Best overall		Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo		SEE IT	This modem-router combination takes the guesswork out of Spectrum compatibilty.
Best cyber secure		Gryphon AC3000		SEE IT	Hackers are no match for this protective router.
Best budget		TP-Link AC1750		SEE IT	Lots of expensive features are packed into this budget-friendly router.

If you work from home—and you’re a Charter Communications customer—you know there’s a huge difference between a bad router and the best routers for Spectrum internet. A bad router means long wait times talking to customer service, annoyingly slow load speeds, and a pixelated presence on work video calls. Choosing the best router for work, play, and just surfing the web makes life easier—and reduces the amount of low to no bandwidth-induced headaches you might get. 

• Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
• Best for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
• Best for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Router
• Best mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System
• Best cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000
• Best budget: TP-Link AC1750

How we chose the best routers for Spectrum

We know how important a strong Wi-Fi connection is to effortless, lag-free gaming and streaming high-quality lossless audio. I personally have made the mistake of not doing my research before buying a router—would not recommend spending a few days Wi-Fi-less and with my own thoughts. To prevent you from facing a similar situation, we looked to personal testing, peer recommendations, critical reviews, and user impressions to find the best Spectrum routers.

The best routers for Spectrum: Reviews & Recommendations

The best routers for Spectrum can handle everything, whether it’s a day full of video meetings, nights scrolling TikTok, intense gaming sessions, or streaming lengthy explainer videos on YouTube. These are our top picks.

Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: You don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate modem with this trusted combination device.

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 1,900 Mbps
• Coverage: 1,800 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: Up to 400 Mbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: Four 1-gigabit Ethernet ports; one USB 2.0 port

Pros

• Easy installation
• Independent channels for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz
• Warrants fast, reliable internet. 

Cons 

• Slow return on investment
• No support for Wi-Fi 6

The Netgear Nighthawk proves that two is better than one: This router also features a built-in modem, meaning you don’t have to shop for a Spectrum-compatible modem. This router covers 1,800 square feet for up to 30 devices and is compatible with Spectrum speed plans up to 400 Mbps. It includes separate networks for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands, meaning you can organize your devices based on band level. You can plug in gaming consoles and computers to Ethernet thanks to four one-gigabit Ethernet ports, and can share storage with a connected device using the USB port. The router supports Wi-Fi 4 and 5 but does not support Wi-Fi 6. It features a WPA2-PSK security protocol, which is secure enough to protect your home without an enterprise authentication server—simply provide an 8- to 62-character-long passphrase to encrypt your network. However, it will take some time to see a return on your investment with the Nighthawk. Multiple reviews note that owners’ internet speed and performance were improved after setup, making the purchase worth it. Find more options for the best Netgear routers here.

Best for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router

ASUS

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Reduced lag and latency are a tap away thanks to the router’s game mode and support for Wi-Fi 6. 

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 5700 Mbps
• Coverage: 2,500 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: two 3.2 USB ports; one 2.5 G WAN/LAN port; one WAN port; four Ethernet ports

Pros

• Fiber internet compatible
• Easy installation
• Plenty of LAN ports for devices if need be

Cons 

• Upright design can hinder placement 

We are no strangers to the ASUS AX5700—we’ve previously named it the best all-purpose gaming router. And it is compatible with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, which can handle up to 1 Gpbs, making it a perfect addition to this list. It’s Wi-Fi 6 compatible and includes MU-MIMO functionality for increased speed and security. Download the ASUS Router app to turn on the mobile game mode, which reduces lag and latency for back-to-back Victory Royales. AiMesh support allows you to bring seamless, interruption-free coverage to your home—and, considering the price of mesh routers, that makes this one a steal. Hackers will be KO’d thanks to free lifetime access to ASUS AiProtection Pro, which includes WPA3 protection—the latest Wi-Fi security protocol—powered by Trend Micro, a cyber security software company. However, you can only set the router vertically, which could pose a problem if you need a horizontal router. 

Best for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Router

Linksys

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Between the wide coverage range, support for more than 30-plus devices, and splittable price, this router means the only thing your roommates will lag on is doing their dishes. 

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 5.4 Gbps
• Coverage: 2,800 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: 4 Ethernet ports; 1 internet port; 1 USB port

Pros

• Easy setup
• Separate guest access
• Easy device connection thanks to a WPS button

Cons 

• Reviews note trouble connecting the router to the Linksys app

We’ve all had the problem of the internet slowing because it’s slogged down by everyone’s respective phone, laptop, and gaming system streaming at once. This problem is exacerbated if your roommates like Internet-of-Things smart devices that connect to the network. Expect the slog to stop with this dual-band router, which can connect to more than 30 devices. Additionally, this router is Wi-Fi 6 compatible, meaning it’s fast and futureproof. This router includes four Ethernet ports, one internet port to connect the router to the modem, and one USB port. Also, the router can create a guest access network so your roommates’ siblings or frequent callers don’t cause security problems or snag too much bandwidth when they add their binge-watching to what’s pulling down all the data. A WPS button makes device connection easy, and you can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer browser for quick set-up. The second biggest problem with this router is deciding who will take it at the end of the lease. The largest problem is connecting it to the Linksys app.

Best mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

NETGEAR

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Up to 5,000 square feet of coverage and an included satellite extender means you can take meetings almost everywhere in your home without lag.

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 4.2 Gbps
• Coverage: 5,000 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: 1 Ethernet WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports; 2 Ethernet ports on satellite extender

Pros

• No dead zones
• Wide coverage area
• Tri-band Wi-Fi

Cons 

• Must pay Netgear to service software issues
• Expensive
• App capabilities are only free for 30 days

We’ve all experienced the pain of being laggy and pixelated on a video call, either from weak signals or dead spots in the home. Say goodbye to all that with the Netgear Orbi, which covers 5,000 square feet and includes a satellite extender for more reach. This router, our pick for working from home, can support up to 40 devices and has a crazy-fast data transfer rate of 4.2 Gbps, plus support for Wi-Fi 6 for futureproofing. Unlike other routers, this one supports a tri-band frequency: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band for connecting your devices, and a separate 5 GHz band so the router and included satellite can communicate with each other. Netgear Armor Antivirus and data theft protection powered by Bitdefender means business secrets will stay secret. However, there is a catch: this capability, along with others in the Orbi app like parental controls, are only free for 30 days. Afterward, you’ll need a subscription. And you’ll have to pay Netgear for software troubleshooting—that can be a lot of money to spend after purchasing an already-expensive router.

Best cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000

Gryphon

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This router does not use a web browser for configuration, making it less likely that a hacker will jack your info. 

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 3 Gbps 
• Coverage: 3,000 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: 1 WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports with backhaul capabilities

Pros

• Easy installation with Gryphon app
• Free intrusion detection in the first year
• Responsive support team

Cons 

• No advanced customization options

You won’t need to worry about hackers and internet thieves with the Gryphon AC3000, which offers advanced security thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 functionality, vulnerability scans, and app configuration that prevents hackers from accessing your network via the web. It also secures connected devices and sends alerts when it detects vulnerabilities, weak passwords, or infected devices. The router has fantastic basic security and you also get one year of intrusion detection for free with purchase. Afterward, it’s $89 per year. It covers 3,000 square feet—an average 2-3 bedroom home—at lightning-fast speeds thanks to its 3 Gbps data transfer rate. If you purchase multiple Gryphon routers, you can create a mesh network for even stronger, wider coverage. The Gryphon Connect app includes robust parental controls, including content filtering, screen time, and usage monitoring. Its user interface is incredibly streamlined and simple. However, reviews note that there could be more advanced customization options, like more device categories and fields for categories that should be blocked.

Best budget: TP-Link AC1750

TP-Link

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: The TP-Link AC1750 features high-end capabilities at a fraction of the cost. 

Specs

• Data transfer rate: 1750 Mbps
• Coverage: 2,500 square feet
• Plan speed compatibility: 400 Mbps
• Parental controls: Yes
• Ports: 1 USB port; 1 WAN port; 4 Ethernet ports

Pros

• VPN Server
• Alexa compatibility
• Bandwidth prioritization (QoS)

Cons 

• Not compatible with Wi-Fi 6

The TP-Link AC1750 tops Amazon’s list of computer routers for a reason: it includes a VPN server, bandwidth prioritization, parental controls, Alexa compatibility, and can connect up to 50 devices—all for under $100. A 2,500-square-foot range means you can take video calls outside and bandwidth prioritization allows you to assign devices to either of the dual bands to prevent congestion and slow internet speeds. Connect it to Alexa to turn the guest Wi-Fi on or off using your voice, or use the TP-Link Tether app to set up and manage your network. WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption keeps the entire family protected from hackers, and parental controls protect your kids from looking up mature content on the internet. The only downside of this router? It’s not Wi-Fi 6 compatible, which means it could become obsolete as new Wi-Fi protocols come out.

What to consider when buying the best routers for Spectrum

Routers are not one-size-fits-all. Here is what you need to know when shopping for the best routers for Spectrum:

Modem vs. router

A modem connects you to a wide area network, or WAN—the internet that Spectrum provides. A router connects your devices to a local area network, or LAN—your own little piece of the internet that Spectrum provides. You can’t connect to a router without a modem. Spectrum customers are required to use an authorized modem, and the company provides a preconfigured Wi-Fi router for a monthly fee. However, that adds up, and purchasing your own can save money in the long run. If you buy your own router, you don’t have to give it back if you cancel your service—you can use it with your new internet provider.

Compatibility with Spectrum

Make sure that the router your purchase is compatible with Spectrum. Otherwise, you’ll have to return it. You can find a list of Spectrum-compliant routers on the company’s site. Although buying the correct modem is more important, it never hurts to double-check. Also, the router can only run as fast as your internet plan provides. For example, if you have a router that can only reach speeds of 300 Mbps and have an internet plan for 200 Mbps, you’ll only max out at 200 Mbps.

Wireless protocol

The wireless protocol, or Wi-Fi standard, determines your router’s throughput and range. You can determine the protocol by finding the number 802.11 and a certain letter combination:

• 11ax (Wi-Fi 6): Wi-Fi 6 is the newest standard and delivers speeds up to 10 Gbps. However, not all devices and internet connections support Wi-Fi 6. You may not need to upgrade just yet, but switching to Wi-Fi 6 will help futureproof your internet connection. This standard is the fastest.  
• 11ac (Wi-Fi 5): This standard appears on most routers, and supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. 
• 11n (Wi-Fi 4): This standard supports speeds up to 600 Mbps and was the first to allow both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This standard, compared to Wi-Fi 5 and 6, is the slowest. 

Range and signal strength

Wi-Fi range is determined by the kind of router you’re using, the wireless protocol the router follows, and the space you’re in. Wi-Fi signals have a harder time permeating through concrete, compared to wood, stucco, and other building materials. For example, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi routers can reach up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors and should be used if you’re looking for long-distance Wi-Fi. Routers running on 5 GHz bands can reach around one-third of these distances since it uses narrower wavelengths—because of this, you should choose a 5 GHz router for speed but only if your devices can be located nearer to your internet access point. Newer routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to reach greater distances and achieve maximum throughput for devices in closer proximity.

Budget

The best routers range from $50 up to $500. The best Wi-Fi extenders can help with spotty internet, but Consumer Reports recommends using a mesh router system that relies on multiple systems to spread strong Wi-Fi signals. However, a mesh router system can be pricey. On the flip side, Wi-Fi extenders are cheaper and can be a perfect solution if you’re looking for more reliable coverage in certain areas of your home. However, poor placement of your extender won’t help your Wi-Fi woes and can cause more connectivity problems if your Wi-Fi extender creates a separate network that your device has to switch between.

Extra features

Many newer routers are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, have parental controls, and provide separate networks for guests. Built-in VPNs and routers with multi-user, multiple-input, and multiple-output technology—also known as MU-MIMO—can help with security and network speed, respectively. However, if you would not benefit from the bells and whistles—and the added costs associated with them—then there’s no shame in going for a basic router.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best routers for Spectrum

• Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
• Best for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router
• Best for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Router
• Best mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System
• Best cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000
• Best budget: TP-Link AC1750

Whether you decide on a router that helps you jumpstart your streaming career, keeps your new battlestation in sync with the rest of the squad, or feeds your OLED TV buttery-smooth 4K video, the best routers for Spectrum will be suited to your lifestyle and internet needs. It doesn’t matter if you go ham-handed on the features or keep it simple—the best routers will get you streaming, web surfing, online gaming, and working with ease.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best routers for Spectrum of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Gigabyte M32U		SEE IT	Gigabyte is somewhat new to monitors, but they already have some of the very best offerings.
Best gaming		Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx		SEE IT	The Acer Nitro XV282K is a well-rounded 4K gaming monitor with a USB-C connection that can charge a laptop.
Best budget		Dell S2722QC		SEE IT	Dell S2722QC is responsive, ergonomically sound, and perfectly priced.

Even with wireless mice and keyboards and cable ties, our desks can still turn easily into a mess of cables, and an unlikely solution may be to get a USB-C monitor. USB-C promises to help clean things up by giving you just one cable to charge all your tech. With the right setup, you can even use a USB-C cable to charge a laptop and plug it into a monitor. Who needs HDMI or DisplayPort when one cable makes everything so easy? Here’s the thing: Not every monitor with a USB-C port will get the job done. You need the right laptop and the right display. The best USB-C monitors will offer great performance while mitigating cable clutter at your work setup.

• Best overall: Gigabyte M32U
• Best gaming: Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx
• Best for creatives: Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor (UP2720Q)
• Best ultrawide: Gigabyte M34WQ
• Best portable: ARZOPA Portable Monitor 2K
• Best budget: Dell S2722QC

How we chose the best USB-C monitors

I’ve been working as a tech critic for almost 10 years and have tested monitors and other computing gear for The Tech Report, TechnoBuffalo, and Popular Science. In that time, I’ve used some of the best and worst options from different brands out there.

To make our selections, we drew upon our monitor testing program, sourced opinions from critics at multiple publications and user impressions from across the internet, and leveraged our general knowledge of display technology. We looked for interesting monitors to fit a few different categories. Our picks have no price limit and displays can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

The best USB-C monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

You have the right laptop and a good Thunderbolt-certified USB cable. It’s time to pick out the best USB-C monitor for you. Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one option or something more particular, we’ve covered some of the most common use cases for which you might want to pick a monitor. All of these monitors have a USB-C port that features DP Alt Mode: Hopefully, that will spare you the time and heartache that comes from comparing too many spec sheets.

Best overall: Gigabyte M32U

Gigabyte

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32U has a great feature set and a fair price, making it easy to recommend.

Specs

• Size: 32-inch
• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
• Panel type: IPS
• Max refresh rate: 144 Hz
• Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (24 Gbps), 1 x USB Type-C, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
• USB Type-C power delivery: 15W

Pros

• 4K resolution
• IPS panel ensures bright colors and great viewing angles
• HDMI 2.1 ports, high refresh rate, and VRR are great for console gamers

Cons

• Contrast is not ideal on IPS screens
• Doesn’t charge your laptop while connected

Though PC component maker Gigabyte is relatively new to the monitor game, it already has found a strong foothold in the space with some truly great gaming displays. At $799, the Gigabyte M32U delivers a 4K IPS display with a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz over DisplayPort and HDMI. It’s one of only a handful of monitors right now with two HDMI 2.1 ports, making it an excellent choice for anyone plugging their PS5 or Xbox Series X into a monitor. In fact, you could connect an Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, desktop gaming PC, and multimedia laptop to the same display, turning your desk into the ultimate tech hub. 

There are some minor flaws in the formula, though. The M32U only puts out 15W of power delivery through USB-C, so it won’t charge your laptop while you’re using it. Its HDMI 2.1 connections are limited to 24 Gbps of the spec’s 48 Gbps, too, so if you use all of the HDMI 2.1 features offered by a console or graphics card with HDMI 2.1 ports, it may introduce Display Stream Compression, which can limit supported resolutions on that device.

Even keeping those in mind, this is a killer monitor for the price and a display that should last you for years easily.

Best gaming: Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx

Acer

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: HDMI 2.1 and a suite of gaming features make this a great monitor for any gamer.

Specs

• Size: 28-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
• Panel type: IPS
• Max refresh rate: 144hz
• Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x USB Type-C, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen1
• USB Type-C power delivery: 65W

Pros

• HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB-C connectivity
• IPS means great color and viewing angles
• Charges your laptop while it’s plugged in

Cons

• HDMI 2.1 ports are limited to 24 Gbps

Similar to our top pick, the Acer Nitro XV282K can serve incredible visuals for gaming, work, and everyday computing across all kinds of connections, including USB-C. This 4K, 144Hz IPS panel features DisplayPort for your desktop PC and HDMI 2.1 for consoles and recent graphics cards. It features VRR in the form of Nvidia G-Sync compatibility for most Nvidia graphics cards and AMD FreeSync Premium for AMD cards and the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles. The USB-C port offers up 65W of USB power delivery, so it can charge your laptop while you use it as a secondary display.

It also shares some of the Gigabyte M32U’s flaws—namely that its HDMI 2.1 ports on this display are limited to 24 Gbps and may compress high-resolution images when using certain niche HDMI 2.1-specific features. On the other hand, the Nitro XV282K can send up to 65W of power over USB-C, so laptop users connecting that way can keep their computers charged while using the display. 

It also costs $100 more on average than the M32U at launch. You could argue that the Acer Nitro XV282K delivers the complete dream of a USB-C gaming monitor, allowing you to route an entire gaming laptop set up through a single cable. The question is, are you willing to spend an extra $100 to achieve it?

Best for creatives: Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor (UP2720Q)

Dell

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Bold, accurate 4K and a built-in colorimeter make this display a standout for creative professionals.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
• Panel type: IPS
• Max refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C Upstream (Thunderbolt 3), 1 x USB Type-C Downstream (Thunderbolt 3), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1
• USB Type-C Power Delivery: 90W

Pros

• Built-in colorimeter
• 90W USB power delivery
• Tons of ports

Cons

• Very expensive
• Low brightness

Professional artists, photographers, or video editors have a separate set of priorities when picking out a monitor for creating their work. Everyone wants a bold, beautiful monitor with vibrant colors, but creatives need the fullest, most accurate colors possible. That pursuit may lead them to consider a specialized display like the Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor, which is made—and priced—for professionals. This 27-inch IPS panel covers 100% Adobe RGB and 98% DCI-P3 Wide Color Gamut for incredibly deep and reliable color. Unlike most creative monitors, it features a built-in colorimeter, a piece of equipment you normally purchase separately to help you maintain that high color accuracy. Having it built in means you can schedule regular calibrations to run while you’re away and check the results when you’re ready to work.

Like many other creative screens, the UltraSharp 27 PremierColor has a shading hood to block out glare and reflections. It also offers picture-in-picture, allowing you to view the same image in different color spaces or compare images from two different sources. Even better, it features two Thunderbolt 3-certified USB Type-C ports with 90W power delivery, allowing you to plug in two laptops, charging both while you compare and contrast.

At well over $1,000, this is an expensive piece of professional equipment made for people who need to achieve this high standard. If you’re one of those people, this is one of the best options out there.

Best ultrawide: Gigabyte M34WQ

Gigabyte

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: There aren’t a ton of ultrawide displays out there with USB-C connectivity, and the Gigabyte M34WQ is affordable and solid.

Specs

• Size: 34-inch
• Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
• Panel type: IPS
• Max refresh rate: 144 Hz
• Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A 
• USB Type-C power delivery: 15W

Pros

• High refresh rate and low input lag
• FreeSync Premium support
• Vibrant color even at sharp angles

Cons

• IPS contrast is somewhat limited

If “ultrawide” and “USB Type-C” are both on your monitor checklist, Gigabyte’s M34WQ should be your go-to option. There aren’t too many options combining the two niche categories, and Gigabyte’s option stands out for its performance and price. 

The $500-on-average M34WQ features a strong set of gaming features and lots of ports. The IPS display means vivid colors, and the screen offers an above-average 400 nits brightness to back that up. That also means limited contrast, with blacks looking closer to grays in a dark room as with any other IPS display. 

With DisplayPort and HDMI options, as well as two USB Type-A ports and, of course, the required USB-C port, you can plug a ton of stuff into this screen to make it the center of your desktop. On the other hand, its USB-C connection only delivers 15W of power … so it won’t charge your laptop. Likewise, the screen technically supports HDR, but it’s VESA DisplayHDR 400, so it doesn’t guarantee a tangible difference in games.

Like our best overall and budget screens, this is more of a generalist’s screen, albeit with a high refresh rate for gaming. It will serve its purpose well no matter how you use it. 

Best portable: ARZOPA Portable Monitor 2K

ASUS

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Arzopa’s portable display has better specs than its modest price would suggest.

Specs

• Size: 13.3-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1600
• Panel type: IPS
• Max refresh rate: 60 Hz
• Ports: 1 x DP Alt/Charging USB Type-C, 1 x Charging USB Type-C, 1 x Micro HDMI
• USB Type-C power delivery: 0W

Pros

• Thin design
• High-resolution screen
• Multiple inputs

Cons

• Both USB-C ports are on one side

If you want a USB-C monitor to take on the road, Arzopa’s 13.3-inch 1440p screen is the ideal second screen. The display’s resolution and size are identical to Apple’s 13-Inch MacBook Pro (pictured above), which makes them a particularly good pair. During my tests we found text, video, and photos looked crisp and clear on this monitor, though I recommend immediately enabling the display’s HDR mode for the most accurate color reproduction. This mode isn’t on by default, but can be toggled easily in the display’s settings.

Every workflow is different, but our tests, which included using the display as a dedicated screen for research or editing photos, to be beneficial to our productivity. Anyone who’s used to working on a 13.3-inch laptop will immediately feel comfortable using this portable USB-C monitor because they’ll already know how many apps they can reasonably fit on the screen without feeling overwhelmed.

Arzopa’s portable has a pair of USB-C ports and one Mini HDMI port, which allows you to connect multiple devices to it at the same time. The company includes both a USB-C cable and Mini HDMI cord, so it’s ready to connect immediately. Our only complaint with the portable USB-C monitor’s design is that both USB-C ports are located on one side. In our tests, this required us to snake a cable around the back of our MacBook Pro to plug it in. Having one USB-C port per side would have made connecting to this monitor a little easier.

Overall, we found this monitor to be simple to setup and use. Our computer connected to it immediately, and we were able to make adjustments to its resolution and orientation within MacOS’ Display Settings app. A little switch on the monitor itself allowed us to change its brightness, contrast, and enable the aforementioned HDR setting. It took roughly five minutes to complete the monitor’s setup process, and hooking it up took only seconds.

A majority of 13.3-inch portable USB-C monitors have a 1080P screen, so the extra resolution on Arzopa’s 2K display makes a noticeable difference. The ability to see additional information on the display is reason enough to upgrade if you have a lower-resolution portable USB-C display, and a great entry point if you don’t.

Best budget: Dell S2722QC

Brandt Ranj

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Why it made the cut: The Dell S2722QC is a great 4K monitor for a laptop-centric work-from-home setup.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
• Panel type: VA LCD
• Max refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
• USB Type-C power delivery: 65W

Pros

• 65W of USB Type-C Power Delivery means you can charge your laptop while you use it
• Sturdy Stand
• Rotation and height adjustment

Cons

• Response rate too low for gaming

Dell’s S2722QC makes the dream of USB-C monitors a reality for many more people because of its low price point—the display’s cost fluctuates, but it’s possible to pick one up for under $300. The most surprising feature of this monitor is its overall build quality. Yes, Dell used plastic, but its stand and foot feel sturdy. This was true even when rotating the display 90 degrees or adjusting its height. Those ergonomic features made it possible to position the display at just the right spot to avoid neck strain.

This monitor’s USB-C port is the star of the show—our 13-inch MacBook Pro never had a problem connecting or charging—but it’s complemented by a pair of HDMI ports, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack. Those USB-A ports come in handy if you want to connect a webcam and external hard drive to your machine when you plug your laptop into this display.

Overall, we were pleased with the performance of Dell’s S2722QC during common tasks like reading articles, streaming video, and being a part of digital meetings. The display’s color accuracy was good enough for casual photo editing, but professionals are better off with a display that covers 100% of the sRGB color spectrum. On the other hand, the monitor’s 4K resolution made those photos, videos, and text look sharp.

If anything, our time with the Dell S2722QC shows just how far USB-C monitors have come in the past couple of years. To get this level of performance from a display that’s this inexpensive is remarkable and proves the company’s commitment to pushing premium features in less expensive hardware.

Things to consider before buying one of the best USB-C monitors

USB Type-C—or, casually, USB-C—can get more complicated than you might expect if you’re using it for anything other than charging. While it was conceived as a universal cable, there are multiple versions of the technology that dictate how it can be used, which vary from device to device. On top of that, using USB-C to link a PC to a monitor requires certain technology in your computer. In other words, picking a USB-C monitor isn’t as easy as checking whether your display has a USB-C port.

Once you figure out which monitors suit your connectivity needs and which do not, you still have to pick one! That means wading through specs that may immediately make sense to the average PC user, including resolution, refresh rate, color accuracy, and panel type. We will focus on the specifics of picking a USB-C monitor here because it is complicated. Still, we recommend checking out some of our other monitor explainers (best ultrawide monitors, best 240hz monitors, and best monitors for color grading), where you can read thorough but efficient descriptions of the core specs that will help you pick a fantastic monitor for yourself.

Before we start: Does your PC support DisplayPort Alternate Mode?

Not all USB-C connections are created equal. In 2022, there were three versions of USB-C, or five if you include the physically identical but more feature-rich Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 connections. The more fully featured the port, the more expensive it is to manufacture, and USB-C ports that effectively transfer enough data to support a display are on the pricey side. As such, you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out and ensure that your PC and monitor have the ports you need.

To connect your PC to a USB-C monitor, the computer must support a software feature called DisplayPort Alternate Mode, or DP Alt, which allows you to use your USB-C port as a DisplayPort output, transmitting video at full bandwidth. Here’s the tricky part: Not all USB-C ports support DP Alt mode; it is an optional feature that manufacturers can add if they want. There are easy ways to check whether your laptop has USB-C ports with DP Alt Mode, but you may be forced to check the specs for your laptop.

That said, there are a few visual markers that may quickly indicate if a specific USB-C port can be used to connect to a USB-C monitor.

A “DP” DisplayPort logo placed next to a USB-C port means explicitly the port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode. More broadly, the lightning bolt icon indicates that the USB-C port supports Thunderbolt 3 or 4. Thunderbolt is a more feature-rich version of USB-C and guarantees support for DP Alt Mode. It’s important to recognize these two, specifically, because there are also symbols that do not tell you whether your USB-C port can connect to a monitor: The USB SuperSpeed logo, for example, refers to the connection’s maximum bandwidth. (USB, as it turns out, is extremely complicated.)

So what laptops support DisplayPort Alternate Mode? Most modern Apple laptops should, including MacBook Pros made in 2016 or later and MacBook Air models released after 2017. Among Windows laptops, there is no hard and fast rule. You can specifically check spec sheets for DisplayPort Alternate Mode, check the laptop for either the Thunderbolt 3 or DisplayPort Alternate Mode logos.

There isn’t really a standard for how this is handled, unfortunately, so it may require some sleuthing. For example, the Dell XPS 13 Ultrabook doesn’t feature the markings to accommodate its more sleek look, and the spec sheet just says “2 Thunderbolt 4 ports.” Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Yoga features two USB ports that show the lightning bolt icon, and the spec sheet explicitly says “2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 3 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort).” Both laptops support the mode but label it differently.

