such as the Red Magic 4K Gaming Monitor.
Asus ROG Strix XG27AQDMG: Further considerations
While the XG27AQDMG has strong color performance, it isn’t quite as good as QD-OLED alternatives with SDR. Sharpness is merely okay, too, and small fonts can look pixelated at times.
Pricing, however, is an upside. Sold at an MSRP of $749.99, and immediately available for just $699.99 at release, the XG27AQDMG undercuts the competition on price. Gamers who mostly stick to SDR may want to pay $50 to $100 more for a QD-OLED alternative, but the XG27AQDMG has the edge in HDR.
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Who should buy the LG Ultragear 27GN950?
If you’re not a professional gamer or you just don’t require the obscenely fast 240Hz, then you can find a whole host of great options at 144Hz instead. Our pick for the best of the bunch is the LG Ultragear 27GN950.
Not only is it still super fast, but it also has 4K resolution, all of the ports your heart desires, and impressively high color fidelity. It is a great option for those who will use it for multimedia other than just gaming and don’t mind sacrificing a little speed to gain a lot of pixel density.
LG Ultragear 27GN950: Further considerations
Admittedly, it’s a bit pricey for a 27-inch monitor and you will need a high-end GPU to take advantage of its full potential, but if you can afford it, then this just might end up being the pièce de résistance in your display setup.
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Who should buy the Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDP?
The Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDP is an ideal monitor for competitive gamers, as it’s the world’s first monitor to deliver a 480Hz refresh rate at 1440p resolution. This combination of motion clarity and resolution results in stunning motion performance that will give players an edge in esports and action-packed games.
Gamers will also appreciate the monitor’s excellent image quality, which enhances immersion across all genres. The WOLED panel provides excellent contrast that adds atmosphere in RPGs and horror games, while its wide color gamut, which spans 96 percent of DCI-P3, delivers a vivid and saturated look. The monitor’s good HDR brightness ensures that explosions and special effects in HDR games are displayed with convincing brightness and contrast.
Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDP: Further considerations
The PG27AQDP is packed with gamer-centric features. It supports multiple Adaptive Sync technologies, including Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. Asus’ Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology further enhances motion clarity (though, unfortunately, it is only available at a 120Hz or 240Hz refresh rate). Asus also provides aspect ratio modes to contrast the display’s viewable area to that of a 24.5-inch monitor for competitive gamers, or to a 4:3 aspect ratio for older games that lack widescreen support.
It’s not perfect. The monitor lacks USB-C connectivity, which might affect some multi-device setups. Asus’ also ships the monitor with a chunky stand that won’t fit well on smaller desks. Those minor downsides aside, the PG27AQDP is an excellent monitor that will appeal to gamers who crave the best motion clarity possible.
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Why should you buy the Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG?
The Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG stands out with its rare dual-mode display mode, which lets you choose between the sharpness of 4K at 165Hz or ultra-fast 1080p at 330Hz. That flexibility makes it appealing for gamers who sometimes need extreme responsiveness and motion clarity in esports titles, but also want to play games with leading-edge graphics at 4K.
The 165Hz mode is aided by Asus’ Extreme Low Motion Blur feature, which uses backlight strobing to reduce perceived blur. The 330Hz mode, meanwhile, delivers top-notch motion clarity at the expensive of reduced resolution.
Image quality is good, too. The monitor’s brightness is strong for OLED, delivering punchy SDR and HDR visuals, and its TrueBlack Glossy finish boosts perceived contrast for incredibly deep, inky blacks.
Add in a compact stand, solid connectivity with USB-C and multiple USB-A ports, as well as a competitive launch price of $899, and this monitor is an easy recommendation.
Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG: Further Considerations
The monitor’s TrueBlack Glossy finish is divisive. It looks vivid and contrast-rich in dark rooms but acts like a mirror in brighter rooms. Color performance, while strong, trails the top competitors in gamut coverage, and the 4K refresh rate caps at 165Hz, whereas some rivals offer 4K at 240Hz.
The Alienware AW2725Q is an excellent 27-inch 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitor, and less expensive than the competition; the BenQ PD3226G is a monitor for creative professionals, but it’s not bad in PC games, either; the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM 27-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor delivers gorgeous image quality and a long list of features, though it certainly isn’t cheap; the MSI MPG 321URXW QD-OLED is an excellent 32-inch 4K QD-OLED monitor — but with the added perk of USB connectivity; the HP Omen Transcend 32 offers great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality that make this 4K OLED monitor worth its high price; at less than $200, the Lenovo Legion R27fc-30 is a good budget gaming monitor with a focus on motion clarity; the Acer Predator X32 X3 is a great 4K OLED monitor that separates itself from the competition on two key points: connectivity and price; the Asus ProArt Display 5K is not the best high-resolution display on the market, but it delivers a gorgeous 5K image and long list of features at a reasonable price; the Gigabyte G34WQCP is a $350 ultrawide that earns high marks in SDR brightness, contrast, and color performance.
How we test gaming monitors
We test all monitors with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra calibration tool. This tool can report objective measurements for brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, color temperature, gamma, and other metrics.
Our results are recorded and compared to the results for past monitors. Though we rely on our eyes for initial impressions, comparing objective results lets us evaluate monitors against hundreds of older models from past reviews and testing.
We examine motion clarity by quickly moving the camera across the map in Civilization VI, playing a round of Rocket League, and panning the camera across the landscape in Final Fantasy XIV—among other games. Finally, we use the popular UFO Test for an apples-to-apples comparison between displays.
In addition to gaming prowess, we consider a monitor’s on-screen menu, ergonomic stand (or lack thereof), and overall build quality—all important qualities irrespective of use case.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including the universe of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best gaming monitor
Gamers have unique needs that exceed an average user. Here’s what PC gamers should look for in a gaming monitor.
Resolution
Most widescreen gaming monitors have a resolution of 1920×1080 (1080p), 2560×1440 (1440p), or 4K (3840×2160). A higher resolution improves sharpness and clarity, which helps games look more detailed and lifelike. Increasing resolution also increases demand on your video card, however. Gamers with less powerful hardware may want to avoid 4K.
Refresh rate
A higher refresh leads to smoother motion by increasing the number of frames that can appear each second. It also reduces input lag, as each frame appears more quickly. A 144Hz refresh rate is a big improvement over the standard 60Hz, and 240Hz is better still. The improvement becomes more difficult to notice after 240Hz, but 360Hz monitors exist for those who want the lowest input lag possible.
DisplayPort and HDMI 2.1
DisplayPort is the best connection for PC gaming. Even DisplayPort 1.4, which is rather old, can support 4K at 144Hz. HDMI 2.1 can handle 4K at 120Hz and is an acceptable connection for PC gaming, though most gamers will use it for a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S game console.
FAQ
1.
What is the best gaming monitor?
The best gaming monitor overall is the MSI MPG 341CQPX. The 34-inch panel joins a field of QD-OLED ultrawides, but stands out from the pack with better HDR, a 240Hz refresh rate, and USB-C port with 98 watts of Power Delivery.
2.
What is the best cheap gaming monitor?
At less than $300, the Dell G2724D offers incredible value for gamers. The 1440p/165Hz monitor has all the essentials: good image quality, strong motion clarity, and broad Adaptive Sync support.
3.
What resolution is best for a gaming monitor?
Many competitive gamers prefer 1080p resolution because it allows for high frame rates and low input lag even on modest hardware. This also makes it ideal for budget shoppers. 1080p is not as crisp as higher resolutions but, if it allows for higher frame rates, can look good in motion.
1440p remains a great mid-range option. It looks much sharper than 1080p but doesn’t drastically increase load on your video card. A variety of 1440p monitors now support a refresh rate up to 240Hz.
4K is the last word in sharpness and clarity. Playing a modern game on a 4K monitor takes the experience to a new level. It’s very demanding on your video card, however, so you’ll need top-tier hardware for a smooth experience.
Ultrawide monitors differ in resolution because they have a wider screen. Most ultrawide monitors have a resolution of 3440×1440, which delivers sharpness similar to a 1440p ultrawide. Some larger monitors have more exotic resolutions: the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 Neo, for example, has 5120×1440 resolution.
4.
Should I use AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync?
AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync can synchronize the refresh rate of a compatible monitor with the output of an AMD or Nvidia video card. This ensures smooth motion and eliminates screen tearing, a distracting visual artifact.
You might be surprised to learn that most AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync monitors rely on the VESA Adaptive Sync standard. This is why many gaming monitors now support both. The difference in performance is minimal.
Our top choice, the Alienware AW3423DW, is an ultrawide gaming monitor. An ultrawide aspect ratio is more immersive in racing, simulation, and role-playing games. It also offers a large, more impressive perspective in many strategy games.
Not all games support an ultrawide aspect ratio, however. It’s wise to check that your favorite games support ultrawide monitors before making a purchase. Consoles rarely support ultrawide aspect ratios, so console gamers should stick with a widescreen display.
I’m into monitors. Like, really into monitors. I’ve got a tiny 360Hz monitor for esports, an ultrawide monitor for racing and sim games, a 4K HDR monitor for single-player epics, and a side monitor for productivity. Yeah, I have a problem. But during October Prime Day, I’m sorely tempted to pick up a single badass monitor to rule them all—because this deal could achieve my previously impossible dream.
Samsung’s jaw-dropping 49-inch Odyssey QD-OLED G93SC is on sale for $899.99 right now. Sure, that’s still a fat stack of cash, but it’s also a whopping $700 discount off its $1,600 retail price, and for a monitor this loaded, it’s a downright bargain.
Firstly, it’s ginormous. The 49-inch ultrawide screen sports a pixel-packed 5120×1440 resolution—that’s like two standard 1440p displays in one frame. That’s great for work and play alike! Forza Horizon and Elite Dangerous will stretch out to almost VR-like dimensions on this beast.
And they’ll look damned luscious doing so, too. I’ve tested OLED displays in the past, and their vivid colors and deep, deep blacks deliver gaming and media experiences that must be seen to be believed. Seriously, OLED will take your breath away and is a much better upgrade than switching to a 4K monitor. This Samsung Odyssey cranks it to 11 with its DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, literally ensuring inky blacks reminiscent of deep space.
But (cue soundbite) that’s not all! While the Samsung Odyssey G9 can’t quite match the 360Hz speeds of my tiny 24-inch esports display, its 240Hz refresh rate will hold up fantastically in the cutthroat shooting games I can’t seem to tear myself away from. (Battlefield 6 inbound, y’all.) Pair that with the clean visuals and ultra-ultrawide aspect ratio and you’ve got everything you need to dominate the competition.
I truly believe this fully loaded S-tier gaming monitor is worth its full $1,600 asking price. At $899 with a 44 percent discount? My wallet still winces, but the idea of replacing my mish-mash of specialty displays with a single do-it-all stunner (with OLED!) feels awfully tempting. I’m going to be counting my pennies and crunching budgets until October Prime Day ends at midnight on the 8th—and you should too if you want the ultimate gaming monitor for damned near half its usual price.
My girlfriend is going to be so mad when I buy this
If you’re into the idea of upgrading your display—you know, the part of your PC you spend all day staring at—but don’t want to splurge on a $900 demigod, be sure to check out our roundup of the best October Prime Day monitor deals. There are a lot of fantastic displays going for just-as-fantastic prices out there right now.
4K resolution is now within reach of everyday PC users, promising a massive improvement to image quality, with four times the pixels of a 1080p display. A 4K monitor is useful not only in games and movies but also when editing documents or browsing web pages. The extra pixels make text look clear and crisp.
That’s all well and good, but which 4K monitor you choose will most likely be based on a variety of factors beyond just pixel count. That’s where this article comes in. After thorough testing, we’ve determined that these are the best 4K monitors covering a variety of budgets, use cases, and feature sets.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: PCWorld prides itself on PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since the 1980s, and we now review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE – Best 4K monitor
Pros
Functional, professional design
Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Ethernet, and 140 watts of Power Delivery
New generation of IPS Black boosts contrast ratio
Excellent sharpness from 31.5-inch 4K panel
120Hz refresh rate with VRR
Cons
Contrast ratio is good for an IPS panel, but still behind VA and OLED panels
HDR brightness is decent, but contrast remains limited
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Who should buy the Dell U3225QE?
Anyone who wants a well-rounded 4K monitor at the center of a home office will be well served by the U3225QE. This is a sharp 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel with excellent color accuracy and an above-average contrast ratio for a productivity monitor. The 120Hz refresh rate enhances responsiveness, making tasks like scrolling through documents and multitasking smoother. The ergonomic stand provides height, tilt, swivel, and portrait mode adjustments, and the anti-glare coating ensures comfortable viewing in various lighting conditions.
In addition to its stunning image quality, the U3225QE’s connectivity eliminates the need for external docks and adapters. It features Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Power Delivery—enough to charge most laptops—along with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining multiple monitors. A built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port ensures a fast and stable wired network connection, a rare feature among monitors. It also offers six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM switch functionality for seamless switching between two connected PCs.
Dell U3225QE: Further considerations
While this monitor lacks built-in speakers and its HDR performance is limited, the U3225QE’s extensive connectivity and high-quality display make it a standout choice for professionals who need a central hub for their workspace.
Want a smaller version of this monitor? Check out the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has a similar 4K IPS Black display panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.
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Who should buy the Dell S2722QC?
This is the 4K monitor for shoppers who want quality on a budget. The monitor can often be found for less than its $380 MSRP. It stands out by blending this budget price with 4K resolution and USB-C connectivity typically reserved for more expensive models.
Dell’s 27-inch IPS display delivers crisp visuals and a respectable brightness of 296 nits, suitable for most lighting conditions. In addition to an exceptionally clear, sharp 4K image, the monitor delivers color performance that’s more than adequate for everyday productivity, streaming, and light gaming. These perks are paired with a USB-C port with 65 watts of USB Power Delivery for charging a connected laptop or tablet, as well as two USB-A ports for connecting wiring peripherals. The monitor even ships with a sturdy yet compact ergonomic stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot.
Dell S2722QC: Further considerations
The Dell S2722QC makes a few compromises to keep the price low. The IPS panel’s contrast ratio is low, which can make the image look flat and dull when playing games or watching a movie. It’s better suited for a home office than a gaming den. To be fair, though, quality 4K gaming monitors are usually more expensive.
Dell’s S2722QC offers a lot of bang for your buck. It doesn’t deliver the highest image quality in all areas, but its combination of 4K resolution, USB-C connectivity, and affordability makes it a solid choice if you want a tack-sharp home office monitor at a low price.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt PA279CV?
The Asus ProArt PA279CV is an excellent choice for creatives who want an entry-level 4K monitor for professional use, but need to spend less than $500.
The ProArt PA279CV is a 27-inch 4K monitor with excellent color accuracy, high maximum brightness, and a good contrast ratio for an IPS monitor.
This monitor also throws in USB-C connectivity. It’s not a great USB-C hub, as it has only a couple USB-A ports, but it offers 65 watts of Power Delivery for charging a connected laptop or tablet.
Asus ProArt PA279CV: Further considerations
While this isn’t the right monitor for gaming enthusiasts (see below), Asus throws in adaptive sync support compatible with AMD and Nvidia video cards. This prevents screen tearing and provides smooth motion in 3D games. The monitor has a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz.
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Who should buy the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED?
The MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a high-performance gaming monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate and a cutting-edge OLED panel.
This 26.5-inch display delivers stunning 4K resolution with an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate, making it an excellent choice for gamers who want both visual clarity and fluid motion. Unlike previous 4K OLED monitors that were limited to 60Hz, the MSI is built for fast-paced gaming yet maintains the deep contrast and vibrant colors OLED monitors are known for. It also supports adaptive sync for smooth frame pacing.
MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED: Further considerations
The monitor isn’t just great for gaming. The QD-OLED panel offers excellent contrast and color accuracy, which makes it a solid pick for creative professionals and anyone who enjoys watching HDR movies. Connectivity is another strong point with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1a, and USB-C inputs, along with 98 watts of USB Power Delivery for charging laptops or tablets. While the design is a bit plain, the stand is sturdy and fully adjustable.
The MSI’s many perks come at a premium. Priced at $1,099.99, the MSI MPG 272URX is more expensive than 1440p OLED alternatives, which can be found for under $800. If 4K clarity and a fluid 240Hz refresh rate are what you’re after, however, this monitor is worth the investment.
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Who should buy the Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED?
Viewsonic’s VX1655-4K-OLED is our top choice for creators seeking top-notch image quality in a portable display.
This 16-inch OLED monitor delivers class-leading sharpness with 275 pixels per inch (a 27-inch 4K monitor, for comparison, has 163 pixels per inch). It also delivers vivid, accurate colors and deep contrast that make it perfect for both entertainment and creative work. The monitor’s HDR performance also far surpasses other portable monitors, so it’s a good choice if you want to sit back and watch a movie after a busy day.
Unlike most portable monitors, the VX1655-4K-OLED has a built-in kickstand that flips out from the rear of the display. The kickstand is more stable and easier to use than the detachable, folding stands that inexpensive portable monitors rely on. Connectivity is solid, as well, with dual USB-C inputs and one mini-HDMI.
Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED: Further considerations
The VX1655-4K-OLED has a few minor flaws. The bundled display cover feels somewhat flimsy, the on-screen menu system can be tricky to navigate, and the relatively large power adapter is more cumbersome than it needs to be.
Yet it’s clear the portable monitor’s perks far outweigh its problems. While shoppers can find cheaper alternatives, the VX1655-4K-OLED stands out for its ability to deliver a professional-grade visual experience on the go.
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Who should buy the Samsung M8 Smart Monitor?
A 32-inch 4K monitor is great for everyday PC tasks like web browsing and document editing, but it can be more than that. Monitors in this category are an ideal substitute for a television in a small mixed-used space like a studio apartment, rented room, or dormitory.
Samsung’s M8 Smart Monitor leans into this by fusing the features of a Smart TV with a traditional 32-inch 4K monitor. The monitor comes with a remote and runs Samsung’s Tizen operating system. You can access streaming content, like Netflix or Hulu, directly from the monitor.
Yet this is still a great PC monitor. A connected PC or other external device can be used by flipping the input source, as you would on a television. Image quality is solid with excellent sharpness, top-tier contrast, high brightness, and attractive color performance.
Samsung M8 Smart Monitor: Further considerations
The M8 Smart Monitor comes in a variety of attractive stand and bezel color options, with a detachable webcam, and has a USB-C port with up to 65 watts of Power Delivery. It supports Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5, too.
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Who should buy the BenQ SW272U?
The BenQ SW272U is an excellent 4K monitor for photographers and publishers who prioritize sharpness and accuracy. This 27-inch monitor has a “fine-coated panel” that delivers a simulated paper-like texture and boasts a resolution of 3840×2160 at 60Hz. It also provides a robust, industrial design with ergonomic stand that offers a wide range of adjustment and a glare-reducing hood designed to reduce ambient light.
Connectivity includes standard ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, with the notable addition of an SD card reader, which photographers are sure to like. However, it misses some advanced features like Thunderbolt. The monitor offers an exceptional menu system, accessible through a joystick or a wireless remote, with extensive customization for color gamut, color temperature, and gamma. That’s another key feature for photographers, as it helps users precisely calibrate the monitor’s image based on their needs.
The SW272U also has excellent image quality which, of course, is key for its target market. Its color gamut coverage and color accuracy are defeated only by a few of the best OLED and QD-OLED monitors. The monitor’s sharpness also stands out, offering a high pixel density that, in combination with the fine-coated panel, mimics the quality of printed material. The monitor’s contrast ratio is limited, which proves a downside for entertainment, but it’s less of a concern for its target audience.
BenQ SW272U: Further considerations
There’s only one real issue, and that’s the price. BenQ asks almost $1,500 for the SW272U, and that’s a lot even for a 27-inch 4K monitor. If you’re a photographer hoping to see what your photos might look like in print, though, it’s worth the premium.
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Who should buy the Dell G3223Q?
Want a 4K monitor with a high refresh rate for smooth gaming? The Dell G3223Q is an excellent option.
The G3223Q is a 32-inch, 4K monitor with a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz and support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro (Nvidia G-Sync also works, unofficially). You can play games at high refresh rates with no screen tearing and smooth frame pacing.
You’ll find two HDMI 2.1 ports on the rear. They’re great for connecting a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X game console, since you can play at each console’s maximum resolution and refresh rate. There’s also a DisplayPort input for connecting your PC.
Dell G3223Q: Further considerations
None of this would matter if the G3223Q’s image quality wasn’t excellent—but it is. The monitor has great color performance, high brightness, good contrast, and a razor-sharp image thanks to its 4K resolution.
It’s a good value, too. The G3223Q is towards the low end of pricing for a 32-inch, 4K 144Hz monitor but doesn’t sacrifice features or build quality to achieve it.
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Who should buy the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX?
Want the last word in high-resolution, high-definition gaming and entertainment? You need a fantastic HDR monitor like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX.
This monitor has a Mini-LED backlight with 1,152 independent backlight zones. The backlight greatly improves the monitor’s contrast ratio and achieves eye-searing levels of brightness in small areas of the display. The monitor’s maximum sustained brightness is exceptionally high, as well.
As a result, the PG32UQX delivers excellent detail in bright areas of the screen while maintaining good contrast and black levels in darker scenes. It also has exceptional color, which further contributes to a great HDR experience. Overall HDR performance rivals the best HDTVs and blows away most HDR monitors.
Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX: Further considerations
This is also a 4K 144Hz monitor with support for Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate. HDMI 2.1 is missing, but Xbox Series X|S consoles can achieve 4K 120Hz over HDMI 2.0 through a chroma subsampling mode.
The only problem? You can expect to pay up to $3,000 for this monitor.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt Display OLED PA32DC?
This is the 4K monitor for professionals who want the best. Most professional monitors support 4K resolution, but the Asus ProArt Display OLED PA32DC stands above the pack.
The secret is in the OLED panel. OLED looks fantastic, of course, with excellent contrast, a wide color gamut, and superb color accuracy. What sets the PA32DC apart from less expensive OLED monitors, though, is its use of a conventional RGB subpixel layout. This delivers the best clarity on modern PCs and prevents the color fringing issues that can appear on competitors that use QD-OLED display panels.
Asus provides a long list of image quality presets and options. The monitor has built-in modes for sRGB, DCI-P3, Rec. 709, and AdobeRGB, among others. It also includes multiple, accurate color temperature and gamma modes. A built-in colorimeter can be used to precisely calibrate color accuracy.
Asus ProArt Display OLED PA32DC: Further considerations
This monitor is built for use in a variety of professional settings. It’s a rugged, beefy display with thick bezels and a built-in carrying handle to help with transportation. A standard VESA desk stand is available for use in an office or at home, and the monitor has built-in legs for easy setup at a mobile studio or jobsite.
Priced at $3,000, the PA32DC may seem expensive, but it undercuts competitors like the LG UltraFine 32EP950, Apple Pro Display XDR, and Asus’ older ProArt OLED displays. This is a top-notch professional monitor suited to a wide range of content creation, and those who need excellent color performance will find that it’s well worth the price.
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Who should buy the BenQ RD280U?
