What do gamers and office workers have in common? Monitors! This essential piece of tech is used for anything from playing Minecraft to designing presentations for work, and there are many reasons one might want to upgrade their screen estate. Maybe you need a second screen to extend your digital workspace for all those spreadsheets and browser windows? Maybe you’re after vibrant and responsive visuals for gameplay or creative projects? Or you might just want an adjustable monitor to create the ultimate ergonomic setup for extended work or gaming sessions? Whatever it may be, there are some important features to think about when picking out the right monitor for your needs. Consider this round-up of tips and picks before you hit the tech aisles.

Key monitor features to consider

Screen size

Measured diagonally across the screen, this refers to how big the monitor display is. Be sure to measure your work or gaming area for a screen size that suits your space as well as your needs.

Resolution

Resolution is the number of pixels on your screen and determines the quality of your monitor’s picture. Pixels are measured in the format of width by height. The higher the numbers, the better the resolution. The baseline resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels is often referred to as full high definition (FHD), then there’s quad high definition (QHD) with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, and ultra-high definition (UHD) with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The width pixel measurement varies for ultrawide monitors that are wider than standard screens, with most ultrawide screens offering a resolution of 2560 x 1440 or 3440 x 1440 pixels.

Refresh rate

Measured in hertz (Hz) this rate refers to the speed in which the monitor can display an image or frame. For example, 144Hz means a monitor can show 144 frames per second. The higher the hertz, the quicker and better the refresh rate. 

Response rate

This rate refers to the time it takes for the pixels on your monitor to change colour. This is measured in milliseconds (ms), so the smaller the number, the better the response rate. 

SEE ALSO: Connect 101: How to Create a Dual Monitor Setup

Best Multipurpose Monitors

The Acer 27-inch FHD IPS monitor on a teal-coloured background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Acer 27" FHD IPS Monitor KA242Y"

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 100Hz
Response rate: 1ms

If you’re serious about your work as well as your downtime, this could be the value buy for you. The screen has an ultra-thin frame, creating a near-borderless experience that is ideal for working across multiple displays. After hours, enjoy a movie or your game of choice without any tearing or motion blur thanks to its speedy refresh and response rates. Its VisionCare technology is a collection of useful filters and modes that create an eye-safe experience, including anti-flickering and blue light reduction filters.

The Blaupunkt 15.6" FHD Touch Screen Portable Monitor on a teal-coloured background.

Blaupunkt 15.6" FHD Touch Screen Portable Monitor 

Screen size: 15.6 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Response rate: 8ms

If you’re a hybrid worker looking for a little more screen space, this might be the pick for you. Its 15.6-inch screen means it's the right size for working on the go without feeling like you’re lugging a whole monitor with you, and it comes with a foldable magnetic case that will protect your screen in transit. 

he HP V24IE G5 24" FHD 75Hz 5ms Monitor on a teal-coloured background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

HP V24IE G5 24" FHD 75Hz 5ms Monitor 

Screen size: 24 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 75Hz
Response rate: 5ms 

This HP monitor is designed to help you stay productive and on task. Its 24-inch screen will display your content in full high definition (FHD) and the AMD FreeSync technology helps deliver your graphics tear free. The frame tilts from -5 to +23 degrees and on-screen buttons allow you to customise the screen with low blue light mode and anti-glare functions.

The Philips 27" FHD monitor on a teal-coloured background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Philips 27" FHD Monitor 271S9

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 75Hz
Response rate: 4ms

Whether you’re deep into a spreadsheet or editing video footage, this monitor will allow you to do it seamlessly with its Adaptive-Sync technology, which reduces frame rate stuttering and screen tearing. It also boasts essential wellness and ergonomic features, such as the ability to adjust your screen height and its tilt to perfect your monitor’s positioning. Plus, the low blue light mode helps to reduce eye strain and headaches without affecting the colours on your screen.