Video over USB-C support

Once you’ve confirmed that your PC can connect to a monitor over USB-C, it’s important to ensure the monitor you pick out can do the same. Not every display that has USB-C ports can transmit video that way. To ensure a display supports video over USB-C, check the display’s specs for a Thunderbolt 3 port or higher, supports DP Alt mode, or lists USB-C as a supported video connection.

All the monitors on this list can transmit video over USB-C, so all of our picks will set you up for success.

You need the right cable, too …

We had to talk about the port on your laptop, and we had to talk about the port on your monitor. Why wouldn’t we also have to talk about the cable that runs between them? Connecting a PC and monitor is, unfortunately, not as simple as just grabbing the nearest Type-C cable out of your drawer and plugging it in. (We know you have one, but some of those chargers are 10 years old and you don’t even remember what they’re for, so get rid of them!)

Like the ports, there are many kinds of USB-C cables, and some are intentionally created on the cheap. The cable that will most likely come with your monitor will work fine. If, for some reason, you need to pick another, look for a Thunderbolt-certified USB Type-C cable to make sure that you’re getting something reputable and safe.

Can it charge, though?

One of the primary benefits of connecting a laptop to a monitor over USB-C is the promise that your monitor will be able to charge, or at least power, your computer while it’s plugged in. As it turns out, though, this feature is a niche within a niche. A monitor may be able to charge or power a laptop, depending on how many Watts (W) it delivers to power-hungry devices and how much power your laptop uses. Between those two factors, a simple question gets pretty complicated; even official explainers like this one from PC accessory company Belkin can be pretty vague.

Laptops typically require between 20W of charging power for a thin productivity laptop to upwards of 100W for gaming laptops with large graphics cards. Right now, the highest wattages offered on monitors with USB-C ports are 65W and 90W, which should be enough to charge most compatible laptops. Many monitors, however, feature 15W charging, enough to extend your laptop’s battery life a bit if it’s running while you’re plugged in. A 15W connection is enough to charge a phone, tablet, or any other small device you might want to plug in.

We hope that, a few years from now, this will get much simpler. At the very least, we hope manufacturers standardize how monitor-grade USB-C connections work. For now, though, it requires a fair amount of research to predict the compatibility of a specific laptop and USB-C monitor.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best USB-C monitors

• Best overall: Gigabyte M32U
• Best gaming: Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx
• Best for creatives: Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor (UP2720Q)
• Best ultrawide: Gigabyte M34WQ
• Best portable: ARZOPA Portable Monitor 2K
• Best budget: Dell S2722QC

Finding a great monitor that fits the bill can become difficult as your needs get more specific. Finding a monitor with a USB-C port isn’t too tough, but finding one with a USB-C port that supports DP Alt Mode and delivers enough power to charge a laptop limits you to a pretty small group of displays. It’s so small, in fact, that we’re not quite ready to make 65W a prerequisite for making our list. Add to that the fact that you need to check your laptop to make sure it’s compatible, and picking a USB-C monitor becomes a fairly complicated task. Search for information about your particular laptop and USB Type-C before splurging on one of the best USB-C monitors, but if you have the right setup, plugging your monitor in this way will make your workspace more convenient and flexible.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best USB-C monitors for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Samsung Odyssey G7		SEE IT	The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredible valuable display with a bright QLED panel, deep 1000R curve, and elite gaming speed.
Best for gaming		Dell Alienware AW3423DW		SEE IT	The Alienware AW3423DW brings the sharper contrast of an OLED display to PC gaming.
Best for work		Dell UltraSharp U3421WE		SEE IT	The Dell UltraSharp U3421WE gives you an ultrawide workspace to make you more productive.

Whether you’re gaming or taking on a big project at work, upgrading to a curved monitor can elevate your computing experience. While using one feels a bit different, and may not be for everyone, an increasing number of people swear by them. The graceful arc of a curved display draws you further into the experience, increasing your immersion and blocking out distractions. The best curved monitors feature all the impressive specs and features of any other display while bringing a few unique tricks all their own.

• Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7
• Best for gaming: Dell Alienware AW3423DW
• Best for work: Dell UltraSharp U3421WE
• Best 4K: Gigabyte M32UC 
• Best ultrawide: LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B
• Best budget: AOC G2 Series C27G2Z

How we chose the best curved monitors

I’ve worked in gaming and tech journalism since 2013. During that time, I’ve evaluated a wide range of monitors, from affordable flat panels to luxurious curved ultrawides. Covering displays and computers for sites like IGN, Reviewed, and Tom’s Hardware, I’ve built a deep understanding of what makes a monitor great.

Our selections for the best curved monitors are the product of extensive testing and research. Beyond testing and reviewing many of these monitors, I took a deep look at the most important specs: screen size, resolution, refresh rate, response time, and the core features that separate a great display from a basic one. I also turned to reviews from experts and impressions from real customers to see how they stacked up in dedicated performance tests and real-world scenarios.

The best curved monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you have a good handle on the monitor-buying basics, let’s talk about the best curved monitors you can buy. Even with all the knowledge we’ve shared, finding the best curved monitor may still feel like a daunting task. Our picks, selected through testing and extensive research, are a great place to start (and end) your search.

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7

SAMSUNG

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 delivers a great picture and outstanding value.

Specs

• Screen size: 27-inch
• Curve: 1000R
• Resolution: 2560×1440 
• Panel type: QLED
• Brightness/HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 1ms

Pros

• Deep, immersive curve
• Crisp 1440p resolution
• An esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate
• QLED panel ensures high brightness and contrast

Cons

• 1000R curve may be too deep for some people
• Expensive

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is a performance powerhouse that provides surprisingly incredible value. It isn’t cheap, but you’d be hard-pressed to find another curved monitor that brings so much value to the table. Its vivid, Quantum Dot-enhanced picture enables exceptional brightness and contrast, winning it a DisplayHDR 600 rating. Colors pop on this display, and you can make out more detail in the screen’s dark and bright areas.

The G7 is definitely a gaming-first display. Its deep 1000R curve covers more peripheral vision, enhancing your immersion. Pushing 1440p resolution at up to 240Hz, you’ll get a perfect pairing of crisp visuals and high frame rates. Motion blur will be less of an issue on the Odyssey, giving you the edge to one-up the competition.

There are bigger, brighter monitors on the market, including several from Samsung: the 32-inch Odyssey G7 Neo, which offers an incredible 2000 nits of peak brightness, the 4K-enabled 16:9 Samsung Odyssey G8, and, if you have a gaming desk with space for an ultrawide display, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8. You can really level up that battlestation with this 34-inch 21:9 Ultra-WQHD screen supporting 0.03ms response times, 175Hz, FreeSync VRR support with G-SYNC compatibility, and DisplayHDR True Black 400 levels. The Neo G8 has more resolution (good for streaming content) and a higher refresh rate/lower lag for competitive gaming. In a dark environment, however, the OLED G8 offers amazing contrast with impossibly inky blacks and smoother motion handling, making it both perfect for productivity and very console-friendly.

Those are notable upgrades, but they come with much steeper price tags ($1,000 on average). For many players, the $500 Odyssey G7 is more than enough to allow systems to hit peak performance without overspending.

Best for gaming: Dell Alienware AW3423DW

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW3423DW’s fast, color-rich OLED screen makes games look better than ever; it’s expensive but very impressive.

Specs

• Screen size: 34.18-inch (Ultrawide)
• Curve: 1800R
• Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
• Panel type: QD-OLED
• Brightness/HDR: 1000-nit peak brightness (DisplayHDR 400 True Black)
• Refresh rate: 175Hz
• Response time: 0.1ms

Pros

• QD-OLED panel enables incredible contrast and sharpness
• 1000-nits peak brightness
• Quantum dots for rich, accurate colors
• G-Sync Ultimate

Cons

• Very expensive
• Doesn’t work well with PS5
• No HDMI 2.1 ports

The Alienware AW3423DW is a rare curved display indeed. It features a Quantum Dot-enhanced OLED panel. Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays feature “self-emitting” backlighting, where each pixel is individually backlit and independently controlled. This allows for incredible contrast, including “true” blacks. Standard OLED screens are known for lacking the brightness of conventional displays, but Quantum Dot technology enhances the screen’s inherent brightness, allowing the AW3423DW to hit an HDR-bright 1000 nits. It only achieves that maximum brightness in small spots on the monitor but is still more than capable of generating quality HDR gameplay.

You won’t have to worry about artifacts dragging down your gaming experience with the AW3423DW. With a ridiculously fast 0.1ms response time, ghosting just isn’t an issue for this display. A 175Hz refresh rate and Nvidia’s G-Sync Ultimate certification ensure excellent picture quality without screen tearing.

It isn’t perfect, though. The AW3423DW has a small number of flaws, particularly for console players who’d pair it with a PlayStation 5. It lacks HDMI 2.1, for example, so it can’t play games in 4K at 120Hz over HDMI cable. It also can’t downscale 4K content, so the PS5 can only run in 1080p on the monitor. (Luckily, there are monitors particularly well-suited to PS5.)

The Alienware AW3423DW is one of a few OLED gaming monitors in 2023. As a result, the distinctive, high-performance panel comes with a very steep price tag. If you’re a PC player who wants to see the sharpest possible picture on a monitor, though, it is worth it.

Best for work: Dell UltraSharp U3421WE

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE can replace multiple monitors and comes with productivity-enhancing features

Specs

• Screen size: 34.1-inch (Ultrawide)
• Curve: 1900R
• Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
• Panel type: IPS
• Brightness/HDR: 300 nits
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Response time: 8ms

Pros

• Connects via USB-C
• Built-in KVM lets you switch between two PCs with one mouse and keyboard
• Useful software quickly divides screen space
• Remembers window positions between uses

Cons

• Expensive
• Low brightness

Looking to replace your multi-monitor setup for work with a single ultrawide monitor? The 34-inch Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE is as tall as a standard 27-inch monitor and provides roughly eight inches of extra width on either side, so you have plenty of space to work. It also features some productivity-enhancing software that can partition that space into 38 different configurations for up to five windows. You’ll be able to see everything you need to work quickly and efficiently. When you’re done for the day, the software can re-open those windows, allowing you to pick up right where you left off. 

It isn’t uncommon for monitors to feature a couple extra USB ports for your peripherals, but the U3421WE not only connects via USB-C but it also doubles as a bona fide USB-C hub. It features two USB-C ports, one of which empowers you to connect and charge a laptop. There are also a whopping five USB 3.0 ports (one upstream and four downstream), to connect all of your peripherals and transfer large files. There’s even an Ethernet port to connect to your office’s network. 

It may not be quite as wide as two 27-inch monitors, but the Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE makes a strong case for optimizing your home office with a curved ultrawide display.

Best 4K: Gigabyte M32UC

Gigabyte

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32UC is a big screen with a crisp 4K picture and features to spare.

Specs

• Screen size: 31.5-inch 
• Curve: 1500R
• Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
• Panel type: SuperSpeed VA
• Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 400
• Refresh rate: 160Hz
• Response time: 1ms 

Pros

• Crisp 4K visuals in a large viewing area
• Fast refresh rate
• Great color coverage
• Built-in KVM

Cons

• Limited HDR performance
• Minor ghosting without overdrive

Curved 4K monitors usually get expensive quickly, and the Gigabyte M32UC balances performance, features, and price better than most displays out there. It isn’t cheap by any stretch, but you get a color-rich gaming display with a ton of great features in return. You may have to adjust a couple of settings to make the most of it, but once you do, you’ll see that it’s a hidden gem among ultrawide gaming monitors.

SuperSpeed VA panel. Unlike traditional VA panels, the M32UC’s SuperSpeed VA panel gives it an unexpectedly low 1ms response time. It’s also fast, with a 160Hz refresh rate, which is high for a 4K display. With 93% DCI-P3 wide color gamut and 123% sRGB, it offers incredible color depth and accuracy, which is great for creatives. If you’d like to connect to a second PC for streaming or home office use, it also features a built-in KVM to swap your peripherals between devices quickly. The monitor also features a full suite of competitive gaming features, like a “Black Equalizer” that helps you peek into shadows, and an FPS monitor that can overlay on any game.

There are some important trade-offs with the M32UC that you should know before you buy in. First, with 8-bit color and only 400 nits of brightness, it can’t really handle HDR gameplay. Some users have also reported minor ghosting with Overdrive disabled, but that’s a quick fix within its settings menu. Even with these shortcomings, the M32UC is an outstanding choice if you’re shopping for a 4K monitor with an immersive curve.

Best ultrawide: LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B

LG

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Why it made the cut: The LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B doesn’t come cheap, but its spacious Nano IPS screen is a joy to behold.

Specs

• Screen size: 34-inch (Ultrawide)
• Curve: 1900R
• Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
• Panel type: Nano IPS
• Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 600
• Refresh rate: 180Hz 
• Response time: 1ms

Pros

• 10-bit color and DisplayHDR 600 certification
• Rapid refresh rate adds smoothness to games
• G-Sync Ultimate certified (FreeSync also supported)

Cons

• Very expensive
• Low IPS contrast

Gamers who have taken the leap already know: A great ultrawide monitor can take your gaming experience to the next level. That’s certainly the case with the expansive LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B, which delivers a crisp 3440×1440 picture empowered by LG’s Nano IPS panel. A proprietary LG display technology, Nano IPS displays feature a coating of nanoparticles on the backlight that expand their color gamut to an incredibly vibrant 98% of the DCI-P3 color space, or roughly 135% of sRGB. 

Somehow, professional-grade color accuracy and gaming-grade speed go hand-in-hand. LG quotes a 1ms response time on its “faster” preset, dramatically reducing the chance for visible ghosting. Meanwhile, its perfectly respectable 144Hz refresh rate can be overclocked to hit an impressive 180Hz for competitive play. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate certified so you can count on fluid gameplay without a hint of screen tearing.

The UltraGear 34GP950G-B is certified by VESA for DisplayHDR 600 high dynamic range. It has a higher peak brightness of 600 nits and true 10-bit color so that you can make out more detail in the shadows and highlights. Its HDR tech comes with a local dimming feature, but critics found it to be too distracting to actually use. Since it also uses an IPS panel, contrast levels are also low, which makes blacks look dark gray in dark rooms. Even with local dimming turned off, there’s little room to argue with how good this monitor truly is.

Best budget: AOC G2 Series C27G2Z

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC G2 Series C27G2Z offers a lot for little. It costs less than $250 but still delivers strong performance.

Specs

• Screen size: 27-inch
• Curve: 1500R
• Resolution: 1920×1080
• Panel type: VA
• Brightness/HDR: 250 nits 
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 0.5ms

Pros

• Large screen
• 240Hz refresh rate 
• Good VA contrast
• Good color coverage

Cons

• Low brightness
• No HDR
• Low pixel density

If you’re on a limited budget, the AOC G2 Series C27G2Z is easily one of best curved monitors for under $300. It offers a handful of key features that make it an incredible value at a price point where you rarely find any. Its 27-inch screen is large enough to make good use of its 1500R curve, taking up more of your field of view and drawing you further into your entertainment experiences.

Now, a 27-inch, 1080p screen stretches its pixels a bit thin, but not dramatically. If you’d prefer to go smaller to maintain the screen’s sharpness, the 24-inch, 165Hz AOC C24G1A is our favorite curved gaming monitor under $200.

The C27G2Z is also quite a capable gaming monitor. It features a rapid 240Hz refresh rate—fast enough for competitive esports. Response time is also excellent at 0.5ms in its fastest mode, but you should plan on turning this down a touch for the best image quality—but with 0.5ms to start, there’s responsiveness to spare. Color coverage is also impressive at 90% of the DCI-P3 color space so that hues will look deeper and more saturated.

Unfortunately, the C27G2Z scrapes the bottom of the barrel with peak brightness and has a luminance of only 250 nits. That’s fine for most games, but you’ll want to position it away from direct sunlight. HDR is also out of the question, but these are fair trade-offs considering its price.

Things to consider before buying a curved monitor

Once a niche offshoot of conventional PC displays, the curved monitor has become an increasingly popular gaming and office work option. Going for a curved monitor adds a couple of extra specs to the long list of considerations you want to keep in mind when buying any monitor. We’ll walk you through the basics, so you can make your own decision when you’re ready to buy your next monitor.

Setting the curve

The big difference between picking a curved display and a standard flat panel is the curve itself. Just like the size of the monitor, the depth of the display’s arc varies from model to model.

The arc of a curved display is measured using the distance from the outer edge of the screen to its center. That number, measured in millimeters, is expressed as the monitor’s Radius (R) and indicates the recommended viewing distance to fully experience that curve’s benefits. The lower the radius, the deeper the curve will be. The deeper the curve, the more immersive your viewing experience will feel.

As with other specs, there is a range of possible curvatures ranging from 3000R to 1800R, all the way down to 1000R. Most curved monitors tend to fall between 1800R and 1500R, as large shallow curves typically require larger screen sizes than is typical for computer monitors. These curvatures range from a gentle bend to minimize how often you twist your neck to a noticeable curve that can enhance the immersive qualities of first-person games. Some gaming monitors drop down to 1000R. As this excellent explainer from Viewsonic describes, 1000R is the same curve as the human eye and should theoretically feel most “correct,” though such a deep curve can also be the hardest to adapt to.

Curved monitors are an acquired taste. It’s hard to know whether you’ll like a curved monitor, or what curve arc you’ll prefer without seeing them in person. Pictures just can’t replace the experience of sitting before one and seeing what each curve feels like for yourself. We recommend stopping by the electronics section of your retailer to see for yourself. If that’s not possible, be sure to buy from a retailer with a friendly return and exchange process.

Resolution

Beyond the curve’s arc, there’s no major difference between picking a curved monitor and any other. There are three core specs that we look at first when picking any PC display: resolution, screen size, and refresh rate.

Resolution refers to how many pixels your display uses to generate an image. All other things being equal, a higher resolution enables a sharper, more detailed image. Manufacturers currently stick to three primary resolutions for all widescreen (16:9) monitors: The baseline is 1920 x 1080 pixels, more commonly known as 1080p. The middle option, which we frequently recommend for gaming, is 2560 x 1440 pixels (you may see manufacturers call this 1440p, or QHD). Lastly, you have 3840 x 2160 pixels, also known as 4K. Unlike TVs, where 4K has become the standard, 4K monitors are still luxury and usually expensive.

If you plan on using your monitor for gaming, remember that higher resolutions require more powerful hardware to run well. If you’re a gamer but aren’t sure what resolution will work best for you, download and run a selection of the best benchmarks to grasp your system’s performance better.

Screen size

Curved displays aim to take up more of your peripheral vision so, unlike conventional widescreen monitors, we recommend going with the largest display that feels comfortable for you.

That recommendation comes with a caveat: There is a correlation between screen size and resolution. Larger displays need more pixels to achieve the same level of sharpness as their smaller counterparts. So, while a larger screen will enhance the benefits of using a curved display,  we only recommend you do so if you can also afford to scale up to 1440p or 4K for a screen above 27 inches.

With curved displays in particular, it also makes sense to consider whether you’d be interested in the standard, 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, or a 21:9 ultrawide monitor. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal viewing area without making the display taller than a traditional display, which pushes the edges of the screen closer to your peripheral vision. Since curved displays work best when they extend to the outer edges of your field of view, the ultrawide form factor enhances the benefits of a curved panel. Pairing the two unconventional form factors often leads to a more expensive display, but a large curved ultrawide creates enough screen space to replace two monitors in most setups. It’s expensive, but a unique pleasure.

Refresh rate

For gaming, refresh rate often feels just as important as screen size and resolution. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), refers to how many times the screen updates the image on screen each second. Productivity monitors usually stick to basic 60Hz-75Hz, since smooth animation isn’t considered a priority. For gaming, however, a higher refresh rate allows games to run at a higher frame rate, making them look smoother and reducing motion blur. 

In general, we look for gaming monitors with a 144Hz refresh rate or higher. For office work, a little bump to refresh rate is a nice luxury, but not a crucial feature.

Panel type

The physical screen panel can impact a monitor’s color accuracy, contrast, and responsiveness. Aside from a few exceptions—some of which you’ll see on this list—monitors rely on one of three panel types:

In-Plane Switching, or IPS, panels have the best colors and widest viewing angles of the three types. Because of this, they have become a staple in the creative industries and are a popular choice for digital artists. At the same time, IPS panels typically have slower response times and low contrast.

Twisted Nematic, or TN, panels are traditionally regarded as the “fastest” monitor panels because they generally introduce less input lag. Their high performance comes at the expense of color accuracy and viewing angles, so images may not look as vivid as they would on a VA or IPS panel. Manufacturers have closed the gap in response time between TN panels and the others, so you really only see them in very cheap displays, or esports monitors with extremely high refresh rates.

Vertical Alignment, or VA, panels are the middle ground between IPS and TN, offering a balance between deep color and high speed. VA panels also benefit from superior contrast. While a great IPS panel may have a 1000:1 contrast ratio, many VA panels triple that and come in at 3000:1. Blacks are typically much darker on VA panels and are a better fit for use in low-light environments. 

While panel type impacts your monitor’s picture, the impact of using one panel type vs. another is usually quite small. They are a general indication of how a monitor may perform, but the nuances of a monitor’s color depth are usually best judged with the naked eye. (Or, if you’re a creative pro, using a colorimeter.)

HDR and brightness

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is one of the most popular display standards available today. In a nutshell, HDR content leverages new display technologies to display a much wider range of colors and brightness levels, capturing more vivid colors and enabling your monitor to depict a wider range of light and shadow in a single image. 

Judging whether a monitor supports HDR content or not is a surprisingly contentious issue. To really see HDR as intended, your monitor needs to be capable of getting very bright, so it can show both high- and low-light situations. Many PC monitors technically can serve HDR content, but can’t get bright enough to properly display it. For most PC monitors—32 inches or smaller—we look for a maximum brightness of 600 or higher. On larger screens, including TVs, you really want 1000 nits or more. Monitors that support HDR, but fail to reach those marks will appear brighter in HDR mode, but will not change how an image is lit. HDR also requires advanced color depth, so be sure the display you’re looking at also supports 10-bit color or higher. 

HDR-enabled monitors make it easy to check their maximum brightness, as they feature a DisplayHDR certification from the Video Electronics Standards Association, commonly known as VESA. The DisplayHDR rating system includes the monitor’s maximum brightness as part of its rating—which ranges from HDR400 (400 nits) to HDR1400 (1400 nits).

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best curved monitors

• Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7
• Best for gaming: Dell Alienware AW3423DW
• Best for work: Dell UltraSharp U3421WE
• Best 4K: Gigabyte M32UC 
• Best ultrawide: LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B
• Best budget: AOC G2 Series C27G2Z

Curved monitors are more popular than ever before. They provide a comfortable, immersive experience that enhances games and productivity. With the market for curved monitors expanding, there are options at any price point now, so if you’ve tried one and want to make the jump, there’s an option for every budget.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best curved monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Memorial Day Weekend is here, meaning it’s time to score some quick deals before heading out to a cookout or hitting the highway to visit friends and family. While the holiday is traditionally synonymous with mattresses and outdoor gear, you can score discounts on computer hardware that may make returning to work a little easier come Tuesday morning. Whether you’re looking for a computer for an upcoming college student or want to treat yourself to a home office upgrade as you settle into permanent remote or hybrid work, it’s a good time to pick up a new laptop, desktop, or monitor while saving a lot of money. Just remember, these deals can sell out, so if you see something you want, don’t hesitate.

M2 MacBook Pro $1,099 (Was $1,299)

Apple

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Apple isn’t holding its own Memorial Day Weekend sale, but you can save $200 on its latest MacBook Pro by shopping on Amazon. The M2 MacBook Pro has 8GB of RAM (memory), 256GB of storage, and a 13.3-inch high-resolution “retina” display. It runs on Apple’s latest M2 chip, which means it’s capable of resource-intensive tasks like 4K video editing and gaming (if the game has a Mac version) and common use cases like online shopping, video chatting, editing documents, and streaming video. This processor is also energy-efficient, allowing the laptop to get up to 20 hours of life per charge, though the amount you get will depend on how you use the machine.

If you hate passwords, its Touch ID fingerprint reader will allow you to unlock the machine and authenticate yourself when installing software, which is much more convenient. All in all, the M2 MacBook Pro is a laptop we can recommend to anybody, and Amazon’s Memorial Day Weekend deal addresses the one issue we typically have with Apple gear: cost. If you’ve been waiting for a good MacBook deal for work or school, now’s the time to pick one up.

The best Memorial Day laptop deals

• Dell Inspiron 16 5630 Laptop, $1,230.22 (Was $1,299.99)
• Dell Inspiron 3511 Laptop, $859 (Was $949)
• Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB, $319.99 (Was $389.99)
• Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617, $509.99 (Was $699.99)
• ASUS TUF Dash F15, $1,449.99 (Was $1,599.99)
• ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X, $1,397 (Was $1,649.99)
• Razer Blade 15, $1,799.99 (Was $2,999.99)
• Razer Blade Pro 17, $1,799.99 (Was $3,199.99)

The best Memorial Day desktop deals

• M2 Mac Mini, $499 (Was $599)
• Dell Inspiron 3910 Desktop, $640 (Was $749.99)
• Acer Aspire TC-1760-UA92 Desktop, $549.99 (Was $619.99)
• Acer Predator Orion 3000 PO3-630-UA15 Gaming Desktop, $1,599.97 (Was $1,699.99)
• ASUS ROG Strix GA35 Gaming Desktop, $3,409.98 (Was $4,299.99)
• HP 2022 Newest All-in-One Desktop, $529 (Was $589)
• HP Envy Desktop Bundle PC, $1,229.99 (Was $1,599.99)

The best Memorial Day monitor deals

• Dell E1916HV, $76.52 (Was $109.99)
• Acer Nitro KG241Y, $119.99 (Was $179.99)
• Acer R240HY, $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• ASUS VG247Q1A, $159 (Was $169)
• SAMSUNG CF39, $159.99 (Was $219.99)
• SAMSUNG LC49G95TSSNXZA, $1,049.99 (Was $1,399.99)
• LG SDQHD, $596.99 (Was $699.99)
• BenQ GW2780T, $199.99 (Was $229.99)

The post The best Memorial Day laptop, desktop, and monitor deals are easy to process appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The radical success of Valve’s Steam Deck and the Nintendo Switch has proven a deep appetite for handheld gaming exists, and competitors are popping up left and right in an attempt to take a piece of that pie. ASUS is the latest company to step up to the plate, and if it aimed to create a faster, nicer-looking, better-feeling Steam Deck, the ROG Ally is a resounding success.

The handheld PC game console, available for preorder now and will launch June 11 for $599, is fast enough to play many of the latest titles, offers a surprising amount of customization, and achieves surprising stability for a first-generation piece of hardware. Yet what holds the ROG Ally back from near-perfection is the one piece of the puzzle it couldn’t fully control: Windows.

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Overview

• The ASUS ROG Ally is the first mainstream Steam Deck competitor, and on a technical level, it bests Valve’s popular gaming handheld in almost every way.
• The handheld’s Windows system is more versatile than a streamlined operating system like SteamOS but also increases power consumption and complexity.
• For serious PC gamers who favor customizability and power, the ROG Ally offers the best balance of performance and price.

Pros

• Incredible price
• Excellent performance
• Good battery life
• Ergonomic design
• Smooth-feeling analog sticks
• Expandable storage
• Surprisingly full-sounding speakers

Cons

• Operating system not designed for handheld gaming
• Can be complex to access certain settings

Verdict: The ROG Ally is the handheld gaming system to beat if you can get over the pain of Windows gaming on a portable device.

