Gaming Monitors

Buying a gaming monitor

Here are the key features to weigh up before you go shopping for a gaming monitor.

Response time

Response time is the time it takes for a pixel to change from one colour to another, and it is measured in milliseconds (ms). Lower response times mean less motion blur and ghosting, which is important for fast-paced games where quick reactions are vital.

Refresh rate

Another important spec to consider when choosing a gaming monitor is the refresh rate. This is the number of times the screen updates with new images per second, and it is measured in Hertz (Hz). The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the images will look on the screen, which can be crucial for competitive gaming. A refresh rate of 144Hz or higher is ideal for gaming monitors, but it also depends on the type of games you play.

Input lag

Input lag is the time it takes for your monitor to display the image after your computer sends it. A low input lag is important for gaming as it minimises the delay between your actions and the display reflecting those actions, which is especially important in games that require fast reactions. Some gaming monitors also come with features like G-Sync or FreeSync, which can help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.

Size & resolution

Resolution and size are also important factors to consider when buying a gaming monitor. A higher resolution means more pixels, which can result in a sharper and more detailed image, but it can also require more powerful (and more expensive) hardware to run games smoothly. The size of the monitor is a matter of personal preference, but larger screens can provide a more immersive gaming experience.

Brightness & contrast ratio

Other specs that might be worth considering are brightness and contrast ratio both of which affect the quality of the image displayed on the screen. Brightness determines how vivid and clear the image appears, while contrast ratio determines the difference between the darkest and brightest parts of the image, which affects the level of detail and clarity.

Aspect ratio

Finally, aspect ratio is the ratio of the width of the monitor to its height, and it plays an important role in determining the shape and size of the image displayed on the monitor. The aspect ratio of a computer monitor can impact the user's visual experience, as it affects the way images and videos are displayed.

For instance, a curved monitor with a wider aspect ratio (e.g. 21:9) can provide a more immersive experience for users playing games, as it fills more of the user's peripheral vision. It is also worth noting that some games may not be optimised for certain aspect ratios, so compatibility may need to be considered as well.