A gaming monitor is critical to any gaming PC setup. It makes a huge difference in your gaming experience, providing a more immersive and enjoyable experience. The higher resolution, higher refresh rate, larger screen size, and faster response time are all important factors in choosing the perfect gaming monitor. With so many gaming monitors on the market, it can be tricky to decide which one is best for your needs. Here we look at some of the key considerations you should bear in mind when shopping for a gaming monitor.
Size is an important factor to consider when choosing a gaming monitor. The bigger the monitor, the more visually appealing games will be. But it’s important to factor in the space you have available and the type of games you’ll be playing. If you have limited space, then you’ll likely be better off with a smaller monitor. On the other hand, if you’re playing graphically intensive games, then a larger monitor will be beneficial.
Another key factor to consider when picking out a gaming monitor is the refresh rate. This is measured in Hertz (Hz) and indicates the number of times the screen will update each second. Here 60Hz is considered standard, so look for monitors that offer higher refresh rates for the best gaming experience. Higher refresh rates will provide smoother movements and more detailed images.
Response time is another important factor to consider when shopping for a gaming monitor. This is the time it takes for the monitor to respond to commands, usually measured in milliseconds (ms). The lower the response time, the faster the monitor will respond to commands. Anything below 5ms is considered great for gaming.
Resolution is another key feature to look out for when choosing a gaming monitor. Resolution is the sharpness of the image and the number of pixels per inch (ppi). For gaming, it’s important to look for resolutions of 1920×1080, or even higher if your budget supports it. This will give you the best picture quality possible.
Finally, look out for extra features such as adaptive sync, low input lag, curved displays, and more. These are all extras that can help enhance your gaming experience. Some gaming monitors come with built-in speakers, USB ports, and even RGB lighting, so if you’re looking for something special, make sure to keep an eye out for these features.
Features of a Gaming Monitor
When choosing a gaming monitor, it’s important to look at the features it has to offer. Many gaming monitors have features such as built-in speakers, USB ports, and even RGB lighting, so if you’re looking for something special, make sure to keep an eye out for these features. Adaptive Sync is a feature which allows the monitor to synchronize its refresh rate to the GPU’s output. This feature is available on most gaming monitors, but it is especially important if you are playing competitively as it will ensure a smooth gaming experience.
Low input lag is a feature designed to minimize the amount of time it takes for commands from the input device (e.g. a mouse) to appear on the screen. This is especially important for fast-paced games such as first person shooters, as even a small delay could make all the difference. If you’re looking for a monitor designed for gaming, then this should definitely be a feature to look out for.
Curved displays are quickly becoming more popular, as they provide a more immersive experience. Most gaming monitors are available in both flat and curved versions, so if you want the full gaming experience, then look out for a curved gaming monitor. And, if you’re looking for the best picture quality, then look out for ultra-wide (21:9) or even 4K displays.
Finally, if you have the budget to do so, you may want to look at a monitor with HDR (high dynamic range) support. This feature provides higher contrast and more vivid colours on the screen, making your gaming experience all the more immersive.
Mounting Options of a Gaming Monitor
Once you’ve chosen the perfect gaming monitor for your needs, the next step is to decide how you want to mount it. Most gaming monitors come with either a stand or a mount, so it’s a good idea to consider which one is right for you. If you’re looking for a more traditional setup, then a monitor stand is the best option. It’s easy to set up and will provide a steady base for your monitor. However, some stands are not adjustable, so make sure to check.
Monitor arms and mounts provide more flexibility, as they can be mounted to a wall or desk, allowing you to adjust the height and tilt angle to suit your needs. This is great for multiple displays, as it will allow you to place them at the optimal viewing angle for comfort. Monitor arms can also help reduce neck and back strain, so if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in front of your gaming setup, then it’s worth considering.
No matter which mounting option you choose, make sure that you select one that is compatible with your monitor and can adequately support its weight. This will ensure that your gaming setup is as secure as possible.
Connectivity Options of a Gaming Monitor
Once you have chosen a gaming monitor and the right mounting option, it’s time to consider the connectivity options. Most gaming monitors will have a range of ports, allowing you to connect devices such as computers, gaming consoles, and even USB hubs. The type of ports you need will depend on what devices you’re connecting, so make sure to check the manual or specifications of your monitor.
You should also look out for cables such as HDMI and DisplayPort, as these are essential for connecting your gaming PC or console to your monitor. If you want to use multiple displays, then you may need a special adapter, like an MST hub, which will allow you to connect more than one device at a time. And, if you’re planning on using wireless peripherals, then you’ll need to make sure your monitor has Bluetooth or Wi-Fi support.
Finally, it’s worth looking for a monitor that is equipped with USB ports, as these can be incredibly useful for plugging in gamepads, speakers, and other peripherals.
Gaming Modes of a Gaming Monitor
Once you have your gaming monitor set up, you may want to look into its gaming modes. Many gaming monitors come with preset modes that allow you to quickly switch between different levels of picture quality, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your games. These modes are also useful when switching between games, as they can adjust the picture quality to match the game you’re playing.
Some gaming monitors come with preloaded game profiles, which can customise the picture quality even further. These profiles are usually developed in conjunction with game developers to ensure that the games look as good as possible on your monitor. Some monitors even have specialised gaming modes for eSports, allowing you to compete at the highest level.
Finally, if you’re looking for more control over your gaming experience, then you may want to check out gaming monitors with adjustable settings. This allows you to change the brightness, contrast, and colour temperature of your screen. Some gaming monitors even come with an onscreen display, allowing you to fine tune the settings even further.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right gaming monitor, there are a number of factors to consider. Size, refresh rate, response time, resolution, and extra features are all important considerations. Make sure to look out for features such as adaptive sync, low input lag, curved displays, and HDR support to make the most out of your gaming experience. You should also take into account your mounting and connectivity needs, and make sure to look out for gaming modes and adjustable settings.
