The Market For Cpu Monitors: Who's Buying?

With so many options available, choosing the right CPU monitor can be challenging. CPU monitors are typically used by gamers, content creators, and professionals who require a second screen for their laptops or desktops. When selecting a monitor, it is essential to consider factors such as resolution, refresh rate, response time, and panel type.

Resolution is often marketed as Full HD or 4K, with the latter offering a much clearer and more vibrant display. Refresh rate and response time are crucial for a smooth viewing experience, especially for gamers. LCD and LED monitors differ in their lighting mechanisms, with LED monitors being thinner and more energy-efficient.

Well-known brands such as Dell, Acer, Samsung, LG, and ASUS offer a wide range of monitor options catering to different needs and preferences. Online marketplaces like Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg provide a convenient platform to explore and purchase CPU monitors.

Gamers

Panel types include IPS, TN, VA, and OLED, each with pros and cons. IPS panels are known for their accurate colour reproduction, making them a good choice for gamers who also want to use their monitor for content creation. VA panels offer excellent contrast ratios, while OLED panels provide vivid colours and high refresh rates but often come with a higher price tag.

The screen size and aspect ratio will depend on your available desk space and personal preference. A larger screen can provide a more immersive gaming experience, but it's important to consider the resolution and refresh rate to ensure the image remains clear and smooth.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on the monitor, with 1080p, 2K, and 4K being common options. A higher resolution will provide a sharper image, but it's important to balance this with a high refresh rate to ensure smooth gameplay.

Refresh rate refers to the number of times the monitor updates with new information per second and is measured in hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate will result in a smoother image, with gaming monitors typically offering at least 120 Hz.

Finally, response time measures how quickly the monitor can send and receive new information, and a lower response time will result in a smoother visual experience.

When choosing a gaming monitor, it's important to consider your budget and the specific games you plan to play. Many manufacturers offer gaming monitors, including Dell, Samsung, LG, BenQ, Viewsonic, and Asus. It's also essential to ensure the monitor has the necessary ports for your setup, such as HDMI or DisplayPort.

Content creators

As a content creator, investing in a good-quality monitor can make all the difference to your work. Here are some key considerations when choosing a monitor as a content creator:

Color Accuracy and Consistency:

When editing, you want the colors on your screen to be as true-to-life as possible. Factory-calibrated monitors are a great starting point, but if you can fine-tune the calibration yourself, that's even better. Look for a monitor that supports a wide color gamut, such as Adobe RGB or DCI-P3, to ensure it can reproduce a vast array of colors accurately.

Resolution and Screen Size:

4K resolution offers an excellent balance between screen real estate and reasonable pricing. With a 4K monitor, you get a sharp, clear image and more screen space without sacrificing image quality. A higher resolution also means you can focus on the finer details without needing to zoom in excessively.

High Dynamic Range (HDR):

HDR enhances the contrast of your visuals, making bright areas brighter and dark areas darker. This adds depth to your images and videos, making them look more dynamic and lifelike. To take full advantage of HDR, look for a monitor with higher nits (brightness), ideally 600 nits or more.

Ergonomics and Connectivity:

Long hours of content creation can be taxing on your body, so ergonomics are important. Choose a monitor that offers adjustments for height, tilt, and rotation to ensure your comfort during extended editing sessions. As for connectivity, look for ports such as HDMI, USB-C, DisplayPort, and built-in USB hubs to ensure seamless data flow between your devices and your monitor.

