Are you looking for the best monitor for your graphic design needs? We’ve got you covered.
To provide your clients the best possible work that you can produce, making sure that the technology you are using meets those standards as well is important. Especially the monitor you’re using in your design work.
What are the best monitors for graphic design to buy in 2023?
Professional graphic designers should look for a monitor that can give them the best combination of extreme performance, the highest resolution available, and has the latest options available when it comes to connectivity with the other equipment you use – plus be within budget.
Let’s take a look at our list of the best monitors for graphic design 2023! And while you’re here, don’t forget a monitor calibrator so your screen performs at its best as well as a monitor arm to maximize your desk space.
Best Monitors for Graphic Designers in 2023
- LG Ultrafine 5K Display 27″ — Best 5k monitor & best for MacBook (Editor’s Choice) – 27″
- LG 27UL850 — Best budget monitor for graphic design – 27″
- BenQ PD3200U — Best value monitor – 32″
- Samsung U-E590D — Best affordable monitor for graphic designers – 28″
- Asus ROG Swift PG279Q — Best monitor for designers & gamers – 27″
- LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine — Best 5k ultra-wide monitor – 34″
- Dell UltraSharp UP3218K — Best 8K monitor – 32″
- BenQ EX3203R — Another great affordable monitor – 32″
- Samsung Odyssey G9 —Best curved monitor for graphic design – 47″
- Dell UltraSharp U2720Q — Best monitor for digital artist – 27″
- ASUS ProArt PA278QV — Best monitor for photo and video editing – 27″
- Apple Pro Display XDR — Best high-end professional monitor – 32″
- EIZO CG279X-BK — Best for color accuracy & calibration – 27″
- Dell UltraSharp (U4919DW) — Best large ultra-wide 5k monitor – 49″
- LG 40WP95C-W Curved WUHD — Best ultrawide monitor – 40″
The top 5K & 8K monitors
- LG Ultrafine 5K Display 27″ — Best 5k monitor (Editor’s Choice)
- Dell Ultrasharp 8K PremierColor — Best 8K monitor
- Apple iMac with 5K Display — The best computer with a monitor
- Apple 32″ 6K Pro Display — Best high-end professional monitor
What is the best monitor for graphic design?
LG 27UL850 is the best monitor for graphic design based on performance and overall value. Check out the table to see a comparison of the other best computer monitors for graphic design and choose what is right for you.
Protect your gear from electronic power surges with best surge protector – check out our list of the best surge protectors.
Top 3 Most Popular Monitors for Graphic Design
These are the three best selling monitors on Amazon right now:
The best Ultra-HD, 4k, 5K, 6k, and 8K Graphic Design Monitors in 2023
Although there is very little video content out there that is 5K or 8K (maybe in about 5 years), having a 5K or 8K monitor means you can fit more pixels on your screen, meaning you get more desktop space and higher resolution content. A graphic designer should aim for at least a 4k monitor.
Due to the price tag of 5K and 8K monitors and the limited usage of 5K+ at this time, most consumers & designers stick with 4K monitors but if interested, here are the best 5K and 8k monitors available today:
The Best 5K, 6k, and 8K Computer Monitors for Graphic Design in 2023
- LG Ultrafine 5K Display 27″ — Best 5k monitor (Editor’s Choice)
- Dell Ultrasharp 8K PremierColor — Best 8K monitor
- Apple iMac with 5K Display — Best 5k computer with monitor
- Apple’s 32″ 6K Pro Display — Best high-end professional monitor
See our feature on the Best 5K & 8K Monitors.
More information on the differences between 4k, 5k, and 8k monitors can be found at the bottom of this article.
The Best Computer Monitors for Graphic Design
1. LG Ultrafine 5K Display (Editor’s Choice)
The best 5K monitor and the best monitor for Macbook users
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,880 | Brightness: 500 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: 99% DCI | Weight: 14.11lbs
It can be tough to find the best monitor for a MacBook Pro — one that performs well but at an affordable price point.
Unless Apple seriously drops the price on their Pro Display XDR, the closest option you’re going to find is the Ultrafine 5K from LG.
This 27-inch monitor displays everything beautifully with its 5K resolution that is supported by color support of 99% DCI-P3 and a contrast ratio of 1200:1.
