Smaller Screens: Monitor Size Minimums For Comfortable Viewing

When it comes to monitors, there are a variety of sizes available to suit different needs and preferences. Some people might prefer larger screens, while others might opt for smaller ones. Smaller monitors are usually preferred when desk space is limited or when using a multi-monitor setup. They are also ideal for working on spreadsheets, as they allow for easier reading and less scrolling.

The smallest monitors typically have screen sizes ranging from 5 inches to 17 inches. These compact displays are often designed for specific purposes, such as vehicle backup cameras or industrial applications. For a small computer monitor, a popular size is 13 inches, which offers a balance between screen real estate and portability.

If you're looking for an even smaller option, there are 7-inch monitors available, like the Xenarc 700YH, which provide crystal-clear text and images through VGA, DVI, or HDMI ports. For a standard home or office setup, a 15.6-inch or 17-inch monitor is a good choice, offering full HD resolution without taking up too much desk space.

When choosing a monitor size, it's important to consider your intended use, available desk space, and your preference for screen real estate and portability.

Smallest monitors for PC

If you're looking for a small monitor for your PC, there are a variety of options available. When choosing a monitor, it's important to consider the size of your desk, your preferred screen size, and the specific features you require. Here are some of the smallest monitors available for PCs:

UCTRONICS 3.5 Inch SPI TFT LCD Display Kit

This monitor has a screen size of just 3.5 inches, making it one of the smallest options available. It supports Raspberry computers such as the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+, 3 Model B, Pi 2 Model B, and Pi Zero. The display kit includes a touch pen, case, and a 16GB SD card. It draws power from the GPIO pins, so no extra power supply is needed.

BW 4.3 Inch LCD TFT Rearview Monitor Screen

The BW 4.3-inch monitor is designed to be connected to your car's camera, helping to prevent accidents while reversing. It can also be used for other purposes, such as watching DVDs or playing games. This monitor offers clear pictures and stable performance at a low cost.

Lilliput 7-inch USB LCD Video Monitor UM70 (UM-70)

The Lilliput 7-inch monitor is a compact and portable option that is compatible with Windows and Mac PCs. It uses power from the connected device through USB, so no additional power adapter is required. This monitor can be used in both portrait and landscape modes, making it a versatile choice for those who need extra screen space.

LONCEVON 7 inch Portable Mini VGA Monitor

The LONCEVON 7-inch monitor is a cost-effective option that offers HDMI inputs and excellent resolution. It is compatible with Windows OS and can be used for car rearview cameras, CCTV surveillance cameras, or other video equipment. This monitor supports HDMI, VGA, and AV input.

ALON CCTV Monitor With Remote Control

If you're looking for a slightly larger option with better screen resolution, the ALON CCTV Monitor is a great choice. This 10.1-inch monitor offers multiple input options, including USB, VGA, and HDMI. It also features built-in high-quality dual speakers and is compatible with PCs, DVDs, and vehicle displays.

Elecrow 10.1 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen

The Elecrow 10.1-inch monitor is a mini LCD monitor with a 1920x1080 HD resolution. It is compatible with Windows PCs, car audio and video systems, medical equipment displays, and gaming consoles such as the XBOX 360, PS3, and PS4. This monitor also comes with a VESA Wall Mount Pattern, allowing you to attach it to the wall to save desk space.

Smallest monitors for Mac

If you're looking for a small monitor for your Mac, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to choose a monitor that supports USB-C, Thunderbolt, or HDMI connections. Additionally, if you're a creative professional, you'll want to prioritize resolution and color accuracy. For entertainment and gaming, a larger screen size is generally preferable.

Apple Studio Display

The Apple Studio Display is a 27-inch monitor with a 5K resolution, resulting in sharp text clarity and optimal pixel density for macOS. It has excellent compatibility with Mac devices, featuring three USB-C ports and support for Thunderbolt 3. The monitor also includes features exclusive to macOS devices, such as an extremely accurate sRGB mode, making it ideal for content creation. While it doesn't support HDR, the Studio Display offers bright and accurate colors, as well as impressive speakers that surpass those of comparable screens. However, the stand that allows for height adjustments and the nano-texture screen cover are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.