The ASUS ROG Ally build

I’ve been playing handheld game consoles since the original Game Boy, and I was immediately smitten with how the ROG Ally looked and felt out of the box. Its 7-inch screen is the same size as my Switch OLED edition and the Steam Deck. ASUS’ display is 1080P and supports refresh rates up to 120Hz instead of the 720P 60Hz panel on Nintendo and Valve’s systems. The difference in sharpness and fidelity compared to the Switch was noticeable and made up for the fact that the ROG’s great-looking LCD display isn’t quite as vibrant as an OLED screen.

An analog stick and directional pad flank the handheld system’s screen on the left side, while an analog stick and four face buttons are on the right. A pair of buttons and triggers on top of the handheld are complemented by two on the system’s backside. A headphone jack, volume controls, and power button line the system’s top, along with two vents for the fans.

This is more or less the same button configuration popularized by the Xbox 360 in 2005, which made the ROG Ally feel familiar before I even booted up a game. Four additional buttons give you quick access to common actions, like bringing up the ROG Ally’s performance options and going to a game-select screen. More importantly, the handheld feels great in hand. The angular cut-outs on the front of the device make it easy to grip, while the curves on the back contoured to my hands. ASUS designed the ROG Ally to feel good whether you’re holding it or have it propped up on a desk, and the result is a home run where ergonomics are concerned.

I was pleased—though not surprised—to see the handheld’s USB-C charging port, which ASUS opted to put on the top rather than the bottom of the system. The mass adoption of a single charging port for most electronics is one of the best recent advancements in consumer tech. The ROG Ally’s MicroSD card slot, which can be used to expand its storage to hold more games easily, is also located on top of the system, which makes it immediately and easily accessible without opening the console’s case. In general, my impressions of the hardware have been very positive.

The ASUS ROG Ally setup

ASUS did its best to ensure the ROG Ally’s setup process was as easy as possible. I was greeted with a familiar Windows 11 lock screen. Tapping the OK button—my review unit came pre-configured with a user account but no password—brought me to Microsoft’s desktop. Preinstalled software called ASUS Armoury Crate launched within seconds and brought me to a user-friendly screen where I could log into my Steam and Xbox accounts to download games from their respective digital libraries. The only real roadblock during my setup was navigating to Windows’ WiFi settings and typing in my password.

All my downloaded titles appeared as icons in Armoury Crate, making them easy to launch. This system isn’t as slick as the Switch or Steam Deck’s user interface, but those systems are only designed for gaming. The ROG Ally runs a full version of Windows, which means it could be hooked up to a monitor and be used for Google Docs and the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of applications in addition to booting up the latest PC games.

Overall, the ROG Ally’s user interface is pretty user-friendly. However, it took a little time to get the hang of downloading games and navigating the Xbox Game Pass portal, which is annoying to use on a PC without a keyboard and mouse. Switching the ROG Ally from handheld to desktop mode allowed me to replicate the functionality of a mouse with the right analog stick moving the cursor, but the experience was still kind of clunky. Steam was designed to be used natively with a game controller, and I had no issues there.

Even the ROG Ally’s control panel, which can be toggled with a button press, was neatly organized. This settings menu allows you to switch between quiet, performance, and turbo modes, which automatically ratchet up the system’s processor to the detriment of its battery life. Other settings include changing the screen’s resolution between 720P and 1080P, adjusting the display’s brightness, switching between handheld and desktop modes, and other common controls. It’s clear ASUS wanted to make the ROG Ally as accessible as possible, and it succeeded.

The ASUS ROG Ally performance

I’ll be the first to admit my PC gaming needs are pretty basic, but the ROG Ally still exceeded my expectations. The older and indie titles like The Legend of Heroes: Trails In The Sky, Tales of Zestiria, Hi-Fi Rush, and Tunic all ran without a hitch using the handheld’s quiet setting. I tried more resource-intensive 3D games during my demo at an ASUS event two weeks before my review unit arrived, and those ran great, too—albeit only when the battery-sucking turbo setting was enabled. The only time I ran into trouble was trying to play Jet Grind Radio, which refused to launch no matter how many times I tried playing it. I deleted and re-downloaded it in case of a weird one-time bug, but the system didn’t play nice with SEGA’s high-octane, early-2000s title.

ASUS equipped its handheld with an eight-core Z1 processor, designed in-house explicitly for gaming. The system’s lower-end model comes with the standard Z1, which offers 2.9 teraflops of graphical performance, while the premium system’s Z1 Extreme tops out at 8.6 teraflops. There’s only a $100 difference between both configurations, and I recommend going with the higher-end one if you primarily play PC games. Casual users like myself could get away with the entry-level version without a hitch. Both ROG Ally handheld models are more powerful than the Steam Deck and blow the six-year-old Nintendo Switch out of the water.

I didn’t notice any stuttering or dropped frames when playing my games, which I expected, given their modest system requirements. Still, the experience of playing games on the ROG Ally was so good it felt natural to pick up the system and play. I could hit the power button mid-game, knowing I could return to it immediately once it was time to begin my next play session. The benefit of playing smaller titles with the screen brightness at roughly 75% was I could extend the battery life pretty far. I could get about four hours of gameplay per charge, which has more to do with the inefficiency of Windows than the ROG Ally’s battery size or the energy consumption of my games. There’s simply a lot of overhead to run a game on Windows, which is a shame.

I was happier with the fact that I could play the system for several hours at a time without my hands or arms feeling fatigued. The system’s angled shape made resting the system on my thighs while curled up on the couch feel as natural as holding it in front of me. The system’s 1.34-pound weight makes it feel appreciably lighter than the Steam Deck, which comes in at 1.47 pounds. In handheld gaming, every tenth of a pound counts and can make the difference between putting the system down because you want to and pausing your game session out of necessity.

The ROG Ally’s Z1 processor, 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM (memory), 4GB of VRAM (video memory), and 512GB of storage gives the handheld enough overhead to future-proof it for a few years. The reality is playing a handheld PC will always be limiting because there’s only so much space for components and cooling. That said, it’s possible to play many of the latest games at high settings if you’re okay with limiting your battery life or keeping it plugged into a power source all the time.

The ASUS ROG Ally software

Every part of the ROG Ally’s experience that ASUS had direct control over is a grand slam. It’s the platonic ideal of a modern handheld gaming system, and I’m gobsmacked that the company got so much right on the first generation of a product. We’re talking original iPhone levels of hardware polish, and the design team should feel proud of the hardware’s performance, given its incredibly reasonable price.

Unfortunately, the system is hamstrung by Windows, the dominant operating system for PC gaming—and computers in general. It’s laudable that ASUS designed its Armoury Crate software to make gaming on the ROG Ally possible, but there’s no denying the system runs on a general-purpose operating system. Both the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch boot directly into software explicitly designed for games that are optimized for optimal performance. There are no unnecessary background tasks draining power and resources—the streamlined systems can download and play games, that’s it.

There are problems ASUS can’t address or fix because of Windows, even if the versatile operating system opens the door to turning the ROG Ally into an emulation powerhouse for nostalgic gamers who want to relive their childhood alongside playing the latest PC games as they come out. But the occasional awkwardness of navigating an operating system designed for traditional peripherals rather than analog sticks and buttons was a reminder of the ROG Ally’s main limitation.

ASUS’ options to address this issue are limited. It could develop its own operating system like Valve’s SteamOS, but that would take several years and untold resources to accomplish with very limited upside. it could shop the software around to other handheld PC makers, but that would mitigate its market advantage. The company could partner with Valve to launch the system with SteamOS installed. However, that’d require them to get the operating system up and running on custom-designed hardware and disallow gamers from playing titles on Xbox Game Pass or similar streaming services.

The ASUS ROG Ally vs. Valve’s Steam Deck

Many handheld PC gamers will be deciding between the Steam Deck and a Windows-based handheld for their portable gaming; honestly, there’s no right or wrong choice. The Steam Deck has worse tech specs—most notably a sub-1080P display—and a bigger chassis, but the streamlined nature of SteamOS makes it easier to pick up and play. The ROG Ally is svelter and more powerful, but you have to deal with the complexities of Windows and its constant additional power drain. If you’re a serious PC gamer, go with the ROG Ally; if you’re more casual, the Steam Deck is the better choice. If you want to play The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, well, get the Nintendo Switch OLED.

Final thoughts

The reason I keep harping on the downsides of Windows is that the ASUS ROG Ally is a nearly perfect piece of hardware. It’s better than all of its mainstream direct competitors and undercuts boutique handheld PC makers on price to the point of absurdity. Let me be clear: If you want to play PC games on the go, this is your best option by a long shot. But picking up the ASUS ROG Ally means dealing with the compromises of building a game console running general-purpose software. ASUS has done all it can to make the user experience as seamless as possible, but it’s hard not to think about the grand slam the company could have had if it had complete control over the hardware and software experience.

The post ASUS ROG Ally review: The best way to game on the go appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B		SEE IT	The LG UltraGear 27GN650-B works delivers solid gaming specs and high performance for a rotating display.
Best for gaming		Asus VG248QG		SEE IT	The Asus VG248QG gives you competitive speed at a very low price.
Best for coding		BenQ PD2700U		SEE IT	Computer programmers don’t have to choose between productivity and comfort with the BenQ PD2700U.

Add a vertical monitor to your setup and you can drastically improve the way you work and game. If you’re crunched for space or primarily use it as a secondary display to show a long, scrolling website like Twitter or Facebook, the best vertical monitors give you useful options for optimizing your setup.

Rotating a display from landscape to portrait mode can convey ergonomic benefits as well. In vertical (or portrait mode) you aren’t moving your eyes, head, and neck from left to right as much. Less movement results in a more comfortable viewing experience. Plus, it’s easier to scroll up and down than from left to right (don’t take my word for it, look at the scrolling design of your mouse!).

Vertical monitors are still a relatively new concept, so it’s not a standard feature. It’s also only one part of the display: You still need to judge core elements like resolution, size, and refresh rate, to name a few. Realistically, you don’t need top specs if you’re looking for a secondary screen to flip. Still, the best vertical monitors do more than just rotate, and here are our picks to add this extra efficiency feature into your workflow. 

• Best overall: LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B
• Best for gaming: Asus VG248QG
• Best for coding: BenQ PD2700U
• Best for streaming: Dell 25 Gaming Monitor (S2522HG)
• Best 4K: Philips Brilliance 279P1
• Best portable: KYY K3 
• Best budget: HP VH240a

How we chose the best vertical monitors

As a freelance journalist for over 10 years, I’ve reviewed home and tech products for many publications, including Popular Science, CNN Underscored, NBC News Select, Popular Mechanics, Architectural Digest, Tom’s Guide, The Daily Beast, USA Today’s Reviewed, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and Bob Vila. Our vertical monitor selections are based on personal testing, extensive research, recommendations from experts and fellow critics, and user impressions.

The best vertical monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Vertical monitors are still a relatively new concept, so it isn’t a universal feature. That said, there are plenty of great ones at various price points with wildly varying specs. Some have a better framerate, and others have a better response time. They also vary in size and price. However, at least one of these monitors should have everything you need, whether you’re rotating your primary display or keeping a secondary screen permanently vertical on the side.

Best overall: LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B

LG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: For the price, this monitor combines the best features and also has plenty of inputs.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports:  2 x HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, DisplayPort 1.4, 3.5mm Audio

Pros

• Clear, impressive image
• Adjustable height and angle
• Plenty of inputs
• Anti-glare coating

Cons

• No built-in speakers

The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B Monitor has the perfect number of features without costing an arm and a leg. The generous 27-inch 1440p monitor provides plenty of screen real estate and great viewing angles, whether you’re viewing it vertically or horizontally. It’s good for both work and gaming, with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. There are also many inputs, including two HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Last but not least, it also offers nice adjustability: Both the stand’s height and the monitor’s angle can be adjusted, and the stand has a cable holder in the back. 

Best for gaming: ASUS VG248QG

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: For a sub-$200 monitor, the Asus VG248QG gives you incredible speedy specs, including 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time.

Specs

• Size: 24-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 165Hz
• Response time: 0.5ms
• Ports: HDMI 1.4, DVID, DisplayPort 1.2, headphone jack, Audio In

Pros

• High refresh rate
• Tilts, swivels, height adjustable
• Numerous inputs
• Eye care

Cons

• No built-in speakers

We’re beyond impressed with the ASUS VG248QG. It features some strong specs for a gaming monitor that costs less than $200, including a 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time. The 24-inch display features a stand that rotates, tilts, swivels, and features height adjustment options, making it an ergonomic choice. It also features eye-strain protections, including an anti-glare screen and blue light filter. Throw in Nvidia G-Sync compatibility to minimize your screen tearing and you’ve got a very solid gaming monitor for a very nice price. 

Best for coding: BenQ PD2700U

BenQ

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: With 4K resolution, dual control, and three viewing modes, the BenQ PD2700U lets coders and other professionals maximize their work time and space.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Response time: 5ms
• Ports: HDMI 1.4, 2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 4 x USB 3.0 ports, 2 x USB Type-B, 3.5mm audio

Pros

• Excellent image, brightness, and colors
• Dual view and dual control
• Swivel, tilt, and adjust height
• 3 viewing modes
• Eye care features

Cons

• No built-in speakers

The BenQ PD27000U does double duty as a great vertical monitor for programmers and a great choice for creative pros looking to avoid spending a fortune. The larger 27-inch 4K panel makes it easier to see small details, but it’s really the display’s strong color accuracy—100% sRGB and 100% Rec.709 color—that keeps creative projects looking sharp.

There are three specialty settings for different types of creative work: A darkroom mode for photographers, CAD/CAM mode for designers, and an animation mode that highlights dark spaces without reducing color accuracy. It also features a dual-view mode, which lets you view an image in two images side-by-side, or a single image in two different specialty modes.

It also comes with a built-in Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) switch, which lets you use the same keyboard and mouse to control two different laptops feeding into the monitor. It also features anti-glare, blue light filters, and a flicker-free setting to reduce eye strain.

Best for streaming: Dell 25 Gaming Monitor (S2522HG)

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: With a 240Hz refresh rate, crystal clear picture, and ambient lighting, the Dell S2522HG makes it easy to see what you’re doing and put your best foot forward.

Specs

• Size: 25-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.2, 5 x USB 3.2 ports, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Clear, colorful images
• Super fast
• Ambient lighting
• Lots of ports

Cons

• No built-in speakers

The Dell S2522HG is a very affordable, very fast gaming monitor with features that make it a strong pick for streamers. The 25-inch 1080p IPS panel features strong color accuracy, making it a good fit for content creation. With an esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time allow for snappy gameplay. It also features ComfortView blue light reduction, which helps you avoid eye strain from blue light when you’re streaming for a long time. 

It’s also a very adjustable monitor, with swivel, tilt, and height adjustment options on the stand. Last, but not least, it has a ton of ports, including two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.2, five USB 3.2 ports, which will come in handy as your streaming setup expands.

Best 4K: Philips Brilliance 279P1

Philips Computer Monitors

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Philips Brilliance 279P1 is a slick, affordable 4K USB-C display.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Response time: 4ms
• Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 4 x USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio out, Ethernet

Pros

• Stunning images
• Supports USB-C connection, which charges laptops
• Built-in Speakers
• Swivel, tilt, and also adjust the stand’s height  

Cons

• 4K is overkill for most vertical applications

Certain features usually push the price of a monitor sky-high. The ability to connect a PC via USB-C is one, as is offering 4K resolution. It is impressive, then, that the Philips Brilliance 279P1 offers both for less than $500. While not cheap, it’s a very solid value for both features. The 279P1 provides extremely clear, extremely detailed images and features an “Easy Read” setting that increases contrast and adjusts brightness for reading text files. The monitor is height adjustable and also tilts and swivels. Inputs include two HDMI ports, in addition to DisplayPort, four USB ports, an Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm audio out.

Best portable monitor: KYY K3

KYY

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The KYY K3 is an easy-to-use portable display for when you need a vertical monitor away from home.

Specs

• Size: 15.6-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Response time: N/A
• Ports: Mini HDMI, 2 x USB-C, 3.5mm audio in

Pros

• Lightweight
• Cover serves as a stand
• Built-in speakers

Cons

• Limited ports

If you need a portable monitor that you can toss in your bag and that works well in vertical mode with any additional support, we recommend the KYY 15.6-inch Portable Monitor. It’s small—lighter than an iPad—but still outputs at 1080p like most of the full-size monitors on our list. It connects via HDMI or USB-C to connect your laptop, smartphone, or game console. Though the monitor comes with a smart cover that doubles as a stand for landscape mode, the KYY K3 also works as a portrait, or vertical, display.

Best budget: HP VH240a

HP

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: If you plan to set a monitor vertically and leave it that way, the HP VH240a does everything you need and doesn’t cost much.

Specs

• Size: 24-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Response time: 5ms
• Ports: HDMI, VGA

Pros

• Great price
• Built-in speakers
• Height adjustable

Cons

• No DisplayPort

The HP VH240a is a stellar monitor to buy specifically for a permanent vertical setup. For less than $200, about as little as you can spend on a new monitor, you’ll get a decent 1080p productivity display with a highly adjustable stand and slim bezels. Obviously, any recommendation in this price range comes with caveats. Aside from baseline specs, the VH240a cannot connect to your PC via DisplayPort, which may be a non-starter for some people.

What to consider when picking one of the best vertical monitors

The concept of a “vertical monitor” is kind of a misnomer. Most monitors, our selections included, aren’t explicitly designed to be used in landscape orientation. On top of that, most people aren’t going to use their primary display in a vertical orientation. For most people, including some of PopSci’s staff, your vertical monitor is the secondary screen that you turn for Slack or Twitter or whatever you prefer.

Given that, the best vertical monitors are usually budget-friendly generalist displays. You don’t need a high refresh rate for a vertical monitor. You usually don’t need 4K resolution or the most precise color accuracy. Obviously, those things never hurt, but all we’re really looking for is a decent display that can turn on its stand but would also work well as your primary monitor.

Size

Size is more important than usual with vertical monitors, as much of the speed and color accuracy-related matter considerably less when you plan to use a monitor vertically. Picking a larger monitor will also allow you to see your vertically-oriented content more easily at glance. If you’re looking at real-time analytics or audio levels, a bigger display makes it easier to see small nuances quickly.

If you’re in a tight space, don’t forget that your monitor’s dimensions change drastically when rotated vertically. If you have a monitor that’s 27 inches wide and 14 inches tall, the monitor will be 13 inches higher when you flip it. Also, keep in mind that you may need to adjust your chair to view the monitor comfortably if you’re adding a second monitor for the first time. If you need a more dynamic space to make sure everything lines up, we recommend looking for an adjustable standing desk or a monitor arm to give yourself more flexibility.

Resolution

Resolution refers to how many pixels your monitor displays on-screen, horizontally and vertically. These numbers determine the quality of the image displayed on the monitor. Most modern monitors come in one of three standard resolutions: 

1920 x 1080, also called 1080p or Full HD, is the baseline resolution for smaller and less expensive displays. We recommend 1080p displays for 24-inch monitors and work-from-home setups. In most cases, 1080p will be the best choice for a vertical monitor.

2560 x 1440, commonly known as 1440p or Quad HD, is a sharper resolution. Popular Science often refers to 1440p as a “sweet spot” for gaming monitors, as it allows players with mid-range or powerful gaming PCs to play many games at higher frame rates.

3840 x 2160, or 4K UHD for short, is the highest resolution you’ll see on a monitor. Unlike TVs, 4K resolution is definitely considered a luxury in a monitor. Unless you want the best image quality possible, 4K is overkill most of the time. If you’re planning to buy a very big monitor, 32 inches or larger, you might want to consider 4K to keep the picture looking as sharp as possible.

Refresh rate and response time

A monitor’s refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), tells you how many times your screen can update what’s happening on screen each second. Most productivity monitors feature a refresh rate at 60Hz, which works perfectly well for web browsing, word processing, and other everyday computing. If you’re a gamer, streamer, or doing intensive photo and video editing and you don’t want a highly specialized (and probably noticeably more expensive) monitor, we recommend picking a gaming monitor—particularly one with a 144Hz refresh rate, which allows for smoother animation.

Response time refers to the very small amount of input lag that your monitor introduces in sending actions from your keyboard or mouse to your computer, and then to your screen. Response time is a minor concern for most productivity monitors, including a vertical monitor. It is primarily a concern in competitive gaming. When looking at gaming monitors, we suggest looking for at least a 1ms response time, which is very common.

Connectivity

Before picking up a monitor, ensure it has the appropriate number of ports or inputs for your devices. Most modern monitors feature HDMI and DisplayPort connections to connect to a computer. Many also have USB ports to connect and charge additional devices. If you’re using an old PC, remember that you may need an adapter to connect over older connections like DVI.

Other features

By definition, all of the vertical monitors on our list can be rotated vertically. However, you may also find it important to adjust the monitor’s height or tilt it as well, which some stands allow and others do not. Likewise, some, but not all, monitors come with built-in speakers to play music or a built-in webcam.

FAQs 

Final thoughts on the best vertical monitors

• Best overall: LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B
• Best for gaming: Asus VG248QG
• Best for coding: BenQ PD2700U
• Best for streaming: Dell 25 Gaming Monitor (S2522HG)
• Best 4K: Philips Brilliance 279P1
• Best portable: KYY K3 
• Best budget: HP VH240a

Flipping a monitor 90 degrees to give yourself some scrolling room can be very useful, whether you’re looking at social media, coding, or reading long documents. If you’re buying a monitor with a vertical setup in mind, remember that it’s very easy to go overboard on the specs. You really don’t need a high refresh rate, 4K resolution, or best-in-class color accuracy for most of the applications where a vertical monitor makes the most sense.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best vertical monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		ViewSonic Elite XG320U		SEE IT	ViewSonic’s ELITE XG320U strikes the ideal balance between size, refresh rate, and resolution.
Best 27-inch		Samsung Odyssey G7		SEE IT	The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredibly balanced high-performance curved gaming monitor.
Best budget		Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A		SEE IT	ASUS’ TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A is a big, fast screen with a small price tag.

It’s easy to go into a store and get seduced by the biggest, brightest screen in the room, but the best gaming monitor varies from person to person and setup to setup. There are very good reasons to limit yourself to a smaller display and plenty of valid reasons to go extra large and ultrawide. The important thing is that you adjust your expectations for your monitor’s performance and price to match the size you’re looking for. We’ve looked at every shape and size, rating them by resolution, form factor, and function. If you need a quick recommendation on the best monitor size for gaming, we’ve got you; and if you want a longwinded explanation for why certain specs work better for some monitor sizes than others, we can help with that, too.

• Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U
• Best 24-inch: Dell Alienware AW2521H
• Best 27-inch: Samsung Odyssey G7
• Best 32-inch: Gigabyte M32U
• Best 40-inch or larger: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
• Best ultrawide: Dell Alienware AW3423DW
• Best budget: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A

How we picked the best gaming monitor by size

We here in Popular Science’s gear department spend a lot of time thinking about screens—particularly TVs and monitors. In the last year, we’ve published dozens of recommendation lists like this one about gaming monitors. I’ve personally teased out, concentrated, and absorbed countless hours of testing and research about the nuances of display technology, as my primary background as a critic is gaming and gaming hardware. Before contributing to PopSci, I reviewed games and peripherals for PCMag, IGN, Gamespot, GamesRadar, LaptopMag, Lifehacker, Gizmodo, and more. Needless to say, I play games every day and scrutinize them closely.

The best gaming monitors, by size: Reviews & Recommendations

If you were on the fence about what size monitor you wanted, I hope my brief rundowns helped you narrow down your choice. Now that we theoretically know what we want, here are the monitors that take the best advantage of their size. From a small, speedy 24-inch esports display to a massive TV-like monitor, we have an option for each of the major screen sizes. If you’d like to drill a little deeper and check out a wider range of monitors by resolution or utility, we’ve put together many types of monitor recommendations.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

ViewSonic

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon, eBay

Why it made the cut: ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U offers a fast refresh rate with very few compromises.

Specs

• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Refresh rate: 150Hz
• Panel type: Fast IPS
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: HDR600
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 1, HDMI 2.1 x 1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 with upstream, USB 3.2 with battery charging, USB 3.2 x 3, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• High resolution and high frame rate
• AMD FreeSync support
• Wide port selection

Cons

• Price

In 2022, we selected ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U as the best gaming monitor you can get, which is why it was the natural choice for this guide, too. This 4K display has a 150Hz refresh rate, which offers the best balance of resolution and refresh rate for most gamers. Console gamers can play the latest games at their maximum settings, while most PC players will have their needs satisfied. The only gamers who need a monitor with a faster refresh rate are those who play first-person shooters on a competitive level—nobody else will feel constrained by this display’s refresh rate.

We’re also pleased by the XG320U’s generous port selection. This display can be connected to one PC (via DisplayPort) and two consoles (via HDMI ports) simultaneously. Devices connected to this display’s DisplayPort and HDMI 2.1 port will be able to take full advantage of its high resolution and refresh rate due to its higher bandwidth. Meanwhile, this display’s assortment of USB-A ports turns it into an accessory hub.

The XG320U’s performance requires a pretty hefty up-front investment, but it’s absolutely worthwhile if your PC’s monitor is your primary gaming screen.

Best 24-inch: Dell Alienware AW2521H

Alienware

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon, eBay

Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW2521H offers the fastest possible refresh rate you can get right now, with the fewest compromises.

Specs

• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Refresh rate: 360Hz
• Panel type: Fast IPS
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: HDR10 (400 Nits)
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 with upstream, USB 3.2 with battery charging, USB 3.2 x 3, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Extremely high refresh rate
• Fast IPS panel gives you high speed and better color gamut
• Lots of extra USB ports

Cons

• Expensive for a 24-inch display
• Low max brightness

There are only a handful of 1080p monitors that can run games at 360Hz, which is the fastest refresh rate available from a monitor right now without overclocking. (There is a 500Hz gaming monitor on the way, though.) Of the current displays offering that arguably overblown spec, the Alienware AW2521H has the most polished look and balanced performance. Thanks to a “Fast IPS” panel, you’ll see brighter colors than other 360Hz displays, which feature fast but muted TN panels. 

It also features numerous quality-of-life features, including a thoughtful and suitably sci-fi-inspired design, as well as a shocking number of connection options, including five USB 3.2 ports. The AW2521H’s only glaring flaw is its poor brightness, which isn’t sufficient for playing games with HDR. That said, most players who prioritize the highest possible frame rate over everything else won’t lose sleep over the loss.

Best 27-inch: Samsung Odyssey G7

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 hits all the right specs, including an esports-grade refresh rate and an extra-bright QLED panel.

Specs

• Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Panel type: QLED (VA)
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: VESA DisplayHDR 600
• Ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4 x 2, USB 3.0 x 2, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• 27/1440p is a good size/resolution pair
• QLED-enhanced panel
• HDR-ready brightness
• 240Hz refresh rate

Cons

• Curved displays may not be for everyone

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is one of our favorite monitors. It’s our top curved monitor, our top 240Hz monitor for esports players, and popped in many other conversations. Why? Well, we love a 27-inch, 1440p monitor: It’s a great baseline spec for most players who have a mid-range or powerful gaming PC bought or built in the past few years. It’s fast, hitting a competition-ready 240Hz. It’s bright, topping out at an HDR-ready 600 nits. The Odyssey G7’s panel features a 1000R curve, which comes close to fully encompassing your field of view. Not all players love curved displays, particularly deep curves like this one, but it is a perfect fit for those who do. And if you’ve never tried one? Well, you may as well start something that nails all the other specs. (After trying it in a store, of course.)

