The best PC monitors of 2024

A good PC monitor is the window to your digital world. Choose wisely, and experience your PC like never before...

A PC Monitor

by Chris Duffill |
Updated on

Whether your personal computer is an office workhorse or a full-on gaming rig, you can make or break your dream system if you don't choose some of the best PC monitors to go with it. After all, even a budget PC can look and feel more expensive with your desktop and applications displayed on a glorious 4K monitor or two.

If you're a designer or gamer, you'll be itching to let your PC fully flex its graphic capabilities. But, even if you're looking for a budget monitor, that doesn't mean you can't find one that's up to the job. There's no point in splashing out and getting yourself a powerful rig and running all that graphical potential through a sub-standard screen, no matter how much cash you have to spend.

The best PC monitors at a glance:

• Best overall PC monitor: BenQ EW3280U 32 Inch 4K IPS Computer Monitor - View at Amazon
• Best budget monitor: KOORUI Monitor 24-inch Computer Screen - View at Amazon
• Best 4K gaming monitor: Samsung Odyssey G7 28" 4K UHD Smart Gaming Monitor - View at Amazon
• Best PC monitor for office work: ASUS VP32UQ Eye Care Monitor - View at Amazon

Even the most humble office PCs will see a big improvement when displaying spreadsheets and documents with crystal clarity – the right size and spec of PC monitor will improve eye comfort and productivity.

So, what are the key things to look out for? When selecting any of the best PC monitors on offer, getting the basics right will help to reduce the overwhelming number of options to be found and ensure you've spent your money wisely. We've compiled a comprehensive buyer's guide at the end of the article, with a brief run-down of the main panel types and who they work best for.

The best PC monitors 2024

Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

Best overall PC monitor

Description

So, with all of this talk about OLED and QLED panels being the best, why did we put a 60hz IPS screen in our top spot as the best overall PC monitor?

Well, this screen does everything else extremely well, and we do mean everything else. Not only does this come with integrated 60w speakers and a remote control, but it's also 4K HDR.

A resolution as high as 4K on a 32-inch screen looks stunning. And then there's the over one billion colour palette thanks to HDR.,

For anyone in search of a PC monitor for working from home, the BenQ EW3280U's flicker-free Eye Care which limits blue light, thereby reducing eye strain, is excellent for keeping productivity high. As monitors go, this is a comprehensively specced superstar.

Pros

  • Integrated speakers
  • 4K IPS screen
  • Excellent value for a 32" monitor

Cons

  • 60hz refresh rate won't suit some hardcore gamers

Best budget monitor

Description

KOORUI's 24-inch full-HD monitor offers solid visuals at a fraction of the price of its competition, as well as an eye-catching design and a particularly high 100Hz refresh rate, giving browsing and navigation a silky-smooth feel.

Beautifully designed and manufactured, the KOORUI's bezel-less design gives the KOORUI a modern, frameless appeal that makes it one of the best monitors for dual screen of the year. The KOORUI monitor also has great connectivity for simultaneously supporting multiple devices, so it's simple to switch from your laptop to a dedicated PC tower.

Our only gripe with the KOORUI monitor is the fact that it's only full HD, which is ultimately minor as full HD still looks solid on the KOORUI monitor. If your PC or laptop is particularly old, you'll likely appreciate this lower resolution, as you'll get better performance overall.

Pros

  • Well designed and silky-smooth to use
  • Incredibly affordable
  • Excellent connectivity

Cons

  • Only full-HD screen

Best 4K PC monitor

Description

4K monitors have definitely come a long way over the past few years, we're seeing a lot more options that don't have to sacrifice refresh rate to deliver smooth visuals. The ASUS ROG Strix XG32 continues this trend.

We love the ASUS ROG Strix as a general or professional-use PC monitor. Why? Because it's 4K, it's the right size for most systems and desk spaces, and it runs at 145hz, which means it'll handle all types of work or video playback extremely well. HDR and a 90% DCI-P3 professional colour gamut also mean designers and creatives will love this one too.

Colourful, sharp and smooth, the ASUS ROG Strix is well-sized, and designed for comfortable use on most desks, but its price should be noted by monitor shoppers. This is, without question, a very high-end monitor, with a price to reflect that - at nearly £1,000, you'll be spending a lot of money which would otherwise go towards a PC build or brand-new laptop. For most, this 4K monitor is excessive, but for precise, jaw-dropping visuals, you cannot do better than the ASUS ROG Strix.

Pros

  • Perfect 4K resolution
  • Faultless 144Hz refresh rate
  • Fantastic G-Sync tech

Cons

  • Perhaps excessive for creative projects

Best gaming monitor

Description

As panels go, IPS screens really do make for a satisfying gaming experience. This G7 from Samsung is right at the top of our picks for 4K 144hz gaming excellence. It even has built-in speakers for those who need them, further bringing the action to life alongside the hyper-detailed flicker-free HDR screen.