Dell UltraSharp U2723QE

The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is a versatile 27-inch 4K monitor with a built-in USB-C hub, making it a great choice for Mac users who need to connect multiple devices. It offers good color accuracy, covering 100% of sRGB, 98% of DCI-P3, and 100% of Rec. 709 color spaces. The monitor also features HDR options and a high contrast ratio, delivering well-balanced and true-to-life colors. While it may not be the brightest display, it performs well in both bright and dark rooms. The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is a solid option for those seeking a monitor with good connectivity and color accuracy.

BenQ PD2725U

The BenQ PD2725U is a 27-inch 4K UHD monitor that delivers stunning visuals with 100% sRGB color accuracy. It offers a dual-view function, allowing users to split the screen and display different content on each half, which is especially useful for professionals in design or video editing. The monitor has a flexible stand that can be adjusted for height, tilt, and pivot, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. In terms of connectivity, the PD2725U includes HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C ports, as well as a built-in KVM switch for easy switching between devices. Overall, it's a versatile and high-performing option for Mac users.

Asus ProArt PA279CV

The Asus ProArt PA279CV is a budget-friendly 27-inch 4K UHD monitor that provides professional-grade performance without breaking the bank. It covers 100% of the sRGB color space, delivering sharp images and accurate colors, making it ideal for content creators. The monitor features thin bezels, a metallic finish stand, and a built-in clip for cable management. It includes a variety of ports, such as DisplayPort over USB-C, two HDMI v2 ports, one DisplayPort, and four USB 3.1 Type-A downstream ports. The USB-C port supports Power Delivery, making it convenient for sharing with a MacBook Pro. The Asus ProArt PA279CV offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability.

Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx

If you're looking for an upper mid-range option, the Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx is a great choice. It features a 27-inch 4K resolution screen and supports HDR, delivering deep blacks and bright highlights with Mini LED backlighting. The monitor has a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, allowing for video and data transfer with a single cable connection to your Mac. Additionally, it includes two USB-A ports for connecting other devices directly to the monitor. While the Acer Nitro XV275K P3biipruzx has a lower pixel density than the macOS target, it still offers sharp text clarity and impressive picture quality.

Smallest monitors for PS4

If you're looking for a small monitor to pair with your PS4, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, while the PS4 outputs 1080p, investing in a higher-spec monitor can still be beneficial and futureproof your setup. Secondly, the right size of the monitor depends on how you plan to use it. If you'll be sitting up close, a smaller screen will ensure you can see everything within your field of vision, whereas if you'll be sitting further away, a larger screen will provide a more immersive experience.

• Elecrow 10.1 Inch Raspberry Pi Screen: This mini LCD monitor has a 1920x1080 HD resolution and can be attached to a wall or placed on a desk. It supports various devices, including the PS4, and offers multiple connectivity options.
• Loncevon 7-inch Portable Mini VGA Monitor: This small HDMI monitor has a 1080p resolution and is compatible with Windows OS. It supports multiple input options, including HDMI, VGA, and AV, making it versatile for different uses.
• Lilliput 7-inch USB LCD Video Monitor UM70: This compact monitor is compatible with Windows and Mac PCs and can be powered through a USB connection, making it ideal for dual-screen setups. It supports both portrait and landscape modes.
• Toguard Ultra-thin Monitor: With a slim design and multiple input ports, this monitor is highly portable and can be used for various purposes. It offers a bright, high-resolution screen and features built-in speakers and multi-functional touch buttons.
• UCTRONICS 3.5 Inch SPI TFT LCD Display Kit: With a tiny 3.5-inch screen, this monitor supports Raspberry computers and includes a touch pen. It draws power from GPIO pins, so no extra power supply is needed.
• BW 4.3 Inch LCD TFT Rearview Monitor Screen: Designed as a car rearview monitor, this compact screen can also be connected to other devices like DVDs to watch videos or play games. It offers a clear picture and stable performance at a low cost.

When choosing a monitor for your PS4, consider your budget, the desired screen size, and the specific features you require, such as resolution, connectivity options, and additional functionalities.

Smallest monitors for car cameras

If you're looking for a small monitor for your car camera, there are a few options available. The smallest size I could find is 3.5 inches, but there are also options at 4 inches, 4.3 inches, 5 inches, and 7 inches. Here are some specific products you can consider:

5-Inch Monitors

The Safesight TOP-SS-035LB is a 3.5-inch backup monitor with an adjustable pedestal mount. It features a TFT LCD screen and a built-in pedestal mount.

4-Inch Monitors

The Boyo VTM-4000 is a 4-inch digital rearview monitor that comes with a suction cup mount. It has an auto-on trigger function.

