Specs that actually matter: Size, resolution, eye-care, stands vs arms
Are you looking to buy a new monitor? We understand that given the number of options and variations in the market, plus your particular priorities, it’s a lot to wade through. Plus, there’s a lot of incomprehensible, technical terminology to contend with. We’ve stripped it back to basics so that you feel informed when making your decision.
So, let’s talk about key features…
What is Resolution?
The resolution of your screen is determined by the number of pixels per inch. Say you had two screen panels of the same physical size, the one with more pixels would have a higher resolution, yielding a sharper, clearer picture with greater detail, versus the one with fewer pixels, and consequently a lower resolution.
What do I need?
You shouldn’t consider a screen with anything less than full HD (1,920 by 2,160 pixels) for a job with consistent screen use– it offers a good balance between space and picture quality.
|
Name
|
Resolution
|
Pixels
|
Where is it found?
|
|
HD
|
720p | 1,366 by 1,080 | Basic, Web Browsing, Document Editing |
|
Full HD
|
1080p | 1,920 by 1,080 | Standard, Spreadsheets |
|
Quad HD
|
QHD, WQHD, 2K | 2,560 by 1,440 | More detail demanding tasks |
|
QHD+
|
QHD Plus | 3,200 by 1,800 | Even more detailed, Video/ Photo Editing |
|
UHD
|
4K | 3,840 by 2,160 | Premium, Detailed Visuals |
It’s worth noting that the picture quality on your new monitor will only be as good as the GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit, in the computer or laptop that you’re plugging into it. If you have a basic GPU capacity, there’s no point in investing in a high quality monitor.
What is Screen Size?
A screen’s size is measured diagonally from corner to corner. Typically, sizes range from 21” to 34”.
What do I need?
Though a larger screen does offer more versatility, in that there is more screen real estate for multitasking, it may not be the most practical option. It’s important to consider available desk space and the impact a too-large monitor would have. A 32” monitor may monopolise your desk, leaving you with a screen too close to your face, which can cause eyestrain, ultimately limiting your efficiency…especially if you are planning on a multi-screen set-up.
The most common sizes are:
|
Size
|
Ideal for what?
|
Where is it most suitable?
|
|
22” & 24”
|
1080p | Popular for office use and general computing, ideal if you work with monitors side-by-side |
|
27”
|
1440p (QHD) or 4K | Ideal for graphic design and multitasking |
|
32” and above
|
4K or Ultrawide formats | For immersive experiences and professional use |
Also, some things to keep in mind:
- The larger the screen, the more expensive the monitor (in general)
- Larger monitors typically support higher resolutions.
- Higher resolutions are more beneficial on larger screens.
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship of a screen’s width to its height.
Common aspect ratios are 4:3, 16:9, and 21:9. It’s the same as the thing on your TV that we’ve all accidentally changed and then spent 10 minutes figuring out how to reverse it!
21:9 and 4:3 content displayed on a 16:9 native display
Display Technology & Panel Type
We use monitors all the time, everywhere. They are the screens in our phones, our TVs, and our computers– for each of these, the most suitable screen type has been picked based on the set of priorities that the use case demands.
There are two features to consider: the display technology (LED or LCD) and the panel type (IPS, VA, OLED, and TN).
Display Technology
All you need to know about a monitor’s display technology for shopping is that there are two types and that the difference between them is how the monitor is backlit. They are LED, or Light Emitting Diode, and LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display.
Each has its own advantages:
|
LED
|
LCD
|
| Thinner design | More affordable |
| Better energy efficiency | Easier on the eyes for long sessions of work |
| A longer lifespan | |
| A higher contrast ratio, resulting in better contrast and colour accuracy |
LED Monitors are preferred by graphic designers and video editors for their superior image quality and performance.
LCD Monitors do not offer the same image quality, but are still a good choice for basic tasks such as word processing, email, and web browsing.
Panel Type
The type of panel used in your monitor affects its performance, image and colour quality, refresh rate, response time, and, of course, the price.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages:
|
IPS
|
VA
|
OLED
|
TN
|
| Excellent colour accuracy | Accurate colours | Excellent colour accuracy | Accurate colours |
| Wide viewing angles | High contrast | Great refresh rates | Great refresh rates |
| Good response times | Good response times | Great response times | Great response times |
| Higher price point | Affordable | Expensive, typically | Affordable |
IPS monitors are the best all-rounder, ideal for graphic design, photo editing, and general use.
VA monitors are great for working in dimly lit environments and having a good viewing experience for film.
TN Monitors are popular for their speed but aren’t competitive when it comes to colour reproduction.
OLEDs’ quick response times and their superior image quality with high contrast and deeper blacks make them a popular choice for video editing and design tasks.
Connections
When choosing a new monitor, you may need to consider the connections you need– things like USB-A and/ or USB-C ports, a DisplayPort, VGA and DVI ports, and HDMI ports.
Additional Features & Considerations
- Built-in blue light filters, which can help reduce eye strain and lower the risk of headaches (based on anecdotal evidence),
- Built-in speakers, for convenience
- Consider whether a monitor stand or a monitor arm would be best suited for your needs:
|
Monitor Stand
|
|
| Highly adjustable, moving vertically and horizontally | These are typically limited to height adjustment only |
| Frees up your desk by lifting monitor off the desk | Takes up desk space |
| Ergonomically better as it allows for precise positioning | Basic ergonomic capability that may require extra kit for optimal positioning |
| Highly flexible and can be repositioned easily | Less flexible as they’re in a pretty fixed position |
Dec 9, 2025
Specs that actually matter: Size, resolution, eye-care, stands vs arms
Are you looking to buy a new monitor? We understand that given the number of options and variations in the market, plus your particular priorities, it’s a lot to wade through. Plus, there’s a lot of incomprehensible, technical terminology to contend with. We’ve stripped it back to basics so that you feel informed when making your decision.