The Samsung 27" FHD LED monitor on a teal-coloured background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Samsung 27" FHD LED Monitor S31

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 75Hz
Response rate: 5ms

If clear and vibrant visuals are a priority for you, this monitor will deliver with its FHD resolution, anti-glare technology and LED-backlight. The IPS (in-plane switching) display ensures an accurate and sharp picture no matter the viewing angle, making it perfect for collaborating in the office or watching your favourite shows. And you’ll enjoy smooth viewing thanks to AMD FreeSync technology that keeps the monitor and graphics card refresh rate in sync to reduce image tearing.

SEE ALSO: Let the Geek Guide You: Geeks2U Tech Help for Our Changing World

Best Portable Monitors

The Lenovo portable monitor on a pink background. The monitor has a black frame.

Lenovo 15.6” Portable USB-C Monitor L15

Screen size: 15.6 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Response rate: 6ms
Weight: 860g
Connectivity options: USB-C 

This Lenovo portable monitor is great for hybrid workers who thrive on the go. Its slimline design makes it comfortable to carry or easy to fit in your bag, and its built-in stand is tiltable so you can adjust your screen to your working conditions. If it’s an office day, set it up with a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount for a seamless work setup.

The Asus portable monitor on a pink background. The monitor has a black and grey frame.

Asus 15.6" ZenScreen Portable USB-C Monitor MB16ACE 

Screen size: 15.6 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Response rate: 5ms
Weight: 710g
Connectivity options: USB-C

Work comfortably wherever you are with this Asus portable monitor, offering plenty of ergonomic features and a TÜV Rheinland certification recognising its premium eye comfort features. Its flicker-free and blue light filter technologies deliver smooth visuals while helping to reduce eye strain and headaches. A built-in stand allows you to tilt and pivot the screen horizontally and vertically to adapt to your working needs.

The Acer portable monitor on a pink background. The monitor has a black frame.

Acer 15.6” FHD 60Hz 5ms USB-C Portable Monitor PM161Q 

Screen size: 15.6 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Response rate: 5ms
Weight: 750g
Connectivity options: Mini HDMI, USB-C, micro USB

With connectivity options galore, this Acer portable monitor can be wired into more than just your laptop or desktop. From gaming consoles to your phone, you can work, play and watch what you want, wherever you want. Connecting to sound is also made easy with either the 3.5mm audio port or the built-in speakers.

SEE ALSO: How to Create a Work From Anywhere Ergonomic Setup

Best Gaming Monitors

The LG gaming monitor on an orange background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

LG 34" 2K QHD 1MS 160Hz Ultra-Wide Gaming Monitor 34WP65C

Screen size: 34 inches
Resolution: 3440 x 1440
Refresh rate: 160Hz
Response rate: 1ms

Ultrawide screen, QHD resolution, speedy refresh and response rates: this LG gaming monitor has everything you need for a smooth experience. AMD FreeSync technology helps to prevent motion blur and visual stuttering so you can keep your head in the game. Its built-in 7W stereo speakers drive clear sound, enhanced with Waves MaxxAudio; an application that improves audio quality. Plus, when you’re not gaming, its 34-inch screen is a dream for anyone who loves to keep multiple tabs open.

The Lenovo 27" FHD 1MS 165Hz Curved Gaming Monitor G27C-30 on an orange background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Lenovo 27" FHD 1MS 165Hz Curved Gaming Monitor G27C-30 

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Response rate: 1ms

For some uninterrupted game time, try this Lenovo curved gaming monitor. The screen curves in towards the user, mimicking their field of vision, and creates a more immersive experience than a flat monitor. Curved monitors also help minimise distortion so you can enjoy its FHD resolution seamlessly. Plus, its near-frameless design and AMD FreeSync Premium technology delivers a seamless visual experience. And with built-in 3W speakers you get great sound with space-saving perks.