With three USB-C downstream ports and a single USB-C port that allows you to transmit 5K video and data while also charging your MacBook.
This is our top pick as the best monitor for graphic designers, artists, and creatives in general, especially if you’re a Macbook user.
If you’re after a larger screen size, we recommend the 34″ LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Integrated camera, mic, and speakers | ➖ In clamshell mode, the light sensor and True Tone do not work. |
➕ The colors are accurate | ➖ Ports are positioned in the middle of the monitor, which can make connections tricky. |
➕ Brightness up to 500 nits |
Latest Price on Amazon:
Depending on your location in the world, the exact model number is slightly different. Here are the two available options on Amazon.
- In-Plane Switching (IPS) Technology with Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs and Built-In Webcam with Microphone and Built-In USB Type-C Hub
- 5120 x 2880 Resolution, 1200:1 Static Contrast Ratio, 500 cd/m² Brightness, 178°/178° Viewing Angles, 14 ms (GtG) Response Time, 10-Bit, 1.07 Billion Colors
- Requires a compatible Mac running macOS Sierra 10.12.1 or later
- Compatibility (1 display): 5120 x 2880 @ 60Hz iMac Pro (2017), iMac (2017), MacBook Pro (2016 and later), and iMac models from 2017
- Compatibility (2 displays): 15-inch MacBook Pro from 2016 and later using the right and left side Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports on your MacBook Pro
- 27 Inch 5K (5120 x 2880) IPS Display
- DCI-P3 99% Color Gamut / 500nits Brightness
- Thunderbolt 3 Port with up to 94W PD
- 3 USB Type C Ports
- Mac OS Compatibility
LG Ultrafine 5K Display Review
Want a closer look at this fine monitor? Check out this LG Ultrafine 5K Display review video:
Video Credit: Marques Brownlee/YouTube
2. LG 27UL850
The best budget monitor for graphic design
Screen size: 27-inch | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Ports: DisplayPort, 2x HDMI, USB Type-C, 2x USB 3.0
While finding a great 4K, 5K, or even 8K monitor can be what any graphic designer might want, many of the options out there don’t come cheap.
Enter the 27UL850 from LG, one of the best budget monitors for graphic design.
With a beautiful 27-inch, 4K display, everything that you work on will look incredible. With excellent color quality, plus its incredible price tag, there are very few better options out there.
This is one of the best monitors for artists especially if you’re one of those so-called “starving artists”.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Versatile design for best graphic design experience. | ➖ 60Hz refresh rate only. |
➕ Ergonomic engine for smooth running. | ➖ No DCI-P3 color. |
➕ Plenty of ports for easy connectivity. | ➖ Poor speaker quality. |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27 inch UHD (3840 X 2160) IPS display
- VESA displayHDR 400
- USB type C connectivity. Brightness 350cd (typ) / 280cd (Min)
- SRBG 99 percent color gamut
- Ultra thin bezel and height/ pivot/ tilt adjustable stand
3. BenQ PD3200U
The best value monitor with 4K Ultra HD display
Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 8.5kg
With the adoption of 4K resolution by many monitor manufacturers, 4K monitors are a dime a dozen. This is why the PD3200U 4K UHD display from BenQ is such an amazing display. This display is a 3D designer’s best friend thanks in part to the CAD/CAM mode along with factory-calibrated color accuracy.
Designed for professionals and creatives, the PD3200U from BenQ is one of the best all-around monitors available today for graphic designers – even the owner of this blog uses this monitor.
There is a newer version of this monitor, the Benq PD3220U which has Thunderbolt 3 built-in but it is double the cost and the specs are near identical so we recommend sticking to the 3200U, unless money is no object for you, in which case you’re better off going for the LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Crisp ultra HD picture | ➖ Narrow Adobe RGB color gamut |
➕ Value for money | ➖ Design is dull in some conditions |
➕ IPS panel with wonderful graphics | ➖ Wide gamut support missing |
➕ Multiple picture modes for designing purposes | ➖ Finicky settings controller |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Ideal for Professional Work: 32 Inch 4K UHD IPS computer monitor features CalMan verified and Pantone validated technology for color accuracy.
- Seamless Connectivity: Easily access content via HDMI port, DisplayPort, mDP, and USB hub! Expand your workspace with a built-in KVM switch and HotKey Puck G2.
