Choosing the right monitor for programming is a key step in improving developer comfort and efficiency. From image quality to ergonomics and additional functionality, the right monitor will not only improve code comprehension, but also reduce eye strain.
Let’s take a look at what specifications and features to consider when choosing the perfect monitor for a professional.
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How to choose the best monitor for programming
Choosing the right monitor for programming is not only a matter of resolution and screen size, but also taking into account parameters such as matrix type, color reproduction, ergonomics and comfort during long-term work. And, of course, prices. Everyone is looking for their ideal option, which will be inexpensive and optimal in terms of key characteristics. We will consider the latter in more detail.
Matrix type
- Monitor with IPS
In-Plane Switching matrix provides high levels of color accuracy and wide viewing angles, which is important when working with graphics or when viewing text or code for a long time. IPS-type matrices also provide a more accurate display of colors, which is especially relevant for developers involved in web design or graphics. According to many, this is the optimal monitor for programming, especially considering the affordable prices. - TNTwisted Nematic. TN technology provides the monitor with an excellent response time, but at the same time “gives” limited viewing angles and not the best color accuracy. Most often, a TN monitor is better suited for gaming or dynamic programs, but not always for programming.
- VAVertical Alignment. A VA monitor typically has deeper black levels and higher contrast than an IPS or TN monitor, but a slower response time. Peripherals with this technology have better performance compared to TN, but are inferior to IPS in terms of viewing angles. As a result, long-term use of such a monitor may cause eye fatigue during long-term use.
- OLEDOrganic Light Emitting Diode is a relatively new technology that provides high contrast and juicy colors. OLED panels typically have a very fast response time, making them an ideal choice for dynamic applications and games.
- QLEDQuantum Dot Light Emitting Diode the technology is based on the use of quantum dots to create light that improves color rendering and brightness. It is an evolution of LEDLED displays. These more modern gadgets are characterized by high brightness and image contrast, making the image more realistic and saturated. Monitors with QLED technology have a long service life. However, such devices are significantly more expensive than other types of monitors. Also, some QLED models have limited viewing angles. In general, QLED monitors provide comfortable perception and reduce eye fatigue thanks to good color reproduction and contrast. But the response time can vary, although it is most often in the average range.
- AMOLEDActive Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode the monitor is best suited for flexible screens, it has deep black levels and no backlight, which makes the image more clear and realistic. Also, AMOLED displays consume less energy than traditional LCD displays. However, the organic LEDs in AMOLED monitors have a limited lifespan and can degrade or burn out over time, especially when used at maximum brightness. AMOLED screens usually offer a more comfortable perception and reduce eye fatigue when working in the dark.
Screen resolution
A high screen resolution is important to programmers because it determines how much information can be displayed at once. A resolution of 1440p or 4K will provide a high density of pixels per inch, which makes text and graphics clearer and more comfortable to read and work. Therefore, it will be much more comfortable to perceive images and lines of code for long hours.
Ergonomics
In addition to image quality, the best monitor for a programmer should have good ergonomics. Adjustable height, tilt, and 90-degree vertical rotation allow you to adjust the monitor to suit any individual preference.
Color rendering and calibration
Color accuracy is important for programmers, especially those involved in web or graphics development. A color-calibrated monitor will allow you to adjust it to accurately display colors according to selected color profiles.
Screen size
The choice of screen size depends on individual preferences and features of the workplace. A large screen will give more work space, but will take up more space on the desk. Therefore, the choice of the optimal monitor remains up to the programmer in accordance with his work needs and personal wishes.
Screen refresh rate
Screen refresh ratemeasured in hertz – Hz determines how many times per second the monitor updates the image. Programmers spend a lot of time in front of a monitor, especially during deadlines. Therefore, it is better to choose a peripheral with a fairly high refresh rate, which will make the change of images smoother and thereby reduce eye fatigue. 60Hz is usually the minimum refresh rate standard for most monitors, but many models support higher rates such as 75Hz, 120Hz or 144Hz.
