When buying a gaming monitor, several factors come into play to ensure the best experience. Here’s a comprehensive list of aspects you should consider:
| Category | Product Name | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Best Pick | Samsung Odyssey G7 C32G75T | View on Amazon |
| Best Cheap | ViewSonic OMNI VX2718-P-MHD | View on Amazon |
| Mid Range | 27″ Philips 279P1 | View on Amazon |
| High End | Dell Alienware AW3423DWF | View on Amazon |
Resolution
This refers to the number of pixels on the screen. Common resolutions include 1080p (Full HD), 1440p (Quad HD), and 2160p (4K). The higher the resolution, the sharper the image, but you’ll also need a more powerful graphics card to maintain high frame rates at higher resolutions.
Refresh Rate
Measured in hertz (Hz), this refers to how many times the screen updates its image per second. 60Hz is standard, but gamers often prefer 144Hz, 240Hz, or even 360Hz for smoother gameplay. Higher refresh rates can be particularly beneficial for fast-paced games.
Response Time
Measured in milliseconds (ms), this indicates how quickly a pixel can change colors. Lower response times (like 1ms) are better for gaming to reduce ghosting and blurring.
A quick clarification here: response time, indicating the speed at which pixels change colors, is governed by the display technology (like IPS, TN, or OLED) and not the HDMI specification. So, when scouting for a new monitor or TV, this is a metric to watch, irrespective of the HDMI version.
Panel Type
- TN (Twisted Nematic): Fast response times but poorer color accuracy and viewing angles.
- IPS (In-Plane Switching): Better color accuracy and viewing angles but historically had slower response times (though modern IPS monitors can be quite fast).
- VA (Vertical Alignment): Sits between TN and IPS in terms of color and response time.
Sync Technology
Adaptive sync technologies like NVIDIA’s G-SYNC or AMD’s FreeSync help reduce screen tearing and stuttering, providing a smoother gaming experience.
Connectivity
Ensure the monitor has the right ports for your needs, e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and USB ports. If you have older devices, you might also want legacy ports like VGA or DVI.
Starting from a modest 4.95 Gb/s in HDMI 1.0, the transmission rates have shot up to a whopping 48.0 Gb/s in HDMI 2.1. This surge ensures that not only are we treated to higher resolutions and smoother motion, but we also get richer colors, better contrast, and overall improved image quality.
| Specification | Year | Video | Audio Support | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max. Resolution Refresh Rate* | Max. Transmission Rate** | HDR | |||
| HDMI 1.0 | 2002 | 1080p @ 60 Hz | 4.95 Gb/s | No | 8 audio channels |
| HDMI 1.1/1.2 | 2005 | 1440p @ 30 Hz | 4.95 Gb/s | No | DVD-Audio, One-Bit Audio |
| HDMI 1.3/1.4 | 2009 | 4K @ 60 Hz | 10.2 Gb/s | No | ARC, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD |
| HDMI 2.0 | 2013 | 5K @ 30 Hz | 18.0 Gb/s | Yes | HE-AAC, DRA, 32 audio channels |
| HDMI 2.1 | 2017 | 8K @ 30 Hz | 48.0 Gb/s | Yes | eARC |
Size and Aspect Ratio
Choose a size that fits your desk space and is comfortable for viewing. The standard aspect ratio is 16:9, but ultrawide monitors (21:9 or 32:9) are gaining popularity for a more immersive gaming experience.
Curved vs. Flat
Curved monitors can provide a more immersive experience, especially with ultrawide aspect ratios. Whether you choose a curved or flat screen is mostly down to personal preference.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)
HDR offers better contrast, brightness, and colors. However, not all games support HDR, and the quality of HDR can vary among monitors.
Other
Build and Ergonomics: Consider aspects like height adjustability, tilt, swivel, and pivot functions. Also, a VESA mount might be crucial if you’re planning to use a monitor arm.
Price: Higher specs generally come with a higher price tag. Determine your budget and decide which features are most crucial for your gaming needs.
Brand and Warranty: Go for reputable brands that offer good post-purchase support and a solid warranty.
Additional Features: Some gaming monitors come with extra features like customizable RGB lighting, built-in speakers, or a high-quality stand.
The world of HDMI can seem overwhelming with its array of numbers and jargons. However, it’s this very evolution that has given us the cinematic, gaming, and content creation experiences we relish today. As you gear up for your next tech purchase, take a moment to appreciate the HDMI magic working behind the scenes.