Best 32-inch: Gigabyte M32U

Gigabyte

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32U has nearly every feature you’d want in a 4K gaming monitor, and it doesn’t even cost that much.

Specs

• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Panel type: Fast IPS
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: VESA DisplayHDR 400
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 x 3, USB-C, USB-B, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Affordable for size and resolution
• Built-in KVM Switch
• Strong color gamut
• Supports USB-C connection
• Multiple HDMI 2.1 connections

Cons

• Low max brightness
• USB-C video connection doesn’t charge laptop

Gigabyte’s M32U isn’t the flashiest 4K monitor by the most coveted gaming peripheral brand, but specs speak louder than branding. The 32-inch 4K display features a fast IPS panel that achieves a 90 percent DCI-P3 wide color gamut for bold, vivid color. It also features a tremendous range of connection options, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing you to play compatible PS5 and Xbox Series X games in 4K at 120Hz. It also works as a USB-C monitor thanks to DP Alt mode support, though it doesn’t deliver power so you’ll have to charge your laptop separately. Twitch streamers with day jobs will appreciate its built-in KVM switch, so you can plug your keyboard and mouse into the monitor’s USB ports and automatically switch them from device to device when you change inputs.

Though 4K monitors aren’t as exorbitant as they once were, it’s still very impressive to find such a fully featured monitor for less than $1,000. Even with a few flaws, like a poor max brightness of 400 nits, you’re getting incredible value here.

Best 40-inch or larger: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The 49-inch super ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the height of curved ultrawide decadence.

Specs

• Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels (32:9)
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Panel type: VA
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: DisplayHDR 2000
• Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 x 2, PC in, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• Gigantic curved ultrawide display
• Mini-LED backlighting provides immense brightness.
• Esports-ready 240Hz
• Deep 1000R curve

Cons

• Extremely expensive
• You may have trouble fitting it on a desk

For curved ultrawide obsessives, the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is a grail display. It’s an absolutely massive 49-inch, 32:9 panel that somehow manages a 240Hz refresh rate. (Such speed is usually reserved for smaller monitors.) With Quantum Mini-LED backlighting, it achieves TV-level brightness that’s perfect for HDR. Obviously, such a large monitor comes with some eccentricities: It’s big and very bright but features a 1000R curve that demands you sit very close to it to stay in the sweet spot. Also, at 49 inches, it may not even fit a smaller, more compact desk setup. On the other hand, it’s big enough to replace two 27-inch monitors. If you’re willing to build/adjust your setup to accommodate it, the Odyssey Neo G9 is an extremely curved ultrawide gaming experience.

Prefer a flatscreen and saving up to a grand? The 43-inch Odyssey Neo G7 offers a 4K UHD, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600 with Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Samsung Gaming Hub access.

Best ultrawide: Dell Alienware AW3423DW

Dell

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Why it made the cut: Dell’s first QD-OLED offers refined sharpness and bold color in a curved ultrawide form factor.

Specs

• Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
• Refresh rate: 175Hz
• Panel type: QD-OLED
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400/1000 nits
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 Gen 1 downstream x 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1 upstream, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

• QD-OLED screen generates incredible color, brightness, and contrast
• Speedy 175Hz refresh rate
• Lots of USB ports

Cons

• Expensive
• No HDMI 2.1

Until 2022, companies haven’t really offered OLED gaming monitors. OLED TVs have occupied store shelves for years, and we’re seeing companies put OLED displays in phones, game consoles, and laptops. Still, dedicated monitor manufacturers have held off on making the jump. Alienware is the first of a handful of manufacturers to do so this year.

The AW3423DW features a hybrid QD-OLED technology, which combines the color-enhancing “Quantum Dot” layer found in QLED TV panels with the backlighting technology of the OLED screen, where each pixel features its own independently controlled backlight. The combination, in theory, enhances the inherently low brightness of the ultra-sharp OLED display.

As such, the AW3423 can generate an incredibly vibrant picture, with an unprecedented 99 percent DCI-P3 wide color gamut for tremendous color accuracy and some of the best contrast you can get in a gaming monitor. That alone makes it worthy of special consideration, but it’s also a well-rounded display, with a high 175Hz refresh rate and a whopping five USB ports for extra connectivity. Since this is a “first” for gaming monitors, the AW3423 is tremendously expensive, and some users may want to wait until a wider range of QD-OLED monitors launch later this year to see if there are any kinks in the technology. Still, we expect (read: hope) that this could be the first step toward a “quantum” leap for high-end gaming monitors in all shapes and sizes.

Best budget: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A gives you a well-balanced, 27-inch, 1440p monitor that can hit 170Hz for less than $400.

Specs

• Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
• Refresh rate: 170Hz
• Panel type: IPS
• Response time: 1ms
• HDR/brightness: HDR10/350 nits
• Ports: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros 

• Great value
• Strong balance of screen, resolution, and refresh rate
• Lots of adjustability options

Cons

• DisplayPort 1.2, not 1.4
• Low max brightness

A perennial pick when you want strong core specs on a tight(ish) budget, the TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A gives you great value with well-balanced core specs for a lot less money than our other picks. The 27-inch IPS panel delivers decent color performance, with 99% sRGB coverage, and a great trio of core monitor specs: 27-inch screen size, 1440p resolution, and 170Hz refresh rate. Since this is an older model display—Asus makes a newer version—it is missing a couple of things we’d like, including up-to-date HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort connections. That said, if you don’t want to splurge on a killer monitor, this one will give most players what they need for an affordable price.

What to consider when buying a gaming monitor

Clearly, the size of your gaming monitor is important, but it is actually just one of many specs that make a gaming monitor good or great (or terrible). In fact, you should pick your monitor by balancing screen size, resolution, price, and several other factors. I bet you’ve already got your heart set on a specific size, so rather than running you through a crash course in what each spec means, I’ll provide some general insight into why you might want to pick each individual size.

If you’re interested in some deep dives into PC display specs, please check out some of our other monitor-focused explainers, such as the best cheap gaming monitors and the best monitors for color grading.

Size

There are thousands of gaming monitors on the market, but most fall into three sizes: 24, 27, and 32 inches. Our guide reflects that, although there’s a larger display available if you need—or have room for—an ultra-wide monitor.

Resolution

Your display’s resolution has the biggest impact on how good (clear) a game will look on the screen—assuming we’re talking about a modern game designed with the latest graphics. A 1080P (HD) screen will look fine, but 1440p and 4K screens will look even better. On the other hand, you’ll need a very powerful PC to play modern games in 4K, so it may make sense to get a screen with a lower resolution but a higher refresh rate.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate, which indicates how many times your monitor can update what’s happening on screen each second, sets the high bar for your games’ frame rate. A 144Hz refresh rate translates to 144 frames per second. That’s enough to allow most players to play many games at the highest frame rate their systems can handle.

Though a higher frame rate delivers diminishing returns to visual fidelity above 144Hz, splurging on a 1080p monitor with an even higher 240Hz, 300Hz, or even 360Hz refresh rate may generate an imperceivable but meaningful improvement to their reaction time. In the last couple of years, 240Hz monitors have shown up in larger sizes and higher resolutions, but you still need a smaller, lower-resolution monitor to unlock the highest possible refresh rate.

Ultrawide aspect ratios

In addition to conventional 16:9 displays, there’s a whole range of 21:9 and 32:9 ultrawide gaming monitors, which can extend your game out to the edges of your vision and enhance your immersion. Ultrawide monitors come in their own range of sizes and tend to trend larger to accentuate their expanded reach. A large ultrawide can take the place of two monitors, providing a similar amount of screen real estate for work, while allowing for a bezel-free experience in games, 

With curved monitors and ultrawides, we usually recommend buying the largest option that’s comfortable and compatible with your setup, as the overwhelming immersion is the selling point. Just make sure there’s room on and around your desk for it.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best monitor size for gaming

• Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U
• Best 24-inch: Dell Alienware AW2521H
• Best 27-inch: Samsung Odyssey G7
• Best 32-inch: Gigabyte M32U
• Best 40-inch or larger: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
• Best ultrawide: Dell Alienware AW3423DW
• Best budget: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A

Without knowing details like what kind of gaming PC you’re running and how much money you’re looking to spend, no one can really tell you what monitor size you should buy. You should make that decision based on what you have and how important it is that your games look their absolute best. It is very easy to overspend on a gaming monitor, especially if you’re into hardware, so the most important thing is to be honest and realistic with yourself.

And if that doesn’t help … a 27-inch, 1440p 144Hz monitor falls right in the middle. If it’s overkill, maybe it won’t be in your next system.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best monitor size for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Acer Aspire 5		SEE IT	The Acer Aspire 5 offers decent power at an affordable price.
Best for video editing		Asus Vivobook 15		SEE IT	Make a memorable home movie with the Asus Vivobook 15.
Best for school		Dell Inspiron 15		SEE IT	If you’re a student in need of an affordable but powerful machine, the Dell Inspiron 15 is a great pick.

At their best, gaming laptops offer powerful specs, high-resolution displays, and fast refresh rate screens. Unfortunately, the absolute best gaming laptops cost thousands of dollars. If money is no object, you can pay a tremendous amount of money and get an incredible machine in return. However, most of us have to think more pragmatically and that’s where the best gaming laptops under $500 come in.

Many of us do not have the luxury of spending a lot of money on a new laptop. In the world of gaming laptops, spending less money means you have a shorter window of playing the latest AAA games at high specs before you’ll need to upgrade again. If you’re willing to put concerns about fidelity aside, though, you can get a perfectly good laptop that should play a decent number of PC games for as little as $500. Will they all look great and run well? Probably not, but they’re still fun to play. The best gaming laptops under $500 give you the most gaming power possible on a shoestring budget.

• Best overall: Acer Aspire 5
• Best for video editing: Asus Vivobook 15
• Best for school: Dell Inspiron 15
• Best for streaming: Lenovo IdeaPad 3i
• Best 2-in-1: Dell Inspiron 14

How we chose the best gaming laptops under $500

I’ve been booting up games on Steam for as long as I can remember, and have written about computers for more than a decade on sites like Popular Science, Gear Patrol, and CNN Underscored. I’ve tested all manner of PCs and laptops to find the latest and greatest devices. To find the best gaming laptops under $500, a challenging task, I researched what kind of hardware you may be able to purchase with such a budget. With that information in-hand, I selected the individual picks based on third-party reviews and consumer feedback.

The best gaming laptops under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding a good laptop for under $500, let alone one capable of playing games, is a serious challenge. As you’ll see, most of our picks fall well under the basic standards we set for gaming laptops. Make no mistake: These are compromise picks to help you make the best of a less than ideal situation. With $500, we’d recommend people purchase a console for gaming, an iPad for general computing, or hold out for a major sale like Prime Day or Black Friday in the hopes of getting a rare deal on a more expensive gaming laptop.

Best overall: Acer Aspire 5 Slim

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Aspire 5 Slim’s Ryzen 3 3350U will ensure you can play many of the industry’s most popular games on low settings.

Specs

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3350U
• GPU: Radeon Vega 6
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
• Dimensions: 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches
• Weight: 3.97 pounds
• Connectivity: USB-C 3.1 Gen 1, USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 x 2; HDMI 1.4b, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1

Pros

• Expansive 15.6-inch FHD display
• Decent port selection
• 8GB of RAM

Cons

• Plastic build

The newest version of the Acer Aspire 5 Slim features an expansive 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, AMD Ryzen 3 3350U quad-core processor, and 8GB of RAM. (For $40 more, you can bump that up to 12GB of RAM.) The laptop also features Radeon Vega 6 graphics and a 256GB SSD, so games should run and load quickly. There is also a spacious trackpad, a full keyboard with a row of number keys, and a numeric keypad on the right.

Additionally, the Acer Aspire features a USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 port, an HDMI port with HDCP support, Wi-Fi 6, and up to 8 hours of battery life. It’s a good mix of specs, battery life, and price—and should be enough to run games like Fortnite and Minecraft.

Best for video editing: Asus Vivobook 15

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Vivobook 15’s combination of the Intel i3, UHD graphics, and 8GB is enough to edit memorable family vacation videos.

Specs

• Processor: Intel i3-10054G1
• GPU: Intel UHD
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB SSD
• Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
• Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.78 inches
• Weight: 3.75 pounds
• Connectivity: USB-C 3.2, USB-A 3.2, USB-A 2.0 x 2, HDMI, microSD, WiFi, Bluetooth

Pros

• Decent port selection
• 8GB of RAM
• Fingerprint sensor

Cons

• Small trackpad

Video editing on an affordable laptop isn’t ideal, but the Asus Vivobook 15 provides users with a decently-powerful experience. The laptop features a 15.6-inch Full HD display, an Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor, an Intel UHD GPU, and 8GB of RAM. That’s good enough for basic video editing and color correction of short clips for social media—just don’t expect to edit any video other than Full HD or lower.

The Asus Vivobook 15 also features a 128GB SSD, a touchpad and keyboard, and USB-C 3.2, so you can quickly transfer video files to and from external devices. You also get an HDMI port, USB-A 3.2, and USB-A 2.0 for connecting additional peripherals.

Best for school: Dell Inspiron 15

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Dell Inspiron 15’s simple design is great for schoolwork, and can play a game or two between study sessions.

Specs

• Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
• GPU: Intel UHD
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
• Dimensions: 14.11 x 9.27 x 0.74 inches
• Weight: 3.82 pounds
• Connectivity: USB-A 3.0 x 2, USB-A 2.0, HDMI, SD card, WiFi, Bluetooth

Pros

• Big, comfortable 15.6-inch display
• Decent size SSD
• SD card slot

Cons

• Limited port selection

If you need something simple to power through note-taking, research papers, and presentations, the Dell Inspiron 15 (3511) is an excellent option. Of course, you’ll want to take breaks—and there’s no better way to unwind than with video games. Dell’s affordable laptop features an Intel Core i3 processor, UHD graphics, and 8GB of RAM to power through games like Rocket League and Counter-Strike: GO. The Inspiron 15 also features a 256SSD, giving you plenty of storage to save those vital school projects and download your favorite titles from Steam.

Best for streaming: Lenovo IdeaPad 3i

Lenovo

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i features Intel Iris Xe graphics, 512GB SSD, and 8GB of RAM, making it a powerful option for gaming and streaming.

Specs

• Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
• Dimensions: 14.26 x 9.98 x 0.78 inches
• Weight: 3.75 pounds
• Connectivity: USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 x 2, USB-A 2.0, HDMI 1.4, SD card, WiFi 5, Bluetooth

Pros

• Screen can fold flat
• 512GB SSD
• Intel Iris Xe

Cons

• Thick bezels

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is still nowhere near one of the best gaming laptops available but it provides fairly impressive performance for its extremely affordable price. It  features an Intel Core i3 processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and 8GB of RAM, giving you the components necessary to broadcast your games to the world. It may not be the smoothest experience, but you must start somewhere. The IdeaPad 3i also features a 512GB SSD, HDMI, two USB-A 3.2, and a 45Wh battery, which should get you through a full day of usage with light to medium use.

Best 2-in-1: Dell Inspiron 14

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Dell’s Inspiron 14 packs in decently powerful specs for the price in an attractive 2-in-1 design.

Specs

• Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
• GPU: Intel UHD
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Screen size: 14-inch FHD (1366 x 768)
• Dimensions: 12.77 x 8.77 x 0.75 inches
• Weight: 3.58 pounds
• Connectivity: USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 x 2, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, SD card, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1

Pros

• 2-in-1 design
• Small, portable design
• USB-C and SD card

Cons

• Lower resolution display

For just a smidge over our $500 budget, the Inspiron 14 2-in-1 features a 14-inch HD touchscreen display, an Intel Core i3 processor, Intel UHD graphics, and 8GB of RAM. That’s enough power to run multiple applications and browser tabs smoothly. More importantly, it’s good enough to give us our gaming fix—and the 256GB SSD is plenty big to download free-to-play and other popular titles. The Inspiron 14 also features a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port for power delivery and data transfer and two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports. It also features an SD card slot, rounding out one of the sleeker, more sophisticated options on our list.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming laptops under $500

The fact of the matter is, you can’t really get a new dedicated gaming laptop for $500. For reference, our list of the best cheap gaming laptops highlights strong systems that cost less than $1,000, and it often features models that are 1-2 years old. Most of our picks are budget productivity laptops that happen to provide decent processing power for their prices. Few, if any, feature a dedicated graphics card, which you’d need to play many of the biggest games. Those that work will only run on low or medium settings.

If you are purchasing this device specifically for gaming, there are many other devices that will offer you a much better experience for that same $500. Though they can be hard to find, we would recommend any of the current game consoles over these laptops, including the PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch. You might also consider the 2022 iPad Air, which provides access to an increasingly large library of games thanks to game streaming services like Xbox Game Pass. In the realm of PCs, you may be able to build a budget desktop gaming PC for around $500 using older and/or used parts. This may be more difficult than in the past due to pandemic-era supply constraints, but it is not outside the realm of possibility.

If you have your heart set on a laptop, or need a more holistic device, here are the basics of picking a laptop so you can make your own choice:

Processor

The central processing unit, or CPU, is the beating heart of any computer. It performs the computations your computer makes to run programs and perform various tasks, from word processing to editing photos. A computer’s true performance relies on a number of factors, but the two easiest ways to gauge the power of a CPU, specifically, are the chip’s computing cores and its clock speed. Clock speed, shown in Hz, measures the number of computations or “cycles” the processor can make each second. For example, a CPU with a clock speed of 2.8Ghz executes 2.8 billion cycles per second. 

Meanwhile, compute cores give your processor the ability to handle multiple tasks at the same time. Broadly speaking, more cores means better multitasking, especially with more processor-intensive tasks like encoding video.

When discussing the best, we expect modern Windows laptops to feature an 11th or 12th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor with 6-8 processor cores, or an AMD Ryzen 5 processor with 6-8 cores. Since we’re looking at laptops with the tightest of cost constraints, you’re more likely to see the older version of the most basic processors available, such as a 10th-Generation Intel Core i3 processor, or something from AMD’s Ryzen 3000 series. If forced to choose, it never hurts to sacrifice bells and whistles for a basic laptop with a good CPU. The processor, more than any other component, determines how long your laptop will perform at its peak level.

Graphics

The graphics processing unit, or GPU, is an essential component in any gaming laptop and makes it possible to render graphics in 2D and 3D. If you’re working with high-resolution video and art, a GPU takes some of the strain off the CPU and makes rendering everything much faster.

Typically, gaming PCs feature dedicated graphics cards–a second processor to handle visual processing for games, video encoding, and other tasks with lots of … well, graphics. Two companies, Nvidia and AMD, make dedicated graphics cards for desktops and more compact versions for laptops. Occasionally, you will find a very large laptop with a “full-size” desktop graphics card. These laptops often weigh more than you should carry on your back every day.

For the purposes of this list, however, we will focus on integrated graphics, which is a small processing chip built into your laptop’s CPU. Integrated graphics are designed to perform basic graphics processing, such as web browsing and streaming video. They aren’t designed to handle new games or other GPU-intensive work. In the current gaming landscape, there are lots of games that can run acceptably well on integrated graphics, but no game will look as good or run without hiccups on integrated graphics, especially the integrated graphics on a low-end processor.

Memory

Random access memory, or RAM, gives your applications a place to temporarily store data, and quickly access it again if necessary. If your workflow involves using several applications at once, you’ll want a laptop that offers more RAM. Manufacturers generally allow consumers to upgrade their RAM before they make a purchase, and sometimes even after. 

For gaming, we recommend 16GB on a new machine, since you often cannot add RAM to a laptop. This will give you the space to run more intense games while performing other tasks, like running streaming software. Again, though, for $500 or less you’ll likely have to settle for 4GB or 8GB.

Display

As with dedicated gaming monitors, the best gaming laptops can make games look great with sharp, vibrant displays. Gamers may want a larger screen, as it helps build immersion, especially in a temporary space. If we had to highlight one size in particular, it would be 15 inches. At this size, the screen is large enough for a comfortable gaming experience, but it doesn’t make your laptop too big to carry all day. Some gaming laptops offer 17-inch displays, but that’s only a good size if your laptop spends most of its time on a desk.

Whatever size you land upon, chances are it will feature a 1080p (Full HD) screen. A 1080p display will make your games look sharp enough and ensure your computer doesn’t buckle under the strain. If you want a display that’s 1440p (Quad HD) or 4K (Ultra-High Definition) and offers a high refresh rate, you’ll have to look at a more expensive gaming laptop with a more powerful GPU.

Battery life

People buy gaming laptops so they can play games anywhere, but the PC battery life can limit that promise substantially. The hard truth is that gaming laptops don’t offer the best battery life. Even the best, most expensive models won’t get through a full day of heavy use.

With our current picks, which don’t have dedicated graphics cards, you may actually see better battery life than a great gaming laptop—a small bright spot. That said, your laptops will burn through battery much faster when playing games than other tasks, so you should be strategic about how much you play. Keep one eye on your battery indicator and the other on the lookout for available outlets.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best gaming laptops under $500

• Best overall: Acer Aspire 5
• Best for video editing: Asus Vivobook 15
• Best for school: Dell Inspiron 15
• Best for streaming: Lenovo IdeaPad 3i
• Best 2-in-1: Dell Inspiron 14

The good news is that modern processors with integrated GPUs are becoming more powerful every year, making it possible to play games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox on a wide range of machines. That said, the best gaming hardware you can buy for $500 is not a laptop. It’s a console or a tablet. If you want a gaming laptop that will make your games sing, you’ll have to spend substantially more. 

If you’d like to know more about buying a gaming laptop that delivers great performance and value, check out some of our other explainers on the topic, including the best gaming laptops and the best cheap gaming laptops. They may be expensive, but a great laptop will last five years or more, while you may only get a couple of good years out of these recommendations.

The post The best gaming laptops under $500 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display		SEE IT	This beautiful big screen has you covered no matter what you want to do.
Best 27-inch		HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor		SEE IT	With a pop-up camera, two anti-echo microphones, and an ergonomic stand, you’re in business with this productivity-focused monitor
Best 4K		HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display		SEE IT	Plenty of pixels and connectivity bolster this screen.

A good computer monitor is an absolute necessity. After all, it’s your window to the world. Everything you do on your computer will happen through your monitor—whether that be work, web surfing, gaming, or streaming content—so it may as well as be as good as you can afford. “Good” here certainly includes size (we all like to have a lot of real estate at our disposal), but it also includes things like refresh rate, contrast, color, ergonomics, and useful extras. In a word, get the biggest and best that your budget and workspace allow. Your digital life will thank you for it. And if you’re in the market for the most bang for your buck, consider the best HP monitors.

There are quite a few monitor manufacturers to choose from. Hewlett-Packard—better known as HP—makes office equipment, computers, and computer peripherals, including a wealth of solid choices for your next monitor. With more than 80 years of experience, this American manufacturer knows what it’s doing and many of the company’s screens are of both high-quality and affordable. One caveat: given HP’s history as a business-focused provider, many of its monitors are aimed at work rather than play, but that’s not to say that the company doesn’t have gamers covered too, as we’ll see in this list.

• Best overall: HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display
• Best 27-inch: HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor
• Best 24-inch: HP 24mh FHD Monitor
• Best for video editing: HP Z43 42.5-inch 4K UHD Display
• Best 4K: HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display
• Best gaming monitor: HP OMEN 27c Monitor
• Best budget:HP VH240a 23.8-inch 1080p IPS LED Monitor

How we picked the best HP monitors

As a freelance writer and computer-based musician who works from home, I spend a lot of time looking at a monitor. And my monitor of choice happens to be an HP. To arrive at this, I spent a lot of time researching monitors from other companies, as well as those of HP. It seemed the natural choice for my budget and I’ve been nothing but pleased with my purchase. To arrive at the screens on this list, I used a similar selection process, looking at features, specifications, and prices of a number of units, then comparing them to expert analysis from peers, trusted consumer product reviewers, as well as user impressions.

The best HP monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Our recommendations for the best HP monitors cover the gamut from business machines to gaming displays, with a number of different sizes and resolutions available, and with prices that range from budget-conscious to high-limit credit card level. There’s also a variety of connectivity on hand. Grab your monitor shopping list and start ticking off those boxes.

Best overall: HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display

HP

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Why it made the cut: Beautiful and true colors, plus generous screen size, make this the perfect monitor for general use cases.

Specs

• Size: 32-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI 1.4 I/O, DisplayPort 1.2 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1), USB 3.0 (2)
• Panel type: VA

Pros

• Excellent image quality
• QHD resolution
• FreeSync support
• Mini joystick controller

Cons

• No height or swivel adjustment
• No built-in speakers

You’re not a specialist in any one area. You just need a monitor that will perform well across the board. If this is you, look no further than HP’s Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display. As the name suggests, it has a 32-inch screen, which is plenty of real estate for whatever you need to do, whether that be work, video editing, gaming or streaming. The QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution and 92 pixels per inch density are acceptable for general home use. With its VA panel type, it’s particularly well-suited to video and photos, with excellent colors and sRGB—Standard Red Green Blue, the main color space used by monitor manufacturers—representation. The casual gamer will enjoy the AMD FreeSync support, which ensures that there’s no image tearing as a result of incompatible frame rates. However, the 60Hz refresh rate could be a turn-off for hardcore gamers (don’t worry, we’ve got you covered later in this list). Plenty of connectivity and a joystick-based navigation system round out the package. At around $250 street, it’s also extremely affordable.

Best 27-inch: HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor

HP

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Why it made the cut: This Zoom-certified business monitor has all the extras you need for video conferencing and remote work, plus impressive color and brightness.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh rate: 75Hz
• Ports: HDMI 1.4 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 I/O, USB-c (1), USB 3.1 (4), RJ-45 Ethernet (1)
• Panel type: ISP

Pros

• Good sRGB color
• 5-megapixel webcam
• Stereo speakers and two microphones
• Ergonomic stand

Cons

• Expensive
• Navigation is fiddly

The rise in remote work/schooling has changed many things, including what we need for “the office.” With more and more people working from home, video conferencing has become de rigueur in business. Enter the conferencing monitor, a new category of business monitor that places video meetings front and center. HP’s E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor is our pick for the best 27-inch monitor for just this reason. With its built-in pop-up 5-megapixel camera, loud stereo speakers, and dual anti-echo microphones, it excels as a conference facilitator. Throw in easily accessible ports including USB-C, regular USB, and even an Ethernet port (and network management function support) plus plenty of swivel and mounting options, and you’re ready to rock and roll in a business-appropriate manner. It’s even Zoom certified. As a monitor, it’s no slouch, either, with 2560 x 1440 resolution and 108 pixels per inch, solid sRGB color results, and a refresh rate of 75Hz. All of these perks come with a price tag (around $550) but, hey, you can always write it off as a business expense.

Best 24-inch: HP 24mh FHD Monitor

HP

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Why it made the cut: A high contrast ratio and superb color response plus a flexible stand push this HP 24-incher out into the limelight.

Specs

• Size: 23.8-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 75Hz
• Ports: HDMI 1.4 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 (1), VGA (1)
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Surprising sRGB response
• High contrast
• Ergonomic stand
• Built-in speakers

Cons

• Brightness could be better

When you buy a 24-inch monitor, you can’t expect too much. Higher resolution and fancy extras are par for the course with bigger displays but you’re often forced to take what you can get when space is at a premium. Thankfully, there’s very little to sacrifice with HP’s 24mh FHD Monitor. It’s got an excellent sRGB response for a screen this size, plus a very nice contrast ratio. It even boasts a refresh rate of 75Hz, which is good news for those working with video or playing the occasional MMO. Where it really surprises, though, are the extras. With a DisplayPort 1.2 connector, plus HDMI and VGA, it can be used as a second monitor. You can also adjust the height up to 4 inches and even switch to portrait mode. Two 2-watt speakers complete the package.

