Best Computer Monitors in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 7, 2024
Any personal computer requires a monitor and if you want to enjoy watching videos, editing images, or browsing your favourite websites, you should pick a really fantastic display. Read our cutting-edge PC monitor review and make the right choice! ...Read more ...Read less
Advertiser Disclosure
BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Screen Size
Resolution
Panel Type
Key Specs
Interfaces
Built-in Speakers
Warranty
 
PROS

The monitor allows you to enjoy ultra-high definition images in 4K UHD quality. In addition, the monitor has a number of built-in features to make your work easier, such as Picture-in-Picture, Dual Picture-by-Picture output, and the built-in gaming mode.

CONS

Sometimes, it doesn't wake up when the computer is turned on.

OUR VERDICT

The Samsung LU32J590UQRXXU monitor has the highest image quality, wide functionality, and a laconic, thoughtful design. Its matrix is capable of displaying 1 billion colours, which will allow you to experience the thrilling emotions of watching content or working with applications.

detailed parameters
Screen Size

32"

Resolution

3840 x 2160

Panel Type

VA

Key Specs

Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

Brightness: 270 cd/m²

Static Contrast Ratio: 3000:1

Response Time: 4 ms

Viewing Angles: 178°(H)/178°(V)

Interfaces

1 x DisplayPort, 2 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone jack

Built-in Speakers

No

Warranty

2 years

PROS

This monitor is Technicolour colour certified and provides a 100% accuracy for a wide array of colours. The latter are always bright and vibrant for your enjoyment.

CONS

The eco sensor light meter is a bit buggy, though it's not that big of an issue.

OUR VERDICT

The BenQ PD2500Q is a computer monitor with a thin frame and a steady base. It will be great for ordinary users as well as designers, thanks to the Darkroom, CAD/CAM, and Animation modes. This model has a lot of ports for connecting other devices.

detailed parameters
Screen Size

25"

Resolution

2560 x 1440

Panel Type

IPS

Key Specs

Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

Brightness: 350 cd/m²

Static Contrast Ratio: 1000:1

Response Time: 4 ms

Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V)

Interfaces

1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Mini DisplayPort, 1 x DisplayPort out (MST), 1 x DP out (MST), 1 x USB Type B, 1 x USB 3.1

Built-in Speakers

Yes, 2 x 2 W

Warranty

3 years

PROS
A refresh rate of 144 Hz allows you to react as quickly as possible in any cyber battle, while a response of 1 ms ensures a clear and smooth change of pictures without lags or gaps.

CONS

The ergonomics of the monitor leaves something to be desired. 

OUR VERDICT
The MSI Optix G271 monitor is the type of monitor that's ideal for office use and also meets the needs of the most ardent gamers. Thanks to a wide color palette, everything that happens on the screen looks even more realistic and allows users to fully immerse themselves in the game.  
detailed parameters
Screen Size

27"

Resolution

1920 x 1080

Panel Type

IPS

Key Specs

Refresh Rate: 144 Hz

Brightness: 250 cd/m²

Static Contrast Ratio: 1000:1

Response Time: 1 ms

Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V)

Interfaces

1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone jack

Built-in Speakers

No

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The monitor is TÜV certified and features ComfortView technology, which reduces harmful blue light emissions. So, even with prolonged work, the load on the eyes will be minimal.

CONS

The HDMI and power connectors are a bit loose and can sometimes come out.

OUR VERDICT

The Dell S2721NX monitor will blend in harmoniously with any décor. Featuring powerful Adaptive-Sync Technology, plus the useful Dell Easy Arrange feature, you can quickly organise your apps, emails, and windows on a single screen.

detailed parameters
Screen Size

27"

Resolution

1920 x 1080

Panel Type

IPS

Key Specs

Refresh Rate: 75 Hz

Brightness: 300 cd/m²

Static Contrast Ratio: 1000:1

Response Time: 4 ms (grey-to-grey extreme)

Viewing Angles: 178°(H)/178°(V)

Interfaces

2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Audio line-out, 1 x Security lock slot

Built-in Speakers

No

Warranty

3 years

PROS

The monitor is certified according to the international Energy Star standard and provides excellent image quality with low energy consumption (up to 35 watts per hour). Eco Mode reduces energy consumption by 37% when working on the Internet and with documents, and by 44% in other cases.

