If you're a dedicated gamer, having a specialized gaming monitor is indispensable. Do you know what criteria define a top-notch gaming monitor? Let's delve into it in the following article!
1. Screen Size
For gamers spending hours in front of a computer screen, a 24 or 27-inch monitor is optimal within a distance of 0.5 to 1m.
Typically, larger screens come with higher costs. Currently, there are popular models ranging from 32 to 34 inches, but they still carry a hefty price tag.
2. Screen Resolution
Similar to refresh rates, higher screen resolutions are more modern and produce sharper, more vibrant images. However, high screen resolutions require high-end hardware to ensure smooth gaming experiences.
Currently, computer monitors come with various resolutions such as 4K, HD, Full HD, QHD, etc. Depending on your PC's specs and budget, you can choose a suitable monitor. The most popular type of gaming monitor remains the Full HD resolution.
3. Aspect Ratio
Currently, the most common aspect ratio is 16:9, which is almost universally compatible with all games released in the past 5 years.
Meanwhile, the 21:9 aspect ratio has been gaining popularity in recent years. Although not universally compatible like 16:9 monitors, the majority of recent blockbuster games support this aspect ratio.
4. Screen Response Time
For gaming monitors, lower screen response times are preferable. Typically, the minimum requirement is 5 ms, but it can go down to 1 ms, especially for monitors using IPS and VA technologies. 5 ms is generally acceptable for these monitors, while achieving a perfect 1 ms response time requires TN panel technology.
If you opt for TN technology, you'll have to accept inherent drawbacks such as slightly faded colors compared to VA and IPS or limited viewing angles. Additionally, if you're a casual gamer rather than a professional, the best choice would be monitors using IPS or VA technology with a 5 ms response time.
5. Screen Refresh Rate
Generally, a higher screen refresh rate is better, especially for gaming monitors. Certainly, images on a 144Hz screen will appear smoother than those on 120 Hz and 60 Hz screens. However, this isn't always true in every scenario. The effectiveness of a high refresh rate depends on whether the graphics card can output an equivalent or higher frame rate than the monitor's refresh rate.
For example, if a monitor has a refresh rate of 120Hz but the frame rate is 60fps, the displayed images won't differ much from a 60 Hz monitor.
We hope that through this article, you've gained more insights into selecting the perfect gaming monitor to suit your needs. Wishing you success in finding the monitor of your dreams.