The built-in Samsung Gaming Hub give you a one-stop-shop for your connected consoles and streaming content; You may ask where your internet connection comes from for that - thankfully, this has Wi-Fi built-in.

There are plenty of connection options, too, with two HDMI 2.1 ports and a DisplayPort. But the killer features for gamers are really the inclusion of AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync for sessions free from stutter and screen-tearing. Response time is 1 ms, so you'll enjoy unbeatable reflexes. All of this comes in a considerably stylish package too.

Pros

  • Great FreeSync and G-Sync support
  • Gorgeous HDR support
  • Stylish design

Cons

  • Ideally could do with another HDMI port for more consoles

Best PC monitor for office work

Description

4K monitors have definitely come a long way over the past few years, we're seeing a lot more options suitable for general users and office work.

This is a flicker-free 60hz monitor with a blue light filter, so will clearly appeal to anyone who spends long hours working on spreadsheets, or scrolling through social media. The viewing angle is excellent, too, at 178 degrees.

There's HDR10 included, with multiple modes for even more colour depth depending on whether you're gaming or watching movies. Plus, of course, there's the glorious 4K 31.5-inch screen itself. Your spreadsheets and Word documents will never have looked sharper, and all without making your eyes water.

Pros

  • Excellent eye care features
  • Wide viewing angle
  • 4K 31.5-inch screen

Cons

  • Limited connectivity

Best small PC monitor

Description

We all know about good things and small packages, but this Lenovo takes that adage and amps it up to the max. Normally, choosing a monitor with a 22-inch screen would relegate you to the low-resolution league.

This one, however, packs quite a lot of visual power into a slim and simple (if somewhat dated) chassis.

Yes, this is no 4K monster - it's a Full HD VA panel, so it's not best suited to gaming (despite the inclusion of AMD FreeSync). But for everything else, the 75hz refresh rate and 4ms response time will be more than enough. Little extras include a thin bezel, adjustable stand, Vesa mount compatibility for wall mounting, and a wide viewing angle.

The single HDMI port is accompanied by a VGA port for hooking it up to older computers. This is an excellent all-rounder for tight spaces.

Pros

  • Higher refresh rate than other more costly small screens
  • AMD FreeSync
  • Low profile design

Cons

  • Only 1080p resolution

Best 1440p monitor

Description

An undisputed champion of the 1440p monitor scene, Samsung's Odyssey G7 is a true example of a seriously cutting-edge QHD 1440p monitor. While you're not getting true 4K visuals, you're getting the additional benefit of the G7's lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate and low input lag, which is sublime for day-to-day use.

At 32 inches, the G7 isn't nearly the biggest monitor on the market, but it's a noticeable size increase from a standard 24" monitor, giving you unhindered browsing without a cramped screen.

If this 32-inch Samsung is just a tad too big for your setup, our expert review of the slightly smaller AOC Q27G2U 27-inch Gaming Monitor found it to be a fantastic screen with equally low latency.

The G7's colour range is also spot-on, taking advantage of that stunning QLED screen that'll really make visuals pop. If you're dead set on picking up Samsung's top-of-the-line curved monitor, you'll pay a tidy sum for the pleasure, but if you can afford it, there's no better option.

Pros

  • Incredible 1000R curved screen
  • Fantastic 240Hz refresh rate
  • Solid 1440p resolution

Cons

  • Not a lot of input options

Best 1080p monitor

Description

For an affordable full-HD monitor without compromising on quality, KOORUI's 24.5-inch FHD Monitor is incredible value for money. This upcoming brand has wowed us with its combinations of feature set and panel quality before, but this one has set the bar even higher.

It's a VA panel, so you can't expect crystal clear motion clarity that you might find on more premium offerings, but just look at what else KOORI has in store: FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility, 1ms response time, 144hz screen (170hz via DisplayPort); Eye Care features and more.

The KOORUI's 24.5-inch screen, full-HD quality and 144Hz refresh rate, at its price, make the KOORUI a truly phenomenal monitor under £200, especially for those on a budget.

Pros

  • Incredible set of features
  • Excellent refresh rate
  • Great sync support

Cons

  • No HDR

Best ultrawide PC monitor

Description

This one is fairly and squarely aimed at those who want a wider screen than usual for work. Perfect for tackling large workloads, piling documents and lengthy spreadsheets - the AOC U34E2M's ultrawide design ensures that those looking to multitask can do so, and how.

Designed well, with thin bezels that will make having two or more screens look more seamless, AOC's U34E2M is practical and perfect for design work. It is however only a 75Hz display, but this is mitigated by the sheer size of the IPS panel.