Our Picks
Overall Best Pick - Samsung Odyssey G7 C32G75T
his 32-inch curved gaming monitor, crafted with impeccable precision, offers stunning visuals with its high resolution. Featuring top-of-the-line refresh rates, the action on screen unfolds seamlessly without blur. Its color precision, owing to an exceptional color range, adds depth to your favorite games and movies.
| Samsung Odyssey G7 C32G75T Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Type | Monitor |
| Brand | Samsung |
| Model Series | Odyssey G7 |
| Model Number | C32G75T |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| Available Size | 32" (inches) |
| Display Type | SVA |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1440 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz - 240 Hz |
| Response Time | 1 ms |
| VRR Support | AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible |
| Display Coating | Anti-glare/Matte |
| Brightness | 320 cd/m² (Max: 600 cd/m²) |
| Contrast Ratio (Static) | 3900 : 1 |
| Connectivity | 2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Out, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x HDMI 2.0 |
Best Cheap - ViewSonic OMNI VX2718-P-MHD
Designed for gamers and professionals alike, this 27-inch monitor brings out the finest details with its impressive resolution. With rapid response times, it's perfect for action-packed gaming or high-intensity work tasks. Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable viewing for long hours.
| ViewSonic VX2718-P-MHD Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Type | Monitor |
| Brand | ViewSonic |
| Model Number | VX2718-P-MHD |
| Release Year | 2021 |
| Available Sizes | 27" (inches) |
| Display Type | MVA |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 50 Hz - 165 Hz |
| Response Time | 5 ms |
| VRR Support | AMD FreeSync Premium |
| Display Coating | Anti-glare/Matte (3H) |
| Brightness | 250 cd/m² |
| Contrast Ratio (Static) | 4000 : 1 |
| Connectivity | 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Out, 2 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2 |
Mid Range - 27" Philips 279P1
Philips introduces the 279P1 monitor, a true spectacle in display technology. This 27-inch screen, with a 3840 x 2160 resolution, ensures clarity in every pixel. The IPS panel, with sRGB at 122% and NTSC at 103%, guarantees vibrant and true-to-life colors. Enjoy versatile connection options including USB 3.2 and Ethernet RJ45, and ensure your eyes remain strain-free with its Flicker-free technology and Adaptive-Sync. The Philips 279P1 promises not just visuals, but a visual experience.
| Philips P-Line 279P1 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Type | Monitor |
| Brand | Philips |
| Model Series | P-Line |
| Model Number | 279P1 |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| Available Size | 27" (inches) |
| Display Type | IPS |
| Resolution | 3840 x 2160 |
| Refresh Rate | 23 Hz - 60 Hz |
| Response Time | 4 ms |
| Connectivity | 1 x USB 3.2 (Type-C; Gen 2; upstream; 65W; DP Alt Mode), 1 x Ethernet RJ45, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Out, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 3 x USB 3.2 (Type-A; Gen 2; downstream), 1 x USB 3.2 (Type-A; Gen 2; downstream; B.C 1.2) |
| Audio Speakers | 2 x 3W |
| Brightness | 300 cd/m² |
High End - Dell Alienware AW3423DWF
Boasting a large 34-inch QD-OLED display, a high-resolution of 3440 x 1440, and a 165Hz refresh rate, this monitor is the gamer's dream. Its 3.3 ms average response time ensures fluid visuals while the extensive connectivity options, from HDMI 2.0 to DisplayPort 1.4, allow for versatile setups. Dive into immersive landscapes with 99.3% DCI P3 and a 149% sRGB color range.
| Dell Alienware AW3423DWF Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Type | Monitor |
| Brand | Dell |
| Model Number | Alienware AW3423DWF |
| Release Year | 2022 |
| Available Size | 34" (inches) |
| Display Type | QD-OLED |
| Resolution | 3440 x 1440 |
| Refresh Rate | 48 Hz - 165 Hz |
| Response Time | Average: 3.3 ms, Minimum: 0.1 ms |
| Connectivity | 1 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Out (headphones), 1 x 3.5 mm Audio Out, 4 x USB 3.2 (Type-A; Gen 1; 5 Gbps downstream), 1 x USB 3.2 (Type-B; Gen 1; 5 Gbps upstream) |
| Brightness | Normal: 250 cd/m², Max: 1000 cd/m² |