The BenQ RD280U is a great monitor for programmers, thanks in no small part to its unusual 28-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 3840×2560 resolution. Its high pixel density, which is equivalent to a 27-inch 4K display, ensures text is rendered with crystal clarity. That make small fonts easier to read and may reduce eye fatigue during long coding sessions. The 3:2 aspect ratio is also notable, as it provides more vertical display space than a widescreen monitor and therefore room for a higher vertical pixel count (most 4K monitors have just 2,160 vertical pixels).
BenQ pairs the monitor’s pixel-dense display with features to support programming. Its IPS panel delivers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, ensuring code remains clear and legible from any position. The monitor’s matte finish effectively reduces glare, making it suitable for various lighting conditions. And the monitor has a “MoonHalo” ambient light and an automatic night mode, both meant to reduce eye strain.
BenQ RD280U: Further considerations
Connectivity is another strength of the RD280U. It has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of USB Power Delivery. This allows programmers to easily connect and charge their laptops, effectively turning the monitor into a convenient docking station.
BenQ asks a relatively high $599.99 for the RD280U, which is a couple hundred more than a competitive 4K 27-inch widescreen monitor. Still, programmers who code for hours on end are likely to find the extra cost is a good investment, as the RD280U offers many features — including a 3840×2560 display panel — that aren’t available from competitors.
The Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG has dual-mode support for 4K and 1080p native resolutions, at 165Hz and 330Hz refresh rates, respectively; the Dell Pro 27 Plus is a sharp 4K monitor, but its USB-C hub is the star of the show; the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP is an excellent 32-inch 4K OLED monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate, but also offers the unique feature of being able to run in 1080p mode with a 480Hz refresh rate; the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 all-purpose display offers 4K resolution, up to a 240Hz refresh rate, Adaptive Sync, HDR, and built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to support its Smart TV functionality; the MSI Modern MD272UPSW is not for everyone, but this smart monitor powered by Google TV OS is solid, and less expensive than its peers; the Alienware AW2725Q is an excellent 27-inch 4K 240Hz QD-OLED monitor, and less expensive than the competition; the HP Omen Transcend 32 is pricey even for a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor, but makes up for that with great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality; the Acer Predator X32 X3 is a more affordable 4K OLED monitor that packs a nice bonus: USB-C with 90 watts of Power Delivery.
How we test 4K monitors
We test 4K monitors with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. It provides objective measurements for contrast, brightness, black levels, color gamut, color accuracy, and gamma, among other metrics. These objective results can be compared with other monitors to see how each performs against the competition.
These objective image results are supplemented with our subjective evaluation of a monitor. We evaluate out-of-box image quality, sampling all types of content from gaming to movies. We look at the feature set. We closely consider details like a monitor’s on-screen menu, ergonomic stand (or lack thereof), and overall build quality.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including the universe of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best 4K monitor
4K monitors are more expensive than other monitors, so they pack numerous features and a quality display panel. A typical 4K monitor will have features that are optional on a 1080p monitor. Still, there are a few details you should know before buying a 4K monitor.
USB-C
USB-C is an excellent choice for connecting a 4K monitor to a modern laptop with USB-C or Thunderbolt. USB-C can bundle Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alternate Mode, which means the monitor can charge a connected device while it outputs video to the monitor. Some monitors, like the Dell U3223QE, are USB-C hubs that expand connectivity for the connected device.
Refresh rate
Most 4K monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate. Those that go beyond 60Hz may only support an enhanced refresh rate over a specific port, so be sure to check the specifications. A monitor will need to support HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 to handle 4K at up to 144Hz.
HDR
Many 4K monitors support HDR, but most offer lackluster HDR performance. HDR will function, and may look better than SDR, but won’t approach the quality of a good HDTV. If you want quality HDR, look for a minimum of VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification (or VESA DisplayHDR True Black). See our article on everything you need to know about HDR on your PC to learn more.
FAQ
1.
What is the best 4K monitor?
The Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE checks all the boxes for a great 4K monitor. The 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel features excellent color accuracy and an above-average contrast ratio, has a 120Hz refresh rate for enhanced responsiveness, and sports generous connectivity options that eliminate the need for any external adapters or hub. It also has an ergonomic stand and anti-glare coating for comfortable viewing in all lighting conditions.
2.
What is the best budget 4K monitor?
The Dell S2722QC offers 4K, USB-C, HDR, and integrated speakers, making it a good everyday productivity monitor for an affordable price.
3.
Does a 4K monitor need HDMI 2.1?
HDMI 2.1 is only important if you want to connect a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X game console at 4K resolution and play titles with 120Hz support. These consoles only support HDMI output, so an HDMI connection is your only option.
Most desktop PCs and laptops also have a DisplayPort output. This is preferable to HDMI 2.1 because it supports higher resolutions and refresh rates, so HDMI 2.1 is not necessary to connect a PC.
4.
Can my PC handle a 4K monitor?
Support for 4K video output went mainstream around 2015. If you have a computer newer than 2015, odds are high that it supports 4K. Most PCs sold prior to 2015 will not support 4K.
Want to be sure? Our guide to checking what graphics card you have will help identify your PC’s graphics hardware. You can then reference its official specifications to find its maximum supported resolution.
Gamers be warned: 4K resolution is demanding in 3D games, so you may struggle to see smooth gameplay unless you have the latest graphics hardware. You’ll need at least an Nvidia RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 to play the latest titles at 4K and 60 frames per second.
5.
Is text too small on a 4K monitor?
Early adopters of 4K monitors often struggled to read small text. That’s because many older applications were programmed such that interface elements have a defined, concrete size in pixels. The higher a display’s resolution, the smaller the interface appears.
Thankfully, this problem is mostly solved. Windows and MacOS have excellent text scaling options and most software developers have updated their applications to properly support 4K displays. It’s still a problem with very old apps that were never updated but, in general, it’s rare to see tiny, unreadable text on a 4K monitor.
The web is absolutely swimming with Prime Day deals for Amazon subscribers right now. But this OLED gaming monitor is as good a deal as you’ll find for any name brand, and it doesn’t require any subscription at all. Best Buy is offering a 27-inch OLED monitor from MSI for just $449.99, over $200 off retail.
While it’s a bit basic in terms of features, this MAG 271QP monitor is hitting the “sweet spot” for gaming displays at the moment. 2560×1440 resolution and 240Hz of refresh mean you’ll get buttery-smooth graphics that are fast enough to compete with the twitchiest of online shooters. Double HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 ports mean it can handle multiple PCs and consoles just fine, but with no USB options at all, it’s not a great pick for a laptop unless you also have a dock. I’d also throw in a VESA mount, especially if you want to run a multi-monitor setup.
Even so, this is about as cheap as you can get for an OLED monitor right now, especially one with 240Hz of refresh and .03ms response time. If you’ve been waiting for a deal to upgrade your desktop, this is it. Best Buy is offering the deal until October 9th (I’d assume approximately 1 AM Eastern US time), but it might run out before then. Shipping is already pretty slow for Best Buy, so it looks like the store is moving quite a few units.
If this isn’t quite what you’re looking for, be sure to check out PCWorld’s Prime Day monitor roundup for deals on OLEDs, office monitors, and standard gaming monitors. We’ve got plenty of deals from across the web.
Get a 27-inch MSI OLED gaming monitor for just $450
October Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to those wishlist items you’ve been eyeing for months, and the deals this year are sizzling. Case in point: this ultrawide 34-inch LG OLED monitor is now on sale for a whopping 51% off. You can snag it for just $691.42, a massive savings on its original $1,399.99 price tag.
Spending just shy of $700 on a monitor might sound crazy, but you have to realize this is an ultrawide OLED display, and both ultrawide and OLED displays are all the rage right now. They’re gorgeous, vivid, spacious, and on the cutting edge. To find an OLED like this for under $800 is a steal right now, and that’s why we’re so excited about this Prime Big Deal.
The LG UltraGear 34GX90SA-W features an expansive 3440×1440 resolution, an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate, and a super-fast 1ms response time. This all means it’s a fantastic choice for gamers, video editors, streamers, workers, bums, and everyone in between. That ultrawide screen real estate is perfect for side-by-side apps, browser tabs, background videos, and so much more.
Note that the 800R screen curvature is a bit more pronounced than most monitors in this category, but it ain’t terrible. The way it wraps around your vision means less eye fatigue over long sessions, as well as a more immersive experience when playing your PC games. Other features include Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium support, plus double HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C video inputs.
Prime Day is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to those wishlist items you’ve been eyeing, and the deals this year are sizzling. Case in point: the massive 34-inch LG UltraGear OLED curved monitor, now a whopping 51% off. You can snag it for $691.42, down from its usual $1,400 price tag.
While $691 might seem quite a bit of money, it’s actually a rare find because this monitor is rarely below $800. The LG UltraGear 34GX90SA features a gorgeous 3440×1440 resolution, an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate, and a super-fast 1ms response time. This all means it’s a fantastic choice for gamers, video and photo editing, streaming content, and just everyday activities.
Its 800R curvature is a bit more pronounced than most monitors in this category, but it will definitely deliver an immersive experience for gamers who want to be enveloped in their virtual worlds.
If this particular monitor is a bit too much for you, here are a few other OLED monitor deals you may love:
One of the easiest ways to enhance your PC experience is to get a better monitor. It doesn’t require any upgrades for your desktop or laptop, and it shines up the primary way you interact with almost everything: the visuals. Amazon’s second Prime Day event of the year is now here for people looking to score a new display for cheap, kicking off on October 7th and lasting for 48 hours until midnight Pacific on October 8th. (Here’s how to get Amazon Prime for free so you can get in on the deep, deep discounts.)
With U.S. tariffs affecting prices, to say nothing of general consumer trends, it might not be the smorgasbord of discounts we saw in previous years. But there are still savings to be had, on OLED monitors, gaming monitors, and standard office designs — and I’ve hunted down the best monitor deals in the list below. Even though the main focus is on Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days, some of the best discounts can be found elsewhere on the web, so I’ve included those in the list as well.
OLED monitors are the cream of the crop for gamers, thanks to incredible color vibrance and contrast, even if they’re not the absolute fastest on the market right now. For my money, MSI has the best deal at the moment…but then I’m an ultrawide fanboy and I love that gigantic 49-inch format. If you’re looking for an OLED upgrade at the lowest price, the smaller MSI 27-inch option is the way to go.
For more affordable options for gamers, ASRock once again delivers with a 27-inch, 1080p display at just a hair over a hundred bucks. Samsung’s massive ultrawide is great…but at that price you have OLED options, so there’s better stuff out there. Speed freaks who want every possible frame for online shooters, check out Alienware’s 500Hz offering at an unbeatable price right now.
I can personally recommend Dell’s 27-inch, 1440p IPS monitors, because I’ve been using them for years on either side of my ultrawide center display. It’s a perfect way to expand your desk space, but unless you need some gaming-grade speed, it works great as a primary display too. For laptop users, there’s no easier way to expand your mobile capabilities than with a USB monitor (especially since they now include power and video). And there are a bunch of affordable options now, too.
Other great October Prime Day deals
These aren’t the only October Prime Day deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with the juiciest tech sales, hit the links for only the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.
Monitor size depends on personal preference and location.
A 24-inch monitor is fine for a desk that is around 24 inches deep, or less. Its small size will still be sufficient because the monitor is closer to you.
Most people, however, will want to go with a 27-inch monitor. The added size will make the monitor easy to see. This also opens up a wider range of 4K monitor options, as 4K is very rare on a 24-inch monitor.
Larger monitors, such as a 32-inch widescreen or 34-inch ultrawide, are great for deep desks and people who want an immersive experience. Monitors this large can serve as a TV replacement in a small room.
Displays of even larger size, such as 42-inch or 48-inch HDTVs, are best for home theater setups or an unusually large office. You’ll want to sit four to six feet away from a display of this size.
2.
What display input is best? (HDMI vs. DisplayPort vs. USB-C)
USB-C is the best display input for most people. It works by bundling DisplayPort into USB-C, so offers all the same features as DisplayPort. Yet it retains the features of USB-C including optional support for Power Delivery to charge external devices. This is why we recommend a USB-C monitor for most people.
DisplayPort is generally second-best. It supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI. This input is particularly common on desktop computers.
HDMI comes in third due to lower resolution and refresh rate support. This is improved by HDMI 2.1, but this feature remains hard to find and often adds to a monitor’s price.
All three of the options above handle 1080p at 60Hz, which is the most common resolution and refresh rate available today. It’s also important to buy a monitor that has an input compatible with your PC.
3.
Are all monitors compatible with Windows and MacOS?
Modern monitors are compatible with all recent versions of Windows and MacOS. They’re plug-and-play, which means the monitor should display an image without the need to install driver software or mess with Windows or MacOS settings.
4.
Are tariffs affecting monitor prices?
Yes. Deals for monitors around this sale aren’t as good as they were during Amazon’s last big sale in October, particularly for the largest, most expensive models. That said, we have managed to avoid the complete shutdown of imported stock that seemed likely during the most tumultuous back-and-forth tariff negotiations…so that’s something.
Prices are unlikely to improve later in the year, so if you find a delectable deal on a monitor you’re interested in, October Prime Day may be one of your best bets of the year. Especially if you buy on day one of the event — President Trump says additional reciprocal tariffs will return on November 10, and could plunge prices into chaos.
Most days, I love my dual-monitor office setup. But then deals like the one for this Samsung ViewFinity S50GC come along and make me itch to add another monitor to my setup. This 34-inch Samsung ultrawide display just dropped to $219.99 on Amazon, a massive savings on its original $329.99 tag and the lowest price it’s ever been! Hot dang.
The star of the show here is the 3440×1440 resolution, providing lots more screen real estate than your typical 1440p 16:9 display. Want to fit your apps side by side on screen without feeling cramped? This’ll get the job done. It’s only a VA panel—that’s how it stays so cheap—so don’t expect the super color accuracy or vibrancy of IPS or OLED, but those options would easily cost you double or even quadruple. It does have HDR10 support though for enjoying Netflix and the like.
The 100Hz refresh rate is fine for office work and media streaming, but not the best for avid gamers. Same goes for the 5ms response time. Connectivity is pretty standard as well, with dual HDMI 2.2 and one DisplayPort 1.2 for inputs, and the minimal bezel keeps it sleek and undistracting. Built-in Picture in Picture mode also aids with productivity, allowing you to keep one source minified while focusing on a task.
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Are you shopping for a basic productivity monitor that won’t disappoint? The MSI Pro MP275Q might be what you need. Though it has a ho-hum design and barebones feature set, it delivers high brightness and sharpness on a budget.
The MSI Pro MP275Q’s specifications are firmly targeted at office productivity. It provides a 27-inch panel with 2,560 x 1,440 resolution, which is a nice bump from 1,920 x 1,080. It also has speakers, a VESA mount, and supports both HDR and Adaptive Sync.
Buying the MSI Pro MP275Q will set you back about $180 at MSRP but, like most monitors, it is often on sale and often for less than $150. That’s a decent price for a 27-inch 1440p monitor, but I wouldn’t call it a deal.
MSI PRO MP275Q design
The MSI Pro MP275Q doesn’t make much impression out of the box, and I suspect that’s the point. It’s a “Pro” monitor and, in this case, the professional could be anyone from a work-from-home administrator to a retail clerk ringing up an order. The Pro MP275Q looks fine, and it feels reasonably durable for a budget monitor, but it’s nothing special.
However, the monitor’s function doesn’t live up to its branding. It has a simple stand that only adjusts for tilt. It’s not a tall stand, either, so tall users will find themselves looking down at the screen at an uncomfortable angle.
The monitor does include a 100x100mm VESA mount, at least, so it’s possible to add a third-party stand or monitor arm.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
MSI PRO MP275Q connectivity
MSI keeps it basic with the Pro MP275Q’s connectivity, but it covers the necessities. We’re talking two HDMI 2.0 ports, plus one DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio-out.
This is the expected range of connectivity for a monitor around $150. It’s neither better nor worse than usual. USB-C would be nice, but it’s not common south of $250.
MSI PRO MP275Q menus, audio
Menu navigation is provided with a joystick tucked around the right flank of the MSI Pro MP275Q. Many monitors offer a joystick (which is often the easiest, most responsive way to navigate a monitor’s menus), so this isn’t unusual.
The monitor’s menu options are easy to navigate, but barebones. There are some image quality presets, a few color temperature options, and an EyeCare mode for reduced eye strain, all of which is normal for a monitor in this price bracket.
You can also adjust monitor features using MSI Display Kit, a desktop software utility. It provides easy access to most monitor options and is often more intuitive to use than the on-screen menu controls. Display Kit is not the most visually appealing example of such a tool—I think those from Asus, BenQ, and Dell look a bit better. Still, it gets the job done.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
The only unusual feature is an “Eye-Q Check” feature, which displays an Amsler Grid that’s supposed to help you determine if you’re experiencing eye strain. Does it work? Probably not. While I was able to find medical studies on using an Amsler Grid to detect problems like macular degeneration, I couldn’t find studies suggesting it’s useful for general eye strain.
A pair of 2-watt speakers are included. They provide modest volume and no hint of bass but, as budget monitor speakers go, they’re not bad. The speakers are fine for listening to podcasts or ambient music at low volumes—which is more than I can say for most budget monitors.
MSI keeps it basic with the Pro MP275Q’s connectivity, but it covers the necessities: two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio-out.
MSI PRO MP275Q SDR image quality
The MSI Pro MP275Q is the type of monitor that will frequently be used for spreadsheets, web browsing, PDFs, and other office productivity. These tasks don’t require incredible image quality but benefit from good results in brightness, accuracy, and sharpness. Fortunately, the Pro MP275Q delivers.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Brightness is definitely a highlight for the MSI Pro MP275Q. A maximum brightness of nearly 400 nits is extremely high for any monitor in the sub-$200 price bracket.
This level of brightness isn’t required in most situations, but it’s helpful if you’re planning to position a monitor near bright windows or in an office environment without light control.
The monitor also has an anti-glare finish to minimize reflections, which further helps with usability in bright rooms. If you want a bright, readable office monitor, the MSI Pro MP275Q is a top choice.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Contrast, on the other hand, is an unsurprising weakness. The MSI Pro MP275Q uses an IPS display panel and doesn’t have a fancy dynamic Mini-LED backlight. Because of that, its contrast ratio is just 1190:1 at 50 percent of maximum brightness.
That’s not a terrible result, and it’s typical of budget IPS monitors. However, technologies like IPS Black and VA panels (like the Lenovo Legion R27fc-30) can achieve a contrast ratio of 3000:1 or better, and OLED’s contrast ratio is effectively infinite. On the other hand, monitors with those technologies are often twice the price.
While the contrast ratio isn’t great, it’s arguably not that important for an office monitor. Text-based workflows rarely benefit much, if at all, from a very high contrast ratio.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Color gamut isn’t the Pro MP275Q’s strength. It’s okay, with a color gamut that covers 99 percent of sRGB and 78 percent of both DCI-P3 and AdobeRGB. However, these are not impressive figures in 2025, and many alternative monitors do better. The color gamut will be a limitation if you need to do photo or video editing, or digital art, as many colors visible on more capable displays won’t be visible on this monitor.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
While the Pro MP275Q’s color gamut doesn’t impress, color accuracy is more in its favor. The monitor’s color accuracy is solid, and most people won’t notice any issue. Color inaccuracy is highest in cyan and blue tones—a fairly common result for an IPS-LCD monitor—but even there, it didn’t come across to me in subjective viewing. Again, I wouldn’t recommend using this monitor to edit professional photography for, say, National Geographic. But that’s to be expected at this price point.
The Pro MP275Q’s color temperature and gamma results were fine for a budget display. It displayed a gamma curve of 2.3, off the target of 2.2, which means content looks a tad darker than it should. But this is often hard to notice. The color temperature came in at 6600K, also just a shade off the target of 6500K. I didn’t find that difference noticeable.
Sharpness is a strong point. The Pro MP275Q’s resolution of 2560×1440 works out to about 110 pixels per inch across the 27-inch screen. That’s a respectable pixel density. Speaking personally, I find it sharp enough—and a big upgrade over 1080p. With that said, shoppers should keep in mind that 4K monitors aren’t much more expensive. Even MSI has one priced at $200.
Overall, the MSI Pro MP275Q’s image quality is good for a budget monitor. Its brightness and sharpness make it ideal for its target use case, which is office productivity. The monitor’s color performance and contrast are less impressive, and make it a less appealing choice for entertainment. However, at $150, you’ll be hard pressed to find alternatives that clearly defeat it in SDR image quality.
MSI PRO MP275Q HDR image quality and motion
The MSI Pro MP275Q doesn’t advertise HDR support, but its specifications list it as “HDR Ready.” This is, I think, a fair way to market the monitor. It can technically support an HDR signal, but its image quality is entirely insufficient to do much with HDR. It’s not bright enough, doesn’t have a wide enough color gamut, and doesn’t have enough contrast.
However, this is true of all budget monitors. I actually like that MSI doesn’t advertise this feature. Some budget monitors do, which annoys me, because their claims of HDR support can be misleading. In reality, you’ll need to upgrade to a much more expensive OLED or MiniLED monitor if you want good HDR.
Adaptive Sync is also technically supported, but the Pro MP275Q lacks AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync certification. My AMD video card did detect it as a variable refresh rate display, however, and I saw smooth motion in games.
The monitor also has a maximum refresh rate of 100Hz. Though that won’t make headlines in 2025, it’s high enough to provide a noticeable improvement in motion clarity. The Pro MP275Q will look a bit less blurry in fast motion than 60Hz competitors. Note, however, that it is fairly subtle—your mileage will vary depending on how sensitive you are to motion clarity improvements.
Gamers should note that budget gaming monitors like the Lenovo Legion R27fc-30 and Pixio PX248 Wave will provide a higher refresh rate of up to 240Hz for less than $200. However, you’ll often have to make a trade-off in either display size or resolution.
Should you buy the MSI PRO MP275Q?
The MSI Pro MP275Q is a workmanlike monitor meant for, well, work. It provides good image quality in SDR with high brightness and sharpness. The monitor’s build quality is simple and notably lacks a height-adjustable stand, which is its only significant flaw. Still, the Pro MP275Q is a good option if you want a 27-inch 1440p monitor for just about any work environment, from a home office to a corporate bullpen.
USB-C is the one connection to rule them all. Its popularity has made USB-C a common sight on new monitors. A USB-C monitor can act as USB hub, giving you additional ports for connecting various USB devices, but the monitor’s USB-C port can also serve as a video-input alternative to HDMI or DisplayPort; and some USB-C monitors can even charge a connected device while in use.
The details of USB-C can be confusing, however, and pricing for USB-C monitors is often higher than that for monitors that lack the interface. See our buyers’ guide below our recommendations to better understand the nuances.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: PCWorld prides itself on PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE – Best USB-C monitor overall
Pros
Functional, professional design
Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Ethernet, and 140 watts of Power Delivery
New generation of IPS Black boosts contrast ratio
Excellent sharpness from 31.5-inch 4K panel
120Hz refresh rate with VRR
Cons
Contrast ratio is good for an IPS panel, but still behind VA and OLED panels
HDR brightness is decent, but contrast remains limited
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Who should buy the Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE?
The Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE is an excellent choice for professionals who need a high-quality display with best-in-class USB-C connectivity.
The U3225QE’s connectivity eliminates the need for external docks and adapters. It features Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Power Delivery—enough to charge most laptops—along with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining multiple monitors. A built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port ensures a fast and stable wired network connection, a rare feature among monitors. It also offers six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM switch functionality for seamless switching between two connected PCs.
In addition to its connectivity, the U3225QE has a sharp 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel with excellent color accuracy and an above-average contrast ratio for a productivity monitor. The 120Hz refresh rate enhances responsiveness, making tasks like scrolling through documents and multitasking smoother. The ergonomic stand provides height, tilt, swivel, and portrait mode adjustments, and the anti-glare coating ensures comfortable viewing in various lighting conditions.
Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE: Further considerations
While it lacks built-in speakers and its HDR performance is limited, the U3225QE’s extensive connectivity and high-quality display make it a standout choice for professionals who need a central hub for their workspace.
Want a smaller version of this monitor? Check out the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has a similar 4K IPS Black display panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.
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Who should buy the BenQ GW2786TC?
Budget shoppers, take note. The BenQ GW2786TC is one of the best USB-C monitors you can buy for under $200. It offers a 27-inch IPS display with 1080p resolution, a 100Hz refresh rate, and an ergonomic stand with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments. While it’s not the sharpest monitor at this size, it delivers good contrast and a smooth viewing experience for everyday work.
It has USB-C with 65W Power Delivery, allowing a single-cable connection for video, power, and data. It also includes DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining a second monitor, a rare perk in this price range. Built-in speakers, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient light sensor add extra convenience for home office use.
BenQ GW2786TC: Further considerations
BenQ markets this monitor as a companion for MacBooks like the MacBook Air, but don’t let that fool you: It works just as well with Windows PCs, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops.
The BenQ GW2786TC’s biggest flaw is its lack of adaptive sync, which means gameplay won’t appear as smooth as on some price-competitive alternatives.
That aside, the BenQ GW2786TC’s numerous features and low price make it one of the best budget-friendly USB-C monitors available.
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Who should buy the Viewsonic VP16-OLED?
If you want a work setup worthy of productivity that’s also easily transportable, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is a remarkable portable OLED monitor for the job. It brings together top-notch image quality, USB-C connectivity, and an innovative stand design.
The monitor’s 15.6-inch 1080p OLED panel delivers exceptional color accuracy, gamut, and contrast. It surpasses many full-sized OLED monitors and nearly all portable monitors. This makes it a great choice for productivity, though it also looks excellent when viewing movies or playing games.
The VP16-OLED’s stand can be used as a kickstand or expanded to hold the monitor upright, making it ideal for professionals who want to maximize their workspace or need improved ergonomics.
Viewsonic VP16-OLED: Further considerations
The stand includes two USB-C ports, both of which can provide power and video input to the monitor, and a micro-HDMI port for compatibility with non-USB-C devices. The monitor includes all the necessary cables as well as a USB-C power brick.
There is a drawback: the cost. The Viewsonic VP16-OLED’s MSRP of $399.99 is expensive for a portable monitor. However, if you place a high value on image quality and want the best monitor for your portable office, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is an excellent choice.
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Who should buy the LG DualUp 28MQ780-B?
This uniquely sized monitor isn’t for everyone, but for photographers or videographers it has some special strengths. The LG DualUp 28MQ780-B is a USB-C monitor with a 16:18 aspect ratio that’s almost exactly square. It can rotate into a 18:16 aspect ratio if you’d prefer. The monitor is much taller than most monitors and, as a result, has an adjustable stand that clamps to the rear of your desk instead of a normal desktop stand.
The monitor’s odd form factor is ideal for viewing large, complex documents and can be useful for editing portrait or square photos. It’s also well suited for use as a second monitor alongside a large 32-inch display.
Image quality is great. The monitor has strong color accuracy, a wide color gamut, and respectable sharpness thanks to its resolution of 2560×2880.
LG DualUp 28MQ780-B: Further considerations
The DualUp 28MQ780-B has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of Power Delivery, so it can charge a connected laptop or tablet. The USB-C port can extend connectivity to two additional USB-A ports. Unfortunately, the monitor lacks ethernet or video-out, so some owners may need an additional adapter.
Just be warned: The odd aspect ratio makes it a strange fit for gaming and movies. This is a monitor built for work, not play.
The Asus ProArt PA32QCV is an excellent and affordable 6K monitor that opts for Thunderbolt 4 as opposed to USB-C, making it a good fit for Mac users; the Samsung Smart Monitor M9 doubles as a smart TV and a productivity monitor complete with USB-C connectivity; the Viewsonic VA1655 portable monitor has USB-C power with 60 watts of power delivery and pass-through support for charging a laptop; the Dell Pro 27 Plus is a nice 4K monitor, but its key feature is its USB-C hub; the LG Ultragear 39GX90SA-W is 39-inch OLED with TV smarts; the MSI Modern MD272UPSW is another smart TV disguised as a monitor; the Asus ProArt PA32UCDM leans heavily on Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C. Perhaps too heavily, as it falls short in other ports compared to its peers; the Dell Pro 34 Plus USB-C is a decent choice if you want an ultrawide with lots of connectivity, but the monitor’s image quality fails to impress; the BenQ PD3226G IPS monitor is aimed at creative pros who might also enjoy some gaming, with lots of Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity; the HP Omen Transcend 32 is pricey even for a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor, but makes up for that with great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality; the Acer Predator X32 X3 is a more affordable 4K OLED monitor that packs a nice bonus: USB-C with 90 watts of Power Delivery.
How we test monitors
Our monitor guides are the result of extensive product testing by freelance and staff contributors with decades of combined experience.
While we rely on a hands-on evaluation of real-world usage for an initial impression, we also thoroughly test each monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. This specialized hardware can objectively measure a monitor’s brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, luminance and color uniformity, gamma, and many other aspects of image quality.
Using this tool helps us detect strengths and weaknesses that don’t necessarily appear at a glance and guarantees that a change in lighting conditions or monitor location won’t skew our impression.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with more than 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics and PC hardware, including the universe of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best USB-C monitor
Many features desirable in a USB-C monitor are the same as on any other display. A sharp, vivid, bright, and contrast-rich screen is best. However, shoppers who want to buy a USB-C monitor should keep an eye on details only relevant to USB-C.
Remember, too, that a USB-C display can be used in two contexts. First, you can connect your USB-C monitor to a desktop PC or laptop via a USB-C cable, and use it like a traditional USB-C hub via the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps interface. That’s pretty straightforward.
Second, you can also use the USB-C cable as a replacement for a display cable like HDMI or DisplayPort, especially for newer laptops that might eliminate an HDMI or DisplayPort port.
It’s here that USB-C monitors can get tricky. The traditional rule of thumb is that a USB-C port can support a 4K display at 30Hz resolution. DisplayPort Alternate Mode (see below) increases that to 4K60, which is much easier on the eyes. Newer laptops use DisplayPort 1.4, which combines a high-bit-rate mode (HBR3) with a DSC compression mode that should allow for 4K60 video alongside the ability to use USB 3.1 storage devices.
Be aware, however, that the USB-C cable’s 20Gbps throughput may not allow for video to be passed to premium displays like the NZXT Canvas S27Q at its full 1440p, 165Hz refresh rate. Those specifications probably assume that you’re using a dedicated video port like DisplayPort, instead, as well as its separate video cable. You can certainly connect the display to your laptop using both a video cable and the USB-C cable simultaneously, however.
If your laptop uses either Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 — all of which use a 40Gbps data connection and a USB-C port on your laptop — you should probably have no issues connecting your laptop to the monitor at the full refresh rate using a Thunderbolt cable. Just consult your laptop’s specifications and/or manual to make sure.
Power Delivery
USB-C Power Delivery provides power over a USB-C cable. It’s not part of the core USB-C specification, so devices with USB-C (including monitors) don’t always support it. Power Delivery can pack up to 240 watts, but most USB-C monitors provide just 65 to 90 watts. It’s a perfect fit for those who own a thin-and-light laptop, 2-in-1, or tablet.
Power Delivery is inadequate for some devices, such as gaming laptops, which consume more power than current USB-C monitors can provide. These laptops may still charge when left at idle but will charge slowly (or even discharge the battery) when in use.
Ethernet
Wired ethernet is a desirable feature in a USB-C monitor. Many modern laptops lack a physical Ethernet port, so its inclusion on a monitor is convenient. It can improve the speed and reliability of a connected device’s internet connection.
While useful, this is an expensive feature available only on premium models. The Dell U3223QE is the only USB-C monitor on this list with ethernet support.
DisplayPort Alternate Mode
DisplayPort Alternate Mode is a feature available to USB-C that handles video as if the USB-C cable was a DisplayPort cable. It supports all the features you’d expect from DisplayPort including high refresh rates and adaptive sync.
A monitor without this feature won’t accept video over USB-C, meaning you’ll have to connect both USB-C and a separate video input. All the monitors on this list support DisplayPort Alternate Mode.
FAQ
1.
What is the best USB-C monitor?
The best USB-C monitor is the Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE. In addition to being a high-quality 4K IPS display capable of meeting the needs of a professional, the monitor is unparalleled when it comes to connectivity, featuring Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Power Delivery—enough to charge most laptops—along with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining multiple monitors. It also offers a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for a fast and stable wired network connection, as well as six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, a KVM switch.
2.
What is the best cheap USB-C monitor
The best budget USB-C monitor is the BenQ GW2786TC. While it’s come up in price since our original review, it still offers good value at $250. It has USB-C with 65W Power Delivery, allowing a single-cable connection for video, power, and data. It also includes DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining a second monitor, which is uncommon at this price range.
Built-in speakers, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient light sensor are nice extras that make this monitor great for home office use.
3.
Do I really need a USB-C monitor?
A USB-C monitor is a great way to expand your computer’s connectivity without the added clutter of a USB-C hub or dock. It reduces the wires present on your desk, freeing up space for other uses. PC World’s guide to USB-C hub monitors has the full story.
USB-C monitors are excellent when used with a USB-C laptop that consumes less than 90 watts of power at load. Docking a laptop at a desk can be annoying if you use a wired keyboard, wired mouse, and external monitor. A USB-C monitor can consolidate all your wired devices to a single USB-C cable.
If these benefits sound good, then a USB-C monitor could be for you. If not, you may get more value from a conventional monitor.
4.
Are USB-C monitors expensive?
Yes, USB-C monitors are more expensive. Basic monitors without USB-C retail for as little as $100, while similar monitors with USB-C start around $150.
That price premium persists through all price categories. You can expect to pay around $50 to $100 more for a USB-C monitor than you would for a similar monitor without it.
Premium productivity and professional monitors are an exception. Nearly all monitors in these categories offer some form of USB-C support. They remain expensive, though, and are often priced between $500 to $1,000 (and sometimes more).
5.
Are USB-C monitors good for gaming?
Technically speaking, USB-C monitors can be great for gaming. USB-C video is handled over DisplayPort Alternate Mode, which preserves all the usual benefits of DisplayPort. This includes great support for high refresh rates, high resolutions, and adaptive sync.
But there’s a catch: Many monitors that have a USB-C port don’t support important gaming features like an enhanced refresh rate, low pixel response times, or adaptive sync. The Asus ProArt PG348CGV, our pick for best ultrawide with USB-C, and the NZXT Canvas 27Q, our best budget pick, are two notable exceptions. Just make sure that you’re connecting to them with a dedicated DisplayPort or HDMI video cable, and not using the USB-C cable as the video cable, too.
Portable monitors have gained in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They’re a boon to both desktop and laptop users. While portable monitors might not reach the large screen sizes of conventional displays, they offer other advantages: They are relatively inexpensive, easy to connect, and, best of all, easy to transport — whether that’s to a different city for work, or to a different room in your house.
But the widespread availability of these displays and the ability to manufacture them cheaply has resulted in some questionable brands on the market. Often the quality of these monitors can be sub-par. That’s where we at PCWorld come in. We’ve tested multiple models and can separate the best portable monitors from the rest.
Our list of favorites below will help you find the right portable monitor for you. You can learn more about what to look for in a portable monitor at the bottom of the article.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: PCWorld prides itself on its decades of PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
Arzopa Z1FC – Best budget portable monitor
Pros
Good build quality for the price
Integrated kickstand minimizes thickness
Bright display with respectable image quality
144Hz refresh rate provides good motion clarity
Cons
HDMI port is not full-sized
HDR input is technically supported, but it’s not great
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Who should buy the Arzopa Z1FC?
The Arzopa Z1FC is great for budget-conscious users who need a versatile portable monitor for productivity and casual gaming.
Priced at between $170 and $200 (with carrying case, or about $100 without), it delivers an attractive aluminum back panel with integrated kickstand. It’s also portable at just 1.7 pounds and 0.3 inches thick. The monitor’s 144Hz refresh rate and bright 337-nit display make it notably better than many budget competitors.
The monitor’s dual USB-C ports with power delivery also make it convenient if you have a laptop with USB-C out and want a simple, plug-and-play setup that requires a single cable. It ships alongside a carrying case with dual pockets that has room for the monitor, a slim laptop, and a USB-C cable.
Arzopa Z1FC: Further considerations
While it’s good for the price, the Z1FC has some notable limitations. It lacks Adaptive Sync, so games won’t look as smooth as on monitors with it. The slim profile also requires the use of a mini-HDMI port, which is less common than full-sized HDMI.
If you can spend about $30 to $50 more, you might be happier with budget OLED portable monitors such as the Innocn 15A1F below. The 15A1F is just a little more expensive yet offers dramatically better contrast and color performance. It only has a 60Hz refresh rate, though, so it’s not ideal for fast-paced games.
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Who should buy the InnoView Portable Monitor?
The InnoView Portable Monitor is a good choice if you want an entry-level portable monitor at the lowest price possible.
The 15.6 inch display has a sharp 1080p panel that’s ideal for light office work, web browsing, and other less demanding tasks. It offers an appealing blend blend of solid image quality, versatile connectivity, and acceptable built-in speakers.
Its accessible price point—sometimes as low as $60 to $80–makes it a worthy option for students and travelers looking for a basic but functional second screen experience.
InnoView Portable Monitor: Further considerations
While the InnoView Portable Monitor is a good value, its budget price requires a few trade-offs. The included kickstand case looks basic and has limited tilt adjustment. The monitor’s color performance is sub-par, too, so it’s not a great pick for photo and video editing (or other creative tasks).
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Who should buy the Innocn 15A1F?
The Innocn 15A1F is for users who want excellent image quality and attractive design at an affordable price point.
The 15A1F has a 15.6-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 1920×1080 and a 60Hz refresh rate. Its design, reminiscent of the Apple iPad Pro, elegantly combines an aluminum rear panel with edge-to-edge glass. The monitor’s 60Hz refresh rate might be a limitation for gamers, however.
Image quality is where this portable monitor stands out. It delivers a maximum brightness of 378 nits and achieves an infinite contrast ratio. This combination provides a bright, vivid, and immersive image. It also delivers an impressive 100 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 94 percent of AdobeRGB. That’s more than adequate for photo and video editing.
Innocn 15A1F: Further considerations
The 15A1F has a unique, versatile clip-on stand that adds stability and a wide range of tilt adjustments. Innocn doesn’t include a protective case, however, so shoppers should consider a third-party protective sleeve.
Priced at an MSRP of $349.99, which often drops to a tempting $199.99 on Amazon, the Innocn 15A1F is an excellent choice if you want a portable monitor with top-tier image quality on a budget.
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Who should buy the Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED?
The Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED is a good choice for creators who prioritize 4K resolution and exceptional image quality in a form factor that’s conducive to transport for work in remote environments.
The VX1655-4K-OLED delivers exceptional sharpness, color accuracy, and contrast. Its brightness peaks at an impressive 457 nits, which is beneficial for working in brightly lit environments. Its comprehensive color gamut is suitable for color-critical work such as photography, design, and video editing. It also has a native resolution of 3840×2160 (4K), which makes it ideal for working with 4K video, as well as other high-resolution video and image files.
Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED: Further considerations
Design is another key strength of the VX1655-4K-OLED. It has a built-in kickstand, slim bezels, and a sturdy chassis, all of which make it easy to set up, and stable when in use. The monitor’s connectivity options, which include two USB-C ports and a mini-HDMI port, offer flexibility. However, the inclusion of a full-sized HDMI port would have been preferable.
While the monitor does have minor drawbacks, like a flimsy bundled display cover and confusing on-screen menus, these issues are overshadowed by its overall performance and build quality. Its premium price point reflects its position as a high-end choice for professionals, and its image quality is the best of any portable monitor we’ve tested to date.
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Who should buy the Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF?
The Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF is an unusually large portable monitor designed for professionals who need a large, portable display they can move between meeting rooms, offices, or shared workspaces.
It has a 27-inch display that’s several times larger than many other portable monitors. A large display means more room to present, collaborate, or work across multiple windows than smaller portable monitors. Yet slim profile, lightweight design, and built-in kickstand make it easy to reposition, while the included C-clamp stand and cubicle mounting brackets add flexibility for desk setups.
USB-C connectivity with 70 watts of power delivery also makes it convenient for laptop users, particularly those with MacBooks or modern Windows ultrabooks that can run on a single cable. The built-in speakers, while modest, are good enough for calls or quick presentations, which should be handy both in a cubicle and in a conference room.
Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF: Further considerations
The MB27ACF is priced at $449 MSRP, which is steep for a 27-inch 1440p IPS monitor—especially when you can buy a 4K desktop monitor with better image quality at a similar price.
Connectivity is an issue as well, as the monitor only has USB-C and HDMI. That may be restrictive if you plan to keep it on a desk full time, and all the ports are side-mounted, which can look cluttered.
In short, the MB27ACF is best for people who want a big, versatile, portable monitor, and aren’t too concerned about resolution of image quality.
The Arzopa Z3FC serves up a 180Hz, 2560×1440 IPS-LCD in a slim, light package, that’s also pricey; the MSI Pro MP165 E6 portable monitor offers support for various mounting methods; the Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF is unique in offering a 27-inch 1440p display, for portability and size; the Viewsonic VA1655 has USB-C power with 60 watts of power delivery and the ability to charge a connected laptop, but its thicker form-factor and mediocre image quality dampen its appeal; Viewsonic TD1656-2K is a portable touchscreen monitor with a sharp image and included passive stylus, but it’s better in Excel than your favorite photo editor; its sibling the ViewSonic VG1656N offers some neat features for a portable monitor, such as its easy wireless connectivity, its flexible orientation, and its affordability, but we’re not as enamored with its middling color performance.
How we test portable monitors
PCWorld’s monitor evaluations are conducted by supject-expert freelance and staff contributors with decades of collective experience. Although our initial impressions rely on our eyes, we rigorously test each monitor using a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool for a comprehensive analysis.
This device helps us objectively measure a variety of monitor attributes including brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, luminance and color uniformity, and gamma, among other traits.
We also rely on hands-on testing to judge the quality, size, and weight of a portable monitor. Every monitor we recommend is personally tested first-hand by a PCWorld contributor. This helps us pick out flaws in build quality and portability that separate the best and worst portable monitors.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including the broad spectrum of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best portable monitor
Many of the features we look for in a desktop monitor also apply to a portable monitor. A portable monitor should have a bright, sharp image with a decent contrast ratio, wide color gamut, and great color accuracy. The differences between portable monitors and their desktop brethren are more often found in their design, build quality, and connectivity.
Image quality
Most portable monitors have image quality similar to desktop monitors in the same price bracket. Portable monitors tend to score well in brightness and sharpness, but color and contrast are often lacking. OLED portable monitors perform significantly better than less expensive IPS LCD displays. Unfortunately, they’re much more expensive.
Numerous small brands have jumped into the portable monitor market in recent years and quality control can be an issue. We recommend sticking to monitors that are known to achieve high marks in image quality (otherwise, be prepared to use a retailer’s return policy).
Stands, kickstands, and covers
Portable monitors ship with a bundled kickstand or stand that is used to keep the monitor propped up and steady on a desk.
Unlike desktop monitors, where most stands are more or less identical, the stands used by portable monitors vary. Some have a simple kickstand that attaches magnetically, while others use a clip-on case. A rare few, like the Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED, have a folding stand that provides significant height and kickstand adjustment.
Connectivity
Connectivity is key. A portable monitor that lacks the port you need to connect your tablet or laptop is useless.
Most portable monitors offer the option to connect over USB, a video input (usually HDMI), or both, but the number of ports available and the standards used vary widely. We look for monitors that offer a healthy selection of ports. We also prefer monitors that can be powered over USB-C by a connected desktop or laptop.
Portability, size, and weight
Our final consideration is the most obvious: portability. Most portable monitors live up to their name with an included kickstand case or cover that can fold flat and protect the display while it’s stowed.
Still, the exact size and weight of a portable monitor is important, and shoppers may need to accept trade-offs between weight and quality. A top-notch pick like the Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED can offer superior durability, but a lightweight budget pick like the Arzopa Z1FC Gamut might be preferable if you’ll be hauling a portable monitor daily.
FAQ
1.
What is the best portable monitor?
The best portable monitor for most people is PCWorld’s midrange pick: the Innocn 15A1F, which is distinguished by image quality and features that belie its affordable price of around $200.
The 15A1F sports a 15.6-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 1920×1080 and a 60Hz, and has an elegant design, a unique clip-on stand that’s both versatile and stable, and the chops for top-notch photo and video editing. All in all, it’s a surprisingly luxurious package for the price.
2.
What size of portable monitor is best?
Most portable monitors use a 13.3-inch or 15.6-inch panel, and those that don’t typically have a panel size close to one of those two standards (such as 13.1 or 16 inches).
A monitor with a 13.3-inch panel is great for frequent fliers and other travelers looking to pack light. A 13.3-inch model will typically weigh about a quarter- to half-pound less than a 15.6-inch model. The downside, of course, is a smaller display that can feel cramped, which can make a 13.3-inch display frustrating.
15.6-inch portable monitors are a better choice in many situations, as viewing the display for long periods of time will prove more comfortable. Though larger than a 13.3-inch model, 15.6-inch models remain small and will fit in most bags that fit a 14-inch laptop (or larger). 15.6-inch portable monitors are preferable for creators, too, as the larger display size makes it easier to view small details in videos, photos, and digital art.
3.
What resolution is best for a portable monitor?
1080p is the most common resolution and is a great choice for nearly all situations. This resolution may seem unimpressive on paper, but the small size of a portable monitor increases the display’s pixel density. A 15.6-inch portable monitor with 1080p resolution looks nearly as sharp as a 27-inch monitor with 4K resolution.
What about 4K portable monitors? We don’t generally recommend them. Portable monitors with 4K resolution are less common, more expensive, and the improvement in sharpness won’t be perceptible to most people.
We also recommend that you avoid lower resolutions such as 720p and 1366×768. Though uncommon, portable monitors sold at very low prices (often below $100) sometimes have a native resolution below 1080p. This isn’t a great choice. Most modern apps, web pages, and content assume 1080p as a “standard” resolution and feel cramped at 720p or 1366×768.
4.
What ports and connectivity should a portable monitor have?