- Ergonomic Design: Easily customize your workspace to fit what best works for you! Tilt, pivot, swivel, and adjust the height of the monitor for optimal comfort.
- Eye-Care Technology: Our exclusive Eye-Care technology reduces eye fatigue for optimal comfort, productivity and allows you to work for an extended period of time.
- AQCOLOR Technology: Developed by BenQ that reproduces accurate colors on professional monitors. Work with colors you can trust.
4. Samsung U-E590D
Best overall monitor for graphic designers
Screen size: 28-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 310 cd/m2 | Viewing angle: 170/160 | Contrast ratio: 1000: 1 | Color support: 1 Billion
Every graphic designer who wants the best overall monitor should consider the Samsung U-E590D. This monitor has a stunning 4K Ultra HD vision of everything you watch, play, and read.
The increased power and performance will allow you to multitask more efficiently. This monitor can also display 64 times the amount of color compared to normal displays, giving your design a more detailed, natural, and lifelike appearance.
If you enjoy gaming while taking a break from designing, the fast response time and crisp image quality will enhance your gaming experience.
If you’re looking for the best graphic design monitor at a low price, the Samsung U-E590D is an excellent choice.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Great performance | ➖ Requires calibration |
➕ Freesync support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- With stunning Ultra HD picture quality, PC viewing, gaming and more come alive with incredible lifelike detail
- AMD FreeSync and 1ms response time minimizes input latency and dramatically reduces image tearing and stutter during gaming
- An incredible 1 billion colors delivers detailed, natural looking, and extremely realistic images; Connect multiple Ultra HD devices, like PCs and gaming consoles via two HDMI 2.0 inputs as well as...
- Watch your favorite movie or video in one window while simultaneously working on a spreadsheet with Picture in Picture (PIP) 2.0 technology
- Pixel pitch is 0.006 horizontal x 0.006 vertical in inches; Minimum brightness is 310 cd per m2; Tilting the product excessively may cause it to fall and result in personal injury; Vesa mounting...
5. Asus ROG Swift PG279Q
The best monitor for designers & gaming
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 50,000:1 | Color support: Adobe RGB 99% | Weight: 28 pounds
If you’re looking for the best combination of performance and value, then you should take a closer look at the ROG Swift from Asus. With the combination of high-end features such as a 4K UHD display, plus Nvidia G-Sync and HDR, the Swift is quite simply one of the best monitors for graphic designers.
The refresh rate of 165 Hz is the noticeable stand out which makes for an extremely smooth experience. We do recommend getting some external speakers to go with this monitor as these are quite rough.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Latest G Sync technology to enhance the graphic design experience | ➖ No black equalizer |
➕ IPS panel with fantastic colors | ➖ Rough built-in speakers |
➕ 165 Hz refresh rate for a smooth experience | ➖ Can’t create on-screen display profiles |
➕ High screen resolution for best picture quality |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27 inch WQHD (2560x1440) IPS panel with 165Hz refresh rate (supports 144Hz) full sRGB gamut for immersive life like color in games, movies, and design
- Thin bezel design brings out the best balance of screen size and resolution for gaming
- NVIDIA G SYNC technology removes stutter and screen tearing for the smoothest gaming experience with NVIDIA G SYNC Processor
- ASUS Eye Care technology enables low blue light mode and flicker free panels for marathon gaming comfort
- Flexible connectivity options with DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4 and 2 x USB 3.0 ports
6. LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine
The best 5k ultra-wide monitor
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 nits | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 16.5lbs
With an aspect ratio of 21:9, the Ultrafine monitor from LG defines minimalism with its design. Image quality isn’t affected, regardless of where you’re sitting thanks to the monitor’s 178-degree viewing angle. The monitor can handle all of your peripherals with a DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 3 port as well as two HDMI and USB ports. The display shines with its native 5K2K resolution and comes with HDR support to make every project you’re working on look its absolute best. For all of this tech, you would believe the price would be astronomical but it is very affordable.
