The world of work has changed significantly in the past few years. Working from home — or WFH — is now commonplace. That means you can no longer get away with an ugly or slapdash setup in your home office. It's time for a serious upgrade.
If you regularly WFH, consider investing in all the things that make the working day more comfortable, enjoyable, and relaxed. We're talking about things like laptops, desk chairs, keyboards, mice, and more. A good monitor is also an essential tool for boosting productivity, helping you to organise, prioritise, and think clearly. It could be just what you need to overcome productivity issues as you adapt to the new normal.
But how to choose a monitor? As with all tech purchases, it’s easy to get blindsided with spec and jargon. But we can help with choosing a monitor to upgrade your office. Here’s some handy information to get you started.
What size are computer monitors?
Computer monitors are somewhere between a laptop and a TV. They tend to average out at around 24 or 27 inches, though there are definitely bigger options available. If you like to mix up work and play — as in, use the monitor for gaming as well as WFH — a larger monitor might be best. We’ve included a range of sizes below.
What is the best resolution for a computer monitor?
If you’re using the monitor just for work — spreadsheets, documents, and video calls — regular HD (720p) or Full HD (1080p) will do the trick. But if you are also using it for gaming or streaming in your downtime, consider a monitor that goes all the way up to 4K. You’ll find a selection of resolutions in this roundup. And it's not just about resolution. Monitors may also be equipped with HDR (high dynamic range), which means the monitor can produce richer colours and sharper details.
What makes a monitor good for working from home?
Deciding on a resolution is a good start, though you should mostly look for features that will help with everyday tasks. For instance, some monitors are built with technology to protect you from blue light or reduce eye fatigue — always a problem when you’re staring at a screen for the whole working day. There are also features that make it easier to read on the screen, and display technology that ensures you see the monitor clearly from any angle. Ergonomic features are also good for WFH.
What are ergonomic monitors?
Ergonomic is a term you’ll find while shopping for monitors — and lots of other office equipment, too. It basically means that it’s built for the most efficient and safest use. In the case of monitors that means they can be adjusted to tilt, pivot, and angle at a position that’s comfortable and reduces the chance of neck and posture problems. Sitting at a desk poorly can have bigger health impact than you might realise.
Do computer monitors have speakers?
It really depends on how much cash you’re willing to spend. Basic monitors tend to not have speakers, which means you’ll need to add external speakers (that’s if you need speakers at all, of course). More advanced monitors — such as gaming monitors — are more like little TVs, and will have speakers built-in.
What is the best monitor for working from home?
To help you find a monitor that works for you and your budget, we have tracked down a selection of devices from a bunch of top brands. We're confident that there's something for everyone — not to mention every budget — on this list.
These are the best monitors in 2023.