We recommend buying a portable monitor that has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and USB Power Delivery. The DisplayPort Alternate Mode turns the USB-C port into a video input, and USB Power Delivery can be used to power the portable monitor. This enables a single-cable connection between the portable monitor and a laptop, desktop, or tablet with USB-C.
An ideal portable monitor should pair USB-C with a backup video input, such as HDMI or DisplayPort, for connecting devices that lack USB-C. Most portable monitors offer this feature, but the HDMI or DisplayPort input is usually a smaller variant of the connection (like Micro-HDMI).
5.
How much should a portable monitor cost?
Most portable monitors are inexpensive, but this is often reflected in their quality. We’ve noticed a wide range of build quality, design, and image quality among portable monitors that retail below $150. It’s possible to find a great portable monitor on a tight budget, but we recommend sticking to models tested by a professional reviewer.
A handful of portable monitors, such as the Viewsonic ColorPro VP16-OLED, are priced above $300. These rare models back up their price with special features such as a top-notch OLED panel or built-in battery. Paying extra for a quality monitor is worthwhile, but it’s not a requirement. Budget portable monitors like the Arzopa A1 Gamut look great and are well-suited to day-to-day productivity and web browsing.
6.
Should I buy a portable monitor with HDR?
We don’t recommend portable monitors for HDR. While some manufacturers claim HDR support, the truth is that current portable monitors lack the brightness required to make HDR look its best. A portable monitor that claims HDR support will display HDR content, but it won’t look superior to SDR.
7.
What battery life should I expect from a portable monitor?
You might be surprised to hear most portable monitors don’t include a battery and must be powered by an external source. In most cases, power is delivered over USB-C (or, in older models, USB-A) from a connected laptop, tablet, or desktop. You can also use an external power brick.
A few portable monitors include a battery, but we recommend you avoid these models. They’re considerably more expensive than portable monitors that rely on external power. The battery also adds weight and bulk. It’s often less expensive to buy an external battery pack to connect to the portable monitor.
One of the easiest ways to enhance your PC experience is to get a better monitor. It doesn’t require any upgrades for your desktop or laptop, and it shines up the primary way you interact with almost everything: the visuals. The year’s second Prime Day event is closing in on us, kicking off on October 7th and lasting for 48 hours until midnight Pacific on October 8th. Already, there are plenty of deals to be found on the best and most affordable displays. (Here’s how to get Amazon Prime for free so you can get in on the deep, deep discounts.)
With U.S. tariffs affecting prices, to say nothing of general consumer trends, it might not be the smorgasbord of discounts we saw in previous years. But there are still savings to be had, on OLED monitors, gaming monitors, and standard office designs — and I’ve hunted down the best monitor deals in the list below. Even though the main focus is on Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days, some of the best discounts can be found elsewhere on the web, so I’ve included those in the list as well.
Best early October Prime Day deals on OLED monitors
OLED monitors are the cream of the crop for gamers, thanks to incredible color vibrance and contrast, even if they’re not the absolute fastest on the market right now.
For my money, Samsung has the best deal at the moment…but then I’m an ultrawide fanboy and I love that gigantic 49-inch format. If you’re looking for an OLED upgrade at the lowest price, ASRock is leading the pack with a rare 27-inch pick under the $550 mark.
Best early October Prime Day deals on gaming monitors
For more affordable options for gamers, ASRock once again delivers with a 27-inch, 1080p display at just a hair over a hundred bucks. But I’d say that Gigabyte is giving the best bang for your buck with its 28-inch 4K option. Not only is it using an IPS panel for greater color accuracy, it’s packing a USB-C port for flexible video. It’s a great, affordable centerpiece to a setup that works for both, well, work and gaming.
I can personally recommend Dell’s 27-inch, 1440p IPS monitors, because I’ve been using them for years on either side of my ultrawide center display. It’s a perfect way to expand your desk space, but unless you need some gaming-grade speed, it works great as a primary display too.
For laptop users, there’s no easier way to expand your mobile capabilities than with a USB monitor (especially since they now include power and video). And there are a bunch of affordable options now, too.
Other great early October Prime Day deals
These aren’t the only October Prime Day deals being tracked by the PCWorld team. If you’re looking to supercharge your home setup with the juiciest tech sales, hit the links for only the best expert-curated picks we’ve found.
Monitor size depends on personal preference and location.
A 24-inch monitor is fine for a desk that is around 24 inches deep, or less. Its small size will still be sufficient because the monitor is closer to you.
Most people, however, will want to go with a 27-inch monitor. The added size will make the monitor easy to see. This also opens up a wider range of 4K monitor options, as 4K is very rare on a 24-inch monitor.
Larger monitors, such as a 32-inch widescreen or 34-inch ultrawide, are great for deep desks and people who want an immersive experience. Monitors this large can serve as a TV replacement in a small room.
Displays of even larger size, such as 42-inch or 48-inch HDTVs, are best for home theater setups or an unusually large office. You’ll want to sit four to six feet away from a display of this size.
2.
What display input is best? (HDMI vs. DisplayPort vs. USB-C)
USB-C is the best display input for most people. It works by bundling DisplayPort into USB-C, so offers all the same features as DisplayPort. Yet it retains the features of USB-C including optional support for Power Delivery to charge external devices. This is why we recommend a USB-C monitor for most people.
DisplayPort is generally second-best. It supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI. This input is particularly common on desktop computers.
HDMI comes in third due to lower resolution and refresh rate support. This is improved by HDMI 2.1, but this feature remains hard to find and often adds to a monitor’s price.
All three of the options above handle 1080p at 60Hz, which is the most common resolution and refresh rate available today. It’s also important to buy a monitor that has an input compatible with your PC.
3.
Are all monitors compatible with Windows and MacOS?
Modern monitors are compatible with all recent versions of Windows and MacOS. They’re plug-and-play, which means the monitor should display an image without the need to install driver software or mess with Windows or MacOS settings.
4.
Are tariffs affecting monitor prices?
Yes. Deals for monitors around this sale aren’t as good as they were during Amazon’s last big sale in October, particularly for the largest, most expensive models. That said, we have managed to avoid the complete shutdown of imported stock that seemed likely during the most tumultuous back-and-forth tariff negotiations…so that’s something.
Prices are unlikely to improve later in the year, so if you find a delectable deal on a monitor you’re interested in, October Prime Day may be one of your best bets of the year. Especially if you buy on day one of the event — President Trump says additional reciprocal tariffs will return on November 10, and could plunge prices into chaos.
Do you want a large expanse of usable display space, but without the hassle of setting up dual monitors? An ultrawide monitor is the ticket. Ultrawide monitors have a wider display panel that provides an immersive experience and far more screen real-estate than your average widescreen.
I’ve tested a bunch of ultrawide monitors in order to name the best picks in various categories ranging from those optimized for gaming to those suited for professional use. Below you’ll find a curated list of my favorites in each category. I describe my evaluation process for monitors at the bottom of this article.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: It’s in our name! PCWorld has been covering PCs since 1983. That includes dozens of monitors every year, from all the top brands. All of our recommendations have been tested hands-on and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
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Who should buy the Alienware AW3423DWF?
The Alienware AW3423DWF is a legendary monitor that will satisfy the widescreen needs of pretty much anyone. It packs the incredible contrast and realism of OLED in a 34-inch widescreen panel, yet it’s priced at less than $1,000. That’s not inexpensive, but it’s better value than other OLED monitors available right now.
Image quality is where it stands out. It delivers a vivid, immersive, rich experience with deep black levels and bright highlights, which are enhanced by the display’s glossy finish. Movies and games seem nearly three-dimensional — as if you’re looking through a window, not staring at a monitor.
The display offers an enhanced refresh rate of up to 165Hz and supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for smooth frame pacing in games. However, its excellent image quality will be impressive in everyday use, as well.
Alienware AW3423DWF: Further considerations
The monitor is not bright, especially in SDR, so it’s a bad choice for a brightly lit room. We also noticed the OLED panel has trouble rendering small fonts smoothly. These are minor issues, though, and shouldn’t trouble most owners.
It has good connectivity, with two DisplayPort inputs and one HDMI, as well as a USB-A hub with four ports. There’s even a healthy range of calibration options that help demanding owners dial in the image to their personal specifications.
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Who should buy the MSI 341CQPX?
While our pick for best ultrawide overall above is designed with gaming in mind, we actually think the MSI MPG 341CQPX is superior for that singular activity. This 34-inch QD-OLED display has a panoramic 21:9 aspect ratio that pulls you deeper into your favorite games. It’s especially excellent for games that lean on immersion (like simulation titles) or that show a lot of information on-screen at once (like MMORPGs and strategy games).
The MSI 341CQPX has a Samsung QD-OLED display that delivers vibrant colors and stunning contrast. The monitor handles both SDR and HDR content well. The 240Hz refresh rate, meanwhile, offers ultra-crisp motion clarity. It supports the VESA Adaptive Sync standard and will work with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync.
MSI 341CQPX: Further considerations
While the MPG 341CQPX is a great ultrawide for gaming, it’s practical for day-to-day productivity and can work well with many home office setups. It has a USB-C port with 98 watts of Power Delivery, which means it can power your laptop and handle video over a single cord.
The monitor does have a couple flaws. The stand is larger than it needs to be and will feel cramped on a small desk. There’s also no RGB-LED lighting on the back of the panel, which is common on competitive gaming ultrawides.
Pricing excuses these nitpicks, though. Available for $890 or less at some online retailers, the MPG 341CQPX is not much more expensive than older QD-OLED ultrawide monitors, like the Alienware AW3423DW, with a lower refresh rate and no (or more limited) USB-C. The MPG 341CQPX’s price is more than reasonable given is advantages over its predecessors.
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Who should buy the Gigabyte GS34WQC?
The Gigabyte GS34WQC is an impressive ultrawide monitor for gamers on a budget. It has a sharp 34-inch display with a resolution of 3440×1440, which is paired with a 120Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 135Hz) and support for AMD FreeSync, ensuring smooth and consistent gameplay. Camera movements are detailed, and fast-paced action is easily tracked.
Beyond its motion clarity, the GS34WQC offers great image quality that’s comparable to monitors twice its price. It has a Vertical Alignment (VA) panel instead of the more common In-Plane Switching (IPS). This provides improved contrast with deeper black levels and more convincing shadow detail in dark scenes. These qualities make it especially suitable for games with a dark, gritty presentation.
Gigabyte GS34WQC: Further considerations
The monitor sports a boring but functional design. It has an ergonomic stand that provides height and tilt adjustment, but its assembly requires manual attachment of four screws, unlike competitors with tool-free clip-in stands. The GS34WQC compensates with an intuitive menu system that has extensive customization options, allowing gamers to tailor the visuals to their preferences.
Value, however, is where the GS34WQC really beats the competition. It’s not the least expensive budget ultrawide monitor, but it delivers better image quality and motion clarity than many competitors while keeping the price in check. Indeed, the GS34WQC is so good it makes $400-to-$500-dollar ultrawide gaming monitors more difficult to recommend. The GS34WQC looks just as good at a lower price.
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Who should buy the Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW?
This is the monitor for people who want a big, sharp monitor to serve as the focal point for a desktop command center. This excellent ultrawide monitor has a vast 40-inch display and 5K resolution that ensures every detail is sharp and defined. But it’s not just about its size and clarity; it’s packed with features, too.
Visually, the U4025QW is a treat, offering unparalleled sharpness and an expansive workspace that enhances productivity and elevates entertainment. The monitor’s impressive 120Hz refresh rate is a rare find at this resolution, ensuring smooth motion on the Windows desktop and in games. It even has an IPS Black display panel, which improves contrast and delivers a more realistic, immersive image.
The U4025QW’s connectivity is extensive. It has Thunderbolt, Ethernet, HDMI, and DisplayPort, as well as a USB hub that includes multiple downstream USB-A and USB-C ports. The monitor’s menu options and settings provide significant image quality control as well as useful features like picture-in-picture and picture-by-picture modes.
Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW: Further considerations
The monitor’s stand isn’t as robust as it should be, and while the contrast ratio of IPS Black is commendable, it can’t rival OLED. But the most serious downside is the price, which soars close to $2,000. Still, given its size, image quality, and connectivity, this do-everything display can pack a lot of productivity on a single screen.
Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
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Who should buy the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B?
When a 35-inch ultrawide isn’t immersive enough, there’s LG’s Ultragear 45GX950A-B. This is the best big-screen gaming monitor.
The monitor’s class-leading 45-inch 5K2K (5120×2160) OLED panel helps to set the monitor apart, providing a resolution previously unseen in this size class. It’s a significant upgrade over lower-resolution predecessors, like the Corsair Xeneon Flex. The higher resolution pairs well with OLED’s excellent contrast and color performance. HDR performance is solid, with brightness comparable to other leading OLED monitors.
Motion clarity is good, as well. The monitor is a “dual mode” display, meaning it can achieve 5120×2160 at a refresh rate up to 165Hz, or 2560×1080 up to 330Hz. It also supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth gameplay.
LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B: Further considerations
The 45GX950A-B is expensive, and its aggressive 800R curve can feel “off” for productivity. The monitor also has limited USB connectivity. USB-C input is supported, but it only has two downstream USB-A ports.
However, if your priority is unparalleled immersion backed by incredible sharpness and excellent HDR on a truly massive display, the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B is a winner.
The Dell Pro 34 Plus USB-C is a decent choice if you want an ultrawide with lots of connectivity but the monitor’s image quality fails to impress; the BenQ PD2730S will call to creative professionals with its 5K display, but some will find its connectivity and special features just as alluring as its eye-catching image; the HP Omen Transcend 32 is pricey even for a 32-inch 4K OLED monitor, but makes up for that with great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality.
How PCWorld tests monitors
PCWorld’s team of staff and freelance reviewers conduct in-depth testing to compare monitors across a wide range of categories and price points. We test dozens of monitors each year to find the best pick for every category and price point.
Our testing uses a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. It delivers objective, unbiased measurements for a wide range of metrics including brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, color temperature, and gamma. Results are recorded and logged for future comparison. This allows our experts to easily compare many monitors at once and eliminates subjective bias from the results.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including a wide array of computer monitors. In addition to the work he does for PCWorld, Matthew also contributes to Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
What to look for in an ultrawide monitor
Ultrawide monitors are a favorite of PC enthusiasts, but remain a niche within the larger monitor market. This leaves shoppers with fewer options. Most ultrawide monitors have a 34-inch panel with a resolution of 3440×1440, and similar connectivity.
Still, these monitors can differ in several key areas. Here’s what to look for.
Panel type is a big deal
Ultrawide monitors offer less choice in some regards but that script is flipped when it comes to panel type. Ultrawide monitors come in a variety of panel types: IPS, VA, and OLED.
IPS panels are common in mid-range and premium ultrawide monitors. This panel type delivers great color performance, high maximum brightness, superb sharpness, and good motion performance. It’s weak in contrast, however, which can disappoint when viewing TV shows or movies.
VA panels are typically a budget option, though some are found in premium ultrawide monitors. They have better contrast than IPS panels and deliver similar color performance and brightness—however, budget VA panels tend to be merely okay in these areas. Most VA panels fall short in motion performance and may look blurry when playing fast-paced games.
OLED is king of the hill. It leads in color, contrast, and motion performance. Sharpness is often slightly reduced compared to IPS and VA, but most people will find it a minor downgrade. OLED also is the best choice for HDR.
In general, OLED is better than IPS, and IPS is better than VA. However, some people might prefer VA over IPS because it has a better contrast ratio and looks darker in dark content.
A height-adjustable stand is a must-have
All the monitors on this list provide an ergonomic stand that adjusts for height, tilt, and swivel. This is a must-have feature, but one that isn’t found on the least expensive ultrawide monitors.
As tempting as it may be to save money on a budget model without a height-adjustable stand, you would regret it.
Ultrawide monitors are bulky and tend to require a larger, heavier stand, which in turn makes them more difficult to place on an elevated platform. The old college trick of sticking a monitor on a shoe box won’t work.
Look for USB-C, but don’t expect it
USB-C compatibility is an excellent feature, and USB-C hub monitors can clear away tons of clutter on your desk. Unfortunately, many ultrawide monitors don’t support USB-C yet, or have limitations that detract from the USB-C port’s usefulness.
Asus’s ProArt PA348CV, our favorite ultrawide for professionals, is one exception. It has a USB-C port with up to 90 watts of Power Delivery, and the port drives a USB-A hub with four downstream ports.
Dell, HP, and BenQ also offer ultrawide monitors with USB-C. Most of these lack an enhanced refresh rate, however, and they’re typically more expensive than the Asus.
Pricing is important—and can swing wildly
Monitor pricing is always important, but it’s key for ultrawide monitors. Although very expensive at MSRP, ultrawide monitors routinely see huge price cuts during seasonal sales. They also receive major semi-permanent price cuts later in their life.
The LG Ultragear 34GN850-B is an example of this. Originally sold for $999.99, it’s now routinely available for $699.99, and went as low as $599.99 during Amazon’s Black Friday sale. That’s a 40 percent reduction in price! Waiting for a deal can save you hundreds.
Don’t buy an ultrawide for console gaming
A quick word of warning: You should not buy an ultrawide monitor if you plan to connect a game console frequently.
Game consoles don’t support ultrawide aspect ratios, so you’ll see black bars on either side of the image. That’s unattractive and wastes the monitor’s potential. It’s best to stick with a widescreen monitor if console gaming is a priority.
If you’re still on the fence about whether an ultrawide is the right choice for you, see PCWorld’s article on whether ultrawide monitors are worth it to have all your questions answered.
FAQ
1.
What size of ultrawide gaming monitor is best?
Most ultrawide monitors have a 34-inch panel with a 21:9 aspect ratio, which is the best option for most gamers.
Some ultrawide monitors are available in larger sizes, but these typically aren’t the best choice for gamers. Many do not support high refresh rates. Those that do are expensive and often use the same 3440×1440 resolution found on smaller ultrawide monitors, which means they appear less sharp than a 34-inch display.
2.
What is the best resolution for an ultrawide monitor?
Nearly all 34-inch ultrawide monitors have a display resolution of 3440×1440. This is an excellent choice for gamers.
It’s sharp enough to look impressive in modern games. However, this resolution remains significantly lower in total pixel count than 4K, which makes it less demanding on graphics hardware. That’s good news if you have a mid-range graphics card like an Nvidia RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6650XT.
Larger 38-inch models have a higher resolution of 3840×1660—however, nearly all these monitors lack support for high refresh rates, making them a bad choice for gamers. LG offers a line of 34-inch 5K2K ultrawide monitors with 5120×2160 resolution, but this line also lacks support for enhanced refresh rates.
A few new 45-inch ultrawide monitors are available with 3440×1440 resolution. This can be a problem, because stretching the same resolution across a much larger display reduces sharpness. We recommend 3440×1440 only for 34-inch ultrawide monitors.
3.
What’s the best refresh rate for an ultrawide gaming monitor?
A refresh rate of 144Hz to 165Hz is ideal for most ultrawide gaming monitors.
Very few ultrawide monitors exceed this refresh rate, and those that do are too expensive to make it a good value.
Also, gamers shopping for an ultrawide gaming monitor are likely to prefer immersive and graphically demanding games that make it difficult to see the full benefit of a refresh rate above 144Hz. You’ll need a high-end video card, like an RTX 3080 or AMD Radeon 6800, to drive most ultrawide gaming monitors at frame rates above 144 frames per second.
4.
Does an ultrawide gaming monitor need HDR?
HDR isn’t a must-have for an ultrawide gaming monitor, but it’s a nice addition.
Gaming is a great use case for HDR—arguably the best, in fact—and it can deliver improved image quality. We recommend buying an ultrawide gaming monitor with HDR support if your budget is $500 or more.
5.
What is the best ultrawide monitor?
The best ultrawide monitor for most people is the Alienware AW3423DWF. It costs less than $1,000, but this 34-inch OLED has incredible contrast, depth, and vibrancy. This makes for an amazingly immersive experience in movies and games, the latter of which is helped by the display’s 165Hz refresh rate and support for adaptive sync.
This might be the best price I’ve ever seen for a gaming monitor. Today, if you mosey on over to eBay, you can find a refurbished Acer Nitro display going for just $103.55. This is a 27-inch 1440p display with 180Hz of refresh… and it has an IPS panel! That’s an absolute banger of a deal. Normally, even for a refurb, you’re looking at about $200-ish for this.
Aside from the color-accurate IPS panel (much better than the VA panels found on most new gaming monitors), this is a pretty basic design. The Acer Nitro KGB271U doesn’t feature any other inputs aside from HDMI and DisplayPort, and it isn’t even rated for AMD FreeSync.
But if you don’t need any bells and whistles, you’ll be absolutely gobsmacked by the value here. The popular 27-inch 2560×1440 form factor is a great upgrade to any standard 1080p display, and 180Hz of refresh plus 0.05ms of response time should be enough for smooth playback on any modern game if your desktop or laptop can handle it. I’d add on a VESA monitor arm with the savings.
This is a refurbished model coming directly from Acer’s official eBay store, along with a two-year Allstate warranty. The sale price is $108.55 with free shipping, but you can take an additional $5 off with coupon code YUSFSITHZW9NGCCM at checkout (or at least that’s what’s showing for me) for a final price of $103.55. Hot diggity dog, that’s a great price.
If you’ve been thinking of leveling up your PC setup with a massive ultrawide monitor but haven’t yet, it’s probably because you balked at the crazy high prices. But today’s a rare opportunity because one of the best options for an oversized ultrawide monitor is now 45% off on Amazon. I’m talking about this Samsung Odyssey OLED G93SC, which is now $879.99 (was $1,599.99) with Prime. All you have to do is sign up for a free 30-day Prime trial and you can score this amazing win!
The Odyssey OLED G93SC is a 49-inch showstopper that’ll take over your entire desk in the best way possible. Boasting an enormous 5120×1440 resolution, this is essentially two 1440p monitors seamlessly merged into one so you don’t have that annoying bezel running down the middle. And with its OLED panel, you’re getting the absolute best colors, deepest blacks, and vivid contrast for the ultimate viewing experience.
And if you have a PC that’s powerful enough to push frames at this resolution, rest assured that this monitor goes up to a super-fast 240Hz refresh rate with 0.03ms response time, and it’s also compatible with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Long story short, this is an incredible display that’s unlike anything else.
The screen has a gentle 1800R curve so it’s easy on the eyes and won’t cause fatigue, it has built-in CoreSync and Core Lighting for ambient RGB goodness, and it has three years of OLED burn-in coverage. You can connect it via HDMI, DisplayPort, and Micro HDMI.
Screens with OLED panels are increasingly being used in laptops and PC monitors. The reason: The prices for OLEDs have fallen, and this is likely to continue in the future.
A laptop with an OLED display is currently available for as little as $750, such as the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14.
You won’t find top equipment here, neither in terms of components nor the screen. However, the 60-hertz display offered in this device class masters most everyday tasks without any problems, as long as gaming is not involved.
A monitor with an OLED panel is often aimed at special application scenarios. It either supports creative work with outstanding detail or gaming on the computer with ultra-fast switching times.