Inputs and ports
Monitors can be equipped with different kinds of ports such as HDMI, DisplayPort, USB and VGA. This allows you to connect the device to a variety of signal sources, such as computers, laptops, tablets, consoles, etc. This provides flexibility when expanding the workspace and connecting additional gadgets.
For example, the HDMI 2.1 port provides a cable data transfer rate of up to 48 Gbit/s and supports many resolutions: 4K, 50/60Hz; 4K, 100/120Hz; 5K, 50/60Hz; 5K, 100/120Hz; 8K, 50/60Hz; 8K, 100/120Hz; 10K, 50/60Hz; 10K, 100/120Hz.
Also pay attention to the presence of audio outputs, built-in speakers, etc.
Matte vs glossy
Glossy and matte surfaces are the two main types of screen finishes for monitors and other devices.
In general, a glossy surface provides a brighter and richer image because it reflects more light. This is the main drawback: a screen with such a coating under bright lighting creates a lot of glare, collects fingerprints and dust.
The matte surface reflects less and is therefore suitable for working in rooms with bright light sources, collects less dust and dirt. A matte screen usually irritates the eyes less and is therefore more comfortable during long-term use. However, such a monitor will produce a less bright and saturated picture due to light scattering.
In general, the choice between glossy and matte surfaces depends on the personal preferences of the user and specific conditions of use.
By the way, most modern screens have an anti-glare coating.
Top monitors for programmers (2024)
Monitor 27″ ACER Nitro Gaming VG270M3bmiipx
It has an attractive ZeroFrame design, a tripod stand and a bright IPS panel. The monitor is also equipped with two powerful speakers for high-quality sound.
Pros: price/quality ratio, high hertz, AMD FreeSync support, ZeroFrame design, dual built-in speakers, resolution support from Full HD to 4K, the ability to quickly change frames.
Cons: small lights on the edges of the screen, you can not adjust the height., the presence of broken pixels that are stuck.
Monitor 27″ ASUS VA27EHE
It will serve as an ideal solution for home office use, and is also suitable for viewing content or gaming.
Pros: inexpensive, looks and stand, bezels, 75 Hz screen refresh rate, large screen, stable stand.
Cons: inconvenient navigation in the monitor menu, no HDMI cable is included, the screen lights up, it is difficult to adjust the color palette, it is not easy to install the driver, product registration is required.
Dell Alienware AW2723DF monitor
The model has excellent performance with a variable refresh rate of up to 280 Hz, support for AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technologies, NVIDIA G-SYNC and VESA AdaptiveSync certification. And various ports and connectors ensure the convenience of connection.
Pros: smooth and stable performance up to 280 Hz, excellent image with a wide viewing angle and vivid colors, a productive IPS panel with a response time of 1 ms GtG, many ports and connectors, a convenient menu and modern features, including AlienVision.
Cons: high price.
Monitor MSI 27″ Pro MP273A IPS
MSI Eye Care technology provides eye comfort with Less Blue Light, anti-glare coating, flicker suppression.
Pros: Less Blue Light PRO technology filters harmful blue light without color distortion, high screen refresh rate of 100 Hz, response time of 1 ms. the presence of several video inputs, compatibility with VESA mounting, built-in speakers.
Cons: unreliable stand, weak speakers, black falls into blue.
Monitor LG 32GN50R-B
This model boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and motion blur suppression.
Pros: many settings, anti-glare coating, high refresh rate, clear picture, accurate color reproduction, support for G-SYNC technology, AMD FreeSync Premium technology, dynamic synchronization of actions for a realistic gaming experience with reduced input lag, black stabilization.
Cons: the stand takes up a lot of space.
Monitor Asus TUF Gaming VG249Q1A 24
The device produces a high-quality picture, has a high screen refresh rate of 165 Hz, which makes changing frames smooth.
Pros: high screen refresh rate and ELMB technology to achieve image clarity in dynamic scenes, the Shadow Boost function improves the display of dark areas, the presence of GamePlus functions, Flicker-Free technology to minimize screen flickering and blue light filtering to reduce eye fatigue. Many interfaces and output for headphones.