• ASUS ProArt Display PA279CRV: This monitor offers 4K resolution, a 27-inch IPS display, USB-C connectivity, and a color calibration tool. The ProArt series is known for its color accuracy and professional-grade features, supporting various color spaces (sRGB, Rec. 709, DCI-P3, and Adobe RGB). It is also the most affordable option on this list. However, it only has 8-bit color depth + 2-bit FRC instead of true 10-bit, and it has 8 dimming zones.
• LG UltraFine Ergo 32UN880-B: Featuring a 4K resolution, a 32-inch IPS display, and USB-C connectivity, this monitor stands out for its unique ergonomic stand that allows for a wide range of adjustments. The IPS panel provides accurate colors, making it highly suitable for content creation. However, with only 350 nits of brightness, it is not ideal for full HDR work.
• Dell UltraSharp U3223QE: Dell's UltraSharp series is known for its sharp visuals and default color accuracy. This 32-inch 4K monitor has a slim bezel design and offers USB-C connectivity. It also comes with a KVM switch and supports 90W power delivery through DisplayPort Alt Mode. One downside is its highly reflective coating, which can cause glare issues in bright environments.
• ViewSonic ColorPro VP2786-4K: With a 27-inch 4K IPS display, USB-C connectivity, and a Pantone-validated display, this monitor ensures accurate colors for content creation. It is factory-calibrated for multiple color spaces (sRGB, EBU, SMPTE-C, Rec. 709, and DICOM-SIM) and supports 90W power delivery through DisplayPort Alt Mode. While it offers a wide range of capabilities, it may be more than what an amateur content creator needs.
• BenQ PhotoVue SW321C: Tailored for photographers and graphic designers, the BenQ PhotoVue series offers excellent color accuracy. This 32-inch 4K monitor provides 99% Adobe RGB coverage and a unique Paper Color Sync feature, simulating how photos will look when printed. While it is ideal for professionals whose work appears in print, it may be overkill for those working solely in digital media.

These recommendations offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets, ensuring that content creators can find the perfect monitor to bring their creative visions to life.

People with tablets or laptops

When choosing a CPU monitor, it is important to consider the desired use case. For example, those who plan on using the monitor for watching or creating videos may opt for a 4K monitor, which offers higher resolutions and more detailed visuals. Ultrawide monitors can provide a more cinematic experience, while gaming monitors are ideal for those who enjoy PC or console video games.

Another aspect to consider is the size of the monitor. Measuring the available area can help determine whether a 27-inch, 32-inch, or other sized monitor is most suitable. For those who require portability, there are portable CPU monitors available that can be easily transported. Curved monitors can also help block out distractions and reduce eye strain, making them a good choice for those who work from home.

In addition to size and functionality, it is worth considering the connectivity options of the monitor. Many monitors require device-compatible cables, while others offer wireless connectivity. It is also important to ensure that the monitor has the desired number and type of ports, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA.

Some popular brands offering CPU monitors include Dell, HP, Asus, ViewSonic, LG, and Samsung. These brands provide a range of options in terms of size, resolution, and features, allowing buyers to find a monitor that suits their specific needs.

Those who want a curved monitor

Curved monitors are also good for artists, photographers, and videographers, as they can have several illustrations or photos open side-by-side with more natural viewing angles than on a flat screen. The curved design also reduces distracting glare and can help to reduce eye strain.

When choosing a curved monitor, consider the size, resolution, refresh rate, and connectivity options. Curved monitors tend to be big, with sizes ranging from 24 inches to 49 inches or more. Ultrawide monitors, which are common among curved monitors, have aspect ratios of 21:9 or 32:9, while standard curved monitors have a 16:9 aspect ratio.

