Buying a gaming monitor can be a daunting experience for those who are not familiar with the industry. Choosing the wrong display can lead to frustration and can affect gaming performance drastically. Here is a list of five things you should consider when buying a gaming monitor:
1. Refresh Rate – A high refresh rate is essential for smooth gaming. Look for monitors with refresh rates of at least 144 Hz which will enable you to enjoy smooth gaming performance. Monitors with refresh rates of 240 Hz will be even better if your budget allows it.
2. Panel Type – IPS and TN panels are the two most popular panel types. IPS panels offer better color accuracy and viewing angles compared to TN panels. However, TN panels are faster and have better pixel response times. Consider your needs when selecting a panel type.
3. Resolution – Higher resolutions can provide a better gaming experience, but there’s a trade-off. Higher resolutions require more powerful hardware to run properly. If you’re on a budget or playing older games, then it might not be worth it to spend extra money on a 4K or higher resolution monitor.
4. Connectivity Options – Make sure the monitor has the ports you need. HDMI and DisplayPort are the most commonly used ports these days. It’s also important to pay attention to the number of ports available, as well as the type of ports (for example, a USB-C).
5. Adaptive Sync/Variable Refresh Rate – Adaptive Sync/Variable Refresh Rate technologies (such as AMD’s FreeSync or Nvidia’s G-Sync) are designed to help reduce screen tearing and stuttering. If you’re using a compatible graphics card, this is a great feature that can enhance your gaming experience.
Size
When selecting a gaming monitor, it’s important to consider the size of the display. Bigger isn’t always better, especially if you don’t have much desk space. 27-inch monitors are popular, but 24-inch monitors are more manageable and have higher pixel densities. For larger displays, consider an ult-wide monitor which provides a wider field of view.
Cost
Price is another important factor to consider. Budget monitors can be found for under 150 dollars, while more expensive options can cost up to 500 dollars or more. Consider what features you need and try to find the best balance between price and performance.
Other Features
When selecting a monitor, you might also want to consider other features such as speakers, ergonomics, and even RGB lighting. Look for monitors with a host of features, but don’t focus too much on the bells and whistles. You want to make sure you get a good all-around gaming experience.
Warranty
Finally, check the warranty coverage and make sure it’s sufficient for your needs. You don’t want to buy a monitor and find out later that it’s not covered by warranty. Most monitor manufacturers offer 3-year warranties, but it’s always a good idea to double-check.
Monitor Stand
A stable, adjustable monitor stand can help make your gaming experience more comfortable, too. Monitor stands allow you to adjust the height, tilt and swivel, giving you more control over your set-up. Some stands also have handy features such as USB ports, and cable management for a more organized desk.
Image Quality
Finally, don’t forget to look at image quality. Look for counters with low input lag, good color accuracy, and high contrast ratios. A good gaming monitor should have all of these features and more. Check reviews and compare specs to determine which monitor best suits your needs.