Best for video editing: HP Z43 42.5-inch 4K UHD Display

HP

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Why it made the cut: A massive screen and 350 nits of brightness make this HP’s best for video editing.

Specs

• Size: 42.5-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 (1), USB-C (2), USB 3.0 (3)
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Great big 42.5-inch screen
• 4K resolution
• Nice and bright
• Plenty of connectivity

Cons

• 60Hz refresh rate
• No height adjustment

There’s something to be said for a big monitor. Whether you’re working with video, gaming, or just need a lot of space to keep many windows open, a large display can be a wonderful thing. HP’s Z43 Monitor has you covered then. With a 42.5-inch screen, there’s lots of wide open space to get lost in. It’s also 4K with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 and pixel density of 103 PPI. HP rates the brightness at 350 nits, meaning the screen will stay visible even in bright light, and with sRGB coverage of 96%, your photos and videos will translate to other viewing situations reliably. Plus its gray-to-gray response time of 8ms will ensure little to no ghosting in movies. The 60Hz refresh rate could be better, and height adjustment to go along with the tilt and swivel functions wouldn’t hurt, but if you’re set on an HP to expand on a laptop for video editing setup, the Z43 should be on your list.

Best 4K: HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display

HP

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Why it made the cut: A wealth of productivity options bolster the specs on HP’s Z27k G3 4K display.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 I/O, USB-C (1), USB 3.2 (4), RJ45 Ethernet (1)
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Impressive colors
• Solid contrast
• USB-C port can deliver 100 watts of power
• Ergonomic stand

Cons

• Pricey

When it’s time to get down to work, you need a monitor that will do more than just not get in your way. You want a display that will work with you and hopefully do it in 4K. You’re in luck, as HP’s Z27k G3 4K Display is just that productivity monitor. The specs start with UHD 3840 x 2160 resolution—given that it’s a 27-inch monitor, that puts the pixel density at a luxurious 163 PPI. Higher density means sharper images, and that’s just what you get here, crisp enough even for small text and images. Color is superb, as is contrast, with enough brightness (350 nit) for most situations. The productivity side comes into play with the docking station, with tons of connectivity including USB-C that charges at a hot 100 watts—that is, if you’re using an HP laptop. Otherwise, it’s 65 watts. The stand is suitably ergonomic as well, and the panel can be pivoted to vertical (portrait) mode if need be. While it’s a little on the pricey side compared to other models with similar specs, this display is certainly impressive in all the right places.

Best gaming monitor: HP OMEN 27c Monitor

HP

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Why it made the cut: A blisteringly fast refresh rate and aggressively curved monitor make HP’s gaming monitor a solid contender.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1), USB 3.2 (2)
• Panel type: VA

Pros

• Super fast 240Hz refresh rate
• 1000R curvature
• Strong color accuracy
• FreeSync support

Cons

• Visual artifacts from VA display

HP has built its reputation on business-focused devices and peripherals. You don’t often think of the company when it comes to gaming. That’s changing, though, and HP’s OMEN 27c Monitor is proof of that. A strong gaming monitor at a more than reasonable price, it’s not perfect but it does excel in a few key areas. The first you’ll notice before you even turn it on. With a curvature of 1000R, it draws your field of view naturally into the gameplay, helping to create an immersive experience and avoid repetitive stress on your neck. The other selling point is the refresh rate. At 240Hz (one of our favorite specs for a top-notch gaming monitor) it’s quite zippy, resulting in butter-smooth motion. As with the other HP monitors on this list, the color response is also superb—throw in a high contrast ratio and plenty of brightness, and you’re set for a long night of gaming. It’s not perfect, though. There are occasional visual artifacts as a result of the VA response time, and the display’s HDR implementation could be better, but if gaming is your thing, it could be just the golden ticket.

Best budget: HP VH240a 23.8-inch 1080p IPS LED Monitor

HP

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Why it made the cut: A grip of extras plus solid colors and contrast lift this budget monitor above its price point.

Specs

• Size: 23.8-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Refresh rate: 60Hz
• Ports: HDMI (1), VGA (1)
• Panel type: IPS

Pros

• Impressive colors for the price
• High contrast
• Ergonomic stand
• Stereo 2-watt speakers

Cons

• Lacking in connectivity

While there’s a lot to be said for a monitor that can do it all, sometimes all you need is a monitor to show you what’s on your computer screen. Extensive connectivity, gaming extras, web cameras—these are all unnecessary. If this is your concern, or you’re on a budget and just need a monitor that will get the job done, HP’s VH240a Monitor is the one for you. With a 23.8-inch IPS screen and a 60Hz refresh rate, it’s more than capable of handling day-to-day computing tasks. It has HP’s solid color numbers, with a nice, high contrast ratio that’s impressive at the sub-$200 price point. Surprisingly, it also boasts a highly ergonomic stand that can pivot to portrait mode, making it a good candidate for a second screen. It even has stereo speakers, a bonus for a monitor of this price. While it may be lacking in connectivity, it has plenty else to recommend it.

Things to consider when shopping for the best HP monitors

With such a wide variety of monitor types, it can be hard to know where to start. The first thing you’ll want to consider is size. Monitors come in a number of different sizes (measured diagonally across the screen, of course). Bigger is probably better but there’s also the matter of desktop real estate. A small corner desk will require a monitor with very different dimensions than, say, a wide table. You’ll also want to keep in mind how you plan to use your new screen. A monitor geared toward remote work will have a number of features that you may not need if your intended use is for streaming content or gaming. Connectivity is another matter to examine. What kinds of ports do you need? Once you’ve settled this, you’ll find your options narrowing down to a few strong candidates.

What makes up a monitor?

Not every monitor is the same. Even ones of the same screen width could have very different specifications. There’s size, of course, but there’s also resolution. A nice, wide monitor may give you the space you need but it won’t look good without a high-enough resolution to do it justice. A good resolution will give you both clarity of image and more space to spread out your work. Another aspect of monitors is refresh rate—how many times per second the display is able to redraw images. This is important when it comes to motion—streaming video and games, especially. For non-gaming monitors, a 60Hz refresh rate is standard but faster rates will give you smoother results.

Not every monitor is made of the same stuff. There are three main types of display panel used in modern monitors. They are IPS (In-Plane Switching), TN (Twisted Nematic), and VA (Vertical Alignment). They all have different plusses. IPS is the most common and offers a solid balance of features. TN monitors tend to be more affordable and provide a slightly better response time. Lastly, VA monitors excel at contrast and black levels but can lag when it comes to response time.

Display resolution: Resolution refers to how many pixels a monitor can display in terms of width and height. The more pixels crammed into a display, the sharper the image will be. There are resolution standards, with HP often referring to these standards with acronyms. HD (also known as 720p) has a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. The next up on the list is Full HD, or FHD (also known as 1080p). This has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Continuing up, there’s WUXGA (widescreen ultra extended graphics array) with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. Next is QHD (quad high definition) with 2560 x 1440 resolution. This has four times the resolution of standard definition; it’s also sometimes referred to as 2K. After that is Ultra HD (or UHD) with 3840 x 2160 pixels. This is also known as 4K. The current top level is 5K with 5120 x 2880 pixels found in specialty (read very expensive) models, such as Apple’s Studio Display.

Connectivity: There are a number of different kinds of ports that you can find on monitors. The most common is HDMI but there are actually four different HDMI cable types. HDMI standard can handle resolutions up to 1080p; HDMI High Speed is for 4K resolution; HDMI Premium High Speed will work with HDR-enabled devices; and HDMI Ultra High Speed (made to meet the HDMI 2.1 standard) is what you’ll need if you require support for uncompressed 8K video and 48 Gbps bandwidth.

Launched in 2008, DisplayPort is a newer standard and is often used for gaming or video editing. There are three types of DisplayPort cables. DisplayPort 1.2 is for monitors with a resolution of up to 3840 x 2160 (UHD 4K) with a 60Hz refresh rate. DisplayPort 1.3 handles 8K video at a 30Hz refresh rate, while DisplayPort 1.4 is for 8K video at 60Hz and HDR video.

Another connection type is USB-C. For modern machines, this is the preferred way to connect laptops to external monitors. You may also encounter regular USB ports on some monitors as well. Meanwhile, two older types you may see are DVI and VGA.

FAQs

A final word on selecting the best HP monitors

Hewlett-Packard has been in the business for a long time. The company brings all of that experience to bear on its products, monitors included, so HP’s screens should always be considered when making the decision to buy a new one. While HP does lean toward business-focused screens, there are plenty of other types available, and often at very reasonable prices. With the right research and a category-focused approach, you’ll be able to select the best HP monitor that will hopefully complement your computing needs.

The post The best HP monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor		SEE IT	Plenty of display real estate, plus the ability to split the screen, make this wall-mountable USB-C monitor extra efficient.
Best 4K		HP 27-inch 4K UHD		SEE IT	Ultra-thin bezels, blue light protection, low-blur technology, and great tilt range make for an optimum viewing option.
Best Value		Samsung Business S27R650FDN		SEE IT	Wide viewing angles, plus equally robust connectivity options, are packed in an energy-saving easy on the eyes display.

Programming and living behind a screen are basically synonymous, so for high-quality coding and study you deserve comfort and an optimized monitor for programming is a great place to start. While the stereotype of the hacking coder, slouched into a chair, wearing a hoodie, and blasting their eyes with a bright screen in a dark room is fun to think about, the result will only be a horrible experience.

Instead, if you’re a real coder of today, you probably realize that you have a long, steady career ahead of you. Increased comfort and feeling good on the job will lead to a fruitful workday and a clear head, ready to innovate. With work from home not going anywhere soon, especially in the knowledge work sector, it is falling more and more on the shoulders of the worker to get their own computer equipment. As a result, we invite you to consider upgrading your life with one of our best monitors for programming picks.

• Best overall: LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor
• Best 4K: HP 27-inch 4K UHD
• Best value: Samsung Business S27R650FDN
• Best for gaming and programming: Samsung Odyssey G9
• Best portable: SideTrak Swivel 14”
• Best budget: BenQ GW2780

How we chose the best monitors for programming

Staring at screens, typing out notes, and looking through comparison tables is something both the writer and the programmer handle on a daily basis, so personal experience helped guide this guide. Discussing the matter of picking a monitor with software engineers themselves helps too, of course, with key concerns including size and resolution. I also looked at user impressions, their concerns, and what critics see as coming trends, such as more working from home; for these reasons, I adjusted toward results that prioritize comfort and eye health after long-term usage.

Ultimately, good monitors for programming are good monitors for computing. Expect to see some overlap in how programming monitors are evaluated with other categories of monitor, such as gaming monitors and trading monitors, etc. The key differences, such as being used for work activities with less chances of a break, are going to be where we put in a significant portion of our comparison efforts, but a good monitor will always be a good monitor.

The best monitors for programming: Reviews & Recommendations

The best monitors for programming include a wide range of brands, makes, and features. Again, a good monitor for programming will be good for a wide variety of uses. Any of the monitors on this list will be good for any purpose, but also happen to have some qualities that give them the edge over the competition when it comes to quality coding time.

Best overall: LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor

LG

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Why it made the cut: This monitor is ultrawide, the perfect size, and has on-screen controls to make it the best possible experience for people wanting to use multiple windows at once.

Specs

• Size: 34”
• Resolution: 3440 x 1440 pixels
• Screen: Anti-glare, Hard coating

Pros

• Built-in screen-splitting options
• USB-C works great with the MacBook Pro
• Excellent height adjustability for neck comfort
• 100 x 100 VESA wall-mountable

Cons

• Expensive

The LG 34WN80C-B Ultrawide is designed for intensive programming at home. This is seen in its On-Screen tech, maneuverability, and MacBook Pro connectability. It also happens to be one of the best ultrawide monitors for working at home.

The first way this can be seen is through the huge customization ability available through LG’s On-Screen control options. Using this feature you can subdivide your screen into defined boxes. Click, drag, and pop your relevant windows into place to fill each section and get the most out of the monitor. You’ll notice that you have space for debugging windows, coding screens, GitHub pages, and more all on one monitor without feeling cramped. Naturally, the 34-inch ultrawide size of this LG plays into that, but the on-screen controls will certainly pull their weight.

Next, let’s talk about maneuverability. This monitor does a great job of accommodating coders of any height by having just over half a foot of vertical height adjustment. Furthermore, this is accomplished without finicky knobs or difficult-to-reach panels, you can just move it with your hands and the spring-loaded mechanism of the stand will take care of the rest.

Finally, consider that this monitor supports USB-C, making it a really good combo with MacBook Pro laptops. Considering that macOS is a preferred programming environment, there’s a good chance that either your current or next company computer will be one. There are other good monitor options for MacBook Pro users but not all of them will prove to be best for programmers.

Best 4K: HP 27-inch 4K UHD

HP

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Why it made the cut: This is a 4K monitor for programming with built-in blue light filtering, excellent tilting, and the ultra high resolution you deserve.

Specs

• Size: 27”
• Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
• Tilt: 5 degrees forward, 16 degrees backward

Pros

• AMD FreeSync for low blur
• Ultra-thin bezel
• Built-in blue light protection
• Great backward tilt range

Cons

• Not VESA compatible for mounting

The HP 27-inch 4K UHD provides a decent size while giving you the 4K resolution you’ll need for intensive graphical projects and standard computer use. The added blue light protection that comes built-in with the monitor is a nice addition for making sure a couple of crunch time hours at night don’t cut into your success the next day.

Multi-monitor setups will particularly enjoy the sub-quarter-inch bezel around the sides of the monitor. Quickly flicking your eyes to your other monitor is comfortable and not immersion-breaking like it can be with some monitors. In fact, if you manage to bump your monitors close enough together, it can feel practically like one monitor from a vision perspective.

One thing I wasn’t so happy about with this monitor was the lack of VESA mount holes. Luckily, the monitor is still quite adjustable with six degrees downward tilt and 17 degrees upward, making this HP quite great for those of you that like to tower over your monitor as you work. Ultimately, we think you’ll likely not miss the ability to pair this with a monitor arm unless that just so happens to be a priority for you.

It all comes together to give us an outstanding monitor for programming that fits in well with HP’s solid general-purpose monitors. While this HP fits in as the best 4K monitor for programming, you should certainly check out the others if you are an HP fan.

Best value: Samsung Business S27R650FDN

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This monitor approaches budget pricing while still having great features for professionals.

Specs

• Size: 27”
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Viewing angle: 172 degrees

Pros

• Includes Eye Saver Mode
• Wide viewing angle for collaboration
• Full connectivity panel
• Energy-saving mode

Cons

• Unreliable DisplayPort connection

The Samsung Business S27R650FDN has “business” right in the name but does it hold up to being the best value monitor for programming work? Based on the features and specs that Samsung has managed to pour into it, we’d respond with a resounding “yes.” That’s without mentioning one of the most businesslike features of all, its economical energy-saving mode and bargain sticker price.

With workers in mind, the Samsung Business uses the included Eye Saver Mode to reduce blue light from the monitor. Flicker-Free technology is also included to keep your eyes comfortable and feeling rested through a long shift.

Especially useful for teams and collaborative efforts, the Samsung Business has a 172-degree viewing angle and a wide connectivity panel to support a wide range of devices, including those that use USB 3.0 (including B type), USB 2.0, DisplayPort, HDMI, and old school RGB. For those with a ton of devices, this will certainly be the best value monitor for programming. The only caveat to this is that the DisplayPort is touchy and unreliable, dropping for some users.

Best for gaming and programming: Samsung Odyssey G9

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G9 is the best monitor for gaming and programming due to its size, resolution, and high-performance gaming screen.

Specs

• Size: 49”
• Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels
• Refresh rate: 240Hz

Pros

• Gigantic screen size
• Vivid color display
• Intensive curve

Cons

• Very expensive

Here’s another fantastic ultrawide option for your gaming and programming pleasure. Much like our pick for the overall best monitor for programming, the Samsung Odyssey G9 provides a massive screen ready to fit many windows, charts, graphs, debug menus, and the like.

What’s different about the G9 is that it is also one of the best ultrawide gaming monitors, with insanely high refresh rates of 240Hz and a 1 millisecond response time. Add on top of this the AMD FreeSync technology that ensures that your monitor matches a compatible graphics card frame-by-frame and you have a recipe for back-to-back after-work headshots.

Additionally, the G9 has a curve at a degree that copies the curve of the human eye. This helps reduce the need to constantly bend your neck to take in the fullness of the screen. That doesn’t mean that you’ll never wish to crane your neck or tilt your head while using a G9, of course, but you should notice a subtle reduction in neck and shoulder stress when compared to other curved monitors for programming.

One thing to keep in mind is that the G9 is bigger than nearly any other monitor out there, which makes it a great choice of large monitor for programming. Unfortunately, the sticker price has had the chance to measure every square inch of the G9 and has been able to keep up with it. While this is certainly not a cheap monitor for programming, it will keep you happy.

Best portable: SideTrak Swivel 14”

SideTrak

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Why it made the cut: This portable monitor naturally attaches to your laptop to give you the dual-monitor office feel on the go.

Specs

• Size: 14”
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Weight: 1.5 pounds (3.1 with attachments)

Pros

• Connects to any laptop
• No tool installation
• Plug and play, download-free installation

Cons

• Designed for right-side attachment only

As working on the go has become more and more popular, especially in the programming field, the desire to have a second monitor to travel with us has grown immensely. This can be seen with the expansive list of fantastic portable monitors coming out over the past few years. So, what makes the SideTrak Swivel the best portable monitor for programming?

While maintaining the high quality of the other portable monitors, the SideTrak Swivel has superior attachment and connectability options. With a combo of sticky pads and computer-safe magnets, the monitor attaches directly next to the side of your laptop’s screen. Unlike other portable monitors that are stuck resting in a stand, you can tilt it to the angle you’re used to in the office. Really, that’s what it all comes down to, recreating the dual-monitor office setup that you like anywhere you go.

Furthermore, the SideTrak Swivel has a ton of connectivity options. You can have USB-C, with DisplayPort capabilities, for your MacBook Pro or use standard USB-A or HDMI for other notebook computers. It’s even compatible with Chromebook and can connect to just about any device while remaining plug-and-play.

The only disappointing thing about the SideTrak experience is the fact that it could just as easily be called the RightSideTrak. The attachment mechanism is designed to be attached to the left part of the monitor. If, like me, you’re used to having your second monitor on the left, you can do so, but you’ll be stuck with an unsightly upside-down monitor as a result.

Best budget: BenQ GW2780

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: This monitor checks all of the basic boxes, gives you a bit extra, and still has a price tag worthy of the best budget monitor for programming. 

Specs

• Size: 27”
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Screen: Glossy LED

Pros

• Intelligent brightness adjustment
• Wall mountable with 100 x 100 VESA
• Built-in cable management

Cons

• Low-quality built-in speakers

Our best budget monitor for programming, the BenQ GW2780, stays cheap but has a lot of nifty features that make it worth your while for programming or any other purpose. 

You can see the standard features that make it great for programming with the 27-inch screen or the fact that it has 100 x 100 VESA mount capabilities.

However, it is the extra features that aren’t costing you any extra that make the BenQ outcompete other budget monitor contenders. One cool example is a sensor that adjusts your screen’s brightness for you automatically. Another is the built-in cord control in the stand. Sure, these aren’t features most of you are begging for, but it’s these kinds of thoughtful touches that show BenQ is going the extra mile to make a worthwhile product for the budget tier.

One extra you probably won’t love, however, is the included speakers. They’re low-quality and quiet, and even people who aren’t professed audiophiles tend to struggle to like them. If you are in need of some speakers on the cheap, there are quite a few desktop speakers or budget Bluetooth speakers out there that will better suit your needs.

What to consider when buying the best monitors for programming

Getting monitors for programming, much like getting monitors for home offices, can be tricky because you’ll want the monitor to be good for other purposes, too. Luckily, many of the factors that translate to being one of the best monitors for programming, also make for great general monitors. For example, programmers are likely to care a lot about size but people watching Netflix aren’t complaining about monitors being too big. We’ll examine all of the big factors in this sort of multimodal way, including resolution and comfort.

Size

This one is relatively straightforward. In almost every case, bigger is better. The ability to have multiple windows open at the same time and look at things side-by-side cannot be overstated. Moving your head from one monitor to another can make direct comparisons tricky, whereas having everything ready at a glance will help keep you in a happy programming flow state.

While there are some people that might look at a very large screen and feel overwhelmed, it is easy to make your windows smaller and focus on what is important. You cannot do this the other way around—making windows larger than the screen to be more comfortable. Getting something a tad bigger than you’re used to will likely go fine, you’ll get acclimated to the larger size, but going too small will trap you in.

So, when might it be bad to have a larger monitor? When the monitor is so big that it pushes out your other monitors. Sure, the advantages of side-by-side comparison given by a large monitor are important, but that doesn’t mean that having the ability to throw something up in full screen on another monitor is less important. Finding balance and what works appropriately with your given desk space is critical.

Resolution

In the world of movies, we always seem to see blocky, pixelated coding text. The real world won’t have it. Resolution is the most important factor for getting a crisp, easy to look at picture out of your monitor. The higher the resolution, the more pixels you’ll see in a given patch of monitor space.

Resolution is defined by both numbers and letters, which can be somewhat confusing. The numbers give a reading of the pixels shown, horizontally and vertically. For example, a resolution of 1920 x 1080 shows 1920 pixels from right to left and 1080 pixels from top to bottom. Resolution numbers are often abbreviated to just show the vertical number—1920 x 1080 is known in this system as 1080p.

Letter abbreviations are also commonly used. Some of the most common abbreviations are as follows: FHD (Full High Definition) is 1920 x 1080; QHD (Quad High Definition) is 2560 x 1440; and UHD (Ultra High Definition) is 3840 x 2160. Interestingly, despite only getting to 3,840 pixels wide, this is commonly referred to as 4K.

So, what resolution is good for programming? This is another case of the bigger, the better, but we recommend going for at least 1080p, with 1440p and higher offering the best experience. One often unmentioned, but nonetheless worthy, note is that your desktop space changes with your resolution. So, if you’re the type of programmer with about 40 to 50 files and folders on your desktop, plus a dozen or so game shortcuts, then you’ll definitely want to be opting for the highest resolution possible!

Comfort

It’s a sad fact but you’re probably going to be working more often than you’d like to be. Be comfortable while you do it. For this review, we’re looking at three key comfort factors that can work for you:

Range of tilt: Your monitor’s ability to tilt will add comfort by increasing the flexibility of its facing. Having a monitor that is tilted too high or too low could have the negative effect of subconsciously forcing your head to match, giving you headaches or unnecessary shoulder tension.

Ability to wall mount: Rigging up your monitor with a reliable wall mount or desk stand will give you the advantages of increased desk space and heightened maneuverability of your monitor. Look for VESA-compatible monitors, with 100 x 100 mounting surfaces giving you the most options in terms of wall mounts to buy and 200 x 200 being an okay alternative for ultrawide monitors.

Eye comfort: Screens that are too bright, glossy, or that suffer from screen flickering can all cause discomfort to the eyes. Nowadays, monitors are also providing built-in blue light blocking to improve users’ sleep quality. All of these factors can greatly affect how you perceive your time with your monitor and the quality of your work, so much so that we’d recommend you check out our monitors for eye strain if this is a recurring problem for you.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best monitors for programming

• Best overall: LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor
• Best 4K: HP 27-inch 4K UHD
• Best value: Samsung Business S27R650FDN
• Best for gaming and programming: Samsung Odyssey G9
• Best portable: SideTrak Swivel 14”
• Best budget: BenQ GW2780

Getting one of the best monitors for programming doesn’t have to be difficult. If you find a monitor that is easy to use in daily life, treats your eyes well, and connects properly with your work computer, then you’ve probably found a decent programming monitor. Still, considering a unique monitor like the LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide or the business-minded Samsung Business S27R650FDN might give you the extra edge you’ve been looking for.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best monitors for programming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		AOC G2490VX		SEE IT	The AOC G2490VX has all the specs we look for in a basic gaming monitor including 1080p, 144Hz gameplay.
Best curved		AOC C24G1A		SEE IT	The AOC C24G1A features a few small luxuries, including a fully adjustable stand and a 1500R curve.
Best for consoles		Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx		SEE IT	The Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx has three ports, including an HDMI 2.0 port that allows for high refresh rates on PS5 and Xbox Series X.

First things first: You should set your sights relatively low if you have $200 or less to spend on your new gaming monitor. The best monitors—the ones that support 4K, high refresh rates, and superior color accuracy—often cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Not everyone needs the best of the best, though. Many older and/or less expensive systems can’t take advantage of resource-intensive specialty features. The best gaming monitors under $200 meet PC players’ basic needs, bringing their games to life for as little as possible.

• Best overall: AOC G2490VX
• Best curved: AOC C24G1A
• Best for consoles: Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx
• Best 27-inch: AOC 27GS2
• Best budget: Sceptre E248W-19203R

How we picked the best gaming monitors under $200

As a critic covering games and gaming hardware, I’ve written about computing and monitors for Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select. I’ve researched, tested, and reviewed dozens of gaming monitors, and have a strong sense of which specs are important, and which are not.

To pick the best gaming monitors under $200, we relied on my mix of hands-on testing, peer suggestions, user impressions, and information from professional reviews. We focused on core specifications crucial to a great gaming monitor: resolution, frame rate, connectivity options, and price.

The best gaming monitors under $200: Reviews & Recommendations

The best gaming monitors under $200 come from a few well-known monitor manufacturers, primarily Acer and AOC. Many of our recommendations feature similar specs, including a 1080p resolution, a 24-inch screen, a VA panel, and a 144Hz response time. Though the range of specs is limited, they can still make your games look good.

Best overall: AOC G2490VX

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC G2490VX gives all the specs you need at the price you want.

Specs

• Size: 23.8-inch
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Panel type: VA
• Refresh rate: 144Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports: HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
• Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable
• Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
• Built-in speakers: No

Pros

• Very affordable 
• Fast refresh rate and response time
• 350-nit peak brightness

Cons

• Some ghosting out of the box

Plenty of monitors hit 1080p, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time, but very few give it to you for the same price as the AOC G2490VX. This essentialist monitor may lack some of the trapping found in more expensive displays like extra ports and HDR, but its core specs are right on the money.

It isn’t without problems. Reports suggest you should expect some ghosting issues with fast-moving objects, but these are solved through adjusting the monitor and variable refresh rate settings.

Best curved: AOC C24G1A

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Great ergonomics and improved connectivity make the AOC C24G1A an easy recommendation.

Specs

• Size: 24-inch
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Panel type: VA
• Refresh rate: 144Hz (165Hz overclocked)
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
• Ergonomics: Swivel, tilt, height adjust, VESA mountable
• Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
• Built-in speakers: No

Pros

• Excellent performance
• Multiple HDMI 2.0 port
• Adjustable stand

Cons

• No built-in speakers
• Slightly over $200

At $215, the AOC C24G1A 1500R curve feels extremely luxurious. Curved displays tend to be a little more expensive than flat panels, so color us surprised when we found one and that it offers better connectivity and ergonomics than most in its price range. No, it’s no ultrawide monitor, but it’s also not going to stretch your budget like one.