An OLED gaming monitor with a 27-inch diagonal, QHD resolution and 240 hertz refresh rate is priced at a good $700 — such as the LG Ultragear OLED 27GS95QE-B. A 4K 32-incher such as the Dell 32 Plus (S3225QC) costs upwards of $800. This means that OLED monitors are still no bargain, but their prices are increasingly moving into affordable regions.
The Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Stumbling block: Burn-in due to static image content
Just like OLED televisions, OLED monitors also impress with their outstanding contrast. As they can dim with pixel precision and switch off the pixels completely, they display true black.
The self-illuminating pixels also impress with their rich colors, very short switching times, and extremely stable viewing angles, where colors hardly change at all, even when you look at the screen from the side.
What curbs the enthusiasm for OLED screens in the computer environment is the risk of burn-in. These effects can occur if image content is displayed statically for a long time.
In the case of televisions, this applies to channel and program logos, for example. There are far more possibilities when working on a desktop monitor or laptop display on a daily basis.
This is because many applications involve the display of static content — for example, tables, texts, or the Windows taskbar, which always remains visible in the default settings of the operating system.
Even if the OLED panel is not yet a bargain for PC monitors, many gaming screens, such as the LG Ultragear OLED 27GS95QE-B shown here, are now quite affordable.
LG
There are different levels of burn-in effects: image sticking, image retention, or ghost image is a temporary effect. A slight shadow image or outline remains visible even though the image signal has already changed.
The effect is caused by the fact that OLEDs react very sensitively to changes in the current voltage. If the threshold voltage of the pixel transistors shifts, the faulty picture can occur.
Proper burn-in or image retention, on the other hand, is permanent in OLEDs. Static content that is displayed repeatedly over a long period of time leaves permanent traces on the panel. You then see them as shadow images in the background that no longer disappear.
Burn-in occurs because OLED panels wear out during operation. They age and lose luminosity in the process. However, this is a very slow process. For this reason, genuine defects caused by burn-in are covered by most manufacturers’ device warranties.
In addition, the panel can compensate for a deficit in luminosity by increasing the power supply to precisely these pixels.
OLED maintenance support
For both desktop monitors and most laptops with OLEDs, the manufacturers offer built-in maintenance measures. You should definitely carry them out in order to maintain the panel quality.
In the case of monitors, you will find the integrated routines for OLED maintenance in the on-screen display (OSD). They are often located under the menu item “Other.”
Laptop manufacturers often integrate the functions into the manufacturer’s own maintenance tools. Asus, for example, has added the “Asus OLED Care” section to the MyAsus utility program for laptops with OLED panels.
In many cases, there are also additional apps for both device categories that support you with OLED care. However, the offer depends very much on the specific device.
Lenovo, for example, limits the Lenovo Display Refresh utility to the Thinkpad X1 Fold. At the same time, an update of the respective tool does no harm. In our experience, some OLED maintenance functions are only enhanced by an update.
Pixel refresh: Basic maintenance for the OLED screen
A common maintenance routine that is intended to prevent the risk of burn-in from the outset is the pixel refresh, or pixel update.
This measure checks and corrects the threshold voltage on the pixel transistors. This can shift in the course of OLED operation — especially when many bright areas are displayed.
This is where the most current flows and the highest temperature is generated as a result. The aim of the routine is to restore the threshold voltage that was set when the panel was produced. The correction also eliminates any display errors.
The pixel refresh starts automatically on most devices after a certain number of operating hours. Some monitor models, such as the Dell 32 Plus S3225QC, indicate in the OSD that a pixel refresh is necessary after just four hours.
Visually, a green dot at “OLED screen status” changes to yellow. In this case, however, we do not receive an active notification to intervene. If we start the correction, the process runs automatically and takes six to eight minutes. The display switches off at the end.
For good reason, the setting in the OSD cannot be deactivated. However, you can select that the refresh only starts when the monitor is in standby mode.
Taking a look at the OSD from time to time and performing the refresh will benefit the lifespan of your OLED monitor.
Panel refresh: Self-calibration of the OLED pixels
To prevent irreversible damage caused by real burn-in, all OLED panels have an integrated self-protection mechanism — panel refresh, also known as panel compensation.
The protection process starts automatically after a specified operating time. The device manufacturers are keeping quiet about when exactly this happens. However, several hundred operating hours have probably already passed.
The panel refresh starts as soon as the display is switched off. For this reason, you should not completely disconnect an OLED monitor from the power supply via a switchable power strip.
During panel refresh, the screen uses a memory function. The internal controller saves all the data on light duration and brightness — for each pixel.
Those OLED pixels that have been shining at high brightness for a particularly long time and have therefore already diminished in brightness are given a higher power supply.
This works because OLED panels do not usually light up in the maximum range, but on the basis of the Average Picture Level (APL). This describes in percent how high the average brightness of a picture on the screen is.
Further protective measures: Pixel shifting, logo dimming, and more.
Especially with OLED monitors and laptops intended for gaming, manufacturers integrate additional protective mechanisms for the OLED screen. However, not every model has to feature all of these processes.
Pixel shifting: This function is also known as pixel orbiter. If it is activated, the displayed image is shifted horizontally and vertically by a few pixels at predefined intervals — approximately every three minutes. This changes its position on the display. This is intended to prevent certain pixels from being overused and therefore ageing more quickly.
Logo recognition can be activated on some devices with OLED screens. It detects the static image content on the screen and darkens it to protect the panel from burn-in.
Foundry
Logo dimming/logo detection: If the operating menu of your monitor offers this function, the display automatically recognizes logos and recurring overlays and reduces their brightness. You can usually determine how much this should happen yourself using several levels. This setting is a precautionary measure that is useful for toolbars in games, channel logos, or program names.
Screen saver: To protect the entire display, you can activate a screen saver via the manufacturer’s tool. It starts as soon as there is no input signal — often after just two minutes.
An activated screen saver — here on a Samsung OLED monitor — protects the display from damage caused by static content when the computer is not in use.
Foundry
OLED protection measures for everyone
With these measures, you can protect the valuable OLED screen from burn-in effects and preserve the lifespan of the pixels.
Hide the taskbar: On the computer, the Windows taskbar is one of those static contents that are always displayed. To protect the OLED pixels, you can prevent this by hiding the taskbar.
In Windows 11, right-click on the desktop and select “Personalize.” In the “Taskbar” area, scroll down to “Taskbar behaviors.” Tick the box next to “Automatically hide the taskbar.”
Screensaver: Even if your OLED device does not have a screensaver, you can activate it in Windows 11. Again, under “Personalize,” click on “Lock screen” and go to “Screen saver.”
Ideally, you should choose a dark color. You can display it in the preview and set a waiting time in minutes.
Foundry
Dark mode: Dark mode is a suitable means of further reducing the bright areas on the OLED screen. It is not only easy on the eyes, but also on the OLED panel. It can also be switched on in the Windows “Personalization” area. Click on “Colors” and select “Dark” under “Choose your mode.”
Full screen mode: Full screen mode is particularly recommended for watching films and videos, so that the video display is scaled to fit the entire screen area. Cinema fans should therefore pay attention to the 16:9 format at the time of purchase to avoid annoying bars on the sides.
Brightness control: With desktop monitors, ambient light sensors often regulate the brightness of the OLED screen depending on the conditions at the installation site. Depending on the situation, the luminance is automatically reduced.
For moving images such as films, it is advisable to use existing modes — such as film mode. If you use HDR settings, don’t forget to switch them off again. This reduces the peak brightness, protects the OLED pixels and also saves energy.
I’ve been an ultrawide cheerleader for years, but I’m also a fan of multiple displays. And the line between them starts to blur when they get really big. The new HP Series 5 Pro Conferencing monitor isn’t interested in gaming or video. This 49-inch monster wants to do work, and a lot of it. Just look at that pop-up webcam if you’re in any doubt.
HP Series 5 Pro 49” Conferencing Monitor
The mega-super-ultrawide 49-inch format isn’t new, but it’s getting more popular as a central, singular display, and this one leans into the fact that its 5120×1440 resolution is basically two 1440p displays squished together. HP’s integrated tech lets you treat the display as two different virtual monitors — which is excellent for sharing over video conferences, where a 32:9 image isn’t easy to parse — or several other combinations. I particularly like the 21:9 split, which gives you a primary display that’s equivalent to a semi-standard 34-incher with some extra workspace on the side.
Michael Crider/Foundry
All of these can combine with multi-device input, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB-C with up to 140 watts of power output. Extra handy connections include two more USB-C, both front and bottom, three USB-A ports for older devices, and a gigabit Ethernet port. You get a built-in KVM switch and down-firing speakers that are at least a little better than the usual junk that comes built-in…but I’d still use dedicated speakers or headphones.
But I teased you with a webcam. HP has been integrating these into office-focused monitors for a while now, along with other brands. The 5-megapixel sensor on this one isn’t amazing, but it’ll be better than most budget or laptop options, and it includes an IR sensor for Windows Hello suipport. You get dual microphones with noise cancelling, and again, that’s better than nothing, but I’d go with a dedicated mic if you’re going to be teleconferencing a lot.
Michael Crider/Foundry
It’s a sleek package if you’ve got the desk space for it, and despite being a chunky bit of hardware, it offers up to 150mm of height adjustment (a little less than six inches) or a standard 100mm VESA mount. You’ll want a hefty monitor arm to hold it. There are a couple of downsides, though. The first is that curved panel, which uses a VA-LCD. VA is fine for office work, but anyone hoping to do more color-accurate graphics work might want to look elsewhere. It is 165hz, which is nice for some extra smoothness.
The second downside is the price. An HP representative told me the company is “targeting” $1300 when it releases. I was told they’re aiming for later this year, though it’s not nailed down in the press materials. And given how unpredictable the consumer electronics market is, especially if you happen to live in the U.S., I wouldn’t count on the price being predictable either.
HP Series 5 Pro 14” Portable Monitor
Michael Crider/Foundry
HP was also showing off a sleek little portable monitor, confusingly also called the Series 5 Pro 14-inch portable monitor. This is a lightweight travel monitor that’s still a pretty serious size — that 14-inch IPS panel uses a 16:10 aspect ratio, stretching out to 2560×1600 resolution with 400 nits of brightness and an anti-glare coating for working on the go. It’s shockingly light in the hand, and comes with a sleek integrated kickstand that’s much better than the usual case-cover combo. Oh, it comes with a cover too, which doubles as a mousepad.
Michael Crider/Foundry
Two USB-C ports handily positioned on either side can work with almost anything that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, and it can deliver up to 65 watts of power to a device if a charger is inserted on the opposite side. It’s a nice package, and at $300, it’s not too unreasonable compared to Lenovo’s similar ThinkVision offerings. (Though again, I wouldn’t get too attached to that MSRP if I were you.) It should be out very soon.
Working from home has gone from being a growing trend to a full-scale phenomenon. There are many perks to a work-from-home arrangement, to be sure, but there can also be downsides: For example, there’s a good chance you’ll need to supply your own monitor.
Fortunately, there are many great home office monitors to choose from, as I’ve discovered through extensive real-world testing.
Below you’ll find my picks for the best home office monitors, and below that you can learn more about what specs and features matter when shopping for a home office monitor.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: It’s in our name! PCWorld prides itself on PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE – Best home office monitor overall
Pros
Functional, professional design
Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Ethernet, and 140 watts of Power Delivery
New generation of IPS Black boosts contrast ratio
Excellent sharpness from 31.5-inch 4K panel
120Hz refresh rate with VRR
Cons
Contrast ratio is good for an IPS panel, but still behind VA and OLED panels
HDR brightness is decent, but contrast remains limited
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Who should buy the Dell U3225QE?
The Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE is an outstanding choice for a home office thanks to its excellent image quality and extensive connectivity.
Its 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel delivers sharp text and vivid colors, while the improved 3000:1 contrast ratio enhances depth and clarity over standard IPS panels. It also delivers a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling through documents and navigating complex spreadsheets feel more responsive.
Connectivity is another perk, as the monitor’s Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity make it a great hub for a modern PC workstation. The standout feature is the USB-C port’s support for up to 140 watts of USB Power Delivery, which can fully power most laptops and reduces cable clutter. Additional USB-A and USB-C ports, including a pop-out hub for quick access, are icing on the cake.
Dell U3225QE: Further considerations
Though it’s not inexpensive, the U3225QE stands out for its blend of performance and features tailored for productivity. It offers strong color accuracy, improved contrast, and tons of connectivity, all of which makes it well-suited for office work and creative production.
This monitor does lack speakers so you’ll need to invest in standalone speakers if you need them. Also, the HDR performance is a bit limited, but the excellent connectivity features and high-quality panel more than make up for these minor drawbacks.
Looking for a smaller version of this monitor? Check out the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has a similar 4K IPS Black display panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.
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Who should buy the Acer Vero B247Y G?
The Acer Vero B247Y G is a great choice for the budget-conscious buyer with a home office setup. This 24-inch 1080p IPS monitor prioritizes comfort with an exceptional ergonomic stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot to help maintain proper posture through long workdays. The monitor’s matte finish and high brightness effectively combat glare from household lighting, and its clear, simplified menu system makes image adjustments straightforward.
The monitor’s connection options cater to home offices and small businesses with HDMI and DisplayPort for modern systems, alongside VGA support for older computers that might still be in use. While it lacks USB ports and sophisticated cable management, the Vero B247Y G otherwise delivers a lot of features for the price, and it’s an obvious choice if you need a versatile home office display.
Acer Vero B247Y G: Further considerations
This monitor also has extras that are useful in a home office. The quick-release stand makes initial setup painless. The inclusion of a 1/4-inch tripod mount on top provides a solution for attaching webcams or ring lights, which is an extremely rare feature at this price point. The 120Hz refresh rate, also uncommon at this price point, means it’s even a decent choice for entertainment. That’s good news if you need one monitor for both work and play.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt PA278CFRV?
The Asus ProArt PA278CFRV stands out as an excellent choice for home office users who need a monitor for general office productivity or content creation.
This 27-inch monitor has a crisp 2560×1440 IPS panel that delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors. Its color performance is especially notable, as it covers up to 97 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut with good color accuracy. That’s essential for photographers, digital artists, and other creatives.
The monitor provides a good range of USB connectivity. It includes a USB-C port with 96 watts of Power Delivery. You can power and charge most laptops directly through the monitor’s USB-C port. The monitor also has a built-in USB hub with multiple USB-A and USB-C ports.
Asus ProArt PA278CFRV: Further considerations
An ergonomic stand is included and adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. There’s also a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts screen brightness based on your environment.
Though best for productivity, the ProArt is good for entertainment. It has a speedy maximum refresh rate of 100Hz and supports Adaptive Sync for smoother gameplay in PC games. Its motion clarity won’t rival a dedicated gaming monitor but easily beats competitors stuck at 60Hz. Pricing also works to Asus’ favor, as the ProArt PA278CFRV carries an MSRP of just $379.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt PA279CRV?
The Asus ProArt PA279CRV is an outstanding home office monitor for professionals, artists, and creators seeking exceptional color performance at an affordable price.
It has a 27-inch 4K display that packs 163 pixels per inch. That translates to outstanding sharpness and clarity across apps, web pages, movies, and games. The monitor also has a remarkably wide color gamut that rivals more expensive displays, covering 100 percent of sRGB, 99 percent of DCI-P3, and 98 percent of AdobeRGB.
Asus pairs the monitor’s excellent image quality with elegant design and a sturdy, ergonomic stand that supports height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments. The monitor’s extensive connectivity options include USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 96 watts Power Delivery, two DisplayPort 1.4 (including one output supporting Daisy Chain), two HDMI 2.0, and three USB-A 3.2 Gen-1 ports, as well as a 3.5mm audio-out.
Asus ProArt PA279CRV: Further considerations
The PA279CRV has a mediocre contrast ratio and struggles with detail and ambiance in dark content. It also offers a modest 60Hz refresh rate, which amounts to lackluster motion fluidity in games.
These downsides are easily excused by Asus’ competitive MSRP of $469. That’s an extremely low price for a monitor that offers 4K resolution and top-tier color gamut alongside gobs of ports.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV?
The Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV is the perfect home office monitor for people who crave ultra-sharp text or need the ability to view every detail in high-resolution photos.
It delivers true 5K resolution (5120×2880) on a 27-inch panel, which works out to a crisp 218 pixels per inch. That’s much sharper than a 5K ultrawide monitor, and it nearly reaches the pixel density of Apple’s Pro Display XDR.
The ProArt Display 5K also has a good range of connectivity. It includes USB-C with 96 watts of power delivery, which is enough to charge most laptops while carrying display and data signals. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and multiple USB ports, along with an integrated KVM switch, makes it a useful hub for multi-device home office setups.
Color performance is another highlight. The ProArt Display 5K offers 100 percent of both the sRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, plus 91 percent of AdobeRGB. It’s also bright, reaching up to 578 nits in SDR. That means the monitor should look bright even under harsh lighting.
Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV: Further considerations
The Asus ProArt 5K’s price is surprisingly tame. It has an MSRP of just $799.99, almost half the price of Apple’s 5K monitor. It’s the least expensive 5K monitor available right now, and it’ll fit comfortably in any home office, no matter if you use Windows or Mac.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV?
The Asus ProArt PA32QCV is an outstanding choice if you want a monitor that makes text, images, and videos look incredibly crisp. It’s also a top pick for Mac users who want a “Retina display” experience at a more affordable price.
Its 6K resolution packs roughly 219 pixels per inch into a 32-inch display, delivering exceptional sharpness that reduces eye strain and makes fine details easy to see. The display’s brightness is equally impressive, topping 700 nits for sunny workspaces, while its fine-grained brightness control and effective ambient light sensor make it comfortable to use in dim rooms as well. The monitor even has an ambient light sensor that can auto-correct brightness to maintain viewing comfort throughout your work day.
The monitor also provides a sleek, professional design that’s paired with a highly adjustable stand that makes positioning simple. Monitor connectivity includes a Thunderbolt 4 port with 96 watts of power delivery to charge your laptop while connected.
Asus ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV: Further considerations
Those who want more integrated features might consider Dell’s UltraSharp U3224KB, which adds an IPS Black panel, 4K webcam, Ethernet, and higher Thunderbolt power delivery. Mac users might opt for Apple’s Pro Display XDR, which offers unmatched HDR brightness and contrast for professional video work. Both are far more expensive, though. The Dell is about $2,800 and the Apple starts at $5,000 before the stand.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV?
The Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV is a great choice for most people who want a monitor, but creative professionals should upgrade to the BenQ PD2730S.
The two monitors are similar in many respects. They use the same 27-inch 5K In-Plane Switching display panel, so they offer similar image quality. BenQ’s monitor is more precisely calibrated from the factory, however. Because of that, the BenQ’s color accuracy score was among the five best monitors we’ve reviewed in the past year.
BenQ also throws in several useful features. It offers better connectivity through support for both USB-C and Thunderbolt 4. It also has a USB-C downstream port and four USB-A downstream ports, which makes the monitor a useful USB hub. The monitor ships with a puck-style remote, as well, offering easy access to the monitor’s wide range of image quality options. The PD2730S also looks great on a desk, and the bundled stand offers an especially wide range of ergonomic adjustment.
Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV: Further considerations
While the BenQ PD2730S is a great monitor for creative work, it has two downsides. It’s a 60Hz monitor and doesn’t support Adaptive Sync, so it’s not great for fast-paced PC games. And while HDR is supported, the monitor’s brightness and contrast aren’t a great fit for HDR content. Most 5K monitors share these downsides, however.
The BenQ PD2730S carries an MSRP of nearly $1,200, which is about $400 more than the Asus ProArt Display 5K. Shoppers who just want a nice, super-sharp image should save a few bucks and go for the Asus, which is also an excellent monitor. Creative professionals, however, are likely to find the BenQ’s extra features worth the increase in price.
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Who should buy the Dell U4025QW?
The Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW is an ideal ultrawide monitor for a home office setup thanks to its extensive connectivity and a robust feature set. With an array of ports including Thunderbolt, Ethernet, HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, the U4025QW is something of a Swiss Army knife for professionals. It’s perfect for connecting multiple devices, daisy-chaining displays, or adding Ethernet to a device that doesn’t have it.
Dell also delivers settings that allow for personalized adjustments, ensuring that the display meets your specific image quality needs, whether it’s color accuracy, brightness, or contrast. The built-in KVM switch provides control over multiple computers from a single monitor, and the monitor has picture-by-picture and picture-in-picture modes, too. The monitor’s image quality is attractive, too, as its 5K (5120×2160) resolution exceeds most competitors to achieve a sharper, more detailed image.
Dell U4025QW: Further considerations
Unfortunately, the monitor’s perks come with a price tag that nearly exceeds $2,000. That’s a lot to ask for a home office monitor, and you could achieve even better image quality with a different display (or save a lot of cash). However, less expensive competitors don’t have the U4025QW’s connectivity.
And that’s what it comes down to. A lot of monitors can work for a home office setup, but an ideal monitor has both great image quality and the connectivity to handle any laptop, desktop, or peripheral thrown at it. The U4025QW is that monitor.
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Who should buy the Dell 2424T?
The Dell 2424HT is an excellent monitor for those craving a touchscreen experience for their home office. With its 24-inch display, 1080p resolution, and 10-point multi-touch panel, it provides an intuitive touch experience for navigating through documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Dell improves the touchscreen experience with a versatile tilt stand that lets you adjust the angle of the screen for comfortable viewing and easy touchscreen access. The monitor also delivers excellent connectivity with USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort inputs. The USB-C port provides USB Power Delivery, which can charge a connected laptop or tablet. It also serves as a USB hub providing additional USB-A ports and Ethernet.
Dell 2424T: Further considerations
The 2424HT delivers solid image quality for office work with good color accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles thanks to its IPS panel. It sticks to a 60Hz refresh rate, however, and lacks Adaptive Sync. The 2424HT’s purpose is clear: It’s for work, not gaming.
Dell asks a steep $519.99 MSRP, but the monitor is sometimes discounted to $414.99. That makes the Dell 2424HT more expensive than its alternatives, but it makes up for that with superior image quality and connectivity. These advantages make the 2424HT the obvious choice if you want a touchscreen monitor for your home office.
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Who should buy the BenQ RD280U?
The BenQ RD280U is uniquely suited to coders thanks to its unusual 3:2 aspect ratio, which makes it much taller than a conventional widescreen. The extra height is great for viewing more lines of code simultaneously and reduces the need for constant scrolling back or forth.
Besides the unusual aspect ratio, the RD280U’s image quality is conducive to long coding sessions. The monitor’s IPS panel delivers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, ensuring code remains clear and legible from any position. The 28-inch display panel has a crisp 3840×2560 resolution, which helps to render small fonts. It also has a matte finish that reduces glare, making it ideal for various lighting conditions.
A MoonHalo ambient light and an automatic night mode feature are both designed to reduce eye strain during extended use — a crucial consideration for programmers who often work long hours. Connectivity is another strong suit of the RD280U, with a versatile array of ports including USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of USB Power Delivery. Programmers can easily connect and charge a laptop.
BenQ RD280U: Further considerations
Priced at $599.99, the BenQ RD280U is relatively expensive for a monitor of its size, but its long list of unique features makes it an easy recommendation for coders. The fact is, no competitor offers the same features at any price.
