What are the 4 main characteristics and what is their significance?

1. Resolution

The number of pixels, the small square image elements that together make up an image, determines how high the screen resolution will be.

Attention!

For the content to be displayed at the screen's resolution, the computer - graphics card must also be able to support it. For example, if a graphics card supports 2K resolution and the screen is 4K, the highest resolution you will see is 2K. Therefore, consider the other parts of the computer as well!

2. Refresh Rate (HZ)

In simple terms, the refresh rate indicates how many times the image is refreshed in one second. The higher this number, the smoother the movement and transitions appear on the screen.

• If you are interested in casual gaming and video watching, 60Hz will be satisfactory
• If you want to play competitively or are involved in video editing, 120Hz and above are ideal

3. Response Time

This defines how quickly each pixel on the screen changes color. The higher the number, the more time it takes. This feature is important for having a clear image even in intense action, without lag.

For casual gaming, 3ms will suffice for the task, while if you want the best possible response look for less than 1ms.

4. PANEL Technology

There are 4 main types of PANEL technology.

The table below presents their characteristics and appropriate use:

What will you use it for?

Depending on the use for which your monitor is intended, there are different features you should pay attention to. For the best recommendations by type of use, you can consult the corresponding guide with the best monitors.

Basic use

For emails, social media, internet browsing and basic file use, in all likelihood, you will not need a monitor with advanced features. Prefer one with *FHD resolution and size 22-24’, so it is comfortable to view. A standard monitor for everyday use or watching movies does not need to exceed 60HZ, that is, 60 refreshes per second.

Professional

If you work from home and spend many hours in front of a computer, we recommend choosing a monitor based on ergonomics and clarity. First, prefer a monitor with blue light filter and flicker free, which reduce eye strain from prolonged monitor use, and prefer a monitor with IPS panel. In terms of ergonomics, make sure the monitor arm is height-adjustable, so the monitor is at eye level. 

Skroutz tip: If you want everything in one, microphone, camera, speaker and of course monitor, choose a multimedia PC Monitor. Ultrawide monitors are elongated monitors with a 21:9 aspect ratio and are suitable for tasks with many open windows, multitasking & video editing, and if they are over 27’’, they are ideal for you!

Gaming

Focus on 2 features: refresh rate & response time.

Because a game’s image has greater demands, you need a monitor with a refresh rate of at least 75 Hz for casual gaming. If you play First Person Shooter action games, the demands increase, as you need to see your opponents’ movements accurately, so choose a monitor with >144hz. Similarly, for casual gaming with 3ms response time you are fine, while for more competitive games, prefer 1ms. This way, you ensure a clear image even in intense action, without lag.

Finally, have you seen the terms G-Sync and FreeSync in monitor specifications?

These are the software technologies that monitors have in order to synchronize the monitor’s HZ in real time with what the graphics card communicates. G-Sync is from NVDIA, connects via the classic display port and is compatible only with cards from the same company. Similarly, FreeSync is from AMD and is compatible with any graphics card, supporting both display port and HDMI.

If your graphics card does not support high refresh rates, you will not be able to see a difference no matter how good your monitor is, so choose a powerful graphics card so you have corresponding performance.

Video Editing

In this case, you need a large monitor, as you will often have many windows open at the same time. Pay attention to color deviation when editing an image, because if your monitor is not suitable, you may easily correct the colors of an image when in reality it may not be necessary. To ensure accurate monitor performance, frequently adjust its brightness, contrast and color.

Finally, make sure to choose a monitor with a resolution of at least 2K.

The table below summarizes the features you need to pay attention to for each use

This is the extra feature you should pay attention to: Ports!

Wondering why there are so many ports and what they are used for? The most common type is HDMI, which transmits both video and audio, supporting resolutions up to 4K. If you want to display higher-resolution content, then choose a monitor with display port!

And why is there also USB? So you can connect your phone, your camera, and many other devices!!

And these are the accessories you will need!

Webcam

Whether you are a gamer or preparing your next call at work, a webcam is absolutely essential.

Monitor mount

The ergonomics of a monitor are important, but a monitor mount is essential for the best possible posture. If you spend many hours in front of a computer, then it is a must!

Knowing the above, you can certainly choose the monitor that will meet your needs at the right price. Happy shopping!