While every other monitor on our list is only tilt adjustable, the C24G1A offers full adjustability, leading to much more customizable viewing angles. It also offers strong performance, with a 144Hz refresh rate screen that can be overclocked to 165Hz via the settings menu. HDMI 2.0 connectivity is appreciated here, as it handles color depth and refresh rates better than HDMI 1.4.

Best for consoles: Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: HDMI 2.0, HDR10, and built-in speakers are enough to make the Acer Nitro QG241Y a solid, if basic, screen for PC and consoles.

Specs

• Size: 23.8 inches
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Panel type: VA
• Refresh rate: 144Hz (165Hz overclocked)
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports: HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
• Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable
• Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
• Built-in speakers: Yes

Pros

• Great performance
• HDR10 support
• Two HDMI ports

Cons

• 250-nit peak brightness
• Only one of two HDMI ports is HDMI 2.0

The Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx has a solid combination of features for hooking up game consoles, as well as a gaming PC.

Does it have the finer points that the best monitors for PS5 and Xbox Series systems sing? It does not. The Nitro QG241Y is a 1080p, 144Hz monitor, but it has two HDMI ports, one of which is HDMI 2.0, which supports 1080p at 120Hz, opening the door for high frame rates in games like Destiny 2 and DOOM Eternal, which run at 120 frames-per-second in 1080p on the PS5 and Series X.

The Acer Nitro QG241Y is also the only monitor on our list to feature HDR10, the same HDR standard found on most TV. Unfortunately, it’s a relatively dim panel—just 250 nits—so don’t expect to see a huge benefit in dark corners.

Best 27-inch: AOC 27G2S

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: A 27-inch monitor for under $200 is hard to come by, but the AOC 27G2S has you covered.

Specs

• Size: 27-inch
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Panel type: VA
• Refresh rate: 165Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Ports: Two HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.4, ,VGA port
• Ergonomics: TIlt, Swivel, Height, VESA mountable
• Variable refresh rate: Adaptive-Sync
• Built-in speakers: No

Pros

• Fast performance
• 350-nit peak brightness
• Four-directional navigation knob
• Great price for size

Cons

• Some ghosting out of the box

With a tight budget and room for only one or two little luxuries, a 27-inch monitor doesn’t really seem like a great way to get the best bang for your buck. Still, size matters most to some people, so we wanted to make sure you know that you can find a 27-inch display for less than $200.

A larger variation on our top pick, the AOC 27G2S is a fast, affordable, no-frills monitor. Like its 24-inch counterpart, it covers the basics that we look for in a monitor: 1080p resolution, 165Hz, 1ms response time. At 27 inches, you’re trading some pixel density for more screen real estate, which will make the little details in your game look a little less sharp. There’s no denying that it’s fun to play games and watch streaming content on a bigger screen, though.

Best budget: Sceptre E248W-19203R

Sceptre

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: At $140, The Sceptre E248W-19203R is very, very affordable, and makes for a great companion for older systems.

Specs

• Size: 24-inch
• Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Panel type: VA
• Refresh rate: 75Hz
• Response time: 5ms
• Ports: HDMI 1.4 (2), VGA, audio in, audio out
• Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable 
• Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
• Built-in speakers: Yes

Pros

• Very affordable
• Built-in speakers
• Two HDMI ports

Cons

• 75 Hz refresh rate
• 5ms response time

Sometimes you just need a display. When you need a new gaming monitor and want to spend as little as humanly possible, the Sceptre E248W-19203R offers an impressively cheap screen. While its performance won’t turn heads, its price tag is one of the lowest in the gaming space. For less than $150, you get a slim, utilitarian 1080p VA panel with multiple HDMI ports and built-in speakers. 

More than the other monitors on this list, this Sceptre screen comes with some very serious tradeoffs. You only get a 75Hz refresh rate, which may be fine for players with cheaper systems, but seriously limits the lifespan of the monitor. Likewise, it features a reported 5ms response time, which shouldn’t ruin any game, but is dramatically higher than most other displays.

There’s nothing wrong with this display, but we only recommend this display because of its low price. Please keep that in mind.

What to consider before buying one of the best gaming monitors under $200

Shopping for a monitor can be a headache. Most models are very poorly named with long strings of numbers and letters, so comparison shopping feels a bit like staring at alphabet soup. Their core specs can feel similarly hard to parse, especially for people who don’t want to spend all day scrutinizing spreadsheets.

In this case, our budget—targeting the best gaming monitors under $200—thankfully narrows down our options. Still, you will have to make a choice and we want you to be able to do so confidently. Let’s go over the essential qualities that can make or break a monitor at any price so that you can find the perfect complement to a budget gaming PC.

Resolution and size

Resolution and size are often thought of as unrelated. Well, they shouldn’t be—the two affect each other in profound ways.

Resolution indicates the number of pixels your monitor can show. Generally speaking, the higher your resolution is, the more detailed your image will be. As your monitor’s screen gets bigger, however, you’ll need more pixels to achieve the same level of detail. You don’t just want a lot of pixels, you want strong pixel density.

Nearly all gaming monitors under $200 have a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, commonly called 1080p or “Full HD.” In 2022, 1080p is the baseline resolution for PC monitors. Baseline doesn’t necessarily mean bad, though: A 1080p monitor looks sharp on a 24-inch screen, the smallest of the three common monitor sizes. That said, small details can start to look a little less clear on 27- and 32-inch displays, so we recommend sticking with a 24-inch monitor. That said, we do have an especially strong 27-inch option on our list for players who insist on a larger screen.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw a new image each second. Refresh rate is especially important for gaming since your monitor’s refresh rate effectively sets your maximum frame rate. In competitive circles, a high refresh rate may take priority over resolution: In fast-paced competitive games like Fortnite or Apex Legends, having the smoothest, fastest frame rate can give you a competitive edge. 

Generally, we recommend looking for a 144Hz refresh rate for gaming monitors, which allows you to run many games at the maximum frame rate your PC can handle. For $200, nearly all of our picks hit that basic threshold, though there are some exceptions, which will make more sense for casual players and those with older systems.

Response time

Every computer you use has a slight delay between pressing a key and seeing an action take place on screen. While most of this delay has to do with processing time, your monitor’s response time plays a role in generating input lag. Most gaming monitors advertise a very low response time, usually 1 millisecond or less. As with frame rate, competitive players will want the lowest possible response time since even a single frame can be consequential. Most of the monitors we recommend, even at a sub-$200 price point, feature a 1ms response time.

Panel type

The physical screen of a monitor, the display panel, comes in three different types: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Without getting too technical, each one has strengths and weaknesses, but most of the recommendations on this list feature a VA panel. VA panels provide better color balance than TN panels while staying more affordable than IPS panels.

Variable refresh rate

Variable refresh rate is a display feature that allows your monitor to sync its refresh rate with the output of the PC or console to which it is connected. Using it delivers smooth images devoid of any hiccups like screen tearing or visual artifacting.

Gaming monitors rely on one of two variable refresh rate formats: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These technologies, particularly G-Sync, were designed to pair with graphics cards made by Nvidia and AMD, respectively. That said, there is an increasing amount of cross-compatibility between the two.

Make sure you know whether a monitor supports variable refresh rate and, if so, whether it features G-Sync or FreeSync. We generally recommend getting a G-Sync monitor if you use an Nvidia graphics card. FreeSync is more popular among budget monitors, and every monitor on our list supports it.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best gaming monitors under $200

The best gaming monitors under $200 offer surprisingly solid performance for an affordable price. For the most part, these are not “great” monitors by any stretch, but they hit many of the basic benchmarks we look for in a gaming display. If you’re a PC player that needs a new screen and you’re on a tight budget, these will get the job done.

The post The best gaming monitors under $200 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Apple iMac M1 24-inch		SEE IT	Apple’s colorful new iMacs revive the iconic all-in-one’s colorful spirit, and a snappy Apple-made CPU.
Best for gaming		HP Envy 34-inch		SEE IT	The HP Envy 34 is a rare GPU powerhouse, making it a solid fit for gaming.
Best for business		Dell Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One		SEE IT	Dell all-in-ones like the Inspiron 27 7000 still get the job done.

Unlike all-in-one computers, traditional desktop computers—with their discrete monitors, towers, and wired mice and keyboards—have a reputation for being complicated affairs. There are all kinds of cables, each with its own color-coded connection. You have to plug in a display, a mouse, a keyboard … and what about a webcam or some speakers? Plus, a full-size tower can be a hulking beast. It’s a lot of components to buy and keep track of, especially if you aren’t into micromanaging your PC. If you don’t need the power and superior customization of a bulky desktop tower, the best all-in-one computers—or “AiO,” for short—give you strong computing performance in a streamlined form factor.

With a full CPU/graphics chipset or card, monitor, and speakers all inside a sleek, screen-shaped chassis that sits on your desk, an AiO just needs you to plug in a few cables and you’re ready to go. Though they’re less popular than they used to be, they remain a great option for people who need a computer that can do a little bit of everything. The best all-in-one computers are powerful, well-rounded machines that excel for work and play.

• Best overall: Apple iMac M1 24-inch
• Best for gaming: HP Envy 34-inch
• Best for photo editing: Microsoft Surface Studio 2
• Best for business: Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One
• Best touchscreen: HP Essential 27-inch All-in-One
• Best budget: HP Chromebase AIO22

How we picked the best all-in-one computers

I’ve been building and repairing PCs for over 20 years and reporting on PCs—including all-in-one systems—for five. In that time I’ve developed a good understanding of what makes a usable, long-lasting computer in terms of specs like the processor, RAM, and graphics, for not just gamers but for everyday users as well—the office workers, web users, and homework doers of the world. 

To select the best all-in-one computers, we researched popular brands and configurations of AiO PCs and how consumers tend to use them. We made sure that our picks span a wide range of use-cases, from casual web browsing and word processing to creative professionals and gamers.

The best all-in-one computers: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re looking for a clean, cable-free desk setup, a simple machine for the kids to use, or you want to fit a powerful machine into a small office space, the best all-in-one computers can satisfy every kind of casual PC user. These are our favorite AiO options right now.

Best overall: Apple iMac M1 24-inch (2021)

Apple

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The M1 chip offers superior performance in a lightweight system, and Apple’s engineering is tough to match.

Specs

• CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU
• GPU: 7-core – 8-core GPU, integrated
• RAM: 8 GB – 16 GB Unified Memory
• Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina Display
• Storage: Up to 2 TB
• Ports: 2 USB 4/Thunderbolt, 2 USB 3, Type-C

Pros

• Snappy M1 CPU
• A color to fit any aesthetic
• The Retina display looks great

Cons

• Limited port selection

If you need an all-in-one PC with enough power to dabble in almost anything, you just can’t beat Apple’s 2021 iMac, which features the company’s M1 processor. Sleek, thin, and playfully colorful, the iMac looks polished and pleasing, thanks to Apple’s impressive engineering and design sense. Whether you’re just surfing the web, working from home, or getting into content creation, the M1 can handle it. Its 4.5K Retina display is one of the most impressive-looking screens you’ll find on an all-in-one. It also comes with Apple’s Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, which are comparatively great for pack-in peripherals.

To get this thing started, you just unbox it and plug in one cable. A home office setup doesn’t get cleaner than that. About the only downside is that Apple’s adherence to its clean aesthetic means that the port selection is pretty limited. The basic iMac has just two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports. The more expensive configuration has the same, plus two USB 3 ports—all of which are USB-C. If you want to connect any legacy devices or standard USB drives to this thing, you’re going to need a USB-C hub.

Best for gaming: HP Envy 34-inch

HP

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The HP Envy 34-inch offers powerful configurations, including an option with an Nvidia RTX 3060 graphics card.

Specs

• CPU: Intel Core i7-11700
• GPU: GeForce RTX 3060
• RAM: 32GB
• Display: 34-inch 5120 x 2160 Ultra widescreen IPS display
• Storage: 1 TB SSD
• Ports: 2 USB 4/Thunderbolt, 4 USB Type-A SuperSpeed 10 Gbps, 2 USB Type-A 5 Gbps, 1 USB-C SuperSpeed 5 Gbps HDMI Out, Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, Headphone/Microphone, 3-in-1 card reader

Pros

• Nvidia 3060 GPU
• Ultrawide display
• Detachable webcam
• Lots of Ports
• Upgrade options for RAM and Storage

Cons

• Expensive

Realistically, you should not look for an all-in-one PC if gaming is your top priority. All-in-ones skew toward casual use cases and AAA PC games require a lot of graphical firepower. The HP Envy 34 is one of the few all-in-ones that will let you play most PC games on mid-to-high settings, thanks to a powerful top-of-the-line configuration with an Nvidia RTX 3060 GPU. With an 11th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 6GB of GDDR RAM, and a very capable modern GPU, there’s a strong enough core here for playing visually stunning games like Red Dead Redemption 2. 

The 34-inch 5120 x 2160 Ultra widescreen IPS display offers 98% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, meaning that it’ll be able to show your movies and games in full, accurate color. For communication, HP has included a 16MP webcam that can attach magnetically to anywhere on all four edges of the screen, ensuring that it can fit into any configuration without having to embed it in the screen.

And, unlike most all-in-ones, the Envy 34 offers some upgradability, including two additional RAM slots to add memory and M.2 drive slots for additional storage. There’s also a solid selection of ports, including both USB Type-A and Type-C ports. This is a truly capable system that will work great for office work and content creation while doing double duty as a good-looking gaming rig.

Best for photo editing: Microsoft Surface Studio 2

Microsoft

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Four years later, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 still delivers a unique touchscreen experience for creatives.

Specs

• CPU: Intel Core i7-7820HQ
• GPU: GeForce GTX 1060 or 1070
• RAM: 16 GB or 32 GB
• Display: 4500 x 3000 28-inch, 10-point multi-touch PixelSense Display
• Storage: 1 TB or 2 TB SSD
• Ports: 1 USB-C, 4 USB 3.0, SD Card Reader, Gigabit Ethernet, Headphone

Pros

• Highly adjustable touchscreen display is great for artists, photographers, and other creatives
• Unique design
• Great color accuracy

Cons

• Really expensive
• Older CPU and GPU

The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is one of the oldest models we looked at, and it’s far from perfect, but it’s going to be the perfect tool for visual artists looking for an all-in-one. Make no mistake, this is a computer for professionals—the base model costs more than $3,500 to start. But, in return, you get a unique computer designed specifically for drawing and photo editing. The Surface Studio 2 features a highly movable screen that can sit upright like a monitor or drop down to act as a digital drawing pad. The 28-inch display is individually color calibrated and offers 99 percent sRGB coverage and between 96.9 and 98 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, according to critics. The display is designed specifically to work with Microsoft’s Surface Pen, which comes with the computer, and the Surface Dial, an optional peripheral that lets you adjust settings like brush size and hardness on the fly without having to stop working.

After four years, Surface Studio 2’s Intel Core i7-7820HQ and Nvidia 10-series GPU verge on prohibitively outdated, especially given its shocking price tag. And yet, there is no other desktop that does what it can do. That may be enough to attract some photo editors and visual artists.

Best for business: Dell Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: While it isn’t made for heavy graphics or photo editing, the Dell Inspiron 27 7000 can handle just about anything else you can throw at it.

Specs

• CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• GPU: Nvidia GeForce MX330
• RAM: 16 GB or 32 GB
• Display: 27-inch 1920 x 1080 touch display
• Storage: 512 GB – 2 TB
• Ports: Gigabit Ethernet, 1 USB 2.0 with Power on/Wake-up support, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1 USB 3.1 with Power on/Wake-up support, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 with PowerShare, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 Microphone/Headset Jack

Pros

• Tons of ports
• Fairly priced
• Current-gen system with Wi-Fi 6, 11th-Gen Intel, and more

Cons

• Stand won’t be a great fit for all desks

Dell’s Inspiron 27 7000 delivers a solid balance between performance and price in a Windows all-in-one. It offers Wi-Fi 6 (which is blazing fast if your router also has the feature), plenty of RAM, and a discrete, but low-power GPU. It also has a huge list of ports for you to plug into, including both HDMI in and out, which means you could use it as a monitor for a game console or plug in a second monitor. The lawn-chair-style base is a bit of an odd duck: It takes up more space than it needs to, which may make it hard to place on some small desks. With that said, it starts at just under $1,500, making it only a little bit more expensive than the base iMac. When it comes to daily browsing and office use, Dell’s offering should last you a very long time.

Best touchscreen: HP Essential 27-inch All-in-One

HP

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This touchscreen-enabled desktop offers powerful performance in a rare AMD-based configuration.

Specs

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U
• GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics, integrated
• RAM: 32GB
• Display: 1920 x 1080 (1080p) touchscreen
• Storage: 1TB M.2 SSD and 1TB HDD
• Ports: 2 SuperSpeed USB Type-A; 2 USB 2.0 Type-A; 1 HDMI Out; 1 Gigabit Ethernet; 1 Headphone/Microphone

Pros

• Lots of HDD space
• Plenty of ports
• Tons of RAM and storage

Cons

• Expensive
• 1080p on a 27-inch display

Aside from the Apple iMac, every system on our list features an Intel processor. For the sake of variety, we wanted to make sure there’s also at least one AMD option on the table. The HP Pavillion 27-inch offers a strong processor in the Ryzen 7 5700U, with a whopping 32GB of RAM that will make it good for all kinds of heavy-duty creative work. The system compares favorably to the other AiOs on this list with 2TB of HDD space, a 1920×1080 touchscreen display, and a 1080p front-facing camera built into the bezel for all those Zoom meetings that could’ve been emails. There are other models available with a 512GB SSD instead of 1TB, and with 16GB RAM instead of 32GB, offering a bit of flexibility in price and specs.

Best budget: HP Chromebase AIO22

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Why it made the cut: The HP Chromebase AIO22 costs very little for an all-in-one system, making it a solid pick if you just want the bare minimum.

Specs

• CPU: Intel Pentium Gold 6405U
• GPU: Intel UHD Graphics, integrated
• RAM: 4GB
• Display: 1920 x 1080 IPS touchscreen display
• Storage: 64 GB
• Ports: 2 USB Type-A SuperSpeed 10 Gbps, 2 USB-C 5 Gbps, Headphone/microphone

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Chrome OS keeps things simple
• Screen rotates for video chat

Cons

• Extremely low-powered machine

The Chromebase is the very definition of a budget machine, featuring a low-powered Intel CPU and just 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Running Chrome OS means that this machine isn’t going to be very good for gaming or heavy-duty office work. What it is great for, though, is anything involving light web browsing. It could be a great kitchen computer or something that you can put in front of your kids without worrying too much about them breaking it. Chrome OS means that it’s going to be hard to infect with the standard viruses and adware that Windows PCs can be subject to, and harder for curious clickers to install random things from shady corners of the internet.

What to consider before buying one of the best all-in-one computers

Though setting up and using an all-in-one PC is easier than a desktop tower, shopping for one is just as complicated. They’re sealed up, like laptops, so you can’t customize them after purchase. That means you need to make sure you’re getting the exact specs you want on day one. Plus, an all-in-one has a built-in display, speakers, and often a webcam, all of which can make or break a machine.

Processor

The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the core of your computer. It performs the computations behind every task your computer performs. It is the most important part of any PC. Generally speaking, you want to look for an all-in-one system with relatively new parts to make sure it will perform well for a long time because they are increasingly not user-upgradeable. 

Windows systems feature processors from one of two companies: Intel or AMD. Intel’s “Core” desktop processors come in four varieties, i3-i9, which correspond to ascending levels of processing power and speed. Intel regularly revises its chips, so look at the generation to determine whether you’re getting a newer or older version. In 2022, Intel is manufacturing its 12th-generation chips: We’d generally stick to 11th- or 12th-generation Core i5 or Core i7 chips whenever possible.

AMD has a similar naming convention for its Ryzen desktop processors. The models range from Ryzen 5-9, which also get faster and more powerful as you go, with a four-digit number specifying the model. AMD’s current chips, the 5000 series, all feature model numbers that start with a “5.” While AMD chips aren’t used quite as often as Intel’s in all-in-one systems, we usually look for Ryzen 5000-series 5 or 7 chips when they’re available.

The most recent version of Apple’s singular all-in-one features Apple’s bespoke M1 processor. Due to software compatibility and the new iMac’s strong performance, we would recommend avoiding older models, as they are likely to lose software support in the next few years.

Since all-in-ones are usually mid-range machines, you shouldn’t expect top-of-the-line performance in most cases. As such, the most important thing is to make sure you’re prepared for the long haul by getting modern hardware. For a deeper dive on CPUs and how to tell a good one from a great one, check out some of our other PC-focused guides.

Storage and memory

Storage and memory are two of the malleable specs on any computer, even all-in-one machines where you pick from a limited number of specific configurations. Storage, or hard drive space, dictates how much data you can store on your computer, including applications and files like documents and photos. Memory helps your computer get quick access to data related to programs and files you’re actually using, and plays a large role in how fast your computer runs. 

Storage: Most people know storage as a numbers game. The bigger the hard drive, the more files you can store. Though you can always augment your computer’s hard drive with an external hard drive, you want enough storage on your computer to hold crucial programs and files that you access often. While size is important, hard drive speed helps determine your PC’s performance.

Modern PCs use one of two kinds of hard drives: Solid state storage (SSD) and hard disk drive (HDD) storage. SSDs of most any type are ideal for your operating system and applications, while HDD storage is best for files (photos, videos, music) and very large applications (think of something like Call of Duty Warzone‘s 175GB install). If given the opportunity, we always recommend opting for a smaller SSD over a gigantic HDD, as it will help your PC run smoothly.

Memory: RAM, or Random Access Memory, plays a large role in how fast your computer feels. There are different types of RAM and some options are faster than others. Even with the best all-in-one computers, you won’t have much control over the specifics of what RAM you use, though. Realistically, you just need to make sure there’s enough of it. We generally recommend looking for a computer with 8GB-16GB of RAM, depending on how you plan to use your PC, but there are use-cases for very low and very high amounts of memory, including:

• 4GB: Very light browsing, email
• 8GB: General browsing and light work
• 16GB: The current standard for a high-end system—enough for multitasking and gaming
• 32GB: More than needed for most users, great for heavy workloads like video editing and graphics rendering.

The display is key

When buying an all-in-one system, the display you start with is the one you’re definitely stuck with. Therefore, it’s one place where you shouldn’t compromise. Look for a display that’s large enough to fit your space. Display resolution—the number of pixels the screen uses to create an image—dictates the sharpness of your screen. Display resolutions range from 1920 x 1080 pixels (1080p) to 3840 x 2169 pixels (4K UHD) and beyond. As with dedicated monitor guides, we generally recommend scaling resolution up with screen size: On a 27-inch all-in-one or larger, we’d recommend looking for a 1440p (QHD) display or higher.

Some of the systems below also highlight color gamut and accuracy. These are technical specs meant primarily for photographers and video editors who need to make sure they can see the full depth of their work as clearly as possible. For the average person, higher color accuracy and wide color gamut translate into brighter, deeper colors. That said, high color accuracy generally leads to higher prices, so you should probably ignore the specs unless you plan to use your system for creative work.

To dive deep into display specifications, make sure to check out our guide to the best monitors for color grading.

How long do you want your PC to last?

Since all-in-one desktops are sealed up like most laptops, what you see is typically what you get. That means there is a direct correlation between your PC’s specs and how long it will work well for whatever you plan to do with it. Most all-in-one manufacturers offer lots of ways for you to customize and upgrade your PC before you buy it. This will make your computer more powerful and more expensive. More importantly, though, it may be the difference between needing a new PC in four years versus buying a new one in five or six.

For example, there are lots of AiO PCs out there with just 4GB of RAM. That’s not enough to do much beyond checking email and light web browsing these days. Even if you don’t play games or use any processor-intensive programs, web browsing can feel sluggish on a PC with 4GB of RAM if you open too many tabs. Spending a little extra money on more RAM is usually a good way to make your computer feel more powerful on day one, and keep it running well for years after.

As covered above, you’ll typically want 8GB-16GB of RAM and 512GB or more of solid-state storage. If you plan to play video games on your PC, you’ll also want a discrete, dedicated graphics card. Like gaming laptops, the best all-in-one computers tend to skew toward lower-end GPUs. An older model, like an Nvidia GTX 1650, should be enough to facilitate basic games and competitive multiplayer games for now, but likely won’t for the full lifespan of the PC. Ideally, gamers intent on buying an all-in-one should prioritize a modern GPU, like an Nvidia RTX 3060, to play a full range of games.

Ports

Even with the best all-in-one computers, you will still likely need to plug a few peripherals into your PC. Wireless mice and keyboards often come with USB dongles, and maybe you’ll want to plug in other devices like a camera or your phone. You’ll want to make sure your PC has enough ports to accommodate your gear. 

Also, those connections are your only lifeline for upgrading or expanding your system’s functionality. You can always plug in an external hard drive if you need more storage, but only if you have enough ports. You can always get a USB hub to expand your connectivity options, of course, but there’s no substitute for a full suite of direct connections on your computer.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best all-in-one computers

All-in-one PCs aren’t as popular as they were in the late 1990s and early 2000s. As such, there’s only a limited range of options, which are made for a specific type of PC user—people who demand at least mid-range performance but crave the convenience of a single, unibody machine.

Right now, Apple’s M1-powered iMac is a hard one to beat. The M1 chipset is a strong performer that asks for very little power, and it benefits from all the different elements of Apple’s walled garden. The iMac looks and runs great and if you treat it well, it’ll continue to do that for years. With that said, the Dell Inspiron 7000 is just as affordable and is going to succeed for office work. Even if they generally aren’t quite as flexible as a discrete desktop, the best all-in-one computers are undeniably convenient and have more than enough power to get things done.

The post The best all-in-one computers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best optical sensor		Razer Basilisk v2		SEE IT	This smart-tracking motion sync mouse has high-quality sensors to level up your gameplay.
Best for sensitivity		Logitech G502 Lightspeed		SEE IT	For lightweight controls, an adjustable weight system, and wireless design make this a top tier option.
Best budget		Razer DeathAdder Essential		SEE IT	This responsive gaming mouse comes at an affordable price while maintaining quality design.

Finding the best gaming mouse is essential to your setup as a PC gamer. A good gaming mouse determines how precise, quick, and accurate your various strikes, selections, and sudden moves will be. But are they worth the investment? Yes, if you’re serious about gaming. A regular computer mouse isn’t built to handle rapid movement or vigorous clicking, which makes it susceptible to breakage and dysfunction. A gaming mouse is more sensitive, responsive, and more ergonomically designed than a regular computer mouse. The best gaming mouse is also customizable for your needs and built to let you game for hours. No matter whether you’re playing an FPS, action RPG, or something involving intense strategy or simulation, the best gaming mouse will help improve your performance. That said, it’s not easy to decipher the technical jargon that describes the options on the market or know at the outset which is the best gaming mouse for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best gaming mouse for your needs.

• Best optical sensor: Razer Basilisk v2
• Best adjustable weight: Corsair Nightsword
• Best for sensitivity: Logitech G502 Lightspeed
• Best with customizable buttons: Razer Naga Trinity
• Best wireless: Corsair Dark Core RGB Pro
• Best budget: Razer DeathAdder Essential

The best gaming mouse: Reviews & Recommendations

Best optical sensor: Razer Basilisk v2

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The Basilisk by Razer Basilisk v2 gaming mouse has a sensor that is out of this world. Called a Razer Focus+, this optical sensor has a tracking accuracy of 99.6 percent and is equipped with smart-tracking, asymmetric cut-off, and motion sync. This mouse has a 20,000 DPI, 50G acceleration, and weighs around 3.3 ounces. There are 11 programmable buttons, a drag-free cord, and color customization so you will always feel in control. Additionally, you can adjust the overall sensitivity of the mouse and the scroll wheel resistance, making for a very versatile peripheral. There are several Razer mice that use the same sensor so take a peek at some of their other models if you need less versatility and more specificity.

