Buying a gaming monitor is a big decision and can be complex. There are many factors to take into consideration when making your selection and it’s important to take your time and understand the different features available. To help make the process easier, here’s a guide to buying the best gaming monitor.
Size and Resolution
The size of the monitor should be a key factor you consider when making your purchase. Bigger monitors have a more immersive viewing experience, but can be more expensive and take up more space. Resolution is another important factor to consider when selecting a gaming monitor. Look out for higher resolutions (particularly 4K) for improved visuals and interaction.
Refresh Rate and Response Time
The refresh rate of the monitor is how often the whole screen refreshes itself with a new frame; higher refresh rates can result in a smoother gaming experience. Check for the latest 120Hz or even 240Hz technology for zero motion blur for improved graphics. Similar to the refresh rate but equally as important, the response time is how quickly the monitor can change from one color to another. Low response times reduce motion blur and ghosting as well as eye strain, so look for something as low as possible.
Panel Types
The type of panel you choose can greatly impact your gaming experience so it’s important to make the right choice. IPS (in-plane switching) and VA (vertical alignment) panels have wide viewing angles, vivid colors and good contrast. TN (twisted nematic) panels on the other hand, offer good response times, but suffer on color accuracy, which can be an issue for more graphically intense games.
Connectors and Ports
Know what kind of ports your system and monitor need in order to connect. Most modern gaming monitors come with a range of HDMI and DisplayPort connections. If you want to use accessories such as a USB mouse, be sure to check for USB ports on the monitor. Some models are also equipped with built-in speakers and adjustable stands so it’s worth researching if those features may be beneficial for you.
G-Sync and Freesync
G-Sync (from Nvidia) and Freesync (from AMD) are features to look for if your monitor will be used with a dedicated graphics card. Both synchronize the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame rate, reducing screen tearing, stuttering and input lag. G-Sync and Freesync are on a wide range of monitors, but it could cost you extra.
Curved Displays
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, then curved displays could be an option. These offer an immersive viewing experience, with game worlds that wrap around you and further reduce input lag, making your gaming experience even more enjoyable. Furthermore, some have thin bezels making them ideal for multi-monitor setups.
Budget and Warranty
When deciding on a monitor, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Monitors vary greatly in price depending on the features and size and it’s worth checking for any warranties or money-back guarantees, in case you need to return the product.
Check Reviews and User Opinions
It’s always useful to do your research, so be sure to check reviews and user opinion before committing to a purchase. Online reviews are often an invaluable source of advice and experiences from other gamers and can be extremely helpful when making a decision on what to buy.
Contact Retailers for Advice
Before you buy, if you’re still undecided, see if you can get additional help from the supplier. You may be able to contact the retailer with any additional questions or advice – a feature that can be especially handy when ordering online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size gaming monitor should I get? It really depends on how much space you have in the area where you plan to use the monitor. Bigger monitors have a more immersive viewing experience, but may be more expensive and take up more space.
What port connectors should I look out for on a gaming monitor? Most modern gaming monitors come with a range of HDMI and DisplayPort connections. If you intend to use accessories such as a USB mouse, be sure to check for USB ports on the monitor.
Will a curved display enhance my gaming experience? Curved displays offer an immersive viewing experience, with game worlds that wrap around you and further reduce input lag, making your gaming experience even more enjoyable.
Do I need to buy a monitor with G-Sync or Freesync? These features are something to consider if you are using a dedicated graphics card. Both synchronize the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame rate, reducing screen tearing, stuttering and input lag.
Where can I get advice on what monitor to buy? It’s important to set a budget and do your research. Online reviews are often an invaluable source of advice and experiences from other gamers and can be extremely helpful when making a decision on what to buy. It’s also worth checking if you can get additional help from the supplier.