So, let’s talk about key features…
What is Resolution?
The resolution of your screen is determined by the number of pixels per inch. Say you had two screen panels of the same physical size, the one with more pixels would have a higher resolution, yielding a sharper, clearer picture with greater detail, versus the one with fewer pixels, and consequently a lower resolution.
What do I need?
You shouldn’t consider a screen with anything less than full HD (1,920 by 2,160 pixels) for a job with consistent screen use– it offers a good balance between space and picture quality.
|
Name
|
Resolution
|
Pixels
|
Where is it found?
|
|
HD
|
720p | 1,366 by 1,080 | Basic, Web Browsing, Document Editing |
|
Full HD
|
1080p | 1,920 by 1,080 | Standard, Spreadsheets |
|
Quad HD
|
QHD, WQHD, 2K | 2,560 by 1,440 | More detail demanding tasks |
|
QHD+
|
QHD Plus | 3,200 by 1,800 | Even more detailed, Video/ Photo Editing |
|
UHD
|
4K | 3,840 by 2,160 | Premium, Detailed Visuals |
It’s worth noting that the picture quality on your new monitor will only be as good as the GPU, or Graphics Processing Unit, in the computer or laptop that you’re plugging into it. If you have a basic GPU capacity, there’s no point in investing in a high quality monitor.
What is Screen Size?
A screen’s size is measured diagonally from corner to corner. Typically, sizes range from 21” to 34”.
What do I need?
Though a larger screen does offer more versatility, in that there is more screen real estate for multitasking, it may not be the most practical option. It’s important to consider available desk space and the impact a too-large monitor would have. A 32” monitor may monopolise your desk, leaving you with a screen too close to your face, which can cause eyestrain, ultimately limiting your efficiency…especially if you are planning on a multi-screen set-up.
The most common sizes are:
|
Size
|
Ideal for what?
|
Where is it most suitable?
|
|
22” & 24”
|
1080p | Popular for office use and general computing, ideal if you work with monitors side-by-side |
|
27”
|
1440p (QHD) or 4K | Ideal for graphic design and multitasking |
|
32” and above
|
4K or Ultrawide formats | For immersive experiences and professional use |
Also, some things to keep in mind:
- The larger the screen, the more expensive the monitor (in general)
- Larger monitors typically support higher resolutions.
- Higher resolutions are more beneficial on larger screens.
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship of a screen’s width to its height.
Common aspect ratios are 4:3, 16:9, and 21:9. It’s the same as the thing on your TV that we’ve all accidentally changed and then spent 10 minutes figuring out how to reverse it!
21:9 and 4:3 content displayed on a 16:9 native display
Display Technology & Panel Type
We use monitors all the time, everywhere. They are the screens in our phones, our TVs, and our computers– for each of these, the most suitable screen type has been picked based on the set of priorities that the use case demands.
There are two features to consider: the display technology (LED or LCD) and the panel type (IPS, VA, OLED, and TN).
Display Technology
All you need to know about a monitor’s display technology for shopping is that there are two types and that the difference between them is how the monitor is backlit. They are LED, or Light Emitting Diode, and LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display.
Each has its own advantages:
|
LED
|
LCD
|
| Thinner design | More affordable |
| Better energy efficiency | Easier on the eyes for long sessions of work |
| A longer lifespan | |
| A higher contrast ratio, resulting in better contrast and colour accuracy |
LED Monitors are preferred by graphic designers and video editors for their superior image quality and performance.
LCD Monitors do not offer the same image quality, but are still a good choice for basic tasks such as word processing, email, and web browsing.
Panel Type
The type of panel used in your monitor affects its performance, image and colour quality, refresh rate, response time, and, of course, the price.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages:
|
IPS
|
VA
|
OLED
|
TN
|
| Excellent colour accuracy | Accurate colours | Excellent colour accuracy | Accurate colours |
| Wide viewing angles | High contrast | Great refresh rates | Great refresh rates |
| Good response times | Good response times | Great response times | Great response times |
| Higher price point | Affordable | Expensive, typically | Affordable |
IPS monitors are the best all-rounder, ideal for graphic design, photo editing, and general use.
VA monitors are great for working in dimly lit environments and having a good viewing experience for film.
TN Monitors are popular for their speed but aren’t competitive when it comes to colour reproduction.
OLEDs’ quick response times and their superior image quality with high contrast and deeper blacks make them a popular choice for video editing and design tasks.
Connections
When choosing a new monitor, you may need to consider the connections you need– things like USB-A and/ or USB-C ports, a DisplayPort, VGA and DVI ports, and HDMI ports.
Additional Features & Considerations
- Built-in blue light filters, which can help reduce eye strain and lower the risk of headaches (based on anecdotal evidence),
- Built-in speakers, for convenience
- Consider whether a monitor stand or a monitor arm would be best suited for your needs:
|
Monitor Stand
|
|
| Highly adjustable, moving vertically and horizontally | These are typically limited to height adjustment only |
| Frees up your desk by lifting monitor off the desk | Takes up desk space |
| Ergonomically better as it allows for precise positioning | Basic ergonomic capability that may require extra kit for optimal positioning |
| Highly flexible and can be repositioned easily | Less flexible as they’re in a pretty fixed position |