Cons: hard uncomfortable stand, inability to connect the keyboard, limited height adjustment.
Monitor 23.8″ LENOVO L24i-40
A versatile companion with VESA mounting100 mm, resolution 1920×1080FHD and bright clear image.
Pros: sturdy metal leg and minimalist design with built-in cable management, built-in 3W speakers, AMD FreeSync support, 100Hz refresh rate, wide coverage of the 99% sRGB color space, Eyesafe 2.0 technology and TÜV Hardware Low Blue Light for eye protection.
Cons: not the brightest picture.
Choosing a monitor for a programmer: key characteristics
| Asus VA27EHE | Dell Alienware AW2723DF | MSI 27″ Pro MP273A IPS | LG UltraGear 32GN50R-B | Asus TUF Gaming VG249Q1A | Lenovo L24i-40 | Acer 27″ Nitro VG270M3bmiipx | |
| Diagonal | 27″ | 27″ | 27″ | 31.5″ | 24″ | 23.8″ | 27″ |
| Permission | 1920×1080 | 2560×1080 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 |
| Update frequency | 75 Hz | 240 Hz | 100 Hz | 165 Hz | 165 Hz | 100 Hz | 180 Hz |
| Interfaces | VGA, HDMI | HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Type-B | D-Sub, HDMI, DisplayPort | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1 | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1, 3.5 mm jack | 1 x HDMI, 1 x VGA | HDMI x2, DisplayPort x1 |
| Matrix reaction time | 4 ms | 1 ms | 4 ms | 5 ms | 1 ms | 14ms/6ms/4ms (GtG) | 1 ms |
| Matrix type | IPS | IPS | IPS | VA | IPS | IPS | IPS |
| Built-in speakers | No | No | Yes, 2×3 W | No | Yes, 2×2 W | Yes, 2×3 W | Yes, 2×2 W |
| Game technologies | No | AMD FreeSync Premium, NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible | AMD FreeSync | Adaptive Sync, AMD FreeSync, Dynamic Action Sync, NVIDIA G-SYNC | AMD FreeSync | AMD FreeSync | AMD FreeSync |
FAQ
Which monitor is better for a programmer
What type of matrix is best for programming?
Most often, it is recommended to choose monitors with an IPS matrix because of their wide viewing angles and accurate colors.
Why does a programmer need a large monitor?
The best monitors for programming are those with a large screen. This allows you to display a lot of information on the display, which is useful when using several programs at the same time or viewing long lines of code without scrolling.
What are the best monitors for programmers?
The quality of monitors depends on individual needs and budget. It is important to choose models with good color reproduction, resolution and ergonomics that meet the requirements and preferences of the user.
The best monitors for a programmer: which screen aspect ratio is better?
Aspect ratio of the monitorThe ratio of width to height affects the ease of viewing code and interfaces. While most screens have a 16:9 aspect ratio, some believe that the best monitor for programming is a 16:10 or even 21:9 aspect ratio. Such proportions provide sufficient horizontal and vertical space for working with code and interfaces.
What screen refresh rate should I choose?
The refresh rate of the screen is important for the smoothness of the content display. A frequency of 60 Hz is usually sufficient for programming, but higher frequencies such as 75 Hz or 120 Hz can provide a smoother display and reduce eye strain.
Is monitor response time important to a programmer?
The response time of the monitor, usually measured in milliseconds, is important for quickly displaying changes on the screen. For programming, this is not as critical as for games or dynamic videos.
How does monitor backlighting affect comfort?
Monitors for programmers with backlight technology, such as Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light, help reduce eye fatigue and improve comfort during long work. Adjustable brightness and color temperature can also be useful features for adjusting to different lighting conditions and usage scenarios.
Does the programmer need a second monitor?
A second monitor is often considered a valuable tool for programmers. It allows you to significantly expand the workspace, which is useful when working with several programs and files at the same time. Programmers can place a text editor or IDE on one screen, and documentation, a browser, or other tools on another. This improves productivity, simplifies multitasking, and makes the development process more efficient.
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