If you’re wondering the differences between 5k and 5k2k, in short, a 5k2k monitor has the horizontal resolution of a 5K monitor and the vertical resolution of a 4K display because of the 21:9 aspect ratio.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Image remains accurate | ➖ Poor dark scene performance |
➕ Large screen with excellent resolution |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 34" UltraWide Nano IPS Display
- 5K WUHD
- Thunderbolt 3
- DCI-P3 98%
- HDR Support
7. Dell UltraSharp UP3218K
The best 8K Dell monitor for graphic design
Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 7,680 x 4,320 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 6ms | Viewing angle: N/A | Contrast ratio: 1,300:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 8.5kg
Sometimes we come across technology that hasn’t even been fully adopted yet and in those cases, we’re astounded by what the manufacturer is doing. This is the case with the UltraSharp UP3218K from Dell. Not only does the display have 8K resolution, but the build quality and color reproduction are also the best in the business. Aimed at professionals, the UltraSharp is an amazing display with a price to match.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Excellent design and good build quality | ➖ Heating issues |
➕ Great color accuracy | ➖ Need two display ports and powerful hardware |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Dell UltraSharp 32IN 8K 7680x4320
- UP3218K
- 8K
8. BenQ EX3203R
A high-res display at an affordable price
Screen size: 31.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 90% | Weight: 13.4kg
One of the best monitors in 2023, the EX3203R from BenQ offers a multitude of high-end features in a display that is priced very affordably. The 1440p monitor has a 32-inch curved panel which makes the display easy to use for your design work and for watching a movie at the end of a long week.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Good refresh rate (144Hz) | ➖ Slow response time |
➕ Great picture quality | ➖ HDR is not up to the mark |
➕ The curve radius is just right (1800R) | ➖ No G-Sync |
➕ Great value |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Level Up the Game: 32 Inch 144Hz VA WQHD (2560x1440) curved edge-to-edge gaming computer monitor features Freesync2 and color optimizer settings.
- USB-C Connectivity: Synchronize images, videos, data and charge all of your mobile devices with an all-in-one cable! Easily access your content via the two HDMI ports.
- HDR Color Technology: Enhances the brightness and contrast to bring out the realistic details during your game.
- Brightness Intelligence (B.I.): Optimizes display performance for work and play to protect your vision while providing a stunning image at the same time.
9. Samsung Odyssey G9
The best curved monitor for graphic design
Screen size: 49-inch | Resolution: 5120 x 1440 | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI, 4x USB 3.0
Are you in search of a monitor for graphic designing with a large screen? There’s a saying – “Go big or go home.” If you’re not looking for a massive screen to sit on your desk, you can skip right over this monitor. The Odyssey G9 from Samsung sports a massive 49-inch screen but also provides a stunning 5K resolution and 240Hz refresh rate making it a stunning piece of technology.
While it can be easy to get lost in the technical splendor of the G9, you have to be aware that it’s not lightweight at all. Weighing 31 pounds, it might weigh more than some televisions, but for those with the room and the budget, you’ll be wowed at the monitor you’ve chosen, especially once you see your work on the big screen.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Unique widescreen design | ➖ A limited number of ports |
➕ Best picture quality in SDR and HDR modes | ➖ Underwhelming lighting |
➕ Smooth 240Hz AMD FreeSync for superb designing experience | ➖ Super-wide design not feasible for all users |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- HANDPICKED BY AMAZON: They did the research so you don’t have to.
- SAMSUNG'S LARGEST 1000R GAMING MONITOR: Get your head in the game with the 49 inch Odyssey G9, which matches the curve of the human eye, for maximum immersion and minimal eye strain, and the screen...
- CUTTING EDGE QLED TECHNOLOGY: From deepest blacks to vivid colors, Samsung QLED ensures pixel perfect picture quality with every frame; Utilizing Quantum Dot technology, it creates more vivid colors...
- NVIDIA G-SYNC & AMD FREESYNC: With G-SYNC and FreeSync Premium Pro support, Odyssey matches every frame from your graphics card, so you’re never caught short from moment to moment
- DUAL QHD DISPLAY: The gaming world of your imagination made real; QHD resolution brings you a display as wide as two QHD monitors sitting side by side with incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images
10. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q
Best monitor for every digital artist
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3480 x 2160 | Brightness: 264.4 nits | Viewing angle: 178 / 178 | Contrast ratio: 1300:1 | Color support: 95% DCI-P3 | Weight: 14.55 lbs
The Dell UltraSharp U2720Q monitor is another great option for graphic design and digital art. It comes with a 27-inch diagonal 4K UHD IPS panel with 3840 x 2160 resolution and a slim design that makes multi-display installations almost seamless.