CONS

The colours look inaccurate initially. 

OUR VERDICT

The BenQ GL2780 is what we would recommend to gamers with an average rig that is unable to run the games you play at more than 75 fps. We'd also recommend this screen to writers and editors, thanks to its slim bezels enabling seamless multi-screen configurations and modes that reduce eye strain.

detailed parameters
Screen Size

27"

Resolution

1920 x 1080

Panel Type

TN

Key Specs

Refresh Rate: 75 Hz

Brightness: 300 cd/m²

Static Contrast Ratio: 1000:1

Response Time: 1 ms

Viewing Angles: 170°(H)/160°(V)

Interfaces

1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI, 1 x VGA, 1 x DVI, 1 x Audio-in, 1 x Headphone jack

Built-in Speakers

2 x 2 W

Warranty

3 years

X

This site is a free online resource that strives to offer helpful content and comparison features to its visitors. Please be advised that the operator of this site accepts advertising compensation from certain companies that appear on the site, and such compensation impacts the location and order in which the companies (and/or their products) are presented, and in some cases may also impact the scoring that is assigned to them. The scoring that appears on this site is determined by the site operator in its sole discretion, and should NOT be relied upon for accuracy purposes. In fact, Company/product listings on this page DO NOT imply endorsement by the site operator. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. The information which appears on this site is subject to change at any time. More info

Samsung (LU32J590UQRXXU)

Limitless Colour

One of the things that LCD monitors have typically lagged behind their older CRT counterparts in is colour reproduction. CRTs were generally able to display an almost limitless number of colours, and while LCDs would typically get close, they still couldn't quite hit the mark. Today, though, this problem has largely gone away, but even more so, with a monitor like the Samsung 32" 4K UHD Computer Monitor you have access to over a billion colours, making the colour reproduction of this particular model far ahead of any old CRT monitor.

To put it all in simple terms, the Samsung LU32J590UQRXXU monitor has the highest image quality when compared to all other monitors on this list. Those who require high colour accuracy will find that this monitor simply can't be beaten in that regard. In addition, the monitor's wide functionality and a laconic, thoughtful design add to the benefits that you will get by choosing this model. As mentioned before, its matrix is capable of displaying 1 billion colours, which will allow you to experience the thrilling emotions of watching content or working with applications, being a particular boon to those who work professionally with photos or videos, ensuring that all images come out looking the exact way that you want them to.

Review of Samsung (LU32J590UQRXXU) 32" 4K UHD Computer Monitor

True 4K Experience

This monitor from Samsung allows you to enjoy ultra-high definition images in 4K UHD quality, giving your images the intense details that you should come to expect from a high-quality monitor. Of course, the resolution and colour reproduction of a monitor aren't the only factors that affect image quality, especially when it comes to video or gaming. Thankfully, this monitor won't disappoint in other aspects either. Although the refresh rate is set at a standard 60 Hz, you can still expect fast updates that ensure no screen tearing or artifacts. The static contrast level of 3000:1 gives you excellent contrast far above what most other models are capable of, and the response time of 4ms ensures a lag-free experience when it comes to gaming.

In addition to the above-listed capabilities, the monitor has a number of built-in features to make your work easier, such as Picture-in-Picture, Dual Picture-by-Picture output, and the built-in gaming mode. These allow you to work with multiple video sources simultaneously, such as when you are watching streaming video while working on a document, all without needing a second monitor. One thing to be aware of is that some customers have reported that this monitor sometimes has trouble waking up when the computer is turned on, but your mileage in this regard may vary. Overall, the excellent image quality and convenient features offered here make this model a top pick.

Samsung (LU32J590UQRXXU) 32" 4K UHD Computer Monitor in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £279.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B08WX6ZDTY

 

BenQ PD2500Q

Hollywood-Level Colour Quality

Tired of artificial colours on your out-dated PC display? The BenQ designer monitor is here to make a change and offer you an upscale experience with the 100% sRGB colour accuracy. Let’s find out what this particular model can bring to the table (literally).

First of all, the tech specs. This is a hi-res 2K QHD (2560x1440) monitor that designers will love. You won’t miss a single small detail – and will be able to see it with utmost clarity and depth. Mind that the colours may be slightly different than on other monitors, such as MacBook. Still, you will be hard-pressed to find a better monitor for design, photography, or even video editing.