It's also a flicker-free model with low blue light output for easy long-term viewing. Built-in speakers finish off this widescreen powerhouse nicely. The AOC U34E2M is without question one of the best ultrawide monitors that can handle practically anything you throw at it - it's just that good.

Pros

  • Excellent screen real estate
  • Eye care features
  • Amazing value

Cons

  • No AMD or Nvidia sync tech

Best curved ultrawide PC monitor

Description

An undisputed champion of the curved monitor scene, Samsung's Odyssey G9 is a true example of a seriously cutting-edge monitor that is perfect for multitasking, watching movies, and especially some gaming.

One additional benefit of the G9 is the super-slick 240Hz refresh rate. With the 1ms response time, your reactions will only be matched by the sheer scope of your panoramic field of view.

Let's not overlook the fact that the G9 is also a QLED HDR monitor. That means you'll have excellent colour range, contrast and black levels, which are perfect for video and photography editing.

Our only major issue is, of course, the price. At over £1000, this certainly isn't a budget option - but given that it's essentially two screens in one, pixel-for-pixel, but without the intrusive bezels down the middle, we think it's a seriously impressive option.

For gamers who have snagged themselves a mighty PS5, the Samsung Odyssey G9 is perhaps one of the best monitors for the PS5 right now for the ultimate immersion.

Pros

  • Incredible 1000R curved screen
  • Fantastic 240Hz refresh rate
  • Unbeatable ultrawide experience

Cons

  • Not a lot of input options

Best monitor for graphic designers

Description

Designers and creative workers need a large, reliable monitor that'll be easy on the eyes with above-par colour accuracy, and If that's you, you won't go wrong with the ASUS ProArt Display PA329CV.

The run-down of colour standards supported here is staggering. If you're a photo or video editor, or graphic designer, you can rely on Calman Verification to deliver superb colour accuracy and industry-standard 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 colour gamut.

It's also packed with a huge array of ports and ASUS's own Ultra-low Blue Light technology to protect your eyes. Your designs and projects are going to look inspiring on this beautiful display. For an excellent monitor for photo editing, the ASUS ProArt PA329CVmonitor is unbeatable.

Pros

  • Superb colour accuracy
  • Eye care features
  • Reliable build quality

Cons

  • Adobe RGB support would be a bonus

Best 43-inch monitor

Description

Avoid cluttering your desk with multi-monitor setups and snag yourself an all-in-one gargantuan 43-inch monitor worth investing in.

Philips' staggering 43-inch monitor has a bit of everything you'll want from a fully-fledged PC setup; a fantastic range of ports for multiple device connectivity, a visually breathtaking array of filter modes, multi-viewing options and HDR to pair with the 439P1's magnificent 4K screen.

You could certainly get plenty of gaming out of the Philips 439P1's 43-inch 4K display, despite its standard 60Hz refresh rate, but to get the most out of this monitor - you'll find graphic design, studying or working from home to be the ultimate use of the 439P1 monitor.

An excellent monitor deal on some spectacular tech, the Philips 439P1 is a remarkably good bargain.

Pros

  • Excellent 43-inch display
  • Fantastic multiview option
  • Comfortable viewing with LowBlue mode filters

Cons

  • Standard 60Hz refresh rate isn't the best for gamers

How to choose the best PC monitor for you

In general, it's always best to go for the largest screen you can comfortably sit at and use. More is definitely more. But the right monitor for you will depend on what you'll mainly be using it for. Some of the various panel types on offer will be a better fit than others. Here's a quick guide to each, based on typical users:

Graphic designers, video/photo editors and creatives often need to put their screen size and resolution at the top of their wish list. But, after that, good colour accuracy is king. An IPS, or VA, panel is a great choice here, as are OLED and QLED, particularly for photo editing. There's an explanation of panel types in our buyer's guide below.

Gamers and movie fans may gravitate towards a dedicated gaming monitor. These are high-res, versatile screens that will handle whatever else you want to throw at them, whether that's the latest PC games or 4K Netflix. QLED, OLED and IPS panels are good options here.

Home office workers often want a well-balanced screen that will give them enough space for spreadsheets and the like, as well as eye care features to reduce eye strain. They'll be less likely to need the faster refresh rates and motion clarity that gamers dream of. So, whereas any panel type is going to work well here, looking for a TN panel will keep costs down.

Screen size and placement

Perhaps the first thing that buyers are drawn to is screen size. You might have your eye on a single massive ultrawide monitor, or perhaps you're lucky enough to have the space and budget for a multi-monitor setup. You might also prefer some dedicated monitor stands or arms to elevate your screens and reclaim your desk space. If you're struggling for room, then, of course, make sure you measure up first and choose a monitor that will fit.