The Lenovo gaming monitor on an orange background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Lenovo R45w-30 44.5" DQHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor 

Screen size: 44.5 inches
Resolution: 5120 x 1440 
Refresh rate: 165Hz
Response rate: 1ms

Feel completely immersed in your gaming experience with this ultra-wide curved gaming monitor. A 44.5-inch screen and 5120 x 1440 resolution will expand any world you’re exploring in crystal-clear detail. You’ll be able to game with precision thanks to its speedy response rate, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Adaptive Sync technologies, and its curved display will help minimise distortion. Plus, it features built-in 3W speakers to minimise desk real estate.

The Acer Nitro 24" Curved QHD 240Hz gaming monitor on an orange background. The monitor has a black frame and a grey, red and black stand.

Acer Nitro 24" FHD 1MS 180Hz Gaming Monitor 

Screen size: 24 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 180Hz
Response rate: 1ms

This sleek, no-frills monitor is a great value option. The ZeroFrame design makes for an immersive gaming session – and makes it ideal for a dual-monitor setup – and it can handle high-intensity gaming with aplomb thanks to a 180Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium technology for ultra-low latency.

More Gaming Monitors to Try

SEE ALSO: Gamers Reveal Their Must-Have Gaming Setups

Best Monitors for Small Business

The Lenovo ThinkVision portable monitor on a purple background. The monitor has a black frame.

Lenovo ThinkVision FHD Touch Screen Portable Monitor M14T  

Screen size: 14 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 
Refresh rate: 60Hz
Response rate: 6ms
Weight: 698g
Connectivity options: USB-C
Touch functionality: Yes

This Lenovo monitor is more than just another screen. Its display is touch screen and comes with a pressure-sensitive digital pen, opening up different ways for you to create, work and play than your usual monitor. It’s the perfect tool for content creators; it connects to your phone, improves design capabilities with its touch screen and more. You can also change its screen orientation between vertical and horizontal, making it easy to adapt for sending emails at the office or editing vertical video content in transit.

The Philips 27” FHD monitor on a purple background. The monitor has a black frame and stand.

Philips 27” FHD 75Hz 1ms IPS USB-C Monitor 27E1N3300A 

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 75Hz
Response rate: 1ms

This Philips monitor is a great all-rounder, offering many customisations to adapt to your work. Perhaps you’re designing flyers for a business launch? Its SmartContrast mode intuitively enhances blacks, offering a crisp and detailed picture. Or maybe you’re doing detailed research for a presentation? Its 27-inch screen gives you plenty of room to work across multiple browsers or applications. Plus, the combination of its EasyRead mode, which creates a paper-like filter, and low blue light filter makes for a more comfortable experience no matter what you’re doing.   

The Lenovo 27" FHD monitor on a purple background. The monitor has a silver frame and stand.

Lenovo 27" FHD 100Hz IPS Ultra Slim Monitor L27i-40 

Screen size: 27 inches
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Refresh rate: 100Hz
Response rate: 4ms

This slimline, near-edgeless Lenovo monitor offers a quick refresh rate and crisp FHD resolution, all cased in a sleek exterior. You can adjust the screen height and tilt to adapt to your work needs and its design cleverly incorporates a built-in phone stand, cable management and speakers to help keep your desk a clutter-free zone.

SEE ALSO: 10 Ways to Refresh Your Office Tech

Complete your setup

Laptop or desktop

A device is a must-have for your monitor to plug into. Invest in a laptop if portability is important to you, or a desktop if you need more grunt. 

Computer hub

Once you connect your monitor to your device, you’re one port down. For extra connectivity, try a multiport computer hub to keep you connected and give you more port options.

Wireless mouse and keyboard

Complete your portable monitor setup with a wireless keyboard and mouse to optimise your workflow at home, in the office and on the go. Plus, reap the ergonomic benefits of adding an external keyboard and mouse to your computer setup. 

Privacy screen protector

Protect your monitor from scratches and prying eyes with a privacy screen protector. Great for mounted and portable monitors, you can work anywhere without worrying about someone looking over your shoulder and seeing what you’re working on.

Monitor arm

Use a monitor arm to mount your screen for a quick and versatile setup. Be sure to check compatibility beforehand.