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Who should buy the Viewsonic VG2756V-2K?
Viewsonic’s VG2756V-2K is a 27-inch home office monitor with a built-in webcam, noise cancelling microphone, and speakers.
The integrated 1080p webcam provides a clear step up from a typical laptop webcam. An integrated lightbar is provided to brighten dark rooms and the entire camera assembly can retract into the monitor, effectively acting as a privacy shutter. The built-in soundbar has two 5-watt speakers that deliver good volume and crisp audio for video or audio calls. They’re paired with a noise-cancelling microphone that prevents echoes and can eliminate most soft, repetitive sounds.
Viewsonic includes a wide range of connectivity. The monitor has a USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of Power Delivery for charging a connected device. It also acts as a USB-C hub that powers two USB-A ports and an ethernet connection. Video inputs include HDMI and DisplayPort for a total of three video inputs.
Image quality is good with excellent sharpness, adequate brightness, and an acceptable contrast ratio.
Viewsonic VG2756V-2K: Further considerations
While the VG2756V-2K comes with good image quality, it does not support HDR and therefore is not recommended for gaming due to its 60Hz refresh rate and lack of Adaptive Sync.
The Viewsonic VG2756V-2K is competitively priced with an MSRP of $399. That’s expensive for a 27-inch 1440p monitor, but the premium you’re paying for the monitor’s bundled features is less than you’d pay for a webcam, microphone, and desktop speakers purchased individually. That makes the VG2756V-2K a good value and worthwhile business expense.
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Who should buy the Asus ZenScreen MB249C?
Asus’ ZenScreen MB249C is a good option for users who want a multi-monitor setup, as well as some flexibility. This is a portable home office monitor that can be mounted next to a primary monitor in several ways, and also used on its own for work out on the road.
The MB249C has an adjustable desk stand that can clamp to the back of your desk instead of sitting on top of it, which reduces wire clutter and keeps the surface of your desk free. The monitor also has a built-in kickstand, which is great for portable use, and a “partition mount” to hang the monitor from a vertical surface. The options end with a 100x100mm VESA mount that is compatible with most third-party monitor arms and stands. These options make the MB249C easy to place next to your primary monitor even in cramped spaces.
This is a portable monitor, as mentioned, which means it’s easy to move. The monitor mounts to its stand with a clip mechanism that’s easily detached, and the built-in kickstand can flip out to support the monitor on most flat surfaces. It’s powered by either a USB-C connection that supports up to 60 watts of Power Delivery or the included power adapter. Not everyone will need the monitor’s portable versatility, but it’s handy if you like to work in different locations throughout the day.
Asus ZenScreen MB249C: Further considerations
Once in place, the MB249C is a competent office and productivity monitor. While it lacks the wow-factor of more expensive alternatives, like the Dell U3223QE, Asus delivers a robust, colorful, and accurate image with plenty of brightness for a typical home office. The lack of features like HDR might seem disappointing but, at this price, it’s better to execute the basics well.
The Asus ZenScreen MB27ACF combines a big (27-inch) screen with portability; the Alienware AW3425DW delivers stellar SDR and HDR image quality at an aggressive price, but foregoes any extra features; the MSI Modern MD272UPSW is an impressive smart TV powered by Google TV OS; the Asus ProArt PA32UCDM delivers top-notch OLED image quality and high refresh rates, but it’s held back by limited connectivity features; the HP Omen Transcend 32 packs great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality into a 4K OLED panel; the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B‘s high price and extreme curve aren’t for everyone, but gamers will appreciate its sharp image quality and HDR performance; the BenQ GW2786TC is a great budget choice if you want a home office display with USB-C for under $200; the Gigabyte G34WQCP is a $350 ultrawide monitor that provides solid SDR brightness, contrast, and color performance; the Asus ProArt PA278CFRV offers the color performance and connectivity options that one needs for productivity at a very friendly price; the Samsung OLED G8 makes a good fit for small spaces, where it can serve as both a computer display and TV, helping it earn its keep.
How we test monitors
Our monitor guides are based on testing by freelance and staff contributors with decades of combined experience.
While we rely on our eyes for an initial impression, we thoroughly test each monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. This specialized hardware can objectively measure a monitor’s brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, luminance and color uniformity, gamma, and many other aspects of image quality.
Using this tool helps us detect strengths and weaknesses that don’t stand out at a glance and guarantees that a change in lighting conditions or monitor location won’t skew our impression.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including the universe of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best home office monitor
A great home office monitor should have a high maximum brightness, great image clarity, and vivid color. A height-adjustable stand is preferable, as it helps with ergonomics, and a wide range of connectivity is useful for connecting multiple devices.
Resolution
Most monitors are available in 4K (3840×2160), 1440p (2560×1440), and 1080p (1920×1080) resolution. A higher resolution provides a sharper, more attractive image and is generally preferable. There’s nothing wrong with 1080p for your home office, however. It remains the baseline and is more than adequate for most home office tasks.
Brightness
Brightness is a key trait for a home office monitor. An office monitor doesn’t need to be bright to look usable: 200 nits is fine. However, a home office is likely to be brighter and to have less light control than a corporate cubical. A maximum brightness of 300 nits, or better, is ideal. You can always turn the brightness down from its maximum if it looks too bright but, of course, the reverse isn’t true.
Connectivity
Look for a monitor with a connection supported by your computer. HDMI and DisplayPort are the most common. USB-C is rising in popularity because it can charge connected devices, such as a laptop. You only need one video connection between your PC and your home office monitor, and the type of connection you use isn’t terribly important. HDMI and DisplayPort work equally well for home office use.
Refresh rate
Most monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, but a higher refresh rate (such as 144Hz) will make motion look smooth and crisp. This is most appealing to PC gamers, as improved motion performance is most noticeable when panning the camera in a 3D game.
Adaptive sync
This technology also improves motion performance. It does so by keeping a monitor’s refresh rate in sync with the video input from your computer. Our guide to FreeSync and G-Sync provides more detail.
HDR
HDR is by no means required for a home office monitor, but it can be nice to have—HDR usually means wider color gamuts and brighter displays. Many 4K monitors support HDR, but often the HDR performance is lackluster. The HDR will function, and may look superior to SDR, but it won’t approach the quality implied by the spec. To ensure a quality HDR experience, look for a minimum of VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification (or VESA DisplayHDR True Black).
Want to know more before you make a decision? Our monitor buying guide explains the nerdy details of monitor specifications.
FAQ
1.
What is the best monitor for a home office?
The best monitor for a home office is the Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE. This 31.5-inch IPS display with 4K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and extensive connectivity options is tailor-made for productivity. It’s well built, has nice ergonomic adjustments, and crystal clear image quality.
2.
What is the best cheap home office monitor?
The Acer Vero B247Y G is the best cheap monitor for a home office. For around $150, this 24-inch display outdoes its price range with a 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, adaptive sync, a fully adjustable stand, and solid image quality. A really great value!
3.
What size monitor should I buy for a home office?
Monitor size really depends on personal preference and available space.
A 24-inch monitor is fine for a desk that is around 24 inches deep, or less. Its small size will still be enough because the monitor will be closer to you.
For most people, however, a 27-inch monitor is the goldilocks size. The larger display will make everything easier to see. This also opens up a wider range of 4K monitor options, as 4K is very rare on a 24-inch monitor.
Larger monitors, such as a 32-inch widescreen or 34-inch ultrawide, are great for deep desks and people who want an immersive experience. Monitors this large can also double as a TV replacement in a small room.
Displays of even larger size, such as 42-inch or 48-inch HDTVs, are best for home theater setups or an unusually large office. With a display of this size you’ll ideally want to sit four to six feet away.
4.
What display input is best? (HDMI vs. DisplayPort vs. USB-C)
USB-C is the best display input for most people. It works by bundling DisplayPort into USB-C. It offers all the same features as DisplayPort plus features of USB-C including support for Power Delivery to charge external devices. This is why we recommend a USB-C monitor for most people.
DisplayPort is generally second-best. It supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI and is quite common on desktop computers.
HDMI comes in third due to lower resolution and refresh rate support. This is improved by HDMI 2.1, but this newer version remains hard to find and often adds to a monitor’s price.
All three of the options above handle 1080p at 60Hz, which is the most common resolution and refresh rate available today. It’s always important to buy a monitor that has an input compatible with your PC.
5.
Does a home office monitor need HDR?
No, a home office monitor doesn’t need HDR. Windows’ HDR support leaves a lot to be desired. HDR works better with streaming apps and games that support HDR. If you want to play games, check our guide to the best gaming monitors.
Need a new monitor for your PC? I’ve combed through scores of options to find the best monitors on the market right now. These picks are the result of hundreds of hours spent testing the latest models from Acer, Asus, BenQ, Dell, LG, Samsung, and other major brands.
While my favorite monitor overall is an awesome choice for most people, I also have alternative options for budget shoppers, gamers, and those seeking the best HDR performance. After all, not everyone needs the same features from a monitor. You can find out more about how I evaluate monitors and what specs matter most below my list of recommendations.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: It’s in our name! PCWorld prides itself on PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review dozens of monitors every year. All of our recommendations have been personally tested and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
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Who should buy the Dell Ultrasharp U2724DE?
Dell’s Ultrasharp U2724DE is an incredibly versatile monitor that will satisfy most users. It’s great for home office productivity, good for gaming, and can handle more serious content creation workflows, like photo and video editing.
The U2724DE has an IPS Black panel that roughly doubles the monitor’s contrast ratio (compared to other IPS monitors). It can’t beat a more expensive OLED or Mini-LED panel, but it’s still alluring. It also lacks the burn-in worries of OLED which, although unlikely to occur in mixed use, might become an issue if you spend all day working in Excel and plan to keep your monitor for as long as possible.
Dell pairs the IPS Black panel with an enhanced 120Hz refresh rate. Upping the refresh rate greatly improves motion clarity and makes the U2724DE a viable display for gamers. That’s a big deal. It means you can buy one monitor for both work and play.
The U2724DE goes all-in on connectivity. Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort-in and -out, and HDMI are present. It even has a 2.5G Ethernet port. These features are ideal if you plan to connect a laptop over USB-C, as the U2724DE will greatly expand the laptop’s connectivity.
Dell Ultrasharp U2724DE: Further considerations
Resolution is the only notable downside. The U2724DE is a 1440p monitor, while many competitors in its price bracket offer 4K. This is often the trade-off made to hit monitor’s 120Hz refresh rate. For 4K goodness see the Dell U3225QE below. Just know that it’s almost 50 percent more expensive.
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Who should buy the Acer Vero B247Y G?
Value shoppers who want a good-quality, versatile monitor at a budget price will be pleased with the Acer Vero B247Y G. This 24-inch 1080p IPS monitor stands out with its surprising 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync support, making it suitable for both productivity and PC gaming. It also provides great image quality for a budget display, with above-average scores in contrast ratio and brightness, as well as good color performance.
Build quality exceeds expectations, too, with a fully ergonomic stand that offers height, tilt, swivel, and even pivot adjustments—a rarity in budget displays. The monitor’s clear on-screen menu system provides easy access to various image settings, while the inclusion of both modern (HDMI, DisplayPort) and legacy (VGA) connections ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Acer Vero B247Y G: Further considerations
Though it’s possible to find a less expensive 24-inch 1080p monitor, the Vero B247Y G justifies its slightly higher price through quality-of-life improvements, and it still manages to limbo under $150 when discounted (which it often is). It’s hard to find a more well-rounded budget monitor.
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Who should buy the Dell G2724D?
Dell’s G2724D hits the sweet spot for gamers on a budget who also care deeply about quality.
The 27-inch IPS LCD panel features 1440p resolution and a refresh rate of 165Hz. The color gamut spans 100 percent of sRGB, 86 percent of DCI-P3, and 82 percent of Adobe RGB, ensuring a bright and vibrant image that’s not only excellent in games but serviceable for most content creation. But its standout feature is the Adaptive Sync support, with official support for VESA Adaptive Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium, and Nvidia G-Sync.
Despite its affordable price, the monitor doesn’t skimp on design, with a handsome matte black and gray chassis and sporty rear vents that provide an aggressive yet unobtrusive look. It also comes with a functional monitor stand that offers a range of ergonomic adjustments and a compact base that doesn’t take up unnecessary desktop space.
Dell G2724D: Further considerations
The monitor doesn’t offer USB connectivity or 3.5mm audio-out. Also, the HDR performance is a bit lackluster, so those who require HDR gaming may want to look at other options.
But it’s hard to beat the G2724D’s performance at $200 or below and, more importantly, it offers everything an average PC gamer is going to need for smooth and responsive gaming. All told, it offers excellent value, and could have a place on your desk for five to 10 years.
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Who should buy the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED?
For anyone who wants a high-performance gaming monitor, the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED should be at the top of your list.
This 26.5-inch display delivers stunning 4K resolution with an ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate in a cutting-edge OLED panel. It’s an excellent choice for gamers who want both visual clarity and fluid motion. With its 240Hz refresh rate, the MSI delivers fast-paced gaming yet maintains the deep contrast and vibrant colors that OLED monitors are known for. It also supports Adaptive Sync for smooth frame pacing.
MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED: Further considerations
The QD-OLED panel offers excellent contrast and color accuracy, which makes it a solid pick for creative professionals and anyone who enjoys watching HDR movies. Connectivity is also generous, with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1a, and USB-C inputs, as well as 98 watts of USB Power Delivery for charging laptops or tablets. The design is a bit plain, but the stand is sturdy and fully adjustable, which is far more important.
The MSI MPG 272URX is more expensive than 1440p OLED alternatives, which can be found for under $800. But if 4K clarity and a fluid 240Hz refresh rate are what you’re after, this monitor is worth the investment.
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Who should buy the Dell S2722QC?
If you’re looking for a budget 4K monitor, Dell’s S2722QC is the best option going right now. Initially priced at $380, the monitor can now be found for much less, even dipping below $300. It stands out among other budget offerings by combining 4K resolution and USB-C connectivity typically reserved for more expensive models.
Dell’s 27-inch IPS display is suitable for most lighting conditions, with crisp visuals and a respectable brightness of 296 nits. In addition to its sharp 4K image, the monitor delivers color performance that can easily handle everyday productivity, streaming, and light gaming. A USB-C port with 65 watts of USB Power Delivery for charging a connected laptop or tablet, as well as two USB-A ports for connecting wiring peripherals make it very versatile. The monitor even ships with a sturdy yet compact ergonomic stand that adjusts for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot.
Dell S2722QC: Further considerations
Naturally, the Dell S2722QC makes some compromises to keep the price low. The IPS panel’s contrast ratio is low, which can make the image look flat and dull when playing games or watching a movie. Think of it as more of a home office monitor than the centerpiece of a gaming setup. After all, quality 4K gaming monitors are usually more expensive.
All in all, the Dell S2722QC’s combination of 4K resolution, USB-C connectivity, and affordability makes it a solid choice if you want a tack-sharp home office monitor at a low price.
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Who should buy the Dell U3225QE?
This is a great choice for professionals who want a top-of-the-line home office monitor. The U3225QE has it all: a sharp 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel with excellent color accuracy and an above-average contrast ratio for a productivity monitor. The 120Hz refresh rate enhances responsiveness, making tasks like scrolling through documents and multitasking smoother. The ergonomic stand provides height, tilt, swivel, and portrait mode adjustments, and the anti-glare coating ensures comfortable viewing in various lighting conditions.
In addition to all that, the U3225QE’s mitigates the need for external docks and adapters, with generous connectivity. It features Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports with 140W of Power Delivery—enough to charge most laptops—along with HDMI, DisplayPort, and a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining multiple monitors. A built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port ensures a fast and stable wired network connection, a rare feature among monitors. It also offers six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM switch functionality for seamless switching between two connected PCs.
Dell U3225QE: Further considerations
While it lacks built-in speakers and its HDR performance is limited, the U3225QE’s extensive connectivity and high-quality display make it a standout choice for professionals who need a central hub for their workspace.
Want a smaller version of this monitor? Check out the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE. It has a similar 4K IPS Black display panel and Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C connectivity.
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Who should buy the ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV?
The ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV is perfect for content creators, programmers, designers, and anyone who values ultra-sharp image quality and accurate colors for productivity work.
With a true 5K resolution (5120×2880) on a 27-inch panel, the ProArt Display 5K packs an incredibly crisp 218 pixels per inch. That’s much sharper than 5K ultrawides and nearly matches Apple’s Pro Display XDR. Text is crisp and hi-res photos look lifelike.
The ProArt Display 5K’s color performance and brightness solidify its position. The monitor covers 100 percent of both sRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, plus 91 percent of AdobeRGB, making it ideal for content creation. Its impressive 578-nit brightness ensures excellent visibility in any lighting condition, too.
ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV: Further considerations
Most compelling is the PA27JCV’s unmatched value proposition. At $800, it’s the most affordable true 5K monitor available as of early 2025. While it has some limitations, like a 60Hz refresh rate and modest contrast ratio, these are minor tradeoffs. It delivers super-sharp 5K resolution, professional-grade color performance, and outstanding value.
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Who should buy the Asus ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV?
If you want a 32-inch 6K monitor that delivers exceptional sharpness and strong color performance without the sky-high prices usually attached to this resolution, the ProArt PA32QCV is an easy recommendation.
It’s ideal for professionals, prosumers, and creatives—especially Mac users—who need precise visuals, solid brightness, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity with 96 watts of power delivery. While it doesn’t claim the very top spot in every technical category, particularly in contrast and HDR performance, its combination of resolution, usability, and value is unmatched.
The ProArt also benefits from attractive design, a highly functional ergonomic stand, and a wide range of options that provide precise monitor adjustment. These features make it easy to tune and calibrate the monitor to fit your needs.
Asus ProArt Display 6K PA32QCV: Further considerations
Shoppers who want additional features should know there are other 6K monitors that provide more connectivity or higher-end capabilities.
Dell’s UltraSharp U3224KB, for example, offers an IPS Black panel, integrated 4K webcam, Ethernet, and more powerful Thunderbolt 4 power delivery, making it a great fit for heavy collaboration workflows. MacBook users may also want to look at Apple’s Pro Display XDR, which offers unmatched HDR brightness and contrast alongside its impeccable build quality.
There’s a big problem with these alternatives, though: They’re outrageously expensive. The Dell U3224KB is currently $2,800 and the Apple Pro Display XDR starts at $5,000. Most people who want 6K resolution will be better off buying the PA32QCV and keeping the extra cash in their wallet.
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Who should buy the Viewsonic VP16-OLED?
If you want a monitor that you can easily transport for content creation work, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED will fill that role with aplomb. This impressive monitor combines a class-leading image quality with a unique and useful stand.
The VP16-OLED has a 15.6-inch OLED panel with 1080p resolution. It delivers outstanding image quality, scoring top marks in color accuracy, gamut, and contrast. The VP16-OLED’s performance is superior to many full-sized OLED monitors—and completely smashes portable competitors. This makes the VP16-OLED ideal for photographers, videographers, and other content creators.
The monitor has a versatile stand. It can be used as a kickstand, as is true of most portable monitors, or expand to hold the monitor upright. The stand includes two USB-C ports, either of which can be used to provide power and video input to the monitor. It also offers a micro-HDMI port for use with devices that lack USB-C.
Viewsonic VP16-OLED: Further considerations
Viewsonic bundles the monitor with several cable types and a USB-C power brick, so you don’t have to buy additional adapter cables or accessories.
There’s just one problem: It’s expensive. The Viewsonic VP16-OLED retails at $399.99, more than double the price of a basic 1080p portable monitor. That’s tough to justify if you just need a second monitor to display Slack and Twitter, but it’s a worthwhile upgrade if you care about image quality.
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Who should buy the BenQ RD280U?
The BenQ RD280U is the best monitor for coders thanks to its unusual 3:2 aspect ratio, which is much taller than a conventional widescreen. The extra height is great for viewing more lines of code simultaneously and reduces the need for constant scrolling back or forth.
Beyond its unique aspect ratio, the RD280U’s image quality is ideal for long coding sessions. The monitor’s IPS panel delivers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, ensuring code remains clear and legible from any position. The 28-inch display panel has a crisp 3840×2560 resolution, which helps to render small fonts. It also has a matte finish that reduces glare, making it ideal for various lighting conditions.
BenQ RD280U: Further considerations
The monitor has a MoonHalo ambient light and an automatic night mode, both designed to reduce eye strain during extended use — a crucial consideration for programmers who often work long hours. Connectivity is another strong suit of the RD280U, with a versatile array of ports including USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of USB Power Delivery. Programmers can easily connect and charge a laptop.
Priced at $599.99, the BenQ RD280U is relatively expensive for a monitor of its size, but its long list of unique features makes it an easy recommendation for coders. The added cost is justified by the fact no competitor offers the same features at any price.
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Who should buy the BenQ SW242Q?
Another specialized monitor from BenQ, the SW242Q targets creative professionals with its unique 16:10 aspect ratio and 2560×1600 resolution. Its aspect ratio, which is closer to square than the more typical 16:9, provides additional vertical space for creatives, and its resolution beats most competitive 24-inch monitors.
Designed for professionals, the SW242Q is encased in a sturdy, charcoal black frame and supported by a robust stand that offers adjustments for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. The stand’s deep and wide base is flat and covered in a luxurious material. Connectivity options include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C with 90 watts of USB Power Delivery, and an SD card reader.
Where the SW242Q truly excels is its color performance. It boasts an impressive color gamut that covers most of the DCI-P3 and AdobeRGB spaces, which is essential for accurate photo and image editing. The monitor’s color accuracy is bolstered by its low color error and “fine-coated” panel, which is designed to emulate the look and texture of a printed material.
BenQ SW242Q: Further considerations
The BenQ SW242Q has some trade-offs. It has a low measured contrast ratio of 980:1, which reduces the depth and richness of movie and games. Its 60Hz refresh rate and lack of Adaptive Sync underscore its focus on static content over motion clarity. And with a price tag at around $500, the monitor’s cost may be hard to justify for some.
Creative professionals seeking top-notch color accuracy and a 16:10 aspect ratio, however, are likely willing to pay a high price for the monitor’s strengths. It’s the best, most feature-rich 16:10 monitor available right now.
The Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG is competitive in the sea of 32-inch OLEDs that supports dual-mode functionality at 4K/165Hz or 1080p/330Hz; the MSI Pro MP165 E6 is a budget portable monitor with a surprising degree of flexibility; the Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED delivers great image quality, solid audio, and good motion clarity, at a competitive price; the Arzopa Z1FC is a budget portable monitor that can game; the Alienware AW3425DW foregoes extra features to deliver stellar SDR and HDR image quality at an aggressive price; the MSI Modern MD272UPSW is a solid smart TV powered by Google TV OS; the Asus ProArt PA32UCDM delivers pro-worthy OLED image quality and high refresh rates, but limited connectivity holds it back; the HP Omen Transcend 32 combines great USB-C connectivity and top-tier SDR image quality with a 4K OLED panel; the LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B‘s high price and extreme curve aren’t for everyone, but it’s gamers will appreciate its sharpness and HDR performance; the BenQ GW2786TC is a great choice if you need a home office display with USB-C for under $200; the Gigabyte G34WQCP is a $350 ultrawide monitor that delivers in SDR brightness, contrast, and color performance; the Asus ProArt PA278CFRV offers the color performance and connectivity options that one needs for productivity at a very friendly $380; the Samsung OLED G8 makes a good fit for small spaces, where its dual purpose as computer display and TV can really earn its keep.