Best adjustable weight: Corsair Nightsword

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The Corsair Nightsword is one of the most customizable mice on the market when it comes to weight distribution and ergonomics. Two sets of weights with six different mounting locations will give you up to 120 different balance configurations and built-in software will automatically detect the mouse’s center of gravity so you can fine-tune the weight and balance to fit your preferred grip. It features a textured contoured shape with a thumb rest to keep your right hand relaxed and reactive. This Corsair mouse has 10 programmable buttons and 18,000 DPI with a customizable PixArt optical sensor. If you are looking for a mouse with more attention to grip than weight, we recommend you check out a cousin of the Nightsword, the Corsair Glaive with 3 interchangeable grips.

Best for sensitivity: Logitech G502 Lightspeed

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The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is not only incredibly accurate but extra customizable when it comes to DPI and sensitivity. It has a Hero 16K sensor, can weigh anywhere between 4.02 – 4.59 ounces, with an acceleration of more than 40G. It comes with 11 programmable buttons and 100 – 16,000 DPI sensitivity options for great gameplay in shooting and strategy games alike. This mouse is wireless but reliable with a 60-hour lifespan on a single charge and compatibility options for a continuous charge using Logitech’s Powerplay mousepads.

Best with customizable buttons: Razer Naga Trinity

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The Razer Naga Trinity is the belle of the ball when it comes to buttons. It is excellent for MMO players and manages to side-step the issues that can arise with a lack of flexibility regarding grip when it comes to a high-button count. The Razer Naga Trinity has up to 19 programmable buttons with 3 interchangeable side plates that have 3, 7, and 12 buttons respectively (this allows you to adjust your grip depending on your game needs). It has a 16,000 DPI sensor, a customizable color profile, and weighs roughly 120 grams.

Best wireless: Corsair Dark Core RGB Pro

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The Corsair Dark Core is a rechargeable, wireless gaming mouse with up to 50 hours of continuous battery life, wireless charging Qi capabilities, USB wired play options, and eight programmable buttons. It has an 18,000 DPI optical sensor, RGB backlight customization with an integrated LED light bar, and two interchangeable side grips. This wireless mouse a little heavier than some models, coming in at 9.2 ounces but many gamers prefer the stabilization this weight provides.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming mouse

Gaming mice are designed with functionality far above any run-of-the-mill computer mouse options, which means you have more to think about before making a purchase. The overall shape or design of the mouse, its DPI, sensor type, mappable buttons, and whether or not you want a wired mouse are all crucial factors to consider. Each gamer might want something different so it’s difficult to recommend a universally perfect mouse. We’ll break down the elements and suggest some products that we feel exemplify excellence when in each category.

Optical or laser sensor

The sensor on your mouse is the technological upgrade that has replaced that tiny rubber ball previously found at the bottom base. It essentially uses an LED light that bounces off of a surface, mousepad, etcetera to transmit coordinates that correspond to your computer screen, allowing you to scroll, click, hover, and perform all the various mouse functions. There are two types of sensors you’ll encounter when searching for a gaming mouse: optical and laser. Determining the right sensor can be fairly contentious and there is much debate about which works the best. There is a ton of highly detailed scientific information floating around about the difference between these two types of sensors and how mice work, but the key is that they use a different type of light source to reflect off of the surface it’s on. Generally speaking, a laser sensor can handle any surface type, including something glossy it can also transit information with greater detail and accuracy however some report issues with acceleration (meaning the mouse can become unsynced with the computer screen if moved too fast). Optical sensors don’t suffer from acceleration as much but they can also be more sensitive to surface type. Both sensors can perform very well but if acceleration is a major concern, and you don’t mind purchasing a cushy mousepad, we suggest going for the optical sensor.

Which ergonomic design options are best for you?

The assorted design options that for the best gaming mouse are manifold. But to break it down, these mice are all designed to be functional and ergonomic and alleviate pressure on your wrist. They allow you to play fluidly, without having to constantly adjust hand placement or position. Think about the weight of the mouse and the type of grip you prefer. If you make sudden, fast motions or you want a little resistance you could consider a mouse that has an adjustable weight option, which typically comes in the form of inserts. When it comes to grip, you have three options: claw, palm, and fingertip. A claw grip will have your wrist resting on the mouse pad, your fingers gripping the mouse itself, and your palm elevated above the body. A palm grip will have you rest your palm on the back of the mouse with your fingers resting on top; this is the grip found in a traditional computer mouse. A fingertip grip will have both the wrist and palm elevated, using only your fingers to control the motion alongside various buttons. Grip preference is frequently based on hand size- a fingertip grip mouse is typically the largest.

Most mice are created for right-handed players, but there are a number of excellent mice out there that have created ambidextrous programmable options like the Glorious Model O or Mira-M from HK Gaming. A few companies, like Razer, have even made dedicated left-handed mice.

How sensitive does your mouse need to be?

When searching for the best gaming mouse, you’ll came across a million tech acronyms. Which are important to pay attention to when making your selection? DPI stands for “dots per inch” and can also be marketed as CPI, “counts per inch” when discussing gaming mouse specs. DPI and CPI refer to the number of counts or captured pixels your mouse takes per inch of travel. The higher the DPI, the more sensitive the mouse is. A high DPI doesn’t always mean a better mouse though, you also want to make sure the mouse has a high IPS, or inches per second which tells you the maximum velocity at which it can still capture. Many gaming mice have a DPI of 4000 or higher with the option to increase or decrease that number. Some gamers prefer a lower DPI because lower sensitivity can mean better precision. DPI can also be selected based on your screen’s pixelation. If your screen has a high pixel density, then a higher DPI might be helpful. While DPI might not determine much about your gameplay because most gaming mice function with an already substantial count, we recommend finding something that is adjustable or customizable, so you can test out what works best for you.

Finally, you’ll want to consider your mouse’s acceleration. We touched on this briefly when discussing sensors but it’s important to know that no matter the sensor, acceleration can still affect your gaming. Acceleration describes the amount of gravitational force your mouse can handle whilst tracking accurately and effectively. It is also often customizable and while frequently considered a negative for games that require a lot of quick back and forth, it can be utilized effectively in FPS games and others that require precision.

Do you need customizable buttons?

It is our humble opinion that customizable buttons can make or break a great gamer if used creatively and intelligently. Some prefer to forgo additional buttons but they can be a huge asset when it comes to execution and quick thinking. Gaming mice have at minimum 5 buttons and a maximum of around 19. The number of buttons right for you will probably depend on gaming experience and game preference. A lower button count will be just enough for newer gamers or those who enjoy FPS games. Low button mice can also be called shooter mice and some even come with a dedicated sniper button that will lower the DPI for more precision when pressed. A higher button count may take more experience to program and operate but will give RTS or MMO game players alternative functions and macros necessary to play successfully, though they take some time to get used to and you’ll need to program each one. These mice often feature a keyboard-style grid on the thumb side (muscle memory will soon become your new best friend). There are also button hybrid mice which will give you a little more flexibility without having to commit to one game type.

Customizable buttons can also mean customizable lighting. While this is mostly cosmetic, custom lighting options can be a super fun addition to your gaming mouse. RGB lighting can be found all over gaming setups, from speakers to chairs and now your mouse. Pick the aesthetic that works best for you (or your team). While the lighting will not impact the function of your buttons it does suggest that the customizable software is up to snuff. It’s important to feel like you’re in control of the command center when you’re fighting interplanetary battles.

Do you want a wired or wireless gaming mouse?

Another hot-button (get it?) debate amongst gamers and their mice is to go wired or wireless. Reliability is a major plus that a wired connection provides, but it also limits portability, range of motion, and inhibit your overall desk setup. These mice are connected to the computer using USB so you probably won’t need to invest in adaptors. Pretty much all wired mice are created equal when it comes to connectivity, though you can check out each spec to get a cable that is long enough for your needs. A wireless connection is more susceptible to disconnection or malfunction but models have become increasingly more reliable. A wireless mouse will declutter your cables, provide a cleaner setup, and will be easy to swap out. Keep in mind, you will need to charge this mouse so make sure you check out the battery life. You don’t want to be smack in the middle of a sequence only to lose complete control because your mouse is dead. A wireless mouse will let you play games from just about anywhere, you won’t need to be close to your monitor. This can be a great option for those of you who want to do some couch playing while hooking your monitor up to the television.

In general, we believe that a wired gaming mouse is a better option for most gamers, it also happens to be less expensive, but we recognize that sometimes you need to value form over function and as the technology continues to improve the form and function inch closer to being equals with many wireless gaming options.

Best budget: What you get for under $50

The price of many of the best gaming mouse options reflects the sophistication of their design and sensitivity. While it’s not easy to find comparable models with that level of functionality, it’s not impossible. Some of the best-known mouse manufacturers, such as Razer and Corsair, offer more affordable models made at the level of quality the brands are known for. You may not be able to customize lower-priced options like the Razer DeathAdder Essential, as much, and they may not be as aesthetically appealing. But the best cheap gaming mice can go easier on your wallet while providing the same levels of precision and functionality.

FAQs

The bottom line on shopping for the best gaming mouse

The best gaming mouse for your experience, preferences, and setup should now be at your fingertips. With so many advanced features and design options, the gaming peripherals, like gaming keyboards, are constantly improving—and the mouse is no different. There are a ton of amazing options out there and we feel confident that your next WoW session will leave you feeling fired up and in control with a brand new, ergonomically designed, programmable mouse in hand.

The post The best gaming mouse of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		ViewSonic Elite XG320U		SEE IT	The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of monitor specs.
Best 4K		LG 27GN950-B		SEE IT	The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.
Best Budget		ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)		SEE IT	The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

With rare exceptions, modern video games are an extremely visual medium, and what better way to experience that than on one of the top-notch gaming monitors. Whether you want to fully immerse yourself in imaginary worlds or ruthlessly climb to the tops of competitive ladders, crisp, bright, and color-accurate visuals are a key part of that experience. The best gaming monitors can get expensive, but they last for years and can easily jump between systems or become secondary monitors as you upgrade. There’s little point in spending money on a powerful new console or PC graphics card if you don’t have a screen that can actually take advantage of it. Even if you literally cannot tell the difference between 30 and 60 frames per second or 1080p and 4K (good for you, to be honest), we’ll help you cut through the noise, narrow down your priorities, and match them to one of the best gaming monitors on the market.

• Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U
• Best 4K: LG 27GN950-B 27 Inch UHD Nano IPS Display Ultragear Gaming Monitor
• Best 1440p: Acer Nitro XV272U
• Best for esports: Alienware AW2521HF
• Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G9
• Best budget: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

How we chose the best gaming monitors

First, we selected a range of specs around which to optimize, broadly dividing up monitors by available categories and user needs, such as focusing on frame rate, resolution, and price-to-spec value. We finalized the specific picks by collating both professional and consumer reviews to confirm monitors that we felt provided the best value in these various specs, with broad and consistent praise. New gaming monitors are coming out all the time, so no list can be truly definitive. However, these selections offer a snapshot of the current state of gaming monitor technology and design.

These selections were also more fundamentally informed by a lifetime of experience as gamers, as well as years covering both the gaming and hardware spaces as journalists and critics. With that expertise, we can help demystify the jargon-heavy world of monitors and help find the best one for you.

The best gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Flat or curved, big or small—it’s time to figure out the best monitor for your gaming rig, whether a desktop PC or a laptop. Now that you know the basics, here’s a list of our favorites. Each pick is optimized for a different spec or use case, so we think you’ll find something that works for you.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

ViewSonic

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Why it made the cut: The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of desktop monitors.

Specs

• Size: 32 inches
• Panel type: IPS
• Native resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 150Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
• Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
• HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

• Gorgeous picture
• Accurate colors out of the box
• High-performing at all resolutions
• HDMI 2.1 compatible

Cons

• Expensive

If money is no object and you just want the most monitor in every dimension possible, ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U has everything you need to make your games look their best. IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays historically had more vivid, accurate colors, but at the expense of response time, making them less ideal for gamers. The Elite is a great example of how newer, faster IPS tech has basically eliminated that gap, achieving the best of both worlds with fantastic colors and sharp, responsive images with no ghosting. With HDMI 2.1 compatibility as well, it’s a perfect fit for the latest generation of consoles or PC graphics cards and their promise of 4K gaming at 120Hz.

Best 4K: LG 27GN950-B 27-inch UHD Nano IPS Display Ultragear Gaming Monitor

LG

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Why it made the cut: The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.

Specs

• Size: 27 inches
• Panel type: Nano IPS
• Native resolution: 4K
• Refresh rate: 160Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
• Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
• HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

• Great color accuracy
• Very fast and smooth performance, especially for 4K
• Highly adjustable monitor stand.

Cons

• Expensive
• No HDMI 2.1

If you’re rocking the kind of system that’s ready for 4K gaming all the time, the LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor is one of the best 4K gaming displays on the market, particularly for PC players. This incredibly fast and smooth 27-inch 4K screen has a nano IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160), 1ms response time, and is NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Not only does it function at incredibly high speeds without any choppiness or smearing, but it also maintains sharp detail with bold colors and dynamic contrast.

Best 1440p: Acer Nitro XV272U

Acer

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Why it made the cut: Acer’s Nitro XV272U offers fantastic 1440p performance and utility at a great value.

Specs

• Size: 27 inches
• Panel type: IPS
• Native resolution: 1440p
• Refresh rate: 170Hz
• Response time: .5ms
• Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
• Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
• HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

• Bright, accurate colors
• Responsive performance
• Price

Cons

• Bland design

Acer’s Nitro XV272U proves that while a monitor’s resolution is important, it’s not everything. This display is 1440p, which means it’s better than HD but not quite 4K. This middle ground is fine since certain consoles, like the Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series S, aren’t capable of playing 4K games anyway. What sets this gaming monitor apart—aside from its shockingly good price is its 170Hz refresh rate, ultra-low latency, and support for AMD’s FreeSync. PC gamers with AMD graphics cards will find the Nitro XV272U is well-suited to their gaming setup. Your PC’s other specs—especially its CPU and GPU—will still make the biggest difference in how your games play, but we’re confident this gaming monitor won’t be the weak link in your system. If you connect your gaming PC to this monitor’s DisplayPort, you’ll have two HDMI ports free for game consoles, which is great if you want to turn your desk into an all-in-one gaming area. If you’re not completely sold on 4K gaming but want a monitor that’s relatively futureproofed for when you upgrade your gaming hardware, Acer’s Nitro XV272U is a great choice.

Best for esports: Alienware AW2521HF

Alienware

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Why it made the cut: A small display with a 240Hz framerate, the Alienware AW2521HF is optimized for competitive play in all the right ways.

Specs:

• Size: 24.5 inches
• Panel type: IPS
• Native resolution: 1080p
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Display ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort
• Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
• HDR: N/A

Pros

• 240Hz refresh rate
• Great viewing angles
• Support for both G-Sync and FreeSync

Cons

• No HDR

When it comes to fast-paced online competition, speed is the most important variable. Alienware’s AW2521HF 24.5-inch IPS display is only 1080p but runs at a blistering 240Hz with a low 1ms response time. Although it lacks HDR, it has fantastic viewing angles and is extremely glare-resistant, helping you maintain focus on the game. It’s compatible with both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, meaning smooth performance no matter what graphics card is powering it.

Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G9

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is the most performant monitor for gaming in the narrow field of ultrawides.

Specs

• Size: 49 inches
• Panel type: QLED
• Native resolution: 5120×1440
• Refresh rate: 240Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
• Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
• HDR: Samsung HDR 1000

Pros

• Gorgeous ultrawide display
• Vivid colors and contrast from QLED
• Blazingly fast refresh rate

Cons

• Expensive
• How wide is too wide?

Curved monitors are an expensive niche for a particular kind of hardware enthusiast, though the number of ultrawide options is growing rapidly. Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is a 49-inch monster of a display, perfect for gaming with its 240Hz max refresh rate and fast 1ms response time. With QLED display technology, it achieves more vivid colors and contrast and greater overall brightness than most gaming monitors, as well. As with most of our picks, its main drawback is cost, which is particularly amplified here as long, curved screens are much more expensive to produce than standard, flat resolutions.

Prefer a flatscreen and saving a ton? Samsung makes great monitors in general, and the 43-inch Odyssey Neo G7 offers a 4K UHD, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600 with Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Samsung Gaming Hub access.

Best budget: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

Asus

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Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

Specs

• Size: 27 inches
• Panel type: IPS
• Native resolution: 1440p
• Refresh rate: 165Hz
• Response time: 1ms
• Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
• Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
• HDR: HDR10

Pros

• 1440p and high refresh rate
• Good ergonomic options
• Incredible value for spec

Cons

• Weak HDR

It’s hard to find a better performance-to-price ratio than ASUS’ TUF Gaming VG27AQ. At 27 inches, 1440p, 165Hz, and a 1ms response time, this relatively cheap monitor means you’re ready for both visually rich immersion and lightning-speed competition. It even features ergonomic adjustments like height, tilt, and swivel, often one of the first sacrifices you make for a cheaper monitor. The only substantial drawback is that the overall brightness is insufficient to really let the HDR pop. Still, sacrifices had to be made somewhere for such an otherwise excellent monitor at this price.

What to look for when choosing the best gaming monitor

When researching gaming monitors, companies will throw a lot of numbers at you. Some of these specs—like size, resolution, and refresh rate—are extremely important. Others are a bit more granular. Here’s a rundown of the top details to watch before you pick up your next display.

Size and resolution

Many PC gamers believe bigger is better, but that isn’t always true. Size, resolution, and where you sit relative to the monitor are all intimately connected, and you should consider them all together when picking the best gaming monitor for you. A monitor’s size, listed in inches, refers to the diagonal length from corner to corner. PC monitors typically range from 19 to 34 inches. 

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, given in width by height. For gaming monitors, the three relevant contemporary resolutions are 1920 x 1080 (“1080p” or “HD”), 2560 x 1440 (“1440p” or “Quad HD”), and 3840 x 2160 (“4K” or “Ultra HD/UHD”). More pixels mean more detailed images, but also demand much more of your graphics card, so one of the biggest limiting factors for your monitor purchase should be the resolution at which your hardware can comfortably operate (unless you are trying to futureproof for some later upgrade). The benefits of more pixels are also lost on smaller monitors, where you won’t really be able to see the difference. For a small monitor—anything less than 27 inches—stick with 1080p. For 27- to 30-inch monitors, you probably want 1440p. For monitors larger than 30 inches, 4K is ideal.

Where you sit also factors in because being closer to a screen means it fills more of your vision, effectively making it larger. A 32-inch monitor might be great in theory, but if it’s dominating your desk, you might strain your neck trying to take it all in. Ergonomics experts recommend that the top of the monitor should sit around your eye level, so you minimize strain from having to look up at it, so keep that in mind when measuring your space. There’s no one best setup for size and resolution, so you should weigh both your hardware’s power and the setting in which you’ll be using it to pick the configuration that will give you the most bang for your buck

Refresh rate and response time

Refresh rate and response time are hugely important when it comes to finding the best gaming monitor. A refresh rate, expressed in Hertz (Hz), tells you the maximum number of times your monitor can update the status of what’s happening on your PC per second. In games, that translates to the game’s frame rate, or how many frames of animation your screen can show. The higher the refresh rate, the better and smoother the image. Refresh rates can range from 30Hz to 300Hz, but you’ll most commonly see 60Hz, 144Hz, and 240Hz. For modern AAA gaming, we generally recommend a 140Hz monitor. Still, there are exceptions: For esports, many players will choose the highest possible refresh rate to have the best reaction time, even at the expense of resolution and screen size. On the opposite end, 4K monitors are not as ubiquitous as 4K TVs and are still very expensive, so you may find yourself picking out a 4K/60fps model if the resolution is a priority for you.

In addition to a high refresh rate, you want to find a monitor with a short response time. Response time measures how quickly the monitor can change a pixel from black to white (or through shades of gray, depending on the monitor type). A longer response time means more motion blur, which can really mess up gameplay. Most monitors feature a 1ms response time, which is acceptable. There’s often more variation than the manufacturer’s letting on, but for this crash course, 1mm is good enough for most people.

Variable refresh rate

One very common feature worth highlighting is “variable refresh rate,” which refers to a monitor’s ability to smoothly ramp the frame rate up and down on the fly to match hardware performance. This leads to smoother visuals, specifically reducing the screen stuttering and tearing that can sometimes happen in video games, particularly when visuals are intense. There are two major versions of this technology: Nvidia’s proprietary G-Sync, and competitor AMD’s more open FreeSync technology. While some monitors are compatible with both, many only support one or the other, so if your machine’s graphics card can support it (depending on whether Nvidia or AMD makes it), be sure and get a compatible monitor to enjoy the benefits.

Do you want a curved monitor for gaming?

Curved monitors—which create a more immersive experience by allowing you to use your full field of view, including your peripheral vision—have become increasingly popular in gaming circles. Though they come in all shapes and sizes, they typically need to be large to create a wide field of view and often come in “ultrawide” screen sizes to maximize their effects.

When picking a curved display, you need to look at the depth of the curve, in addition to the usual size and resolution specs. The Monitor curvature, expressed as R, tells you the radius of the monitor’s curve. The number typically ranges from 1000R to 4000R. The lower the number, the deeper the curve. According to monitor manufacturer ViewSonic, the number also serves as a quick reference for how far away you should position yourself from your monitor. If you have a 4000R monitor, you should also sit 4 meters away from the monitor when you play to minimize eye fatigue and to get the best viewing experience.

The curved monitor can be a very cool way to enhance your games, but it is an “advanced” purchase for PC-savvy players who really know what they want. Many games require extra settings adjustments to work properly on wider curved displays. Also, picking a curved display usually means committing to a one-display setup since your curved monitor has to be centered. That may not fit players who work from home and use their PCs for work and play. If you’re into monitors and optimizing your experience, buying one may be life-changing, but new PC gamers might want to start with a flat panel and work their way up to it. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best gaming monitors

• Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U
• Best 4K: LG 27GN950-B 27 Inch UHD Nano IPS Display Ultragear Gaming Monitor
• Best 1440p: Acer Nitro XV272U
• Best for esports: Alienware AW2521HF
• Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G9
• Best budget: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

The best gaming monitor is designed to fit your space, enhance your gaming experience, and elevate the visuals of your favorite games. As long as you feel confident about the way you hope to play and the setup that you want, we feel confident you’ll be able to find the perfect fit. Don’t skimp on scoping out the specs, and stick to your goals, even if that means waiting a little more time to save. The next best monitor for gaming is always right around the corner, so make sure you are super satisfied with your choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best gaming monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom comes out in 23 days—not that anyone is counting. This means it’s time to prepare, including snagging the new Zelda OLED Switch, this Zelda control, this Zelda controller, this Zelda controller, and upgrading your gaming laptop so you definitely don’t emulate old TLoZ games to refresh yourself on the lore. Amazon has you covered there with this 17-inch Razer gaming laptop that’s $700 off.

Razer Blade 17 Gaming Laptop $2,699.99 (Was $3,399.99)

Razer

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Perform precise gameplay thanks to an RTX 3070 TI GPU, 12th-gen Intel Core i9 14-core CPU, and a QHD 240 Hz display. And, you can easily upgrade memory and storage, but an included DDR5 RAM and M.2 NVMe SSD should keep you happy and content while you hunt ghosties with friends in Phasmaphobia or dress up your horse in Red Dead Redemption 2. Vapor Chamber Cooling will minimize the laptop heating up when gameplay does, all while remaining quiet. Plus, it has all the important ports, like HDMI 2.1, 2 USB-C ports, 3 USB-A ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, an Ethernet port, and an SD card slot.

No gaming setup is complete without some RGB lights, and this GE CYNC Smart LED Light Strip bundle— compatible with Alexa and Google Home—is on sale for $15.68, down from its $20.25 OG price.

The sage village leader tells our hero protagonist that they have to act quickly to overcome the powers of evil that are plaguing the land in every video game—we at least agree on the “acting quick” part. Snag this gaming laptop deal before it gets into the wrong hands.

Here are other deals that are fair game:

• Acer Predator Aethon 700 Gaming Keyboard $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• Acer Predator Cestus 330 Gaming Mouse with PixArt 3335 Sensor $29.99 (Was $64.99)
• Acer Nitro Gaming Headset with Flexible Omnidirectional Mic $29.99 (Was $40.99)
• Acer Nitro 24.5″ Full HD 1920 x 1080 PC Gaming Monitor $149.99 (Was $219.99)
• Acer Nitro XZ270 Xbmiipx 27″ 1500R Curved Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor $179.99 (Was $329.99)
• Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx 23.8″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) Monitor $119.99 (Was $179.99)
• AOPEN 27HC5R bmiix 27″ 1500R Curved Zero-Frame Full HD (1920 x 1080) Gaming Monitor $109.99 (Was $139.99)
• SK hynix Gold P31 1TB PCIe NVMe Gen3 M.2 2280 Internal SSD $64.79 (Was $71.99)
• HP Pavilion Desktop PC, AMD Ryzen 7 5700G, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD $689.99 (Was $834.99)
• ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX6000 Dual-Band WiFi 6 Extendable Gaming Router $234.99 (Was $329.99)
• SAMSUNG 980 PRO SSD 500GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe Gen 4 Gaming M.2 Internal Solid State Drive Memory Card $59.99 (Was $139.99)
• SAMSUNG 870 QVO SATA III 2.5” SSD 2TB Internal Solid State Hard Drive $109.99 (Was $229.99)
• SilverStone Technology Air Slimmer 90 ARGB Enhanced Performance 92mm Slim Fan with PWM and ARGB Lighting $22 (Was $29.25)
• Western Digital 240GB WD Green Internal SSD Solid State Drive $22.53 (Was $27.23)

The post Get a Razer gaming laptop for $700 off on Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Samsung Odyssey Neo G9		SEE IT	Impressive specs and built quality have made this one of the most popular ultrawide options on the market.
Best features		Philips Brilliance 499P9H		SEE IT	This massive, feature-packed screen earns all of the desk space it takes up with advanced features and excellent image quality.
Best for gaming on a budget		Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor		SEE IT	This Republic of Gamers monitor offers offers many big gaming features without a huge price tag.

A larger monitor can drastically improve work-from-home, gaming, or office setups. They easily allow you to view multiple pages, applications, or files at once without the need for multiple displays. And when you’re done with work they give you an unbeatable gaming experience. Most 49-inch monitors offer an ultrawide 32:9 aspect ratio and viewing angles of around 178 degrees. With a screen this wide you will be able to multitask and have a broad workspace, like spreading out documents across a desk in real life, but you won’t suffer from wasted time flipping between screens or various monitors.

To help you find what you need, whether it be for gaming or productivity, we curated this list of the best 49-inch monitors for a variety of different users so that you can have everything you need right at your fingertips and in front of your face.

• Best overall: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
• Best gaming: Samsung CRG9 49-Inch 1440p Ultrawide Monitor
• Best for productivity: LG 49WL95C-WE
• Best features: Philips Brilliance 499P9H
• Best curved: Dell UltraSharp QHD Curved Monitor 
• Best for gaming on a budget: Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor
• Best budget: AOC AGON 49-Inch 120Hz Gaming Monitor

How we chose the best 49-inch monitors

To find the best 49-inch monitors, we scoured the internet for dozens of expert reviews and roundups from trusted sources, then compared those with peer suggestions and user impressions to find a collection of the best 49-inch monitors available. We not only looked at the specs of these monitors—including performance statistics like refresh rate and brightness—but we also surveyed their physical attributes, including stand size and weight. 

