When it comes to gaming, a monitor is just as important, if not moreso, than the graphics card. Unfortunately, with a wide range of gaming monitors available in the market, it can be hard to know which monitor is the right choice for you. Here is a guide on what to look out for when choosing a gaming monitor that best suits your needs.
First off, consider the size of the monitor and your chair position. A large monitor is ideal if you have a large desk, but a small monitor can be perfect for some gamers who don’t have the room to accommodate a bigger display. Also bear in mind that a larger display can allow for a wider field of view, which can be invaluable for games with a large playing field.
Also take into account the types of games you typically play. Different games require different levels of detail, so it’s important to choose the right monitor depending on the type of games you usually play. Action and adventure titles tend to require a higher refresh rate while real-time strategy or turn-based titles don’t place as much emphasis on ultra-high refresh rates.
The panel type is another important factor to consider. There are generally three panel types available: TN, IPS, and VA. TN monitors are the most affordable of the three, but they lack the colour accuracy and viewing angles of IPS screens. IPS monitors are a better option if colour accuracy and viewing angles are important to you, while VA monitors usually offer the best contrast ratio.
When it comes to resolution, you should always try to get the highest resolution you can afford. 4K displays are the most immersive, but 1080p is also a good choice if you’re on a more limited budget. Also bear in mind that a high resolution display does require a more powerful graphics card to drive it, so make sure your GPU can handle the resolution you’re aiming for.
Finally, think about the design and features of the monitor. You should make sure the monitor has the features you want, such as built-in speakers, USB ports, and a wide range of adjustable settings. Also consider the design – thin bezels and an adjustable stand can make a monitor more comfortable and immersive.
Monitor Refresh Rate
When it comes to gaming, a monitor’s refresh rate is arguably the most important feature to consider. A higher refresh rate can reduce input lag and make for a smoother gaming experience. Generally, 60Hz is the lowest refresh rate you should consider for gaming, with 144Hz being a good mid-range option and even 240Hz available for gamers who want the very best. Bear in mind that a higher refresh rate will require a powerful GPU to maximize its potential.
Adaptive Sync
Another key factor to consider is Adaptive Sync technology. Adaptive Sync helps to reduce screen tearing and stuttering by syncing your GPU’s frame rate with your monitor’s refresh rate. The two main types of Adaptive Sync are G-Sync, which is found on Nvidia GPU’s and FreeSync, which is available on AMD GPU’s. It’s important to choose a monitor with the right Adaptive Sync technology for your system.
Response Time
The response time of a monitor is also important for gamers. Low response times, usually measured in milliseconds (ms), ensure that there is little to no noticeable delay between your inputs and the game’s response. Generally, 4ms is the lowest response time you should consider and a monitor with 5ms or higher may experience some input lag.
Panel Sampling
Panel Sampling is another important consideration for gamers. Panel Sampling is the time a single pixel takes to go from one colour to another and back again. Lower panel sample times result in shorter response times, but higher panel sample times can produce more accurate colours. Typically, 6-bit and 8-bit panels are the most common, with 10- and 12-bit panels being more expensive.
HDR Support
Finally, HDR support is another key feature in high-end gaming monitors. High Dynamic Range (HDR) support gives you a greater range of brightness and colours, resulting in a more immersive gaming experience. Many gaming monitors come with HDR support, so it’s worth considering when choosing a monitor.
Viewing Angles
When choosing a gaming monitor, it’s also important to consider the viewing angles. Monitors with wider viewing angles offer better visibility from different angles, meaning you can get a clear picture from any angle – especially important for multiplayer gaming. IPS monitors generally have the widest viewing angle, and can also offer better colour accuracy than other types of panels.
ULMB and Motion Blur Reduction
ULMB, or Ultra Low Motion Blur, is a feature available in certain gaming monitors that can help reduce motion blur. Motion blur can be distracting and can negatively affect your gaming experience, so ULMB is a must-have for gamers who want the very best performance. However, bear in mind that this technology can only be activated at particular refresh rates, usually below 144Hz.
G-Sync Compatible Monitors
G-Sync is an Nvidia technology that helps to reduce screen tearing and stuttering, offering a smoother gaming experience. However, it requires a compatible monitor – and Nvidia has recently released a certification program for monitors that are compatible with G-Sync. Monitors certified as G-Sync compatible can still take advantage of G-Sync, but with limited features. So it’s important to check for G-Sync compatibility before purchasing a gaming monitor.
