Selecting a new display for your computer setup? Our extensive review process has evaluated numerous models to identify the leading options currently available. These selections stem from in-depth testing across recent releases from brands including Acer, Asus, BenQ, Dell, LG, Samsung, and others.
Although our top overall pick suits a wide audience, we also offer selections tailored for cost-conscious buyers, gaming enthusiasts, and those prioritizing superior HDR capabilities. Since display requirements vary by user, further details on our evaluation criteria and essential specifications appear after our curated list.
PCWorld's credibility in monitor assessments and purchasing guidance derives from our deep-rooted focus on PC components. With coverage of personal computers dating back to 1983, we now examine dozens of displays annually. Every suggestion comes from hands-on evaluations by our specialists, incorporating performance metrics alongside thorough usability checks.
The Dell UltraSharp U2724DE stands out as a highly adaptable display suitable for diverse needs. It excels in office tasks, performs adequately for gaming, and supports demanding creative tasks such as image and video editing.
Featuring an IPS Black panel, the U2724DE approximately doubles the contrast compared to standard IPS displays. While it falls short of pricier OLED or Mini-LED options, it remains compelling. Additionally, it avoids the potential burn-in issues associated with OLED panels, which could arise during prolonged uniform use like spreadsheet work over extended periods.
Complementing the IPS Black technology, Dell includes a 120Hz refresh rate for enhanced motion handling, positioning the U2724DE as a practical gaming option. This versatility allows a single display to serve both professional and recreational purposes.
Connectivity options are comprehensive on the U2724DE, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort input and output, HDMI, and a 2.5G Ethernet port. Such features prove beneficial for laptop users via USB-C, expanding port availability significantly.
One limitation is the 1440p resolution, as many rivals at similar prices provide 4K. This compromise enables the higher refresh rate. For 4K preferences, consider the Dell U3225QE, though it costs nearly 50 percent more.
For budget-conscious users seeking a reliable, all-purpose display, the Acer Vero B247Y G delivers strong value. This 24-inch, 1080p IPS panel surprises with a 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync compatibility, accommodating both work and gaming needs. It also achieves solid image quality for its price, with superior contrast, brightness, and color reproduction.
Construction quality impresses, featuring a fully adjustable stand that supports height, tilt, swivel, and pivot—uncommon in affordable models. The intuitive on-screen display menu simplifies access to picture adjustments, and ports cover modern HDMI and DisplayPort alongside older VGA for broad device support.
Although cheaper 24-inch 1080p alternatives exist, the Vero B247Y G earns its modest premium through enhanced usability features, frequently dipping below $150 during sales. It represents one of the most balanced entry-level displays.
Gamers on a tight budget seeking more than basic functionality will appreciate the Pixio PX248 Wave. At $159.99, this 24-inch model differentiates itself with vibrant aesthetics and reliable motion handling.
Available in black, white, blue, or pink finishes, the PX248 Wave offers unique styling rare among affordable monitors, similar only to premium options like the Samsung M8 Smart Monitor. The matching stand and optional coordinated arm allow for cohesive desk setups.
Powered by a Fast IPS panel with a 200Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth visuals. Picture quality holds up well, providing decent color fidelity and coverage for gaming and light editing. Integrated speakers add convenience.
Connectivity remains straightforward with HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4, lacking USB options. The stand limits adjustments to tilt, and menu navigation could improve.
At this price, most rivals feature similar panels in plain black or gray enclosures. The PX248 Wave matches performance while surpassing in design, all without exceeding budget constraints.
Serious gamers should prioritize the MSI MPG 272URX QD-OLED for its exceptional capabilities.
This 26.5-inch panel provides 4K resolution paired with a 240Hz refresh rate on an advanced QD-OLED surface, blending sharp details with seamless movement. Ideal for those valuing both precision and speed, it includes Adaptive Sync for tear-free gameplay while retaining OLED's signature deep blacks and vivid hues.
