By Robin Owens 9 days ago, Monitors
When it was high time to upgrade my setup, I decided to try TV for computer monitors, because they usually have more advanced image processing capabilities, are fitted with tuners, and have bigger sizes.
As I often play video games at home, I looked for TVs with high refresh rates and low input lag to bring my gaming experience to the next level. Also, I wanted a model with HDMI 2.1, which supports higher resolution and refresh rates, which is really great for console gaming.
I use my PC to watch movies, stream content, and do some work tasks at home, such as editing documents and photos, so picture quality, color support, and features like HDR to ensure an immersive viewing experience are also important to me.
✔️ Large screen size. TVs have larger displays compared to standard PC monitors. Bigger size improves multitasking and ensures a more immersive experience whether when playing games or watching movies, especially with sizes like 46-inch TVs or 60-inch screens.
✔️ Versatility. An HDTV is a great option to use as a secondary monitor, especially if you are looking for larger screens for presentations or media consumption. It can function as a multimedia hub and a PC TV monitor, making it a practical solution for some setups.
✔️ Modern connectivity. Most HDTVs offer HDMI inputs, which are compatible with HDMI outputs on the graphics cards of a new generation. As HDMI transmits both audio and video through a single cable, the connection process is a breeze. DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapters, which are more flexible for connecting a PC to the TV, are also decent options to consider for those who want to use a different port.
❌ Pixel density. A lower pixel density (PPI) on large HDTVs is the most considerable drawback. For example, a 32-inch TV with a 1080p resolution offers a pixel density of only 68.84 PPI, which is much smaller than an average laptop screen, resulting in poor sharpness when viewed up close. For desktop use, I recommend TVs with a pixel density of at least 80 PPI. So, you should look for a 4K resolution TV of no larger than 55 inches.
❌ Input lag. As HDTVs are primarily designed to deliver videos, they have a higher input lag compared to computer monitors. This delay can be a serious challenge for fast-paced gamers or users who perform tasks requiring precise input. To enjoy smooth gaming, the input lag should not exceed 20 milliseconds, but this is only possible in a TV with a Game Mode setting, which reduces processing time.
❌ Response time and refresh rate. As HDTVs offer slower response time than monitors, the fast-moving scenes are likely to be spoiled with undesired “ghosting”. Besides, while some HDTVs advertise high refresh rates (like 240Hz TVs), this is more about post-processing rather than the real frame refresh frequency, which makes the gaming experience not so enjoyable.
❌ Resolution compatibility. You should make sure that the resolution of your TV matches your PC’s output capabilities. Most HDTVs have standard resolutions like 720p, 1080p, or 4K, but incorrect settings may cause blurry or stretched images.
✔️ Optimal size and resolution. The best TV for computer monitor is a 4K resolution TV up to 55 inches, which has a perfect size-pixel density ratio for desk use.
✔️ Check for game mode. If you are a gamer, a TV with a Game Mode feature that minimizes input lag and improves response time should be your priority.
✔️ Stick to HDMI connections. HDMI or DisplayPort-to-HDMI connections are preferable. Transmitting both audio and video, they simplify setup and maintain better quality.
Best Overall
LG Evo C3 OLED TV is probably the best TV for computer monitor for most users, as it delivers a fantastic picture quality, regardless of the type of content it actually displays. Whether it’s movies, TV shows, or gaming, the image is crisp and clear.
I was stunned by the infinite contrast and the almost 3D effect it gives to the picture. One of the greatest features is that it uses smart algorithms to adjust the picture quality automatically, tailoring it to your preference.
The main concern was the level of brightness during the day, as three windows in my room provide much natural light. But I was surprised to discover that the brightness was more than enough. As for gaming applications, this model supports everything you might require: 4 HDMI 2.1 ports that allow 4K at 120Hz, Dolby Vision gaming, VRR, ALLM, etc.
In addition, the size of this HDR TV is ideal for a desk setup. Fitted with the QLED technology, this model produces vibrant colors and amazing sharpness, making it a perfect fit for graphic design, video editing, and other tasks that require excellent color accuracy.
However, I had to alter a range of settings like decreasing motion smoothing and enabling pixel shift to eliminate burn-in and image retention during many hours of static use.
Screen size |
48" - 77"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
4K (3840 x 2160)
|
Brightness
|
800 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz
|
Response time
|
~1 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
Wide
|
Contrast ratio
|
Infinite
|
Color support
|
HDR10, Dolby Vision
|
For demanding PC tasks
Sony Bravia 8 attracts gamers with amazing picture quality. Delivering fantastic brightness and impressive color accuracy, the displayed image is always vivid and crisp.
As a monitor for gaming, this model coped with everything perfectly. The TV is fitted with HDMI 2.1 ports, which support 4K at 120Hz and VRR, making it a perfect option for gaming and heavy PC tasks.
Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode are the exclusive features that make this model the best TV computer monitor. They refine the image quality during the game sessions or when using Sony Bravia 8 as TV for streaming, which is really great.
Although this model offers multiple smart features, it does not allow tweaking the settings manually, which disappointed me. This monitor perfectly displays chroma 4:4:4 for extreme sharpness, but its unique RWBG subpixel layout spoiled the clarity a bit. As the monitor supports wide viewing angles, the image quality is always on top even from the sides, so using it for my multi-monitor setup was a smart decision.
Screen size |
65"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution |
4K (3840 x 2160)
|
Brightness
|
800 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz
|
Response time
|
~1 ms
|
Viewing angle |
~80°
|
Contrast ratio
|
Infinite
|
Color support
|
HDR10, Dolby Vision
|
For clear and crisp text rendering
Samsung QN90D 50-inch size is a great option for those looking for a PC monitor, and the setup caused me no trouble at all. Impressive brightness is the main plus of this model, so the picture is clear and well-visible even during the day with natural light pouring in through my large windows.