This monitor is also extremely compatible, allowing you to experience easy and convenient connectivity. It works mostly with all the graphic design products that feature DisplayPort, HDMI, USB, and Audio Line-out interfaces.
This monitor includes everything you need in a modern workstation, allowing designers to work at a higher level of productivity.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ 4k Native resolution | ➖ Expensive |
➕ Incredible color gamut coverage |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 3840 x 2160
- 350 cd/m2 (typical)
- 1300 to 1 (typical)
- USB 3.0
- 5 ms gray to gray in Fast mode 8 ms gray to gray in Normal mode
11. ASUS ProArt PA278QV
Best monitor for photo and video editing
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 402 cd/m² | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 709 color space | Weight: 17.02 lb
This monitor has a frameless 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS display, which is great for editing.
The monitor comes with a display with high color accuracy which is great for designers and creatives. Also, if you work in the photo or video editing field, the Asus ProArt PA278QV is the finest option.
This monitor also has an ergonomic stand that allows you to adjust the monitor’s tilt, pivot, and height for a more pleasant viewing experience.
Whether you’re a graphic designer or a photo and video editor, the ASUS ProArt PA278QV is a great option to consider.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Wide viewing angle | ➖ Low contrast ratio |
➕ Ergonomics |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27-inch WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS monitor with frameless design
- International color standard 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 wide color gamut
- Calman Verified with factory calibration for excellent Delta E less than 2 color accuracy
- ASUS-exclusive ProArt Preset and ProArt Palette provide numerous adjustable color parameters
- Extensive connectivity for maximum flexibility, including Mini DisplayPort, DisplayPort, HDMI, dual-link DVI-D, audio in and earphone jack, plus four USB 3.0 ports
12. Apple Pro Display XDR
Best for designers who love Apple products
Screen size: 32 – inche | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 6016 x 3384 | Brightness: 1,600 nits | Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1 | Color support: over a billion | Weight: 16.49 pounds
The stunning Apple Pro Display XDR is in a class of its own with its wide viewing angle and stunning display. The Pro Display XDR, pushes brightness, contrast, and color to heights beyond HDR and into the realm of Extreme Dynamic Range (XDR).
With a brightness of 1600 nits, designers may keep the monitor at maximum brightness without needing to decrease it. You can expect superb contrast between the brightest brights and the blackest blacks, and efficient backlight adjustment.
Professional graphic designers who enjoy using Apple products will adore the Pro Display XDR ss you’ll be able to create the most brilliant imagery with a large color pallet.
Below you can see expert designer, Jacob Cass, the founder of this site using the Apple XDR.
In addition to all this, a sophisticated algorithm and state-of-the-art calibration ensures that you get the most accurate colors imaginable.
It’s also simple to customize the Pro Display XDR to meet the needs of HDR, HD, SD video, and a variety of other applications like photography, web development, design, and print.
This monitor includes everything you need in a modern workstation, allowing designers to work at a higher level of productivity. The only downfall may be the price which like many of Apple’s products, comes at a premium.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Great resolution (6k) | ➖ Doesn’t come with stand |
➕ Excellent brightness, contrast and color gamut | ➖ VESA adapter not included |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 32-inch LCD display with Retina 6K resolution (6016 by 3384 pixels)
- Pro Stand and VESA Mount Adapter sold separately
- Extreme Dynamic Range (XDR)
- Brightness: 1000 nits sustained, 1600 nits peak
- Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1
13. EIZO CG279X-BK
The best monitor for color accuracy & calibration
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 350 nits | Contrast ratio: 1300:1 | Color support: 99% Adobe RGB, 98% DCI-P3, 100% Rec 709 | Ports: USB-C, USB-B, USB-A, DCI-D, HDMI, DisplayPort 1.2
The EIZO CG279X is the only monitor that can compete with the Apple Pro Display above in terms of color fidelity, and it comes at a considerably lower price. We can say that it’s the best color accurate monitor for graphic designers. Not only that, it’s ideal for professional photographers and artists who require absolute color accuracy, brightness, and contrast but are on a budget.
The EIZO ColorEdge is a professional monitor with a stunningly gorgeous screen, with such depth and intensity that any image will come through perfectly. It’s easy to undertake detailed work or make minor tweaks and corrections.