The QD-OLED technology excels in contrast and color precision, appealing to creators and HDR media enthusiasts. Ports are plentiful, featuring HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1a, USB-C with 98W power delivery for device charging. Though the chassis is understated, the robust, fully adjustable stand prioritizes functionality.
Priced higher than 1440p OLED counterparts under $800, the MPG 272URX justifies the cost for its 4K/240Hz combination.
Professionals establishing a premium home workspace will find the Dell UltraSharp U3225QE comprehensive. Its 31.5-inch 4K IPS Black panel offers precise colors and enhanced contrast for work displays. The 120Hz rate improves navigation and multitasking fluidity, while the adjustable stand includes height, tilt, swivel, and portrait orientation, plus anti-glare for versatile lighting.
Connectivity eliminates dock needs, with Thunderbolt 4/USB-C providing 140W power for laptop charging, alongside HDMI, DisplayPort, daisy-chain support, 2.5Gbps Ethernet, six USB-A ports, a pop-out hub, and KVM for multi-PC management.
Absence of speakers and modest HDR are drawbacks, but the U3225QE's connectivity and display excellence position it as a key workspace component.
A compact alternative is the Dell UltraSharp U2725QE, mirroring the 4K IPS Black panel and Thunderbolt 4/USB-C features.
Content creators, developers, and designers requiring exceptional clarity and color fidelity will benefit from the Asus ProArt Display 5K PA27JCV.
The 27-inch true 5K (5120×2880) resolution yields 218 pixels per inch for remarkable sharpness, surpassing most 5K ultrawides and approaching Apple's Pro Display XDR. Text appears razor-sharp, and high-resolution images feel realistic.
Color coverage reaches 100 percent sRGB and DCI-P3, 91 percent Adobe RGB, suiting professional workflows, with 578 nits brightness for reliable visibility.
At $800 in early 2025, it marks the most economical true 5K option, offsetting its 60Hz rate and average contrast with superior sharpness, colors, and affordability.
For a 32-inch 6K display offering impressive detail and color without exorbitant costs, the Asus ProArt PA32QCV stands out as a strong choice.
Tailored for experts, enthusiasts, and creatives—particularly Mac owners—it provides accurate visuals, ample brightness, and Thunderbolt 4 with 96W delivery. Though not leading in contrast or HDR, its resolution, ease of use, and pricing combine uniquely.
The design appeals with its ergonomic stand enabling precise positioning, facilitating calibration.
Users desiring extras might explore alternatives like the Dell UltraSharp U3224KB, with IPS Black, 4K webcam, Ethernet, and robust Thunderbolt, or Apple's Pro Display XDR for superior HDR and construction. However, these cost $2,800 and $5,000 respectively, making the PA32QCV more practical for most 6K seekers.
Mobile creators needing a portable display with superior visuals will value the Viewsonic VP16-OLED. This unit merges top-tier image performance with an innovative support system.
The 15.6-inch 1080p OLED panel achieves elite scores in color accuracy, range, and contrast, outperforming many stationary OLEDs and all portables, ideal for photo and video pros.
The stand offers kickstand or upright modes, with dual USB-C for power/video and a micro-HDMI alternative. Included cables and a USB-C adapter ensure ready-to-use setup.
At $399.99, it exceeds basic portables' cost, which may not suit simple secondary display needs, but proves valuable for quality-focused users.
Programmers will find the BenQ RD280U optimal due to its 3:2 aspect ratio, providing extra vertical space for more code lines and less scrolling.
The 28-inch IPS panel ensures precise colors and broad angles for clear code visibility, with 3840×2560 resolution sharpening text and a matte surface minimizing reflections in any light.
Eye comfort features include MoonHalo lighting and auto night mode for prolonged sessions. Ports feature USB-C with DisplayPort alt mode and 90W delivery for laptop integration.
At $599.99, its specialized attributes for coders, unmatched by competitors, warrant the investment.