How we test monitors
Our monitor guides are based on testing by freelance and staff contributors with decades of combined experience.
While we rely on our eyes for an initial impression, we thoroughly test each monitor with a Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra color calibration tool. This specialized hardware can objectively measure a monitor’s brightness, contrast, color gamut, color accuracy, luminance and color uniformity, gamma, and many other aspects of image quality.
Using this tool helps us detect strengths and weaknesses that don’t stand out at a glance and guarantees that a change in lighting conditions or monitor location won’t skew our impression.
Matthew S. Smith is a freelance technology journalist with 15 years of experience reviewing consumer electronics, including the universe of computer monitors. In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications.
How to choose the best monitor
There are literally hundreds—and perhaps thousands—of monitors to choose from. Choosing one from the crowd can be difficult, but knowing the key traits of a monitor will help you make your decision.
Resolution
Most monitors are available in 4K (3840×2160), 1440p (2560×1440), and 1080p (1920×1080) resolution. A higher resolution provides a sharper, more attractive image and is generally preferable. There’s nothing wrong with 1080p, however. It remains the baseline and is by far the most popular resolution sold today.
Connectivity
Look for a monitor with a connection supported by your computer. HDMI and DisplayPort are the most common. USB-C is rising in popularity because it can charge connected devices, such as a laptop.
Refresh rate
Most monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, but a higher refresh rate (such as 144Hz) will make motion look smooth and crisp. This is most appealing to PC gamers, as improved motion performance is most noticeable when panning the camera in a 3D game.
Adaptive sync
This technology also improves motion performance. It does so by keeping a monitor’s refresh rate in sync with the video input from your computer. Our guide to FreeSync and G-Sync provides more detail.
HDR
Many 4K monitors support HDR, but often the HDR performance is lackluster. The HDR will function, and may look superior to SDR, but it won’t approach the quality implied by the spec. To ensure a quality HDR experience, look for a minimum of VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification (or VESA DisplayHDR True Black). See our article on everything you need to know about HDR on your PC to learn more.
Want to know more before you make a decision? Our monitor buying guide explains the nerdy details of monitor specifications.
FAQ
1.
What is the best monitor?
The best monitor overall is the Dell Ultrasharp U2724DE. This 27-inch IPS display with 2560×1440 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and extensive connectivity options can truly do it all, from productivity to gaming. It’s solidly built, has ergonomic adjustments, and top-of-its class image quality.
2.
What is the best cheap monitor?
There are monitors that are cheaper than the Acer Vero B247Y G, but none that are nearly as good for the price. Hovering around $150, the 24-inch, 1080p B247Y G exceeds its price range with a 120Hz refresh rate, adaptive sync, a fully adjustable stand, and above-average image quality. A truly great value!
3.
What size of monitor should I buy?
Monitor size depends on personal preference and location.
A 24-inch monitor is fine for a desk that is around 24 inches deep, or less. Its small size will still be sufficient because the monitor is closer to you.
Most people, however, will want to go with a 27-inch monitor. The added size will make the monitor easy to see. This also opens up a wider range of 4K monitor options, as 4K is very rare on a 24-inch monitor.
Larger monitors, such as a 32-inch widescreen or 34-inch ultrawide, are great for deep desks and people who want an immersive experience. Monitors this large can serve as a TV replacement in a small room.
Displays of even larger size, such as 42-inch or 48-inch HDTVs, are best for home theater setups or an unusually large office. You’ll want to sit four to six feet away from a display of this size.
4.
What display input is best? (HDMI vs. DisplayPort vs. USB-C)
USB-C is the best display input for most people. It works by bundling DisplayPort into USB-C, so offers all the same features as DisplayPort. Yet it retains the features of USB-C including optional support for Power Delivery to charge external devices. This is why we recommend a USB-C monitor for most people.
DisplayPort is generally second-best. It supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI. This input is particularly common on desktop computers.
HDMI comes in third due to lower resolution and refresh rate support. This is improved by HDMI 2.1, but this feature remains hard to find and often adds to a monitor’s price.
All three of the options above handle 1080p at 60Hz, which is the most common resolution and refresh rate available today. It’s also important to buy a monitor that has an input compatible with your PC.
5.
Are all monitors compatible with Windows and MacOS?
Modern monitors are compatible with all recent versions of Windows and MacOS. They’re plug-and-play, which means the monitor should display an image without the need to install driver software or mess with Windows or MacOS settings.
One of the best upgrades you can make to your home office is the addition of a monitor arm. A good-quality arm not only frees up usable space on your desk’s surface, it enables more ways to move and position your display/s for optimal comfort and ergonomics. And a monitor arm makes your office setup look really cool.
The only catch is the price. Most monitor arms worth buying will cost close to $200, and heavy-duty arms capable of holding two large displays can be priced even higher. The good news is that a good-quality monitor arm is likely to last you for a very long time. That’s why it’s important to make the right choice when you purchase a monitor arm.
To help you with that, we’ve tested several popular monitor arms, for both single- and dual-monitor setups. Below you’ll find our curated list of recommendations, with detailed explanations of what features and qualities make them stand out. We even have some good budget recommendations. Below our picks, we point out some arms that we aren’t so keen on — to provide a point of comparison.
Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor arm reviews and buying advice: It’s in our name! PCWorld has been covering PCs since 1983. That includes PC hardware of all types, including monitors and monitor accessories. All of our recommendations have been tested hands-on and vetted by our expert reviewers, who’ve applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards.
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The Ergotron LX Pro is a practical, effective, easy-to-use monitor arm. Ergotron achieves this ease-of-install with clever, yet simple, engineering.
The LX Pro’s clamp mechanism, which secures the monitor to a desk, takes the extra step of providing a comfortable handhold that makes it easy to work the clamp without tools. The arm’s two sections, meanwhile, simply slip into place. Ergotron also provides thumb screws for attaching the arm’s VESA mount to the back of your monitor.
Depending on your monitor, you may need to use the included hex wrench to tighten the components. Otherwise, installation doesn’t require tools.
The arm’s desk clamp mechanism is wide, which is important. Clamps with a small surface concentrate more force on your desk and cause damage if over-tightened. A wider clamp better distributes the force. That means the LX Pro is less likely to damage weaker desks (though caution when tightening the clamp is recommended).
Fortunately, the arm’s ease of installation doesn’t lead to functional downsides. The arm can support monitors up to 34 inches diagonally that weigh up to 22 pounds. The arm also lifts up to 13 inches, tilts up to 85 degrees, and can swivel and rotate to a full 360 degrees. Cables are routed through channels in the arm and secured by sturdy detachable cladding. Ergotron provides a 10-year warranty.
The LX Pro even fixes our gripes about its predecessor, the Ergotron LX. The LX Pro’s base is more compact, the white colorway now has a color-coordinated VESA mount, and the new design is more attractive. The only downgrade compared to the old Ergotron LX is a lower maximum weight (the LX could handle up to 25 pounds). But that’s unlikely to matter, as 32-inch and 34-inch monitors usually weigh 15 pounds or less.
The LX Pro’s $209 MSRP is enough to make shoppers think twice, but it’s great value for money. The arm’s overall build quality feels competitive with more expensive monitor arms, such as the Humanscale M2.1.
That makes the Ergotron LX Pro an easy recommendation. It’s simple to set up, looks nice, works well in day-to-day use, yet remains affordable. We already liked the Ergotron LX, but the LX Pro is a great upgrade.
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The MSI MAG MT201 is an inexpensive monitor arm that’s rated to support 49-inch screens that weight up to 44 pounds. That’s high enough that it’s unnecessary; even my 42-inch LG B4 television weighs only 25 pounds. The MAG MT201 has a spring (rather than gas or gas-spring hybrid) tension system that proved capable of handling the 32-inch monitors I had on hand.
Setting up the MAG MT201 is a bit complicated. The stand’s assembly requires multiple steps and tightening numerous screws. Tools are provided, but it will take about 15 to 20 minutes to finish. This is something that separates the MAG MT201R from more expensive arms, like the top-rated Ergotron LX Pro. The steps required to assemble each monitor arm are similar, but the MT201 requires more screws, and some screws in awkward positions.
Adjusting the monitor is less difficult. The arm itself felt sturdy and swivels left and right, as well as up and down, without trouble. You’ll want an Allen-head screwdriver handy, though, as several adjustments including the monitor arm neck and height tension require it. The arm includes a quick-release VESA mount, meaning you can detach a monitor from it by removing a single thumb-screw. It’s a nice feature to have on a budget arm.
Aside from a prominent MSI logo, the monitor arm looks sleek, professional, and reserved, and could work equally well for a home office or a gaming setup. Build quality isn’t amazing, with plastic cladding over metal framing, but it’s a looker for a budget monitor arm. It’s better than the industrial look of the Monoprice monitor arm (our former budget pick) and more distinctive than budget arms from Huanuo and Vivo. The MAG MT201 also delivers a massive gain in quality over arms in the $25 to $50 bracket, most of which are less adjustable and even more difficult to set up.
Price works in the MSI MAG MT201’s favor. It carries an MSRP of $99.99, but it’s often on Amazon for around $60 to $80, with an all-time low price of $49.99. That makes the MSI MAG MT201 feel like the minimum viable monitor arm. Buying anything less expensive doesn’t make sense, as you’ll sacrifice too much in quality and design.
Huanuo HNSS6 Single Monitor Arm – Best monitor arm under $50
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The Huanuo HNSS6 Single Monitor Arm is easily our go-to recommendation for shoppers looking to buy the least expensive monitor arm that can still fulfill its job.
The arm comes in two pieces: The lower portion swivels while the upper portion allows for height, tilt, and rotation adjustments. A gas spring provides tension to keep monitors aloft, which is an upgrade from the clips and screws used by the least expensive arms. However, it’s worth noting that gas springs can lose their potency over time. These features are typical for the price: Most competitors are similar in design and use a gas cylinder.
What makes the Huanuo a winner is its overall quality and ease of install. Setup required installation of just three screws (and adjustment to a couple more). The clamp used to mount the arm to the desk was intuitive compared to rivals like the MountUp Single Monitor Arm, as the spacing of the clamp is adjustable without removing and re-installing screws to secure it. The arm claims to hold 32-inch displays up to 20 pounds, which is enough to hold most monitors. We tested it with panels up to 32 inches weighing up to 12 pounds, and it supported those with ease.
One notable downside is cable management. The plastic covers provided are finicky and won’t hold many wires, so if you want to add USB cables in addition to a video connection and power, you’re probably out of luck. To be fair, though, the same is true of most inexpensive arms.
The Huanuo wasn’t as easy to set up or adjust as the Ergotron LX, our favorite overall pick, and it’s not as sturdy as the Monoprice Single Monitor Arm, which typically sells for $60. Still, the Huanuo gets the job done.
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Want a monitor arm that gets the job done and looks good doing it? The Herman Miller Flo is for you.
The Flo’s design sets it apart from the pack. Herman Miller ditches the angular, industrial design of many competitors for a smooth, natural look. While clearly designed for a corporate office, it also fits in with a home office setup, where its friendly, approachable look helps it blend in with its surroundings. The Flo is backed by a 12-year warranty and offers 24/7 customer service.
It’s easy to set up and use. The monitor’s clamp works similarly to other monitor arms I tested, but it’s more refined and requires fewer screws (a grommet is also available). The VESA mount is also excellent, providing a simple clip design that’s secure and can be easily pre-mounted to a monitor for simple installation. The way this mount works accommodates monitors that have a slightly recessed mount position, which may cause problems for other monitor arms.
The monitor’s range of adjustment isn’t much different from other high-end monitor arms. It offers 13.3 inches of vertical adjustment, 80 degrees of tilt, and 360 degrees of swivel and rotation. That’s essentially identical to the less expensive Ergotron LX. The Flo’s operation is smoother, however: I found I could adjust a monitor’s height with a mere nudge.
Surprisingly, the Flo has a listed weight limit of 20 pounds and recommends use with monitors weighing at least 7 pounds. Most monitors fit within this range, but some heavier models won’t be compatible with the Flo.
Herman Miller lists the Flo at $295, which is a lot to ask for a single-monitor arm. The Ergotron LX offers similar features at a much lower price. However, the Flo is a smoother, more appealing monitor arm, and worth the upgrade if you want form with your function.
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It’s natural, given the only slight difference in name, to think the Ergotron HX is merely an uprated version of the Ergotron LX. That’s not the case. This is an entirely different monitor arm which pairs its increased capacity with improved build quality and a more professional look.
First, let’s talk weight. The Ergotron HX is rated to hold monitors that weigh up to 42 pounds and screen sizes up to 49 inches. That’s an extraordinarily high weight limit—I haven’t reviewed a single monitor in 2023 that exceeds it. I attached both a 32-inch widescreen and 38-inch ultrawide monitor, which weighed roughly 15 and 20 pounds, respectively, and the HX easily handled both.
The use of plastic is minimal and reserved for small portions of cladding that appear used only for cable routing. The arm’s moving parts include larger, sturdier mechanisms, and felt extremely smooth in my use. Ergotron backs the arm with a 10-year warranty.
The monitors range of adjustment is a bit limited compared to the LX. It offers 11.5 inches of height, 75 degrees of tilt, 180 degrees of swivel, and 360 degrees of rotation. However, a somewhat more limited height adjustment is typical in this category due to the size of monitors these stands are expected to carry.
The monitor arm’s impressive design also provides a more robust look. This could be a con for some, however, as the arm can seem a bit…much in a home office setup. It’s an expensive arm, as well. Expect to pay about $350.
The Ergotron HX is an obvious choice if you want to mount an ultrawide, super-ultrawide, or large format widescreen monitor on your desk.
Humanscale M2.1 with M/Connect – Best monitor arm w/ built-in dock
Price When Reviewed:
$356 (dock starts at an additional $214)
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The Humanscale M2.1 with M/Connect laptop docking station is an attractive, robust, and modern monitor arm that can expand your laptop’s connectivity without taking up additional space on your desktop.
Humanscale’s entry-level M2.1 doesn’t include a laptop dock, but it’s designed to accommodate the M/Connect 3, which nestles snuggly into the base of the arm. Most home office shoppers will likely choose the M/Connect 3 USB Data Hub, which currently retails for $253 (on top of the M2.1’s base price of $356). The hub adds three USB-C ports and two USB-A ports. If you want even more ports, the $600 M/Connect 3 Pro Dock adds two more USB-A ports, two more USB-C, Ethernet, and two DisplayPort ports.
The M/Connect 3’s added connectivity is an excellent way to expand the ports on a laptop. Its central location makes the ports easy to access and keeps them firmly located in a set position on your desk (as opposed to freestanding hubs and adapters, which tend to get shoved around, or off, a desk). It’s also a good alternative to a USB-C monitor. We like USB-C monitors, but packing connectivity into the monitor can make it difficult to access some ports, as most are located on the rear of the display.
Connectivity aside, the Humanscale M2.1 is a robust, if conventional, monitor arm. It can handle monitors between 5 and 15 pounds, which is enough to support the vast majority of widescreen monitors under 32 inches in size. It also has a “smart stop” feature, which lets users customize the amount of rotation the arm allows, and easy-to-use quick release joints that are handy when disassembling or moving the arm. The arm isn’t as smooth in operation as the Herman Miller Flo, but it remains easy enough to adjust.
Ergotron LX Dual Monitor Arm – Best dual monitor arm
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Two monitors are always better than one, and the same goes for monitor arms. It’s no surprise, then, that Ergotron’s LX Side-by-Side ranks as our best dual monitor arm. The Ergotron LX Side-by-Side pairs two LX monitor arms together on one mount. The look, feel, and specifications of each arm are close to its standalone sibling.
Monitor size is one exception: While the standard LX is rated for monitors up to 34 inches, the Side-by-Side’s arm is only rated for monitors up to 27 inches. The monitor arms aren’t long enough to fit two 32-inch or 34-inch monitors side-by-side. Vertical arrangements are also supported, though only if one of the two monitors is small (less than 23 inches diagonal).
Look and feel is otherwise similar to the standard Ergotron LX, and that’s why the dual monitor arm also earns a recommendation. The dual-monitor arm provides the same winning balance of build quality, adjustability, and smooth operation, and it’s backed by the same 10-year warranty. Pricing is a bit higher at $330, which is a slight savings compared to buying two LX arms individually.
Workstream by Monoprice Dual Monitor Arm – Best budget dual monitor arm
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The same logic that applies to our favorite dual monitor arm also to the budget model, giving Monoprice’s Workstream Dual Monitor Arm a clear path to victory.
In fact, the dual arm’s pricing is even more impressive. The Workstream Dual Monitor is four times less expensive than the Ergotron LX Side-by-Side. I’m a bit shocked by the quality Monoprice can offer at a $100 price point. Ergotron’s alternative is more attractive and easier to use, but is it four times better? That’s a tough call.
The Workstream’s downsides are identical to standard model. Build quality is impressive for the price, but the arm is difficult to set up and not as smooth in operation. I’m also doubtful the arm is capable of handling two 20-pound monitors, as its spec sheets claim. Fortunately, 27-inch monitors (the largest this arm can handle side-by-side) usually weigh less than 10 pounds, so weight capacity shouldn’t be an issue.
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The Huanuo HNDS12 represents a middle ground for shoppers who want an upgrade in quality but need to respect their budget.
Each monitor arm is almost all metal with only a small piece of plastic to provide cable routing. The arm also has gas springs capable of lifting up to 26 pounds of weight, which is enough to handle 32-inch widescreen and 34-inch ultrawide monitors.
There’s one unusual feature: a USB hub. This includes two USB ports that are placed at the front of the arm base. Each of these will need to plug in to your computer, which might be a problem if you have a laptop with just a few ports, but it’s a functional bonus.
The Huanuo HNDS12, like the HNDS6 (below), is a bit fiddly to set up. It has two clamps that need to be adjusted and roughly a dozen screws that need to be installed. The gas springs also require a bit of adjustment to reduce the force provide, at least when used with a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor.
Still, the HNDS12 is a good pick at its regular retail price of $140, which often drops as low as $110 when on sale. It looks attractive and offers plenty of force for holding larger monitors.
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The Clearspace Uni-2’s design is a bit different from most competitors. It places two individual arms on a single pole. Each arm can adjust for height, swivel, and tilt, and each monitor mounts to an “independent slider” which can move right or left, making it easier to tune the placement of each monitor relative to the other. Compared to the Humanscale M8.1, I found the Uni-2 easier to adjust. However, the Humanscale M8.1’s beefy crossbar is likely to prove more stable if you’re mounting large monitors.
I think the Clearspace Uni-2 looks great, and that’s important. Competitors from Humanscale and Herman Miller also look luxurious but have a more corporate or “executive’s office” vibe. The Uni-2’s softer look feels more appropriate for a home office. Clearspace also provides black, silver, and white colorways, and every component of each colorway is molded in the promised color (which isn’t true of most competitors). Clearspace also throws in subtle touches, like soft-touch inserts on the side of each monitor arm. That’s the kind of design a home office user will appreciate.
Clearspace also looks to separate itself with connectivity. The Uni-2 comes standard Smart Hub that provides a single USB-A and USB-C port. That’s a small edge over competitors, which often sell the dock as an upgrade. Owners can improve the basic hub with the optional SmartDock (pictured), which expands connectivity to include additional USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet. Unfortunately, I can’t recommend it: The SmartDock is priced at $650 yet lacks support for features I’d expect at that price, like 4K 60Hz video and 2.5Gbps Ethernet.
While the optional SmartDock is a miss, the arm is a winner. The Clearspace Uni-2 is expensive, but the price can be justified if you’re picky about the look and feel of your home office space. Clearspace also offers a single-monitor and triple-monitor arm: While I didn’t test them, I expect they’d offer similar perks.
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The MSI MPG MT201R is a heavy-duty monitor arm that’s rated to support 49-inch screens that weigh up to 44 pounds. It supports that weight with a gas spring mount. While that might sound like a lot, you shouldn’t think it makes the arm any more durable than another. Most monitors, even large ones, weigh less than 25 pounds, anyway.
Unboxing and setting up the MPG MT201R can take a while, as the stand comes in numerous parts connected by numerous screws. The tools are provided, and the included assembly guide is clear enough, but more expensive monitor arms usually ship with fewer parts. The monitor includes a VESA quick release feature that makes it easy to attach or detach a monitor by removing a single thumb screw.
The C-Clamp plate is broad and the base of the stand is also large. Together, these make for a very secure fit that is less likely to damage a desk, because the load of the clamp’s force is spread out more evenly.
MSI’s branding is prominent, and I don’t think that’s a plus. The monitor arm will only look “right” with an MSI MPG monitor. Even then, I don’t think MSI’s design across its product line is coherent enough to justify buying an MSI arm to go with an MSI monitor. On the plus side, the arm has RGB lighting which runs through the arm itself. The lighting is powered by USB-A. It doesn’t sync with other devices, but it looks nice.
Pricing is a bit awkward. The MSI MPG MT201R has an MSRP of $129.99 and often sells at that price, though it’s occasionally reduced to $99.99. That’s fair, but aside from the RGB lighting, I don’t think the MPG MT201R adds much value over a less expensive arm like the MSI MAG MT201 or the Workstream by Monoprice monitor arm. I’m also not sold on the design, which seems meant to appeal only to MSI super-fans.
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The MSI MPG MT161R is an affordable single monitor arm built for gamers who want something with some flair. It has a spring mechanism that can support screens up to 45 inches that weigh up to about 35 pounds.
Design is what sets the MPG MT161R apart. It uses plastic cladding to create a dramatic, mechanical look with sharp edges and a bit of red trim. The centerpiece, however, is undoubtedly the monitor arm’s base. It uses RGB lighting and reflective material to create a fun hall-of-mirrors effect. The lighting is powered by USB-A.
The extensive use of plastic cladding over the arm’s metal components is not to the arm’s credit, however. It feels spindly and inexpensive. To be fair, it’s an affordable arm with an MSRP of $109.99—but I think a price around $75 would be more in line with the quality of the arm. While the RGB lighting is fun, it’s limited to the base of the arm and doesn’t sync with other devices.
Setting up the arm is a bit finicky. The arm ships in numerous pieces and requires installation of numerous screws. Tools are included, and the assembly manual is adequate, but it’s annoying. The monitor includes a quick-release VESA mount which allows a monitor to be removed or reattached using a thumbscrew.
While I appreciate MSI’s attempt to design an arm that looks different, it’s hard to recommend the result. Many less expensive arms are at least as functional and the design, though unique, doesn’t seem worth much of a premium. I can only recommend it if you fancy the arm’s look.
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The MountUp MU0004 Single Monitor Arm seems like an even more affordable alternative to the Huanuo HNSS6. They look similar in photos, and each has a gas spring. However, the MountUp’s lower price — usually $5 to $10 less than the Huanuo — comes with some compromises.
