A good monitor can make work more comfortable, games feel smoother and films look sharper. But with choices ranging from compact Full HD screens to 4K and ultrawide displays, it can be hard to know what is worth paying for. This guide covers the key questions to ask before you buy, plus a few examples from our Computer Monitors collection.
Start with how you’ll use it
For everyday browsing, documents and home working, a Full HD monitor with an IPS panel is a sensible starting point. For detailed photo or video work, consider a higher-resolution screen such as 4K. If you play fast-paced games, pay attention to refresh rate and response time. An ultrawide display can be useful when you want extra room for several windows or an expansive gaming view.
What to look for in a monitor
Screen size and desk space
Measure your desk and think about how far you sit from the screen. A 27-inch monitor is a versatile size for many desks. A 32-inch or 34-inch display gives you more room, but needs more space. Curved screens can make a wider display feel more natural to view, depending on your setup.
Resolution: Full HD, Quad HD or 4K?
Resolution is the number of pixels on the screen. Full HD (1080p) is a practical choice for everyday use and can be easier to drive at high frame rates in games. Quad HD (1440p) gives you more detail and workspace. 4K (2160p) offers the most detail of these options, which can be valuable for creative work and high-resolution video. Remember to check that your computer or console supports the resolution and refresh rate you want.
Refresh rate and response time
Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), is how often the display refreshes each second. A 60Hz or 100Hz screen suits general use, while a higher refresh rate can make motion look smoother in compatible games. Response time describes how quickly pixels change. These figures are worth comparing for gaming, but the rest of your setup also needs to support the performance you’re aiming for.
Panel type and screen finish
IPS panels are popular for their viewing angles and colour consistency. VA panels often offer strong contrast. OLED monitors can deliver very deep blacks and fast pixel response, while typically costing more. Consider where the screen will sit, too: a matte finish can help reduce reflections in bright rooms.
Ports and compatibility
Check your computer’s available connections before choosing a monitor. HDMI and DisplayPort are common, while USB-C can be handy for compatible laptops and a tidier desk setup. Confirm that the specific monitor has the ports you need, and check whether the cable is included.
Monitor picks to compare
For everyday home and office use
The Samsung S4 27-inch monitor pairs a Full HD IPS panel with a 100Hz refresh rate. It’s a straightforward option to consider for everyday work and browsing.
See the Samsung S4 27-inch monitor
For 4K work and entertainment
The LG 27UP850K is a 27-inch 4K IPS monitor with HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C. It’s worth a look if you want a sharper image and the flexibility of USB-C connectivity.
For high-refresh-rate gaming
The MSI MAG 27C6X is a 27-inch curved Full HD monitor with a listed 250Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. Check that your PC or console can deliver the frame rates you want to make the most of a high-refresh display.
For immersive gaming and a wide workspace
The Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 is a 34-inch curved Quad HD OLED gaming monitor. Its ultrawide format offers extra horizontal screen space, while its OLED panel and gaming-focused design make it a premium option to compare.
See the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8
Quick comparison
| Monitor | Size and resolution | Standout detail | Consider it for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung S4 | 27-inch, Full HD | IPS, 100Hz | Everyday use |
| LG 27UP850K | 27-inch, 4K | IPS, USB-C | 4K work and entertainment |
| MSI MAG 27C6X | 27-inch, Full HD, curved | 250Hz, 1ms | Fast-paced gaming |
| Samsung Odyssey OLED G8 | 34-inch, Quad HD, curved | OLED ultrawide | Immersive gaming and extra screen space |
Before you buy: a quick checklist
- Will the screen fit your desk and viewing distance?
- Does the resolution suit your work, games and computer?
- Are the refresh rate and response time appropriate for your use?
- Does the monitor have the right ports for your computer or console?
- Have you checked the stand, mounting options and included cables?
The best monitor is the one that fits your space and the way you use it. Browse our Computer Monitors collection to compare the available options.