When it comes to upgrading your monitor, there are a lot of important factors to take into consideration. In order to choose the perfect monitor, you will need to consider LCD vs OLED, the different types of monitor panels, and the advantages or disadvantages of each.
With all these different factors and questions to consider, our team of experts here at Overclockers UK have decided to compile this helpful guide. In due course, all your questions about different monitor types will be answered! So, get yourself a cuppa, some biscuits, and keep on reading.
Screen Resolution and Size
Screen size is how big the screen is in inches whilst the screen resolution is defined by the number of pixels. The pixel density is measured in pixels per inch (PPI).
The higher the size resolution is – the more processing power and FPS is needed to perform effectively. If you want to achieve high frame rates, you will want to purchase a smaller screen as the larger the screen size, the lower the pixel density.
Common gaming monitor sizes and resolutions:
- 24 inches / 1920 x 1080 pixels
- 27 inches / 2560 x 1440 pixels
- 27/32 inches / 3840 x 2160 pixels
- 34 inches / 3440 x 1440 pixels
Brush up on how monitors are measured in our dedicated article.
Refresh Rates
When purchasing a gaming monitor, one of the factors to take into consideration is the refresh rate. Refresh rates are defined by the maximum number of frames per second.
A higher refresh rate results in more detailed images being displayed simultaneously and notably reduced motion blur. This is a must for gamers who enjoy intense, fast-paced FPS games, as high refresh rates mean you can keep your focus on fast mouse and player actions. In addition, you will have a distinct advantage over players, as you will see your opponents much quicker.
Want to read more about the importance of high refresh rate monitors? Check out our dedicated blog guide.
LCD vs OLED
Traditional LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) is a flat panel screen that utilises liquid crystal technology to display images, videos, text, etc. The individual pixels in an LCD are illuminated by a separate LED backlight.
Alternatively, OLED monitors have been constructed with Organic Light Emitting Diodes which eliminate the need for a separate backlight. These diodes individually illuminate the pixels for better, brighter image quality.
Advantages:
- Low response times
- Low power consumption
- High-quality contrast ratios
Disadvantages:
- Often more expensive
- Risk of burn-in
Adaptive Display Technology
What is NVIDIA G-Sync?
NVIDIA G-Sync is NVIDIA’s own display technology that has been expertly designed to deliver you a smooth, ultra-fast gaming experience. By synchronising the display refresh rates in your GPU, screen tearing, display stutter, and input lag are all notably reduced. As a result, you can sit back and enjoy a competitive edge over other players, thanks to the sharp image fidelity and smooth gameplay.
What is FreeSync?
FreeSync is AMD’s display technology which allows AMD’s GPUs and APUs to control refresh rates. Every AMD FreeSync monitor is put through extensive testing and certification to ensure the delivery of a tear-free, low latency gaming experience.
Along with being available on AMD graphics cards, FreeSync is also compatible with NVIDIA GPUs.
Choosing the Right Panel Type
When looking for a monitor, you will often find three different types of panels.
- TN
- IPS
- VA
Each panel type has its own advantages and disadvantages and it’s important to know as you select which features are best suited to your needs.
What is a TN Panel?
The oldest type of LCD panel, TN or Twisted Nematic were the first mass-produced monitors and are still being produced today. Suited for those looking for a wallet-friendly upgrade, TN monitors utilise liquid crystal technology with two filters that are placed vertically and horizontally. Popular with mainstream esports and competitive gamers, TN monitors offer short reaction times and fast response times. As such, screen blurring and tearing are notably reduced for an optimised gaming experience.
Advantages:
- Short reaction times
- Low power consumption
- Budget friendly
Disadvantages:
- Low colour space
- Low viewing angle
- Weak contrast ratios
What is an IPS Panel?
IPS panels or In-Plane Switching were developed as an improvement to TN. Expanding on the limitations of TN panels, IPS screens use parallel liquid crystals to offer high-quality colour fidelity. As the liquid crystals can shift horizontally, this allows for better viewing angle stability for those looking to game or work in comfort. IPS monitors are more suited to video editing, thanks to the high-colour depth and short reaction times.
Advantages:
- Stable viewing angle
- Colour representation
Disadvantages:
- High power consumption
- Often more expensive
LG 32″ 32GR93U-B 3840×2160 IPS 144Hz 1ms FreeSync/G-Sync HDMI 2.1 Widescreen Gaming Monitor
MON-LGC-00588
£649.99
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETWhat is a VA Panel?
The best of both TN and IPS panels, VA aka Vertical Alignment offers high-quality contrast ratios, colour fidelity, and wider viewing angles. Notably, VA panels block the light from the backlight when it’s not needed. This dramatically improves the production of deeper blacks and allows for better contrast ratios when compared to TN and IPS displays.
Advantages:
- Stable viewing angles
- High contrast ratios
Disadvantages:
- High response times
MSI 27″ MAG 27CQ6F 2560×1440 Rapid VA 180Hz 0.5ms A-Sync Curved Widescreen Gaming Monitor
MON-MSI-02920
£168.95 £ 138.95
-17.76%(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETWhat Are the Best Monitors for Console Gaming?
To achieve the desired high-quality 4k gaming experience with your console, you need a monitor that can support 4k resolutions and the latest HDMI 2.1 standard. HDMI 2.1 can support refresh rates of up to 120Hz meaning you can enjoy next-generation cinematic graphics on the XBOX S/X and PlayStation 5.
MSI 27″ MPG 274URF QD 3840×2160 Rapid IPS 160Hz 0.5ms FreeSync HDR 400 Gaming Monitor
MON-MSI-02694
£398.99
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETMonitor Further Reading
Choosing the perfect monitor for your gaming set-up can be a challenge. However, on the Overclockers UK blog, you can find a huge range of dedicated guides all about monitors to make the process even easier. All of which we’ve included down below.
Guide to Gaming Monitors
Are Curved Monitors Good for Gaming?
The Best PC Monitors for 2K and 4K Gaming
The Best Monitors to Pair with an NVIDIA RTX 4070 Ti
Does a Monitor Upgrade Require a Graphics Card Upgrade?
Can You Run Multiple Monitors from One GPU?
How to Set up Dual Monitors
How to Connect a Monitor to Your Laptop
Monitor Types FAQ
What is the Best Monitor Panel Type for Gaming?
Of the three main panel types used in gaming, each has their advantages and disadvantages. TN panels are popular with esports and competitive gamers, thanks to the fast response times. IPS panels offer great colour fidelity, great for cinematic gaming. VA panels offer the best of both worlds, with high contrast ratios and wide viewing angles. Which is best for depends entirely on your preferences and requirements.
Are OLED Monitors Good for Gaming?
Because they don’t need a dedicated backlight, OLED monitors have more vivid images and incredible response times. This makes them excellent for gaming, across a range of genres and playstyles. However, they are more expensive than traditional LCD monitors currently, and you need to be careful of screen burn-in.
What Size Monitor Should I Have?
The monitor size you require depends on your needs and available space. If your gaming set-up is limited in space, then a 45” monitor would be impractical. On the other hand, if you need multiple programs and tabs open simultaneously, then opting for more screen real estate is a must. For the average set up and gaming, a 27” monitor tends to be the sweet spot.
What Monitor Do You Use?
What is your monitor panel type of preference? Let us know in the comments below!
- 7 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over four years and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
Read More >>