Choose a high resolution

PCs of all kinds can output a wide range of resolutions, depending on the capabilities of the graphics card. But not all cards are the same, and not all monitors can switch between all of those resolutions either. The best thing to do first is find out what your PC can output, select the highest resolution you're comfortable with and find a monitor that can display it. Preferably this will also match the native resolution of the panel itself, which means you'll avoid the dreaded blur and magnification of software-based scaling. Either way, if you stick with the most common resolutions, such as 4K, 1080p or 1440p, your content will always look fantastic.

Connections and ports

Check your PC's rear panel for available graphics card monitor ports. If you have a PC without a dedicated graphics card, you'll have a monitor port integrated into the PC motherboard. Either way, if it's a modern computer, you're likely to have a few digital connections to hand - such as HDMI, DVI or DisplayPort. But, if you have an older machine, you may find you're limited to older analogue connection types such as VGA. Therefore, note down what you have and double-check your choice of monitor to make sure you can hook everything up.

There's an array of the best PC monitors we've ever seen below, organised to suit the task at hand to make your choice even easier.

Glossary of terms

Monitor panel types

The three main types of panels you're likely to find are TN, VA and IPS. In recent years they've been joined by OLED and QLED, technology that's leapt across from the world of TVs. Each has its pros and cons and best use case. Here's our quick guide:

TN, or Twisted-Nematic, are the most common panel and easily the cheapest. But they're still capable of reaching incredible refresh rates, with less than 1ms response times. Considering those low response times, gamers should get on well with this type of panel.

IPS, or In-Plane Switching, are commonly used in TVs and smartphones. They're more costly but generally have great colour ranges than standard TN panels. They can be an excellent choice for designers and gamers; gamers should be happy to hunt down an IPS panel with a high enough refresh rate and low enough response time though.

VA panels, or Vertical Alignment panels, are a hybrid of both IPS and TN panels. They offer great colour and high refresh rates but sometimes suffer from motion blur or smearing. For that reason, they're much better suited to static office-type applications than gaming.

OLED is one of the latest and greatest advances in display technology. It's a direct pixel-for-pixel replacement to traditional displays. Organic LEDs can be individually controlled and generate their own light. They can achieve ultra-deep blacks and excellent colour range and contrast. Response times are also excellent, although other monitor types are brighter. Screen burn from static images is becoming increasingly rare thanks to advances in technology. In general, if OLED has made it into a PC monitor, it's not going to suffer from screen burn.

QLED is much like OLED, except each pixel is a Quantum Dot. Each dot is able to display a vivid, realistic colour palette thanks to the type of light they emit. However, unlike OLEDs, QLEDs cannot emit their own light, so they have to be backlit. Backlighting can cause a 'bloom' or light bleed when bright areas meet dark; the best PC monitors mitigate this with tightly controlled dimming zones built into the backlight.

HDR

All monitor buyers will benefit from a screen that supports HDR - or High Dynamic Range. Not only are contrast levels improved, but the main gain here is the vastly wider colour palette than standard screens. With over one billion colours to display, HDR10 and its cousin HDR10+ will take your monitor to the next level.

Resolution

Here are the most common resolutions you'll find, including 4K screens, which offer four times more pixels than HD screens, with 8.3 million pixels working across the screen. This means clearer, more accurate images. If your graphics card can output it and your monitor can take it, you'll be all set.

HD: 1280×720

Full HD: 1920×1080

4K / Ultra HD (UHD): 3840×2160

Can a PC monitor be used as a TV?

There are some PC monitors that double as a TV in that they will have built-in speakers and similar functions to a smart TV when it comes to viewing options. They're less likely to have aerial ports and built-in broadcast tuners, though, so expect to find plenty of apps instead; Freeview Play is a commonly-used app for live terrestrial broadcast and catch-up content.

Can I use a TV as a PC monitor?

Much the same as the question above, if your TV also has a dedicated PC monitor function, this will work fine. Bear in mind that while most TVs are high resolution with HDMI ports in them, unless they have a good refresh rate and picture options to reduce eye strain, connecting an ordinary TV to your PC isn't advisable.

What's the best PC monitor for gaming?

Given that you can find curved, flat, 4K, ultrawide, portable monitors and more in terms of many and varied options, this will be down to your list of preferences. That said, we did recommend the model above as our pick for the best gaming PC monitor, so if it ticks your boxes, you might want to take a closer look.

Chris Duffill is a Tech Product Writer for What's The Best and Yours. His background includes writing, editorial, marketing, design, video production and photography.

He specialises in home entertainment and audiovisual tech, including speakers, amplifiers, turntables, streaming media players, and TVs. He is also one of our resident experts in computing (PCs, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches), DSLR photography and all kinds of digital cameras. He also writes about retro gaming, game consoles and various electronic gadgets. If it plugs in, lights up or makes a noise, he’ll write about it.

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