What are Typical Monitor Sizes and Which is Best?

There are many conversations in the tech world about topics like processing speed, memory, and graphics. When it comes to your computer monitors, however, there isn’t as much guidance.

When choosing the right computer for your lifestyle, however, the size of the monitor matters. See how big of a monitor you’ll need for the most common computing tasks performed today.

Computer monitor size comparison

The good news is that monitors, for both home and business users, have become more affordable over the years.

In the past, you may have had to choose between a larger screen with lower resolution and a smaller screen with higher quality to get something within your budget. That’s no longer the case.

Most modern monitor screen sizes range from less than 21 inches to well over 30 and are practically priced for your needs.

To accurately compare any two monitors on the market, you’ll need to know your personal requirements for each of the following by asking some important questions:

  • How big is your workspace?
  • Will a larger monitor fit?
  • Will you need more than one monitor? If so, how will they sit side-by-side?
  • Are you giving yourself enough distance from the monitor for good comfort and eye health?

Once you know the largest monitor you can accommodate, as well as the smallest that would be appropriate for your workspace, look for the highest resolution in your price range.

Resolution is indicated by how many pixels a monitor displays, and it will be one of the following:

  • 1280 x 1024 Super-eXtended Graphics Array (SXGA)
  • 1366 x 768 High Definition (HD)
  • 1600 x 900 High Definition Plus (HD+)
  • 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition (FHD)
  • 1920 x 1200 Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array (WUXGA)
  • 2560 x 1440 Quad High Definition (QHD)
  • 3440 x 1440 Wide Quad High Definition (WQHD)
  • 3840 x 2160 4K or Ultra High Definition (UHD)

The letters after the two numbers is simply a designated name for that resolution. You can also use that name when discussing monitors while shopping, rather than relying on the longer numeric resolution description.

Minimum requirements

As mentioned, the right monitor size for you depends on your needs and use.

Minimum requirements

For gaming, your monitor should be a minimum of 25 inches with a 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution. The HP OMEN 25-inch gaming monitor is a good example of a budget-level gaming monitor that is perfect for small spaces.

Minimum requirements

For maximum graphics, something ultrawide like the HP OMEN X 35-inch curved gaming monitor is a solid choice. This curved screen monitor has massive display potential for the serious gamer who wants the best in 3440 x 1440 WQHD resolution.

Creative professionals who want the maximum in vibrant display capabilities will need even more graphics potential, especially when considering 4K monitor technology.

Final word

Look for entry-level 4K monitors starting with the HP Z27 27-inch UHD monitor, reaching up to the more impressive models like the HP Z32 31.5-inch UHD monitor.

Final word

What is the best monitor size for you? The simple answer is the largest screen you can afford with the lowest resolution needed for your tasks - then upgraded to the next resolution.

As an example, if you're using the standard 1280 x 1024 resolution, consider upgrading to HD - 1366 x 768 - for high-definition graphics. The same rule applies to any display choice you make, whether it’s for a desktop, laptop, or an all-in-one. If you are gaming with an FHD, consider the move to a QHD or 4K monitor for gaming.