Monitor buying guide: How to find an all-round monitor for everyday use
Writing emails on Monday morning, watching a Netflix film on Tuesday evening, playing games for two hours on Wednesday and booking the next holiday trip on Thursday: an all-round monitor has to be able to do everything, but none of it perfectly. What you should still consider when searching.
Yes, it doesn't "have to be able to do anything perfectly" - but it's still worth giving a few thoughts before choosing an occasionally used all-round monitor. I focus on size and resolution, connections and energy consumption.
- Size and resolution: 24-25 inches, Full HD
- Connections: HDMI + USB-C
- Energy efficiency class: at least E (according to the new 2021 classes)
Your all-round monitor shouldn't be smaller than 24 inches, and it doesn't need to be much bigger. I consider a Full HD resolution of 1920×1080 pixels to be sufficient for this display size. The qualitative gain of a higher resolution does not justify the usually higher price.
Your monitor must of course match the connections on your computer. HDMI and USB-C are the two connections that cover the majority of computers. HDMI is currently the standard for image transmission. With USB-C, you are well positioned for the future. This connection is becoming the new standard for image transmission. However, you won't find it on the affordable entry-level models yet. Only a small budget would be the reason for me to do without USB-C.
Even if the monitor is not intended for hours of use seven days a week, it is worth taking a look at the power consumption. The easiest way to assess this is the so-called energy efficiency class. For me, everything from "E" onwards comes into consideration.
If I feed our filters with the above information (24 to 25 inches, Full HD resolution, HDMI and USB-C as well as energy efficiency class A and better), then these are our current favourite monitors.
Do you want integrated speakers in your all-round monitor? Would you prefer a different size? Do you need other connections or do you want to do without USB-C for cost reasons? Then you can hier die Filter anpassen.
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When I was but a young student, I'd sit in my friend's living room with all my classmates and play on his SuperNES. Since then I've had the opportunity to test out all the newest technology for you. I've done reviews at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, and have now arrived at Galaxus.de.