• Samsung Odyssey G9: This 49-inch curved gaming monitor features a dazzling OLED display, exceptional color accuracy, and Samsung's gaming and media hub. It offers a truly immersive experience but comes with a whopper of a price.
• Dell UltraSharp 38 USB-C Hub Monitor (U3824DW): This 38-inch ultrawide curved monitor is ideal for a home office or small business. It provides a modest curve, superior contrast with IPS Black panel technology, and a rich range of ports.
• HP E45c G5 DQHD Curved Monitor: This 45-inch curved ultrawide monitor is a great substitute for two individual QHD monitors. It offers full sRGB color coverage, unique software features, and intuitive mini-joystick control. It's a good choice for those who want the benefits of multiple monitors in a single display.
• Samsung 24-Inch CF396 Curved LED Monitor: This 24-inch curved monitor is a budget-friendly option that offers excellent sRGB color coverage and brightness for its price range. It also includes a mini-joystick controller, which is uncommon among budget monitors.
• Dell 27 Curved Gaming Monitor (S2721HGF): This 27-inch curved gaming monitor offers excellent performance at a modest price. It supports both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync and delivers stellar 1080p gaming performance at a 144Hz refresh rate.
• LG 34WR55QC 34-inch WQHD Ultrawide Monitor: This curved monitor from LG offers a WQHD resolution and a 1500:1 contrast ratio for enhanced picture quality.
• ASUS TUF Gaming 27" Curved FHD 240Hz 1ms FreeSync Premium Gaming Monitor: This curved monitor from ASUS is designed for gaming, with a fast 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium technology for smooth, tear-free gameplay.
• Acer Nitro 34" Curved QHD 180Hz 1ms FreeSync Premium Gaming Monitor: This curved gaming monitor from Acer offers a QHD resolution, a fast 180Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms response time for smooth gameplay. It also supports AMD FreeSync Premium technology.
• Alienware AW3423DW 34" 2K 175Hz QD-OLED Curved Monitor: This curved monitor from Alienware features a Quantum Dot OLED panel, providing vivid colors and deep blacks. It offers a high refresh rate of 175Hz and AMD FreeSync Premium support for smooth, tear-free gaming.
• AOC CU34G2XP 34" VA Curved Gaming Monitor: This curved gaming monitor from AOC offers a WQHD resolution, a fast 180Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms response time. It also supports AMD FreeSync technology for tear-free gaming.

These are just a few examples of curved monitors available on the market. When choosing a curved monitor, consider your specific needs and budget, and be sure to research the features and specifications to find the best option for you.

People looking for a portable monitor

If you're looking for a portable monitor, you're in luck! There are many options to choose from, catering to a variety of needs and budgets. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

• Size: Portable monitors typically range from 10.5 inches to 18.5 inches or larger. Consider how much screen real estate you need and how portable you want the monitor to be. Smaller screens are generally more portable, while larger screens offer more workspace.
• Resolution: The resolution of a portable monitor typically ranges from 1080p to 4K. If you plan on using the monitor for photo or video editing, a higher resolution is ideal. For basic tasks such as browsing the web or checking email, a lower resolution may suffice.
• Connectivity: Most portable monitors connect via USB-C, HDMI, or DisplayPort. Some also offer wireless connectivity, allowing you to mirror your device's screen without any cables. Consider what devices you'll be connecting to the monitor and ensure it has the necessary ports.
• Features: Some portable monitors offer additional features such as touch input, built-in batteries, and adjustable stands. If you plan on using the monitor for drawing or taking notes, touch input may be important. A built-in battery can be useful if you're not always near a power outlet. An adjustable stand can help you achieve a comfortable viewing angle.
• Price: Portable monitors can range from under $60 to well over $700. Consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you.
• Best Overall Portable Monitor: The Innocn 15A1F offers a 15.6-inch OLED display with vibrant colours and deep blacks. It delivers excellent image quality and build quality at a reasonable price.
• Best Portable Monitor for Gaming: The Nexigo NG17FGQ is a 17.3-inch portable monitor with a high refresh rate of 300Hz, making it ideal for gamers. It offers excellent colour accuracy and includes a remote for easy navigation of the on-screen display.
• Best Portable Monitor for Productivity: The Espresso 17 Pro is a 17-inch 4K monitor with a glossy finish that boosts contrast and makes colours pop. It includes a robust stand that allows for height, tilt, and pivot adjustments. It also supports touch input in both Windows and macOS.
• Best Small-Screen Portable Monitor: The Feelworld DH101 is a compact 10.1-inch portable monitor with a robust kickstand and integrated speakers. It supports touch input and has an extra USB-C port for connecting peripherals.
• Best Dual-Screen Portable Monitor: The Limink LK14 offers a unique dual-screen design with two 14-inch displays flanking your laptop. It provides excellent image quality and significantly increases your screen real estate for improved productivity.
• Best Budget Portable Monitor: The Arzopa Z1FC is a surprisingly good budget option, offering impressive image quality and gaming performance at a low price. It has both USB-C and Mini HDMI connections and works well with game systems such as the Valve Steam Deck and Sony PlayStation 5.

Frequently asked questions