Do I need a gaming monitor? Whether or not you decide to invest in a gaming monitor comes down to your needs and what you plan to use it for. The main benefit of investing in a gaming monitor is increased precision and responsiveness, which can help improve your gaming experience and give you a competitive edge. However, it’s important to note that not all gaming monitors are designed equally. To help you decide if it’s worth investing in a gaming monitor, here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider.
Refresh Rate
Refresh rate refers to how often an image is displayed on the monitor every second and is typically measured in Hertz (Hz). Most gaming monitors come with a higher refresh rate than standard monitors, with higher rates offering smoother, clearer visuals. If you’re a competitive gamer who requires fast reaction times and requires a high rate of refreshes to stay ahead of the game then a high refresh rate is essential.
Resolution
As resolution impacts the overall clarity and quality of the image, it’s important to choose a monitor with a resolution that meets your needs. Common gaming monitor resolutions include Full HD (1920×1080) and QuadHD (2560×1440). While higher resolution monitors can deliver sharper visuals, you may not actually need one as most games will run smoothly on a Full HD monitor. Ultimately, it’s about what makes the most sense for your gameplay.
Response Time
Response time is assigned in milliseconds (ms). Faster response time can reduce the ghosting effect (where an image persists after another image has replaced it) and can help improve the overall gaming experience. Professional gamers will typically opt for a monitor with a low response time whereas more casual gamers may want to opt for a monitor with a slightly higher response time.
Panel Type
The two main panel types available are TN (twisted nematic) and IPS (in-plane switching). TN is typically more affordable and delivers a faster response time, whereas IPS is more expensive and delivers brighter, more vibrant colours. If you’re looking for an affordable monitor, then TN could be the better choice. If you’re a professional gamer, then the more vibrant colours of an IPS monitor could be worth the investment.
G-Sync and FreeSync
G-Sync and FreeSync are two technologies that help synchronize the refresh rate with GPU. G-Sync is developed by Nvidia and can only be used with compatible Nvidia graphics cards, whereas FreeSync is developed by AMD and can be used with compatible AMD graphics cards. Both technologies help reduce screen tearing and other artifacts, giving gamers a smoother, more responsive experience.
Screen Size
Screen size isn’t particularly important when it comes to gaming but it can make a difference if you’re looking for immersion. Larger screens tend to make gaming more immersive, but it’s important to consider the size of your desk when choosing a monitor. If you’re looking for an immersive experience, then you should invest in a larger monitor.
Adaptive Sync
Adaptive Sync is a technology that helps synchronize the refresh rate of your GPU with the monitor. This technology helps reduce stuttering, lag, and other artifacts, ensuring a smoother, more responsive gaming experience. AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync are two popular adaptive sync technologies.
Conclusion
Choosing a gaming monitor can be a daunting task. However, with the right information, it’s possible to make an educated decision that meets your needs. By considering the factors outlined above, you’ll be able to make a well-informed choice that could give you an edge over your competitors.