We then compiled a list of our favorite monitors from across all these sources and reviewed statistics to determine the best monitors for individual, and varied, needs. We focused on models with solid image quality for a reasonable price. We also suggest specific features for different users, as a productivity-minded person won’t value gaming-specific metrics in the same way. 

The best 49-inch monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

SAMSUNG

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Why it made the cut: Impressive specs and built quality have made this one of the most popular ultrawide options on the market.

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 240 Hz
• Resolution: 5120×1440
• Response Time: 2ms
• Brightness: 420 nits
• Panel Type: VA
• Price: $2,299.99

Pros

• Impressive refresh rate
• High resolution
• Natural curve that matches most people’s eyesight
• Impressive looking
• Flexible stand

Cons

• Hefty price tag 
• Aggressive curve works for most people but will seem disorienting for some

This monitor comes at a premium price but, with it, you get Samsung’s reliability and a slew of premium features that justify its cost. 

This monitor is particularly suited to gaming thanks to its high refresh rate, response time, and resolution. Its 240 Hz refresh rate is blazingly quick and will keep even your fastest-moving games looking smooth. It also features mini-LED backlighting, which gives you the option for brighter screens, and better control over dimming. The QLED display panel offers exceptional black levels and contrast. 

For additional features, this monitor also has HDMI 2.1 ports, which should support future gaming consoles if you’re a gamer. As the action really starts going, the FreeSync variable refresh rate will make sure that your monitor matches your graphic card without skipping a frame for a consistent, smooth image that will keep you from missing any on-screen content. 

You can also run two completely different inputs, like your computer screen and a video game, or a video game and a reference of a vlogging camera at the same time, in their native resolution, thanks to picture-by-picture.

Best gaming: Samsung CRG9 49-Inch 1440p Ultrawide Monitor

SAMSUNG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get a fantastic gaming experience without taxing your PC too much.

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
• Resolution: 5120×1440
• Response Time: 4ms
• Brightness: 1000 nits
• Panel Type: QLED
• Price: $849.99

Pros

• Great resolution
• Great peak brightness
• Thin screen borders

Cons

• Not great quality viewing at an angles

The QLED monitor is also great at color quality and the impressive resolution gives you 108 pixels per inch. Perhaps most impressive, though, is with all those pixels you get 1000 nits brightness, which allows for high dynamic range—great for movies and video games. With the help of black stabilizer, it performs particularly well in scenes that are dark and quickly transitions from dark to light. 

It relies on edge lighting with 10 dimming zones to improve the contrast ratio and provide deeper blacks. When you combine this with the 120 Hz refresh rate, 4ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, it’s a great monitor for those looking to game. And for a bit of an extra edge, the virtual aim point allows you to add custom crosshairs as well, whether the game wants you to be able to or not. But we won’t tell anyone.

For productivity purposes, eye saver mode limits the blues for prolonged work and picture-by-picture allows you to work from multiple inputs, though you’ll lose the advanced dimming capabilities. 

Best for productivity: LG 49WL95C-WE

LG

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Why it made the cut: It offers lots of space for efficient usage, but doesn’t tack on extra gaming features you may not need.

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
• Resolution: 5120×1440
• Response Time: 5ms
• Brightness: 350 nits
• Panel type: IPS
• Price: $1,999.99

Pros

• High-quality built-in speakers
• Good gray uniformity
• USB-C charging port can support laptop charging
• Ample resolution
• IPS display

Cons

• Not very bright
• Price

This monitor is better suited for the productivity-minded, rather than those looking for a gaming edge. That is mostly due to the low refresh rate, which is better for working your large spreadsheets or comparing research documents than it is for hunting down bad guys online. 

A built-in powered USB-C port will minimize clutter on your desk by allowing you to charge your phone or computer straight from the monitor. And for onscreen organization, LG OnScreen Control software gives you the ability to divide the screen for multiple purposes, even running multiple devices with controls from a single keyboard and mouse. 

The monitor handles gradients supremely well, and the grays are consistent, but other aspects of image quality can be lacking. No matter where you put the monitor, be it at a sitting or standing desk, you’ll be comfortable throughout the workday thanks to the standard stand that allows height, tilt, and swivel adjustments.

Best features: Philips Brilliance 499P9H

Adorama

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Why it made the cut: This massive, feature-packed screen earns all of the desk space it takes up with advanced features and excellent image quality. 

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 70 Hz
• Resolution: 5120×1440
• Response Time: 5ms
• Brightness: 450 nits
• Panel type: VA
• Price: $1,209.99

Pros

• Built-in webcam
• Bright clear colors
• Integrated speakers

Cons

• Refresh rate not great for gaming
• Pixel density may be lacking for some

This monitor performs well across the important specifications but might stand out more for the handy features and add-ons it sports. 

The image quality is great thanks to a panel that supports a high resolution. This makes it great for photo editing and other work requiring intricate designs. The screen is relatively bright, which helps take advantage of its HDR support. Along with the high resolution, the monitor also has bright colors and a great image, and a respectable refresh rate that might better serve productive uses and video watching more than it would satisfy gamers. 

In addition to these performance aspects though, this monitor also has built-in speakers as well as a built-in webcam. Impressively, while the webcam can support Windows authorization software, it retracts into the body of the monitor when you push it down to ensure your privacy. For connectivity, it has USBs, HDMI, DisplayPort 1.4, an Ethernet jack, and a powered USB-C for charging your laptop. All that takes some heft, though, and this monitor weighs 71 pounds.

Best curved: Dell UltraSharp QHD Curved Monitor 

Amazon Renewed

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Why it made the cut: This large productivity monitor offers a mellow curve for when you want to see your information without being surrounded by it. 

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
• Resolution: 5120 x 1440
• Response Time: 8ms
• Brightness: 350 nits
• Panel Type: IPS
• $1,099

Pros

• USB-C charging port
• Comes with a software bundle 
• Great resolution from panel

Cons

• Lacks HDR or adaptive-sync
• Slow refresh rate
• Price

For the productivity minded, this Dell monitor is another great option. While the resolution and IPS panel are great, the refresh rate, along with other features, means it will disappoint most serious gamers. 

It lacks hardcore gaming specs but that may be a plus for productivity-minded people who don’t want a lot of complicated settings they will probably never need. That includes creative pros like photo and video editors.

Productivity is really where this monitor shines. It has a slew of inputs ready to connect devices with USB, powered USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPorts. It is even possible to connect two separate PCs and toggle between them with the same mouse and keyboard or use side-by-side picture-by-picture. 

This Dual QHD screen, the equivalent of two 27-inch displays) has a much mellower curve of 3800R, which may be more appropriate for many business users. Beware though, the screen is large, weighing nearly 60 pounds with a stand footprint of 10 x 14 inches.

Best for gaming on a budget: Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor

ASUS

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Why it made the cut: It offers many popular gaming features without a huge price tag.

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
• Resolution: 3840 x 1080
• Response Time: 4ms
• Brightness: 450 nits
• Panel Type: VA
• Price: $799

Pros

• Affordable price for such a big screen
• Great refresh rate
• Bright picture

Cons

• Resolution not as great as competitors
• Pixel density is low

This is another great option for the gamer looking for an immersive experience. Even better, it offers impressive performance for the gamer on the budget with its relatively low price. 

With that low price, you still get an impressive refresh rate of 144 Hz and a decent screen resolution, though the discerning eye might rather go for something with a crisper image. Even still, the AMD FreeSync 2, as well as HDR technology, help whatever image you have on your screen moving smoothly. 

The VA panel handles color range and darks well, while Shadow Boost technology helps brighten dark areas on the screen without washing out the rest of the image. This will help you notice details, like a hiding enemy, in the dark corners of your game. 

A semi-matte finish on the screen helps fight glare if you game in the day, while Asus Eye Care technology will lessen the strain on your eyes if you play deep into the night. No matter how long you stay in front of the screen, you’ll be comfortable thanks to a highly adjustable stand.

Best budget: AOC AGON 49-Inch 120Hz Gaming Monitor

AOC

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Why it made the cut: Despite its relatively low price, it still offers features and specs that will work for avid gamers.

Specs

• Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
• Resolution: 5120×1440
• Response Time: 1ms
• Brightness: 550 nits
• Panel Type: VA
• $859

Pros 

• 4-year guarantee against dead pixels
• USB C charging
• Relative affordability

Cons 

• Cumbersome stand

This monitor has an impressive resolution, refresh, and response time rates thanks in part to its more affordable VA display panel. Even still, the performance, as well as the color, are strong, especially considering the cost. It operates much like two 1440 monitors put together but, importantly, it doesn’t have a bezel, which makes it a great option for things like linear video editing. 

This may be the exception to the rule of you get what you pay for, in part because even if a pixel on this AOC monitor dies, it is guaranteed for 4 years against dead pixels. It is also compatible with DisplayHDR 400 and Adobe RGB, which is great for those needing precise color editing capabilities like video and photo editors. Along with its refresh rate, it also has Freesync Premium Pro and G-Sync, which work well to smooth images and keep things from looking choppy. 

For additional features, it also comes with a remote control to allow you to control the screen from across the room, like switching between productivity and gaming inputs, and has a USB-C charging port to run things like a keyboard or speakers.

Things to consider when shopping for the best 49-inch monitor

Display resolution

The display resolution will dictate how clear the image on your screen is. It is determined by the number of pixels on your screen. If the resolution is not high enough, you will have blurry images, something you will really notice when blown up to the size of a 49-in monitor.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate is how many times in a second the image on your screen is refreshed with a new image. For normal work monitors, this is usually about 60 times per second, expressed as 60 Hertz. If you are using your monitor for uses with a lot of motion, like watching sports or playing video games, you’ll want the image to refresh more quickly to give you a smoother image with less jerking. Gaming monitors refresh rates can climb as high as 360 Hz. If you’re just doing photo editing, you’ll want to prioritize color reproduction and image quality over refresh rate

Aspect ratio

Aspect ratio is the ratio of the monitor’s width to its height. Many early monitors had a 4:3 ratio and have since moved on to 16:9 and sometimes 3:2. Currently, ultrawide monitors are gaining in popularity, with 32:9 aspect ratio being the most common in the class.

Price

It’s true that49-inch monitors often boast other impressive specs, which pushes their price tags higher than you might expect for a typical display. They regularly eclipse the $1,000 mark. Before you make the leap, consider how often you will use the monitor and how much you will benefit from having this added productivity. You may be able to get several smaller monitors for less money.

Response time

Response time is how long it takes your monitor to go from one color to another—often black to white and then back to black again. Most LCD screens are below 10ms but the fastener the response time, the better, and smoother, your image will be.

Brightness

Brightness measures how much light your LCD monitor produces. This is usually measured in candelas per square meter (cd/m²), often referred to as nits. Brighter monitors can be better in some gaming applications and allow you to adjust to shifting ambient light, including bright daylight through your windows. If you regularly work in an environment with a lot of ambient light, then spending the extra money to get a bright monitor is likely worth it.

Display panel type

Understanding your display panel type will help you understand how the monitor is working and what strengths it may have in color, viewing angles, etc. 

LCD, or liquid crystal displays, have been around for a number of years and use liquid crystals to modify light and produce desired colors, these are backlit to produce the image.

There are several types of panels within the LCD category including VA (Vertical Alignment) displays that are affordable with good color and good viewing angles. Alternatively, IPS (In-Plane Switching) may be a bit more expensive but provide rich, consistent, and accurate colors at any angle.

You can also get OLED, or Organic Light-Emitting Diode, where each pixel emits its one light rather than needing to be backlit. Each pixel can also be turned off which allows it to create blacker blacks. There is still some concern on the market that these screens could have images “burn in” much like older plasma TVs did if you leave a single image on the screen for too long. These monitors are also very rare and expensive.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best 49-inch monitors

Whether for fun or for productivity, a 49-inch monitor can vastly improve your field of vision. Beware though, this improvement will come at a price and require a lot of desk space. However, if you have the budget, and the room, you’ll notice a huge improvement in what you are able to see and do all at the same time.

The post The best 49-inch monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Overall		HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m		SEE IT	The HP Pavilion TG01-2170m offers great performance, even in the latest games.
Best for work and play		CLX Set Battlebox		SEE IT	CLX’s Set Battlebox is great to use, nice to look at, and easy to upgrade.
Best budget		Acer Predator Orion 3000		SEE IT	The Acer Predator Orion 3000 comes with specs that will let new players explore what makes PC gaming great.

PC gaming and gaming PCs have never been so exciting. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an explosion of new technologies like ray tracing and intelligent upscaling, which make games look and play better than ever before. Diving into the PC gaming world can seem daunting and expensive, but it doesn’t need to be. Whether you’re looking to get lost in New World or stay up until the wee hours with just “one more turn” in Civilization VI, we’ve rounded up the best cheap gaming PCs to get you gaming without breaking the bank. These PCs can make excellent gifts if you’ve got a serious gamer in your life (it can be yourself) but are on a tighter budget. We even have a compact gaming PC if they’re short of space but still want to play titles on Steam rather than stores created by Microsoft, Sony, or Nintendo. The best cheap gaming PCs also allow your favorite gamer to play non-console games on their big screen.

• Best overall: HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m
• Best for content creators: Lenovo Legion Tower 5i
• Best compact PC: BOSGAME Mini PC
• Best for work and play: CLX Set Battlebox
• Best budget: Acer Predator Orion 3000

How we chose the best cheap gaming PCs

I’ve been a PC builder for more than 15 years and a tech critic for IGN, Tom’s Hardware, PC Perspective, and MMORPG.com for over half a decade. In that time, I’ve become intimately familiar with the components that make gaming PCs tick. A high price doesn’t always mean the best performance, and a low price doesn’t necessarily mean good value. So, for this round-up, I’ve scoured retail sites with an eye toward the hardware inside each machine. After finding the best bang for the buck in each product category, I looked closely at user reviews to identify any red flags, such as poor packaging or carelessness in the build process.  

The best cheap gaming PCs: Reviews & recommendations

Now you know what to look for to ensure the optimum experience at the best price. Here’s our selection of the best cheap gaming laptops we’ve found for around $1,000. In most cases, you can upgrade if the model you selected doesn’t have all the features you want.

Best overall: HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m

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Why it made the cut: The HP Pavilion TG01-2170m offers great performance, even in the latest games.

Specs

• Price: $1009.99 
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 5600G
• GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 256GB 

Pros

• Can be configured up to an RTX 3060
• Highly customizable
• Compact design

Cons

• Limited configuration options under $1,000 with the RTX 3060
• Small SSD

The HP Pavilion easily offers the overall best cheap gaming PC we’ve encountered. This configuration equips it with a powerful RTX 3060 and 16GB of RAM for $1,309, making it the most powerful gaming PC in our line-up. It’s capable of the best FPS of any machine we considered and can be pushed even further with only a slightly higher budget. 

The stock prebuilt price here is higher than our target, but the good news is that you can go to HP’s online store and configure it with a much wider range of specs. If you’re willing to drop to a quad-core Ryzen 3 5300G, you can get the price down to an impressive $1,019. Of course, we’d recommend spending a little more to get a better processor or a bigger hard drive. No matter how much you spend, though, you can get a lot of machine for your money.

Best for streaming and content creation: Lenovo Legion Tower 5i

Lenovo

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Why it made the cut: This PC delivers great 1080p frame rates and offers plentiful storage.

Specs

• Price: $1,139.99
• CPU: Intel Core i5-11500
• GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER
• Memory: 32GB
• Storage: 1GB SSD, 2TB HDD

Pros

• Lots of storage
• Great GPU for 1080p gaming
• 6-core, 11th-gen Intel CPU

Cons

• Bland design
• Included accessories are generic

The Legion Tower 5i from Lenovo is easily the best cheap gaming PC for new content creators looking for a machine to let them try streaming on a budget. It comes equipped with a high-quality, modern Intel processor with enough cores to handle gaming and streaming simultaneously. Its Nvidia GTX 1660 SUPER has plenty of horsepower to run modern games at medium to high settings, ensuring your audience has the high-quality stream they crave. When it’s time to edit together your latest killstreak, it has space to spare with its 1TB SSD (perfect for installing your favorite game or two) and a 2TB hard drive for archiving video clips. 

The one area where this PC feels limited is memory, as it only includes 32GB of system memory. This ensures great stream performance, especially if you want to monitor your chat in a second window. The rest of the system is uniquely suited to aspiring streamers, so we recommend it.

Best compact: BOSGAME Mini PC

Bosgame

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Why it made the cut: Bosgame’s Mini PC is a tiny computer that can hide out behind your monitor but has the horsepower for both streaming and content creation.

Specs

• Price: $499.99
• CPU: Ryzen 7 5600H
• GPU: Integrated
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB 

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 CPU and 16GB of RAM
• Pint-sized
• 512GB NVMe SSD

Cons

• Integrated graphics only

The Bosgame Mini PC is tiny, but don’t mistake its small size for low power. This compact gaming PC can run most modern games at 1080P with medium settings enabled, and you may be able to eke out even more performance on a game-by-game basis. That’s largely due to the machine’s Ryzen 7 5800U 8-core processor, 16GB of RAM, and NVMe SSD. These are components we’d expect to see in computers that cost one to two hundred dollars more. AMD has put a lot of work into making its integrated graphics chips as powerful as possible, so while this Mini PC’s graphics card is its greatest liability, it’s by no means weak.

Bosgame went out of its way to equip its mini PC with a ton of ports. Three HDMI ports around the back allow you to connect this computer to three 4K monitors simultaneously, and the generous number of USB-A ports makes connecting peripherals a snap. We’re especially fond of the USB-A and USB-C ports on the front of this machine, which make plugging in a thumb drive much more convenient. If your gaming space and budget are both limited, Bosgame’s Mini PC may be all you need to play Steam games on your big screen.

Best for work and play: CLX Set Battlebox Gaming PC

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Why it made the cut: Getting a Battlebox Gaming PC from CLX will set you up for a long, long time.

Specs

• Price: $1,199
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
• GPU: GeForce RTX 3060
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 1TB SSD

Pros

• See-through case
• Excellent performance
• Designed to be upgraded

Cons

• Appearance won’t appeal to all

I checked out a budget-friendly CLX’s Battlebox Gaming PC build, and it’s certainly the computer I’d recommend to computer gaming enthusiasts. Its see-through case and RGB lighting immediately draw the eye but never got too distracting. If anything, it made my gaming setup more aesthetically pleasing even when it wasn’t turned on.

The benefit of choosing a gaming PC from CLX is the ability to customize its components to suit your needs. This is a common practice for all PC makers, but CLX specializes in gaming hardware, so you’re only given a few choices for each component that would impact how smooth games run.

My PC gaming needs are admittedly modest, and I spent my time playing through indie games like Tunic and Hi-Fi Rush along with older titles from my backlog, like the somewhat-recent 4K remaster of Star Ocean: The Last Hope. These games ran smoothly and accessing the Xbox and Steam apps to access my library was trivially easy.

The CLX build I was given to test was certainly powerful enough to play games like Elden Ring or the upcoming Resident Evil 4 remake with plenty of headroom to spare. On a similar note, popping off the side panel of this PC build was easy, and we immediately had access to all of the computer’s core components. If you’re looking for a gaming PC that’ll last a long time but was also designed to be upgraded when your needs change, this is a great choice.

Best budget: Acer Predator Orion 3000

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Why it made the cut: The Acer Predator Orion 3000 brings specs that will let new players explore what makes PC gaming great.

Specs

• Price: $1,299
• CPU: Intel Core i7
• GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 1TB

Pros

• 6-core, 11th-gen Intel CPU
• Great graphics card for 1080p gameplay
• Slick but not overstated look

Cons

• Included mouse and keyboard are unimpressive

For new PC gamers looking for the best cheap gaming PC for beginners, Acer has one of the most compelling bundle packages we’ve come across with the Predator Orion 3000. The desktop expertly balances price, performance, and aesthetics, making for a superb introduction to PC gaming. It has specs capable of streaming, light video editing, and, of course, playing modern PC games. The Predator Orion 3000 bundle also comes with a mouse and keyboard, so all you’ll need is a monitor to get started. 

One of the highlights of this system is its subdued yet stylish look. It doesn’t overdo it with RGB lighting, but its blue front fan and slim LED strips make it clear that this machine is purpose-built for PC gaming. If you’re shopping for a PC gamer who may not have their style preferences set in stone, this is a great entry point. 

The biggest drawbacks to this machine are the generic, unimpressive quality of its included peripherals. And there are great gaming mice and gaming keyboards available when you’re ready to upgrade.

Things to consider before buying a cheap gaming PC

Shopping for a gaming PC on a budget can be a confusing mix of big promises and perplexing specs. It’s important to know what matters most so you can cut through the hype and find a PC that will perform the way you expect it to. When buying a prebuilt gaming PC, the core components are just part of the picture. You also need to remember its capacity to take on upgrades and other factors. Here’s what to keep an eye on when shopping around. 

Graphics card (GPU)

The most important element of any gaming PC is its graphics card. The graphics card, or GPU, is responsible for rendering 3D graphics and is the most influential factor in how many FPS you’ll see in different games. If you spend extra money on a feature, it’s worth your while to get a PC with a more capable graphic card.

Two companies design different types of graphics cards: Nvidia and AMD. They license out their graphics processors to third-party manufacturers, such as EVGA and Sapphire, who create their own versions of each card with specs. These cards are broken into different standardized performance tiers. 

For Nvidia, the first two numbers indicate the card generation, and the third number specifies the caliber of the card. Nvidia current “30”-generation cards include the RTX 3050, RTX 3060, 3070, 3080, and 3090. 

For AMD’s Radeon cards, the first number indicates the generation, and the second specifies the card’s power. AMD’s current Radeon cards include the 6600, 6700, 6800, and 6900. 

Both companies also include half steps, which offer slightly better performance than the base model. For Nvidia, these are noted with the “Ti” or “Super” branding. For AMD, it’s “XT.” 

The most important thing to consider when comparing different versions of the same GPU “make,” such as an Nvidia RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon 6700, is heat. When shopping for a less expensive GPU, a prerequisite for getting a cheap gaming PC, try to avoid GPUs with only one fan or ultra-slim designs. While they may be fine, it is more possible to push a low-end graphics card so hard that it slows down due to “thermal throttling.”

Processor (CPU)

You’ll also want to give some thought to the central processing unit, or CPU. As with graphics cards, there are two primary manufacturers for processors: AMD and Intel. Both companies have a vast catalog of processors that may show up in cheap gaming PC configurations, but AMD’s Ryzen processors or Intel’s Core processors tend to be the most common. Like GPUs, each brand breaks its chips into different performance tiers that ascend in power as their number grows. For Intel, that’s Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9. For AMD, that’s Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9. For gaming, we recommend sticking to Intel Core i5 and Ryzen 5 CPUs and above if possible.

When deciding which CPU is the best fit for your cheap gaming PC, it’s important to consider exactly what you plan to do with it. While some modern games work better with higher core counts, for pure gaming, a quad-core CPU is probably good enough. If you plan to stream or multitask with video or audio editing software, it’s wise to save up and go for at least six cores to prevent any potential bottlenecks. 

You should also pay attention to the processing speed, measured in GHz. That indicates how many processing cycles a processor can compute per second. For gaming, it’s wise to target the 4GHz to 5GHz range or above (that’s 4 billion to 5 billion processing cycles per second). Many games benefit from higher clock speeds over higher core counts, so higher speed can often result in higher FPS. 

Finally, the generation of processors can also affect your CPU’s performance. New generations of processors often add new features that improve performance in addition to adding more power. As a rule, it’s best to decide on how many cores you need first and then buy the fastest, newest CPU you can afford after that.

Memory (RAM)

Memory is another critical component. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing the web with a dozen different tabs open, once your memory fills up, system performance suffers. In 2022, you need at least 8GB of RAM. Realistically, 16GB is the current “sweet spot” for both price and performance but may be hard to find in a less expensive system. Luckily, it is also one of the easiest and most affordable PC upgrades. You can even add more memory yourself.

Storage (HDD, SSD, NVMe)

Games are getting bigger every year, so it’s important to consider how much and what kind of storage you’ll need for the games you want to play. Broadly, there are three kinds of hard drives you should be aware of: mechanical hard drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and NVMe drives. Mechanical hard drives are, by far, the slowest but offer the best capacity per dollar. NVMe drives are the fastest but most expensive. Solid-state drives are a middle ground between price and performance.

When choosing a gaming PC, try to find one with at least an SSD to run your operating system and most-played games. Compared to traditional hard drives, using an SSD as your primary hard drive reduces in-game load times and makes the entire system feel faster and more responsive. Many cheap gaming PCs will feature smaller SSDs, so you may need to swap out which games are installed on them as you finish and move on to new titles. 

The other big thing to consider is how much storage you’ll need altogether. Games are bigger than ever. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, for example, can easily occupy more than 200GB, so settling on a PC with a 256GB hard drive wouldn’t be a good choice for Call of Duty fans. Look at the recommended storage requirements for your favorite games to get an estimate for how much storage space you require. Modern PCs generally have room for many internal hard drives so some gaming PCs may come with a small SSD and larger HDD. You can also install extra hard drives if you’re open to the idea of upgrading on your own.

Monitors, peripherals, and other accessories

If it’s your first time buying a prebuilt gaming PC, you might be surprised to find that prebuilt gaming PCs often don’t come with a mouse and keyboard, and only rarely include a monitor with the tower. Be sure to read the product listing carefully to identify exactly what is included with your purchase.

Though it might not seem so at first, separating the price of the PC from these accessories can actually be a good thing. When you’re purchasing a cheap gaming PC, you want every spare dollar to be invested in the hardware to improve the gaming experience. Often, any accessories that come with a prebuilt PC are poorly made and among the first things you’ll want to replace in a new setup. This isn’t always the case: Sometimes pack-ins can genuinely enhance the value of a PC bundle but look carefully at the whole package when buying a bundle—sometimes the “added value” of the accessories isn’t worth the savings.

Packaging, build quality, and warranty support

One of the most important factors to consider in buying a prebuilt gaming PC online is how well it will be built and how the vendor will actually ship it to you. Certain components, like the graphics card, should be secured during shipping to prevent damage to the motherboard. Other considerations, like cable management, can have a direct impact on the temperature of the PC and its performance in games. These elements are rarely included in online product listings, so it’s worth the extra time to read product reviews from real customers. 

And even the best gaming PC can have problems. Read the warranty guarantee and user reports about how the company handles post-purchase support. This is also a case where investing in an extended warranty isn’t always a bad idea, especially if the factory warranty is only 30 days.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming PCs

• Best overall: HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m
• Best for content creators: Lenovo Legion Tower 5i
• Best compact PC: BOSGAME Mini PC
• Best for work and play: CLX Set Battlebox
• Best budget: Acer Predator Orion 3000

Buying a prebuilt gaming PC can be one of the best ways to join the PC gaming community. For users that aren’t comfortable building their own or are having trouble finding the components they need within their budget, a prebuilt machine can take the stress out of getting started and get you gaming faster.

As with any major tech purchase, there is a lot to consider when shopping for the best cheap gaming PC. Knowing the games you’d like to play, and how you’d like them to run, is the best place to begin and your guiding principle when shopping. Whether you’re just interested in seeing the best graphics possible within your budget or getting your feet wet as a streamer, there are plenty of options worthy of a closer look.    

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio, to video games, to cameras, and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best cheap gaming PCs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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