The MountUp arm was more difficult to install. This is due to the clamp, which has a two-piece design that requires screws be removed and re-installed when adjusting the clamp’s size. Adjustment of the clamp was also a bit more difficult, as turning the knob required more force, and the clamp lacks a rubberized pad to prevent it from marking the underside of your desk. We also didn’t like the MountUp’s fit and finish. It had a coarse, matte feel that seemed more industrial than the Huanuo, and miles behind the Ergotron LX.
It’s not all bad news. MonutUp says the monitor arm can support 32-inch displays up to 17 pounds. That’s rather heavy for a modern monitor, and it easily handled a 32-inch display weighing 12 pounds. While inferior to the Huanuo, the MonutUp could work if you don’t mind fiddling with a few more screws during installation and can overlooks is lackluster build quality.
Still, it’s hard to justifying paying $30 for the MonutUp if you can bug the Huanuo for $40 (or even $50). A monitor arm can last for years, so spending a few extra bucks for a better experience makes sense.
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At the time we bought it for testing, the Vivo STAND-V002 was ranked as the second best-selling monitor arm on Amazon. That’s a shame, because it’s easily the worst arm we’ve tested so far.
To be fair, it’s also the least expensive. The STAND-V002 is typically sold below $30. That’s less than many top-selling single monitor arms! Vivo achieves that by cutting the arm’s features to the bone.
Adjustability is minimal, so much so that Vivo (mostly) advertises the STAND-V002 as a “desk mount” or “stand” instead of an arm. It has a clamp, a pole, and two jointed arms that attach to the pole at a single point. You can adjust the monitors for height, but only together: One can’t be higher than the other. The arms, meanwhile, have joints that allow swivel and adjustment side-to-side, as well as tilt up and down. You can’t adjust these on-the-fly, though, because everything is tensioned by screws that must be loosened with a tool, adjusted, and then re-tightened to keep the monitors in place.
Build quality is poor. Vivo claims the arms can hold two monitors up to 22 pounds each, but we noticed a slight deflection downward even when attaching a 27-inch display weighing 10 pounds. Cable management is provided by plastic clips that are barely adequate to the task and tend to fall off when jostled. The clamp is small and lacks a rubber pad, so it could mark softer woods and materials.
We suppose the Vivo could work if you plan to mount a couple 24-inch monitors and don’t care about adjusting them once in place, but it’s otherwise not worth $30. It’s cheap, sure — but in our experience, monitor arms this cheap tend to fall apart after a couple years (or less).
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Humanscale is synonymous with high-end office furniture: The Freedom chair is something of an icon in executive offices across the globe. But Humanscale’s high-end office hardware is at times an awkward fit for a home office, as the M8.1 demonstrates.
The Humanscale M8.1 looks similar to the M2.1, but it’s upgraded to handle monitors between 6 and 28 pounds (almost double the M2.1 in our list above). That’s enough to handle nearly any monitor available today, including large ultrawides like the Dell Ultrasharp U4025QW. The arm can also handle two monitors of the appropriate combined weight and offers a “crossbar” to support them both on a single arm.
That’s good, and useful, but pricing is an obstacle. The arm starts at $545, but the crossbar (required to use two monitors) ups the price to $686. The M/Connect 3 laptop dock is also available to the M8.1 but, of course, adds even more to the price. That’s a bit hard to accept when the Ergotron HX, which supports monitors up to 42 pounds, starts at $350, or $585 for the dual-monitor crossbar version. Ergotron’s alternative feels as sturdy, supports even larger and heavier displays, and is less expensive.
The Humanscale M8.1 has features you won’t find on the Ergotron, such as an optional laptop dock and customizable arm rotation, and it’s a fine selection if price is no obstacle. In most cases, though, the M8.1’s price will be hard to justify.
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Huanuo’s HNDS6 is a budget dual-monitor arm that’s popular on Amazon (in fact, it’s listed as the best-seller in Computer Monitor Arms). It provides a reasonable level of quality at a low price but fails to unseat the Workspace by Monoprice Dual Monitor Arm on our list.
We’ll begin with the positives, which, to be clear, outweigh the problems. The Huanuo HNDS6 carefully walks the value tightrope to deliver a decent dual-monitor arm at a typical price of $60 (which can dip below $50 on sale). The arm’s metal construction feels rigid and looks durable.
Each arm is rated to hold between 4.4 and 14.3 pounds. That’s not a lot: The Workstream by Monoprice arm is rated up to 20 pounds. Still, it’s enough to handle a huge majority of 24- and 27-inch monitors, and the monitor arms provided plenty of lift in our testing.
We’re not a fan of the arm’s installation. It has two clamps instead of one unified clamp, which is strange, because the base of the monitor arm is one solid piece. There are roughly a dozen screws to install. And the included cable routing can prove hard to tighten once several cables are held within the routing.
The Huanuo HNDS6 is a decent dual-monitor arm for the price and worthwhile on a discount (it was once sold for just $38). In general, though, we think the Monoprice Workstream Dual Monitor Arm provides more for a similar price.
What to look for in a monitor arm
Purchasing a monitor arm is a bit different from purchasing most home office gear. A monitor arm, unlike a monitor, is a hefty, durable piece of equipment that never really goes obsolete. It must also support the specific functions you want out of the box, since upgrades and customization tend to be limited.
If you’re still on the fence about whether a monitor arm is worth the money and the time it takes to set up, read our article that answers why a monitor arm is most definitely worth it.
Adjustability and range of motion
The range of adjustability and motion a monitor arm can offer is a critical but often overlooked feature. A monitor arm should adjust for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot—and it should do so without tools.
All the monitor arms we recommend meet this standard, but some differences remain. Only some monitor arms provide 360 degrees of swivel, meaning the neck of the monitor arm can be rotated to any position. That’s handy if your desk is in the middle of your room since you can use the monitor from various positions.
Most inexpensive monitor arms ditch adjustability and stick with simple tension mechanisms that are secured by a screw. It’s inexpensive but fixes the monitor’s position in place once it’s adjusted. We recommend avoiding mounts that use this strategy.
Ease of installation and adjustment
None of the monitor arms tested were difficult to install, but the difference between budget and premium models was clear. Budget models require more screws to install, and the default tension of the arm’s adjustment mechanism is less likely to be suitable out-of-the-box.
The ease of adjustment varies greatly, too. All the monitor arms we surveyed require an Allen wrench to adjust tension (which is necessary if the arm seems too stiff or loose), but some were much more difficult than others. The Herman Miller Flo felt smooth and effortless, while the Workstream by Monoprice required serious torque.
Cable management
Proper cable management is important if you value a clean, clutter-free desk.
This is one aspect of design that didn’t improve with pricing. The Herman Miller Flo’s cable management was basic, while the Workstream by Monoprice hid cables well. This did come with a trade-off, though, as the Flo’s seemed least likely to cause cables to bind while moving the monitor.
While cable management is useful, none of the monitor arms I tested can handle the full complement of cables that might be attached to a high-end USB-C monitor (like the Dell U3223QE). This is an aspect of monitor arm design that manufacturers could improve.
Maximum supported size and weight
It’s important to buy a monitor arm that can handle the monitor you own.
This won’t be a major concern if you own a 24-inch or 27-inch monitor, as most such monitors weigh 10 pounds or less. With that said, it’s wise to double-check the monitor’s weight before buying a monitor arm. Remember the monitor’s weight can exclude its stand. Larger 32-inch, 34-inch, and 49-inch monitors are more difficult to handle and may require an upgrade to a “heavy duty” monitor arm.
Monitor size limits should be respected as well. It might be possible to attach a 40-inch monitor to an arm meant for a 32-inch monitor. The 40-inch monitor may even come within the arm’s weight limit. A larger monitor will distribute weight differently, however, which could cause an arm’s tension mechanism to fail.
How we test monitor arms
Every monitor arm we recommend was personally tested first-hand at a PC World contributor’s home or the PC World office. We examine the quality, ease of installation, and range of adjustment of each arm to verify it meets the manufacturer’s claims. The monitors we use to test arms can vary over time, but generally include at least one 27-inch and one 32-inch widescreen monitor. Monitor arms rated for “heavy duty” use were tested with at least one monitor that weighs 20 pounds or more.
FAQ
1.
What is the best monitor arm?
The best single monitor arm is the Ergotron LX Pro. It’s easy to set up, looks attractive, works well in day-to-day use, and, at just a little over $200, remains affordable.
2.
What is the best cheap monitor arm?
The best budget monitor arm is the MSI MAG MT201. It can accommodate screens up to 49 inches and 44 pounds. There is a little bit of assembly required, but the necessary tools are supplied. But once done, adjusting the arm is easy. It also looks very nice for a budget monitor arm. MSRP is $99.99, but it’s common to see the MT201 for $70 or less.
3.
Is a monitor arm worth it?
Whether a monitor arm is worth the price is subjective, but we believe our recommended monitor arms are worth making the investment. A monitor arm is easier to use than a stand, allows a wider range of adjustment, and keeps your desk clear of clutter. They’re also durable—there’s a good chance you’ll replace a monitor before the monitor arm.
4.
Are monitor arms compatible with my monitor?
Nearly all monitors, and nearly all monitor arms, use the VESA mounting standard. The 100x100mm bolt pattern is by far the most common, though 75x75mm is sometimes used as an alternative. All the monitor arms we recommend support both bolt patterns.
Not sure that your monitor supports VESA? Check the rear of the monitor. The VESA mount can be found in the center of the monitor, and the bolt pattern can be verified with a ruler or tape measure. This is likely beneath the neck of your monitor’s stand if you have one attached.
It’s possible to mount a monitor that lacks a VESA mount, but you’ll need to purchase a VESA adapter. It’s a large, X-shaped device that clamps to the rear of the monitor.
5.
Are monitor arms compatible with my desk?
Most monitor arms offer two mounting options: clamp and gromet.
A clamp mount is the most common for home office use. A U-shaped clamp fits over an edge of your desk. A screw mechanism is used to secure it. Most clamps are adjusted by hand and fit a wide range of desks. It’s important to double-check a monitor arm’s specifications if your desk is more than an inch thick, as some clamp mounts are too small to work with a thick desk surface. The clamp also requires an edge that’s free of obstructions on both the top and bottom of the desk.
Grommet mounts insert into the circular cut-outs found on many desks built and sold for corporate offices. A grommet mount is also a form of clamp, but size of the mechanism is different, and the mount attaches the monitor to the interior of the desk instead of an exterior edge.
Nearly all monitor arms ship with a clamp and grommet mount, but grommet mounts are less common. It’s wise to double-check that a grommet mount is supported if that’s how you plan to mount the monitor arm.
6.
Will a monitor arm damage my desk?
It’s possible that a monitor arm’s clamp mount, if used, will cause minor damage to your desk. It may scratch the desk’s surface when mounted or removed, and over-torquing the clamp might cause a dent on some softer desks, such as those which use a veneer over particleboard. A glass desk can also prove troublesome—refer to the desk’s manufacturer to make sure it’s safe to use a monitor arm.
7.
Do monitor arms wobble?
A quality monitor arm will tame minimal monitor wobble, though some might come through if the arm is mounted to a thin, light desk. Make sure to mount the monitor arm to a secure surface and adjust the arm’s tension to a level suitable for the monitor you’ve mounted.
8.
Should I buy a $25 monitor arm on Amazon?
A monitor arm’s price tag can intimidate budget shoppers. Most budget monitors sell for $200 or less. Spending another $150 to $300 for a monitor arm can seem hard to justify.
Still, we encourage shoppers to avoid cheap monitor arms found on Amazon and other retailers. The least expensive monitor arms lack a dynamic tension mechanism, like a gas piston or spring. A few arms in the $35 to $50 range use a gas piston, but it’s often a wimpy example barely sufficient for holding a 27-inch monitor.
Inexpensive monitor arms also lean more heavily on plastic. That’s not necessarily a problem out-of-the-box, but plastic tends to become brittle over time, which may reduce the lifespan of a monitor arm.
Budget-friendly monitor upgrades do exist! This 24-inch Samsung Odyssey G3 is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a speedy gaming screen. Right now, you can get the Samsung Odyssey G30D for just $109.99 (was $199.99), which is a massive 45 percent discount for a pretty darn good display considering what you get in it.
At 24 inches, it’s a good conventional size for tighter workspaces (just slightly smaller than the 27-inch ideal), and it feels even more compact thanks to its slim bezels. (Samsung calls it a “3-sided borderless design,” and it’s particularly good for multi-monitor setups.) The 1080p resolution is also pretty standard, about the best you can do for this price. Both HDMI and DisplayPort are options, plus 3.5mm audio.
The speedy 180Hz refresh rate is the standout feature here, allowing you to push more frame rates out of your games and still get smooth visuals, which is unheard of in monitors this cheap. The 1ms response time and AMD FreeSync compatibility take it one step further, helping to minimize lag and screen tearing. Sadly, there’s no VESA mount, but it fortunately does have a stand with swivel, tilt, and height adjustments.
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Most portable monitors are meant for basic productivity, but that’s not always true. The Arzopa Z3FC is a large IPS LCD portable monitor with an 180Hz refresh rate that aims to be of use both for office productivity and gaming. It’s successful, but its launch price is an obstacle.
Read on to learn more, then see our roundup of the best portable monitors for comparison.
Arzopa Z3FC specs and features
The Arzopa Z3FC is a step up from the budget portable monitors that retail around $100 or less, and it provides some upgrades. The Z3FC has 2560×1440 resolution which, of course, is superior to the 1920×1080 resolution that most budget alternatives provide. The Z3FC also has a speedy 180Hz refresh rate, which is high for a portable monitor.
Display size: 16.1-inch 16:9 aspect ratio
Native resolution: 2560×1440
Panel type: IPS-LED
Refresh rate: 180Hz
Adaptive sync: Yes, AMD FreeSync
HDR: None
Ports: 2x USB Type-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort, 1x Mini-HDMI 2.0
Audio: 2x 1-watt speakers
Additional features: Built-in kickstand
Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 0.39 inches
Weight: 1.72 pounds
Price: $229.99 MSRP, $199.99 typical retail
The Arzopa Z3FC has an MSRP of $229.99, but I don’t think it was ever sold at MSRP (which is not unusual for an Amazon product listing). It’s more typically available at $199.99. Even that is towards the high end of where I expect this product to land as it ages. Its predecessor, the Arzopa Z1FC, was introduced at $259.99 but has sold as low as $96.98. I’d expect the Z3FC will gradually limbo closer to that figure.
Arzopa Z3FC design
The Arzopa Z3FC combines an aluminum frame and rear panel with plastic bezels to produce an attractive, durable feel. Despite its extremely thin profile—it measures less than 4/10-inch thick—the Z3FC feels solid when handled and doesn’t easily show flex. Don’t get me wrong: You could absolutely snap this thing over your knee if you wanted. But the same could be said of the iPad Pro. Big, thin devices are never bomb-proof, but the Z3FC feels nice.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Its thin profile means the portable monitor is, well, portable. It weighs in at roughly 1.7 pounds, which is a tad lighter than average for a 16-inch portable monitor. Arzopa avoids using a bump-out to accommodate the ports and the kickstand retracts fully into the monitor’s case, both of which make the display easy to carry. Yet despite its small size, the kickstand supports use in both portrait and landscape orientation.
A sleeve is included, as well. It looks okay but includes a flap that is secured with velcro. While the carrying case largely does its job, it doesn’t offer much padding, so I wouldn’t trust it alone to protect the monitor when packing it in checked luggage. The same can be said for most sleeves included with portable monitors, though.
Arzopa Z3FC connectivity
Connectivity is a mix bag with the Arzopa Z3FC. It includes two USB-C ports, each with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, and a HDMI port. So far, so good.
The HDMI port is mini-HDMI, though, which is a bummer. While the Arzopa Z3FC does include a HDMI to mini-HDMI cable, mini-HDMI is much less common overall. You may have difficulty finding a cable around an office, or for sale in a store, if you leave the included cable at home.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Of course, you could just rely on USB-C, which might be easier. The USB-C ports support Power Delivery to power the monitor when connected to a USB-C port that provides enough wattage. The specs don’t state what’s required, but an 18-watt power source was adequate.
The USB-C ports support power pass-through. That means you can connect a USB-C source with power to one USB-C port, then use the portable monitor to charge a USB-C device connected to the other USB-C port.
A USB-C power brick is not included, but will be required if you plan to deliver video to the Z3FC over HDMI, or if you use a USB-C video input that lacks power. The lack of a power brick is a minor disappointment, but most competitive portable monitors also ship without a power brick.
Arzopa Z3FC menus, audio
The Arzopa Z3FC’s menu system offers a wider range of options than most. It includes not only the typical brightness and contrast but also several color gamut modes, RGB calibration, and a 4:3 aspect ratio mode. As simple as these might seem, they aren’t guaranteed on a portable monitor. Some alternatives only provide brightness, contrast, and sharpness adjustment.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Adjustments are easy, too, as the monitor includes two buttons and a volume rocker. The buttons are used to enter or exit menus and the rocker is used to select or adjust options. Overall, the Arzopa Z3FC’s menu can’t quite match that typically provided by Viewsonic, but beats budget portable monitors like the MSI Pro MP165 E6.
A pair of 1-watt speakers can be found on each flank of the Z3FC. They’re weak, providing barely adequate volume even at maximum. The speakers are okay for a podcast but otherwise of limited use.
The Arzopa Z3FC’s menu system offers a wider range of options than most.
Arzopa Z3FC SDR image quality
The Arzopa Z3FC isn’t expensive, but I wouldn’t say it’s a budget portable monitor—at least, not at its current typical retail price of $199.99. That means the monitor’s image quality matters. It scores well in several areas, though in others it feels pressure from OLED competition.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Brightness is a positive for the Arzopa Z3FC. It comes close to 400 nits of SDR brightness, which is great for a portable monitor.
This level of brightness is excessive for most situations, but portable monitors are likely to be used in areas where you have no control over the lighting, like a conference room or airport lounge. The Z3FC’s high brightness will make the monitor more comfortable to use in bright rooms and near large, sunlit windows.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
Contrast, on the other hand, is a miss for the Z3FC. Most portable monitors with an IPS-LCD panel struggle with contrast, and the Z3FC comes in towards the bottom of the pack. That means the image can look flat and dull. It’s not a problem in Microsoft Office, but disappointing when playing a game.
Portable monitors with an OLED panel, like the Innocn 15K1F, are a much better choice for entertainment. They provide a deep, immersive image that easily stands out.
Keep in mind, however, that price-comparable OLED portable monitors will have a 60Hz refresh rate. That’s a trade-off you’ll need to weigh.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
The Arzopa Z3FC’s color gamut is good, or mediocre, depending on your perspective. It covers 99 percent of sRGB as well as 78 percent of DCI-P3 and AdobeRGB.
As the graph shows, that’s average to above-average for a portable monitor with an IPS-LCD display. The Z3FC’s color gamut is enough to provide good color volume and a vibrant image.
However, the Z3FC’s color gamut is far behind the Innocn 15K1F’s OLED panel, and will significantly lag OLED alternatives in general. OLED provides an incredibly rich, hyper-saturated look that many will prefer.
Matthew Smith / Foundry
The Arzopa Z3FC achieved modest results in color accuracy. Its average color error isn’t bad, but the average includes noticeable errors in colors such as blue and cyan. The overall impression is that the monitor can look a bit too red or orange. That’s also represented in the monitor’s color temperature of 6300K, which is a bit warmer than the target of 6500K.
Gamma, on the other hand, was solid with an on-target gamma curve of 2.2. Content generally looks as bright as it should, and while the monitor’s overall contrast isn’t great, it does a fine job of preserving detail in dark areas of a scene.
Sharpness is a highlight. The 16.1-inch panel has a resolution of 2560×1440. That works out to about 182 pixels per inch. That’s a higher pixel density than a 27-inch 4K monitor (at about 163 ppi) and much better than a 27-inch 1440p monitor (at roughly 110 ppi). High-resolution video looks great and text looks sharp.
So what’s the verdict? I think the Z3FC’s image quality is fine, even good. It benefits from a decent color gamut and high brightness, two traits that help it deliver an attractive image when used in a bright room. It’s less impressive in darker rooms, as the limited contrast ratio becomes more noticeable.
The main decision you’ll need to make is whether you’d prefer an IPS-LCD display with high brightness and a fast refresh rate, like the Z3FC, or an OLED competitor with superior contrast and color gamut, like the Innocn 15K1F.
Arzopa Z3FC HDR image quality and motion
The Arzopa Z3FC includes HDR, but it’s nothing to write home about—or, if you did, you might use language your pen pal wouldn’t appreciate. While HDR is supported, the monitor’s limited contrast ratio and brightness means there’s not much, if any, benefit to using it. The image looks a bit different, but not better. I recommend sticking to SDR.
This is not a problem exclusive to the Z3FC, however. All portable monitors suffer bad HDR to varying degrees. It’s a direct result of their portability and low pricing. The Viewsonic VX1655-4K-OLED is the only portable monitor I’ve tested to deliver passable HDR—but it retails at $519.99.
The Z3FC’s motion clarity benefits from the IPS-LCD panel’s 180Hz refresh rate, which is high for a portable monitor with 2560×1440 resolution. A higher refresh rate translates to reduced blur in fast-moving and rapidly changing images, and the improvement is obvious, particularly when compared to a 60Hz alternative.
Arzopa lists a pixel response time of 9 milliseconds on the monitor’s Amazon page. That’s not great—a desktop LCD-IPS gaming monitor will typically quote a response time of 0.5 milliseconds to 5 milliseconds. Overall motion clarity is solid for single-player titles and cooperative games, though esports fans with a critical eye and fast reactions should keep expectations in check.
While the Z3FC’s motion clarity isn’t perfect, its portability and price should be kept in mind. Most portable monitors have a much lower refresh rate and, as a result, have much more noticeable motion blur. OLED alternatives will beat the Z3FC, but those with a 120Hz refresh rate start around $250 ($50 more than the Z3FC) and go up from there.
The Z3FC is a price-to-value middle ground for people who want acceptable motion clarity in games but still need to be mindful of their budget.
Should you buy the Arzopa Z3FC?
The Arzopa Z3FC is another solid portable monitor in the company’s line-up. It provides good image quality and a fast 180Hz refresh rate for $199.99. It also benefits from slim, attractive design and an easy-to-use menu system.
With that said, pricing doesn’t currently work to its favor. Arzopa’s older Z1FC, which is similar but has a slightly slower 144Hz refresh rate, can be had for $109.99—a much better deal overall. I expect the Z3FC’s price will gradually be reduced, but at the moment it’s too expensive for what it offers.
Still, the Z3FC provides high brightness, decent color performance, slim design, and good motion clarity. These traits make it an appealing general-purpose portable monitor and also useful for gaming on the go.
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This monitor is gaming-ready with its 240Hz refresh rate and 0.03ms response time, which means gameplay that’s as smooth as butter even during fast-action scenes. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync compatible, so it can sync with Nvidia cards to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering for a better experience. As for connectivity, there’s dual HDMI and a DisplayPort for video, plus two fast USB-A and 3.5mm audio.
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