4K monitors promise an ultra high-definition experience. Vivid and immersive graphics and vibrantly colored pictures. Whether it’s work or play, you can enjoy videos and interactive programs with faster response times and higher resolutions. Take your streaming and gaming adventure to the next level with a 4K monitor. We’ve done all the research for you and here are the best 4K monitors rounded up on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a 4K computer monitor?
Also known as an ultra-high-definition or UHD monitor, a 4K monitor is one that supports 4K resolution. Standard high-definition, or 1080P (as found on Blu-Ray discs and HD televisions), uses images comprising 1,920 pixels in width and 1,080 pixels in height. This results in a picture with over two million pixels.
The width of a picture that has 4K resolution contains 3,840 pixels–twice that of 1080P). With 2,160 pixels along the vertical side, the total number of pixels on a 4K monitor is four times that of a traditional HD monitor. Images are sharper and tighter, which is perfect for enjoying HD video and higher quality video game graphics.
What is the difference between Integrated Graphics and Discrete Graphics?
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a processor dedicated to graphics processing operations. The major purpose of the GPU is to reduce the workload on the central processing unit (CPU), particularly when running a game or program with heavy visual requirements.
Integrated graphics use a GPU that is built into the processor. For graphics/video, it uses system memory that is shared with the CPU. It uses less power and creates less heat. Processors with integrated graphics are most commonly found in smaller form factor systems such as laptops.
Discrete graphics use a GPU that is separate from the processor. It has its own dedicated memory and power source, so it provides higher performance than Integrated Graphics. It consumes more energy, however, and generates a significant amount of heat. Discrete graphics cards are most commonly found in desktop PCs. Laptops and small form factor PCs can also contain discrete graphics cards.
Buying Guide: 4K monitors deliver higher performance over HD panels. But here are technical details of which you should be aware, before selecting your 4K monitor.
- Size: Display size is a diagonal measure. Monitor specifications refer to it as an aspect ratio. Aspect ratio describes the width of the display size in relation to its height. If an image has an aspect ratio of 2:1, then it means that its width is twice that of its height. A good aspect ratio for a 4K monitor is 16:9 (or a resolution of 3840×2160).
- Type: 4K monitors can be TN, IGZO and IPS. TNs may trade off color accuracy for speed with response times of 1ms. IPS panels offer better color reproduction and sharper images but are a little slower at 4ms. IGZO panels have a superior transistor-based design and deliver high power, but consume more energy.
- Color accuracy: This speaks to the system’s ability to deliver the correct hue level and not just estimate color delivery. Delta E figures represent color deviations, where lower values mean good color delivery. For instance, 1.0 is a great value.
- Refresh rate: Many 4K monitors use a 30Hz refresh rate. This may be a bit slow for video editing so for specific functions, 60Hz or higher would be better.
- Location: Outlets and voltage differ internationally and you may require an adapter or converter for use at your destination. Please check compatibility before purchasing.
BenQ EL2870U 28″ 4K UHD Monitor for Gaming
Best Overall
4K Gaming Monitors
The BenQ 28-inch 4K UHD LCD TN panel offers 3840×2160 resolution. With a focus on eye care, the proprietary Brightness Intelligence (BI) adaptive technology adjusts brightness. There is also low blue light and zero flicker technology. The monitor offers HDR technology and features AMD FreeSync for smooth gameplay, eliminating tearing and broken frames. There is a refresh rate of 60Hz and a response time of 1ms GTG, eliminating lag and ghosting. The monitor comes with a three-year 3 manufacturer’s warranty.
The monitor has 1.07 billion colors and a 10-bit display. It features HDMI and DisplayPort input for multi-device connection and has connectivity via HDMI2. There are two built-in speakers and a headphone jack. Please note California’s Proposition 65.
Pros:
- Includes three-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Brightness Intelligence adaptive technology
- Provides AMD FreeSync
- Built-in speakers and headphone jack
Cons:
- HDR could be better
ASUS VP28UQG 28″ 4K/UHD Monitor
Runner up
Ultra High Definition Monitors
The ASUS 28-inch 4K UHD LED monitor features Adaptive Sync / AMD Free Sync for immersive visuals, with a 1ms response time. The viewing angle is (CR≧10) 170° (H) / 160° (V). ASUS Eye Care technology lowers blue light and eliminates flickering to reduce eyestrain. The Resolution is 3840×2160, with 1073.7M 10-bit display colors. The brightness (max) is 300 cd. A five-way OSD joystick delivers intuitive monitor controls so you can access features such as ASUS Game Plus.
There is DisplayPort and dual HDMI connectivity and the refresh rate is 60Hz. The monitor comes with ASUS Rapid Replacement three-year warranty service.
Pros:
- Three-year warranty
- Features Adaptive Sync / AMD FreeSync
- Five-way OSD joystick
Cons:
- Not the brightest display
SAMSUNG UJ59 (LU32J590UQNXZA) 32-Inch 4K UHD Monitor
Good Choice
32-inch Gaming Panels
The SAMSUNG 32-inch 4K UHD dual wide-screen monitor provides split screen functions like Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and allows you to connect to two devices while maintaining the original quality. The VA panel has a response rate of 4ms. It delivers 1 billion colors and features Flicker-free and eye saver modes. Brightness is 270cd/m2, and the resolution is 3840×2160.
AMD FreeSync synchronizes the refresh rate of your graphics card and monitor, to reduce image tear and stutter. 60Hz is the refresh rate.
Pros:
- Provides PBP
- Dual monitor technology
- Features AMD FreeSync
Cons:
- Non-adjustable display stand
Philips 276E8VJSB 27″ Monitor, 4K UHD IPS
Contender
Computer Essentials
The Philips e-line 27-inch LED Monitor with 4K UHD IPS panel produces 10-bit 1.074 billion colors with 178° viewing angles. It has a resolution of 3840×2160 with a 16:9 aspect ratio. There is a narrow border display, and the multiview enables active dual connect and view at the same time. The monitor features DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0 (x2) inputs with HDMI audio-out for convenience.
The monitor has a refresh rate of 60Hz. It comes with a four-year Advance Replacement Warranty.
Pros:
- 178° viewing angles
- Multiview
- HDMI audio-out
Cons:
- Ports close to the Vesa 75×75 mount
AOC U2790VQ – 27″ 4K 3840×2160 UHD Frameless Monitor, IPS
All-round
Electronic Gaming Accessories
The AOC 27-inch 4K UHD LED frameless monitor is wall mountable with an easy-to-remove VESA compatible stand. The flat IPS panel has a response rate of 5ms and offers wide viewing angles, with over 1 billion colors. It features a resolution of 3840×2160 with over 99% sRGB & 90% NTSC color gamut coverage There is DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 1.4 connectivity (HDMI, & DisplayPort cables included).
The monitor features AOC low blue mode to protect your eyes from blue light spectrum. The refresh rate is 60Hz.
Pros:
- Three-side frameless monitor
- IPS panel
- Comes with HDMI and DP cables
- Features low blue mode
Cons:
- Can only access 60Hz with HDMI1 port (not HDMI2)