Now, if you’ve heard about Technicolour before, it was probably related to Hollywood and filmmaking. Quite so, as the Technicolour Colour certification sets the high standards for colour accuracy that are widely used in film and entertainment. BenQ designer monitors comply with these standards, boosting the colour accuracy and consistency. No wonder that these monitors can be used for broadcast, film, or animation purposes.

Review of BenQ PD2500Q QHD Monitor for Graphic Design

Incredibly Fit for Designer Work

As for the colour accuracy, here’s how the BenQ model stays ahead of its competitors. It’s individually calibrated by the manufacturer to reach the impressive 100% sRGB and Rec.709. This means precise Delta-E and Gamma image performance and sharp, vibrant colours. A true designer’s dream, this monitor supports the top quality of visual creations.

But that’s not all. BenQ monitors come with specialized designer modes that will impress you. Darkroom; CAD/CAM; animation; all have customized display settings for more precise and comfortable work.

With Darkroom, you’ll be able to adjust the brightness/contrast for upscale image clarity. It’s also good for decreasing glare when not yet in the night mode. CAD/CAM boosts the line and shape contrast for tech illustrations; while the animation mode lets you expertly adjust the brightness for dark areas.

This monitor is flicker-free and protects you from eye fatigue or vision damage. The screen position is conveniently movable, which makes working with it a real pleasure.

To sum up, the BenQ designer monitor is outstandingly good for industry professionals and well-worth its price.

BenQ PD2500Q QHD Monitor for Graphic Design in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £268.97
Stock In stock
ASIN B0737M9QP7

 

MSI (9S6-3CB51T-008)

Not As Simple As It Might Seem

Although the MSI Optix G272 doesn't look as flashy as some of the latest gaming monitors, it has the kind of specs, making it perfectly suited for both office use and gaming. Let's take a closer look at it.

As we've just mentioned, the monitor doesn't look anything special. It has a simple style with high-grade matte black plastic construction and brushed metal finish and thin bezels on three sides. Despite its seeming simplicity, though, everything in it is made with practicality in mind, including the stand, which gives you the option to connect it to several monitors simultaneously, creating a multimonitor setup.

The placement of ports is quite convenient, too, unlike many other monitors where access to them is either awkward or obscured. Overall, the monitor has one HDMI port, one display port and a headphone jack. There's also a VESA mount included, so if you've got limited desk space, you will have an option to place it on the wall.

However, the standout of the MSI Optix G272 is the colour rendering, for sure. Equipped with an IPS panel, it delivers crystal clear imagery, eliminating any distortion and colour shifts. Many gamers note that the Optix G272's brightness is much better than advertised, and the picture looks impressively realistic, bringing out the fine details across the entire screen. Add to that a response time of 1 ms, and you get yourself a decent monitor that will provide you with a smooth change of pictures without lags, gaps, or artifacts.

The contrast ration of 1000:1 is also quite good. In fact, according to users, it's much better than most other computer monitors with an IPS panel. So, by and large, the monitor delivers quite an amazing viewing experience for the price point.

Review of MSI (9S6-3CB51T-008) Optix G271 Esports Gaming IPS Monitor

Not Deal-Breakers

The MSI Optix G272 has its shortcomings, too. Firstly, its ergonomics leaves something to be desired. The monitor lacks height adjustment, and it's got no swivel bracket to allow it to be viewed in portrait orientation, making it difficult to place it in the convenient position. Secondly, the monitor has no Display Port cable. Unfortunately, this makes enabling 144 Hz and g sync impossible until you buy the cable additionally. Having said that, for the price, these shortcomings are definitely not deal-breakers, and most users are more than happy with the Optix G272 monitor.

All told, it's a great 27-inch monitor, boasting an impressive refresh rate with low input lag and fast response time. Even though its ergonomics isn't perfect, and it comes without a DisplayPort cable, the Optix G272 delivers tear-free imagery with great contrast and in different viewing conditions, making it ideally suited for both office use and gaming.