Additional notable options include the BenQ PD2770U for content pros; Asus ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W for superior motion and extras; budget gaming/productivity with KTC 27M1; Samsung Odyssey G7 G75F among 32-inch OLEDs; affordable Mini-LED ultrawide Acer Predator X34 X0 under $500; dual-mode Asus ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG at 4K/165Hz or 1080p/330Hz; flexible budget portable MSI Pro MP165 E6; value-packed Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED; gaming-capable budget portable Arzopa Z1FC; feature-minimal but high-quality Alienware AW3425DW; smart Google TV-integrated MSI Modern MD272UPSW; pro OLED Asus ProArt PA32UCDM limited by ports; connectivity-strong HP Omen Transcend 32 with excellent SDR; sharp, HDR-capable LG Ultragear 45GX950A-B despite cost and curve; affordable USB-C office BenQ GW2786TC under $200; bright ultrawide Gigabyte G34WQCP at $350; versatile productivity Asus ProArt PA278CFRV at $380; space-saving dual-use Samsung OLED G8.
Our display recommendations draw from evaluations by experienced contributors spanning decades.
Initial visual assessments are followed by precise measurements using the Datacolor Spyder X2 Ultra, quantifying brightness, contrast, color range, accuracy, uniformity, gamma, and more to uncover subtle traits unaffected by environment.
Consult our detailed methodology piece for comprehensive testing insights.
Matthew S. Smith, a veteran tech writer with 15 years in consumer electronics reviews, including monitors, contributes to PCWorld alongside Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and others.
Navigating the vast array of hundreds or thousands of displays requires understanding core attributes to inform choices.
Common resolutions include 4K (3840×2160), 1440p (2560×1440), and 1080p (1920×1080), where higher yields sharper images, though 1080p suffices as the standard and most widespread.
Ensure compatibility with your system's ports; HDMI and DisplayPort dominate, with USB-C gaining traction for its charging capabilities like laptop power.
Standard 60Hz rates are common, but elevated ones like 144Hz enhance motion smoothness, especially in gaming scenarios involving camera sweeps.
Adaptive sync technologies align refresh with input for reduced tearing; our FreeSync/G-Sync explainer offers deeper insights.
Many 4K units include HDR, but implementation varies; for robust results, seek VESA DisplayHDR 1000 or True Black certification. Our HDR PC guide provides further education.
Our buying resource delves into technical specs for informed decisions.
The Dell UltraSharp U2724DE claims top overall honors with its 27-inch, 2560×1440 IPS panel, 120Hz rate, and robust ports, handling work and play adeptly. It boasts durable build, ergonomic tweaks, and premium visuals.
While lower-priced options exist, none rival the Acer Vero B247Y G's balance at around $150. This 24-inch 1080p unit punches above with 120Hz, Adaptive Sync, full adjustments, and strong pictures—a standout deal.
Display dimensions hinge on space and taste.
A 24-inch size works for shallow desks under 24 inches deep, staying close for adequacy.
A 27-inch option suits most, improving visibility and expanding 4K availability, rare at 24 inches.
32-inch widescreens or 34-inch ultrawides enhance immersion on larger surfaces, potentially replacing TVs in compact areas.
42- or 48-inch TV-scale displays fit theaters or expansive offices, requiring 4-6 feet viewing distance.
USB-C emerges as the premier input, integrating DisplayPort features with power delivery for devices, our top suggestion for most.
DisplayPort ranks next for superior resolution/refresh support, prevalent on PCs.
HDMI trails with constraints, improved via 2.1 but still premium-priced and scarce.
All support 1080p/60Hz baseline; match to your hardware.
Current displays integrate seamlessly with recent Windows and macOS, requiring no drivers for immediate functionality.
Matthew S. Smith brings 15 years of expertise in electronics reviews to PCWorld, also appearing in Wired, Ars Technica, Digital Trends, Reviewed, IGN, Lifewire. He explores AI, metaverse for IEEE Spectrum and hosts Computer Gaming Yesterday on YouTube.