The black color was really bright, and not grey like in other monitors. But in some cases, the shadows were so intense that some details got lost, so I had to tinker with the settings to optimize them to the current picture.
The gaming experience with this monitor has been exceptional. This 58 inch TV supports high refresh rates, so fast-paced action was not a problem at all, and the HDMI 2.1 ports brought my gaming to the next level. Input lag was minimal, so the gameplay was quite smooth and responsive.
As this model supports chroma 4:4:4, text rendering is sharp and clear, and such tasks as browsing and document editing were enjoyable for me. Samsung QN90D QLED uses a BGR subpixel layout, which may decrease text clarity, but, for me, this impact was virtually unnoticeable.
Screen size |
43" - 85"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
4K (3840 x 2160)
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Brightness
|
2,023 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz (up to 144 Hz) |
Response time
|
~8.8 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
55°
|
Contrast ratio
|
Infinite
|
Color support
|
HDR10+, Dolby Vision
|
Great for gaming
LG C2 42-inch model is one of the best TVs for computer monitors because of its versatile size – it is quite big to provide immersive viewing experience but is compact enough for a desk setup, which was a common issue with 48-inch TVs.
The contrast was the main reason I selected this model. Since it’s an OLED, it delivers true blacks, making the contrast between colors and blacks vivid.
Speaking about gaming performance, this model is a perfect fit. It supports high frame rates of up to 120 FPS and has a variable refresh rate (VRR), the sessions are smooth and lag-free. OLED’s vibrant colors and deep blacks while playing on the PS5 or using the TV as my PC really impressed me, whereas a low input latency made my fast-paced gaming even better.
However, the TV has a unique pixel structure (WRGB), therefore text is not as clear and sharp as traditional monitors, which may be a problem during extensive text-based tasks or office work.
Screen size |
42" - 77"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
4K (3840 x 2160)
|
Brightness
|
800 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz
|
Response time
|
~1 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
Excellent
|
Contrast ratio
|
Infinite
|
Color support
|
HDR10, Dolby Vision
|
Budget-friendly large screen with 4K resolution
The main thing that attracted my attention to this TV monitor for PC was 4 HDMI 2.1 ports. But this model has a low refresh rate of a maximum of 60Hz, which is a problem if you’re into competitive gaming.
However, the picture quality for casual gaming and watching videos is just fine. The Motionflow XR eliminates the annoying judder or lag when playing Fortnite or viewing fast-paced content.
Thanks to an IPS panel, the TV offers wide viewing angles. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the colors remained consistent even when I moved around the room or watched movies with my friends sitting on the side. Although it is a VA panel, the contrast is not so strong, but for a regular desk, this is more than enough.
On the other side, when it comes to colors, the Triluminos PRO display really stands out among other models. The picture is vibrant, so this option works well as a monitor for photo editing. I was stunned by the colors it represented when I processed images – definitely not what one might expect from a regular, not pro-level monitor in terms of color accuracy.
Screen size |
65"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
4K (3840 x 2160)
|
Brightness
|
600 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz
|
Response time
|
~6 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
~60°
|
Contrast ratio
|
Standard
|
Color support
|
HDR10, Dolby Vision
|
Excellent price-performance ratio
I got a positive experience from using the Hisense U8N as my PC TV. I had no trouble with installation, as the only things I had to do were to plug in the cables and run through the initial setup.
U8N is an excellent monitor for gaming, as thanks to a combination of VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and ALLM the input lag is minimal. Vibrant colors and deep contrasts also make this model perfect for both playing a high-action FPS or exploring an open-world RPG.
The TV is fitted with HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K HDR at up to 144 Hz, which is another reason to use it as an HDR gaming monitor or for other demanding tasks. Besides, it supports chroma 4:4:4 and has an RGB subpixel layout, so the text is crisp and clear. This was a decisive aspect for me, as I often read and edit docs at home.
But when it comes to the software, it’s a bit of a nightmare. The apps did not receive the updates unless I did the factory reset. This really frustrated me, as the quality of the delivered pic was on top, but I ended up dealing with annoying bugs.
Screen size |
55"+ |
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
4K (3840 x 2160)
|
Brightness
|
2,920 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
120 Hz |
Response time
|
~5 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
~60°
|
Contrast ratio
|
High
|
Color support
|
HDR10+, Dolby Vision
|
The most affordable
As my experience showed, VIZIO is a pretty good monitor and TV under $700. It is fitted with a V-Gaming Engine, which ensures a smooth performance. Optimizing the picture mode automatically, this model also offers such beneficial features as Auto Game Mode and Variable Refresh Rate with AMD FreeSync. Plus the input lag is minimal, which is crucial for serious gamers.
Even though this TV doesn’t support 4K, the picture quality is really decent. But you’ll have to tinker with the settings a bit. I tried out different modes, and disabling the motion enhancement setting made the difference. Once you configure it to your preferences, the displayed content looks much better.
This model is lightweight, which makes the mounting and setup a breeze. It comes equipped with two HDMI ports (one with ARC for soundbars), a USB port that can power streaming devices, and standard audio inputs/outputs. This setup is enough for a minimalist monitor configuration, especially if you don’t need many inputs. As for cons, the audio quality is poor.
Screen size |
40"
|
Aspect ratio
|
16:9
|
Resolution
|
Full HD (1920 x 1080)
|
Brightness
|
300 cd/m2
|
Refresh rate
|
Up to 60 Hz
|
Response time
|
~8 ms
|
Viewing angle
|
~45°
|
Contrast ratio
|
Standard for LED TVs
|
Color support
|
HDR10
|