MSI (9S6-3CB51T-008) Optix G271 Esports Gaming IPS Monitor in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £191.97
Stock In stock
ASIN B083P7DRSK

 

Dell (S2721NX)

Rock-Solid Monitor

What exactly would constitute the perfect monitor? This can be a tough question to answer, but it really comes down to the user's needs. Most people would probably think in terms of image quality, others in aesthetics and ease of use. But what about a monitor that combines both of these in order to form the perfect package? In this case, the Dell S2721NX 27 inch Full HD Monitor would be a great example of a monitor that does just about everything right. Combining a rock-solid image along with pleasant aesthetics and ease of use, this monitor has been made to provide users with exactly what they need.

The Dell S2721NX monitor will blend in harmoniously with any décor. Featuring extremely thin bezels, the image provided by the monitor appears to float in front of your eyes instead of being constricted by a large black border. The small base of the monitor provides a solid footing and good stability while still giving you plenty of desk space. The mount also allows the monitor to be tilted to give you the perfect viewing angle for how you are seated in front of it. The controls for the monitor are conveniently located on the bottom right of the monitor with forward-facing buttons, so you can adjust the settings quickly and easily.

Review of Dell (S2721NX) 27" Full HD (1080p) Computer Monitor

Easy Desktop Arrangement

The space-saving features of this monitor for your physical desktop are definitely noteworthy, but also worth attention is how the monitor helps you organise your computer's desktop as well. Featuring the useful Dell Easy Arrange feature, you can quickly organise your apps, emails, and windows on a single screen. The Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 also gives you plenty of screen real estate for multitasking with your apps, letting you be as productive as you need to be.

Not to be outdone here is the image quality for multimedia applications. This monitor features the AMD FreeSync technology, which gives you a maximum refresh rate of 75 Hz and which also ensures that your games and videos are able to take full advantage of this technology, giving you extremely smooth moving images without screen tearing or stutters.

The conveniences that this monitor provides are easily matched by its comfort. The monitor is TÜV certified and features ComfortView technology, which reduces harmful blue light emissions. So, even with prolonged work, the load on the eyes will be minimal. With all of these features and conveniences put together, this 27-inch monitor from Dell is a solid choice for those who want an excellent monitor for both work and entertainment.

Dell (S2721NX) 27" Full HD (1080p) Computer Monitor in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £219.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08FRH4NYF

 

BenQ (GL2780)

Banking on Aesthetics Too

The BenQ GL2780 is not the best gaming screen you can find within the budget price bracket. Yes, the monitor has its moments but, with the 75 Hz refresh rate and TN panel, it will not be able to elevate the entire gaming experience. That being said, the screen will be able to sustain most gaming ventures, and provided that there are not too many users that have the hardware to produce 120+ fps, this display will suit most users looking to play games with comfort and performance to match. Besides, one would argue that gaming is as much about performance as it is about aesthetics and aesthetics is where this product excels.

The sculpted base profile will be eliminating extraneous edges to achieve this clean, streamlined appearance, while premium texture etching gives the product this nuanced and elegant outline that's also resistant to fine scratches and whirls. The bezels are slim enough to enable basically seamless multi-screen configurations, so you can put two monitors, one on each side, and maximise productivity without any interactions. To complete the package, the monitor's fitted with this invisible cable management system that hides all wires inside the screen’s stand, keeping the workspace neat.

The ports are hidden behind this cutout too, so even though the model's equipped with the standard lineup, including a DisplayPort, an HDMI port, VGA and DVI ports, a headphone jack, and an audio output, you do not see them from behind yet the ports are pretty easily accessible.

Review of BenQ (GL2780) 27" Full HD Gaming Monitor (1080p, Eye-Care, 75Hz)

No Lagging, No Ghosting

Setting aesthetics and build aside, the monitor's gaming specs, aside from the aforementioned middling refresh rate, are nothing to sneeze at. The 1-ms response time means that there's practically no delay between what's happening online (provided the Internet connection is good enough), what the GPU is rendering, and what you're seeing on the screen. Fast-moving visuals and dynamic transitions will be rendered without lagging and ghosting.

Meanwhile, the Brightness Intelligence Technology (B.I.Tech.) will be able to detect content intensity, adjusting the brightness to make sure that bright scenes are not overexposed and that dark areas are visible enough. The issue here is that the settings menu is pretty convoluted though, so it might take you some time to figure out this feature, the Low Blue Light feature, the ePaper Mode, the Colour Weakness Mode, and many more but that will be time well spent.