If 27-inches isn’t big enough for you, you can go for EIZO CG279X-BK 31” model. More space for you to take in all the information you need!
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Anti-Flicker and Anti-Glare | ➖ No 4k panel |
➕ Rich port options (USB-C, USB-B, USB-A, DCI-D, HDMI, DisplayPort 1.2) | |
➕ Great built-in calibrator | |
➕ Heat Sensors for automatic color adjustment |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- ColorEdge CG279X 27" 2560x1440 Hardware Calibration LCD Monitor (Black) - USB Type-C - DisplayPort - AC Power Cord - USB Cable - Screen Cleaner - Monitor Hood - Original Box
- Built-In Sensor to Automate Your Workflow
- ColorNavigator 7 Color Management Software
- ColorNavigator Network Color Management Software
- HDR Gamma Support
14. Dell UltraSharp U4919DW
The best 5k professional monitor for graphic design
Screen size: 49-inch | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Type-C, 3x USB 3.0
While all the tech specs in the world can make for an impressive monitor, for many the best monitor is a combination of function and design, and one of the best examples of this is the UltraSharp U4919DW from Dell. Loaded with two downstream USB ports, which are conveniently located along the monitor’s bottom edge.
With a USB Type-C port, plus two upstream USB ports, you can easily connect two PCs and use a single keyboard and mouse to operate them. To make it easier to utilize the features that Dell’s monitor comes with, Display Manager software lets you manage up to six windows at a time.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ KVM switching is available | ➖ No HDR or DCI color |
➕ Sufficient input ports are available | |
➕ Great for multitasking | |
➕ USB-C ports can charge devices |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- The world's Fi RST 49" curved Dual QHD monitor for an immersive work experience that boosts productivity. Equivalent to two 27-inch QHD monitors, you'll get a brilliant uninterrupted view,...
- Dimensions - with stand: 47.84" W x 9.94" D x 18.06" H
- Native Resolution 5120 x 1440 at 60Hz
- Multitask efficiently with two PC sources using built-in Picture-by-Picture and keyboard, video and Mouse Features
15. LG 40WP95C-W UltraWide Curved WUHD
The best ultrawide monitor
Screen size: 40-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 5120 x 2160 | Brightness: 300cd (Typ)/240cd (Min) | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 700:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% (CIE1976)
Creating stunning designs and rendering videos can require you to keep an eye on and play around with many different tools. Luckily, this ultrawide monitor is perfect for the job. It is among the best 5K ultrawide monitors on this list. You’ll find that it comes with a wide color gamut making it perfect for editing videos or designing games.
Finding the best ultrawide monitor for designers is challenging, but the LG 40WP95C-W 40” is not too expensive. With a three-sided, virtually borderless design, this ultrawide monitor is also curved, allowing you to have an immersive design or editing experience. The LG 40WP95C-W 40 has a 5K2K Nano IPS Display with a DCI-P3 98% color gamut ensuring your designs and creative work are dynamic and color accurate.
Pros |
Cons |
➕ Impressive wide screen size | ➖ Contrast ratio could be better |
➕ Has Dynamic action sync | |
➕ Makes for an excellent video workstation |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 40” Curved WUHD (5120 x 2160) Nano IPS Display
- Thunderbolt 4 Connectivity with 96W Power Delivery
- DCI-P3 98% (Typ.) with HDR10
- 10W x 2 Built in Speakers with Rich Bass
- 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design
How to choose the right monitor for graphic design
Before purchasing a monitor for graphic design, you must consider the type of monitor, the features, resolution, size, resolution, screen size, color accuracy, connections, ergonomics, and your budget.
Type of Monitor
If you’ve ever searched for a new monitor online, you know that the different types out there are seemingly endless. Everything from a basic business monitor to a high-end gaming monitor is out there and picking the right one can be arduous. Picking the right one for your needs entails making sure it comes with the features you’re looking for. Working in graphic design, having a display with a high resolution and enough connectivity options is important.
Features
Professionals will expect some specific features in monitors for graphic design. While enough connectivity options and the right resolution are great features to look out for, what we’re talking about here is the additional features that will make one monitor stand apart from another. Although things such as an adjustable base or a gloss or matte finish on a screen can be the thing that pushes someone over the edge into buying a monitor.