3-Inch Monitors

• The Clarus HR4301 is a 4.3-inch universal LCD monitor with 2 video inputs. It has a resolution of 480 x 272 and a painted black finish. It also includes a pedestal stand with thumb screw angle adjustments and a 12-volt trigger for auto turn-on.
• The Safesight TOP-043LA is another 4.3-inch LCD monitor option with 2 video inputs and a 180-degree swivel mount for dashboard or windshield mounting.
• The Safesight TOP-043LE is a similar model that features a spring-loaded pop-up mechanism for top dashboard mounting and auto turn-on when a video signal is sensed.

5-Inch Monitors

• The iBEAM 5" Widescreen TFT Monitor comes with a suction cup mounting bracket and has a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews. It has two video inputs and a suction cup mount to attach securely to your dash or window.
• The EchoMaster MON-50-DM is a 5-inch dash mount digital slim TFT/LCD monitor with dual video input, allowing you to connect and view up to two safety cameras. It features TFT technology for crisper and clearer viewing.
• The Safesight TOP-SS-5006 is another 5-inch widescreen LCD monitor option with 2 triggered video inputs and a 180-degree swivel mount.
• The Accelevision LCDP50LW is a 5-inch LCD monitor with 2 video inputs and a 180-degree swivel mount.
• The Boyo VTM5000S is a 5-inch universal LCD monitor with a removable sun shade for easier daytime viewing. It has video signal sense turn-on and NTSC and PAL auto-switching.
• The Safesight TOP-SS-WM5006 is a 5-inch widescreen LCD monitor with a suction cup and dash mount. It features an anti-glare screen, 2 video inputs, and a 180-degree swivel mount.

7-Inch Monitors

• The Safesight TOP-SS-007D is a 7-inch widescreen LCD monitor with a headrest shroud and stand mount. It includes a quick-release headrest shroud, a pedestal stand, and a trigger wire input.
• The Clarus HR7001 is a 7-inch universal LCD monitor with HDMI, VGA, and RCA AV inputs. It has a resolution of 1024 x 600, a pedestal stand with thumb screw angle adjustments, and a 12-volt trigger for auto turn-on.
• The Safesight RM-703 is a 7-inch monitor with 2 audio-video inputs, ideal for commercial or passenger vehicle use. It features a digital TFT 7-inch LCD panel, a built-in speaker, and a painted black finish.

Smallest monitors for gaming

When it comes to gaming, the size of your monitor can significantly impact your experience. The smallest monitor size available for gaming is 24 or 25 inches. These smaller monitors are ideal if you don't have a lot of desk space and are great for competitive gaming as they allow you to see the entire screen without moving your eyes too much. They also tend to have high refresh rates and low resolutions, which are ideal for competitive gaming and won't be too demanding on your graphics card.

Dell Alienware AW2523HF 25-Inch Monitor

The Dell Alienware AW2523HF is a 25-inch monitor ideal for competitive esports gaming. It has a high 360Hz refresh rate and VRR support to reduce screen tearing. It also has a fast response time and is reasonably priced.

ViewSonic XG2431 24-Inch Monitor

The ViewSonic XG2431 is another great option for a 24-inch gaming monitor. While it has a lower 240Hz refresh rate than the Dell Alienware AW2523HF, it is a more budget-friendly option.

Acer K202Q 19.5-Inch Monitor

The Acer K202Q is a smaller option, with a screen size of 19.5 inches. It has a 75Hz refresh rate and a 6ms response time. This monitor also features BlueLight Filter and Flickerless Technology to reduce eye strain.

Sceptre 20-Inch Monitor

The Sceptre 20-inch monitor is another compact option, offering a 75Hz refresh rate and a 3ms response time. It also features built-in speakers and a wide viewing angle of 170° horizontal and 160° vertical.

ASUS ZenScreen 15.6-Inch Portable Monitor

If you're looking for an even smaller option, the ASUS ZenScreen is a portable 15.6-inch monitor. It has a 178-degree viewing angle, an anti-glare coating, and a USB-C port to connect to various devices.

Philips 22-Inch Monitor

For something slightly larger, the Philips 22-inch monitor offers a 100Hz refresh rate and a 4ms response time. It also has a thin design and a VESA mount option.

In conclusion, when choosing a small monitor for gaming, consider your available desk space, your preferred gaming genre, and the desired balance between screen size and performance.

Frequently asked questions