In closing, the BenQ GL2780 might not be able to tussle with the most expensive gaming monitors out there but the high-end specs that those monitors are boasting do not do anything when you don't have the hardware to support them anyway, so this product will be a better fit for gamers with average rigs.

BenQ (GL2780) 27" Full HD Gaming Monitor (1080p, Eye-Care, 75Hz) in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £159.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07W81B99G

 

What Is a Computer Monitor?

A computer monitor is a hardware peripheral that displays images or videos produced by the computer's graphics card (also called GPU). Computer monitors differ by many parameters, so the choice of the right device may be quite tricky. To make it a tad easier for you, we have thoroughly scoured the consumer electronics market and picked five computer monitors that should be able to satisfy your needs and preferences. Some of these monitors will be great for gaming purposes. Some of the monitors are better suited for office applications. Certain monitors will prove a better choice for streaming multimedia content. And, of course, some models are more balanced than others, so you don't have to settle for some singular-purpose device if you don't want to. Everything from the monitor's specs to the size of the panel will help you determine their primary application and help you make the right choice.

It is typical of many monitors that their built-in speakers produce quite a mediocre sound and lack power. If it's the case, it won't hurt to purchase an additional set of speakers. And if your job or hobby involves a lot of typing, make sure to acquire an ergonomic keyboard.

What Features to Compare

Today, the majority of computer monitors have displays based on so-called liquid crystals, so they are really thin. Older LCD monitors have recently been replaced by the cutting-edge LED ones. There are several parameters you need to take into account when choosing an LED-backlit computer monitor.

Screen size

The first thing you should pick is the screen size which is measured in inches. No need to say, it's much more comfortable to watch films, play video games, render images, etc on a large display. However, large monitors require a more powerful graphics card and if your PC is rather outdated and get a brand-new 24-inch monitor - the whole system will not run well. Smaller PC displays are better in terms of price and they can be used with older hardware - in this case, you can choose an 18-inch or 19-inch computer monitor. For gamers and film fans, we recommend picking large 27-inch LED monitors.

Resolution

The next thing to pay attention to is the resolution of a monitor for PC - it is a total number of dots (or pixels) on the surface of the screen. The more of them an LED monitor has, the better the image you will get. In all, you must choose the PC monitors that support the Full HD resolution (1920x1080 pixels) and higher. The advantage is obvious - you can open several windows and work with them without any inconveniences. For example, if your monitor for PC supports the resolution of 2560x1440p, you can open with 4 windows on your desktop. The most common types of resolution are 1366x768p, 1920x1080p, and 2560x1440p.

Image quality

Also, you should think of image quality a computer monitor provides. It depends on the panel type a screen has. There are 2 most widespread panel technologies: TN and IPS. A TN panel is the most affordable one and it is the best for using a computer at home or at work. However, if you are a professional user who needs to work with graphics, you had better choose a monitor that has an IPS or MVA panels. They provide a far better image quality than a TN technology - the image is bright and vivid. Also, the viewing angles of an IPS panel are far superior to a TN. For instance, a usual IPS has viewing angles of 178/178 degrees and the maximal brightness of 270 cd./sq. m.

Interfaces

Finally, consider all the interfaces every PC monitor offers; in other words, look at the ports and slots it has. There are several essential interfaces any decent computer monitor should have. A DVI slot is usually used to connect large monitors and it provides good and clear image quality. An HDMI serves to transfer a digital video and multi-channel audio signal. A VGA is the only analogue interface for PC monitors and the only disadvantage of this type of connection is a deterioration of picture quality if you connect a digital device. Also, a USB (video) connection is important - a PC monitor can display videos from an external drive through this connection. Summing up, DVI and HDMI are the most important connectivity options to be taken into account.

Sources:

1. Christian Eberle How To Choose A Monitor, Tom's Hardware. June 12, 2016.

2. John R. Delaney How to Choose the Right Monitor for Gaming, PCMag. March 2, 2015.

3. How to Choose a Computer Monitor, wikiHow. September 2016.

4 Tyler Lacoma Want to ditch your postage-stamp display? Here’s how to buy a new big-screen monitor, Digital Trends. August 2, 2015.

5. How to Choose the Right Size Monitor for Your Needs, eBay. March 10, 2016.

Other reviews
Comments
0 Comments

Your comment was successfully sent

Error! Please try again later