Resolution
If you work in graphic design, the resolution that you choose can be one of, if not the biggest factors when it comes to the monitor you choose. Monitors have come a long way from using cathode ray tubes and having the right resolution can make your work look it’s absolute best. Let’s take a closer look at some of the more common resolutions available
- 4K Monitors
4K resolution is becoming the standard resolution for new monitors. The term 4K means that the image that you are seeing on your screen is about 4,000 pixels wide. In general, this means that the image you’re looking at would appear sharper which can make editing your image or project much more intuitive.
- 5K Monitors
5K monitors are relatively new to the marketplace. The term 5K refers to the number of pixels being used, which in this case is around 5,000. 5K monitors are typically used by designers looking to achieve a higher pixel density, sharper images, as well as being able to see fine details that 4K monitors can’t see.
What is 5k2k resolution? In short, a 5k2k monitor has the horizontal resolution of a 5K monitor and the vertical resolution of a 4K display.
- 8K Monitors
Right now, 8K is the king of the hill in terms of resolution. Monitors with 8K resolution present images with about 8,000 pixels. Like 5K resolution, there isn’t much content out there that displays in either resolution. However, as tech advances, the amount of content that will be available in 5K or 8K will only grow.
Computer Monitor Size
The computer monitor size you choose goes hand in hand with the amount of room you have on your desk. Available in a wide range of sizes, some even as large as TV screens, the right monitor will give you enough room for all of your work without crowding you. While a large monitor might look incredibly appealing, be sure to look beyond the size.
Budget
No matter what we want to buy, it always seems to come down to how much you can afford. While there are a lot of monitors out there that can cause quite a bit of sticker shock, along with the other criteria we’ve discussed, you want to consider how you will use it daily. While having a high-priced, feature-heavy monitor might be nice, if you’re only using it for Skype and Zoom calls, you might want to save that money and find something more affordable.
For a more detailed guide, we recommend this monitor buying guide from ABT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gaming monitors good for graphic design?
Gaming monitors provide high refresh rates and low response times which make them suitable for graphic design beginners. However, for professional graphic designers, a monitor with a greater emphasis on color accuracy and viewing angles is recommended.
What monitor is best for MacBook?
The LG Ultrafine 5K 27 is the best monitor for Macbook users. Or for a high-end option, Apple's very own Pro Display XDR. Or for a slightly larger screen, the 34" LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine.
What are the best 4K monitors for graphic designing?
The Asus ROG Swift PG279Q is the best 4K monitor for graphic design. The Eizo ColorEdge 4K monitor is a high-end option outside the above-mentioned list. It comes with a 4096 x 2160 resolution and an enhanced pixel density of 149 PPI.
What is the industry standard monitor in graphic design?
This depends on user preference but a modern monitor for graphic design would be at least 27", 16:9 aspect ratio, with 4K Resolution and color support of sRGB or similar such as the LG Ultrafine 5K 27 or the 34 inch LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine.
What is the best budget monitor for gaming?
Acer Nitro XF243Y Pbmiiprx is the best budget gaming monitor.
What is the best monitor for artists?
The LG Ultrafine 5K 27 is the best monitor for artists or for a high-end model, the Apple Pro Display XDR. Or for a slightly larger screen, the 34" LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine.
What is the ideal monitor screen size for video editing and photo editing?
32-inch screen size and above is perfect for video and photo editing. Dell S3221QS is the best monitor available for editing under this screen size.
What is the preferred monitor screen size for gaming?
1080p 24-inch monitor and above is the preferred screen size for gaming.
Best Monitors for Designers in 2023 Summary
When it came time to provide you with a new listing of the best monitors for graphic design, we didn’t want to repeat the same options we provided you above.
There are many options out there for you to choose from and what the best is for your needs can change in a heartbeat.
More Best Monitor Compilations
We’ve compiled several different monitor guides specific to your requirements.
- Best Ultrawide Monitors
- Best Budget Monitors for Graphic Design
- Best Monitors for Photo Editing
- Best Monitors for Programming & Coding
- Best Touch Screen Monitors
- Best Monitors with Webcam
- Best USB-C Monitors
- Best Macbook Pro Monitors
- Best Curved Monitors
- Best Monitors for Editing Video
- Best Monitors for Gaming
- Best Monitors with Webcam
- Best Monitors for Mac Mini