Types of monitor displays explained: which one is right for you?

When it comes to choosing a new computer monitor, the number of different types of monitor displays available can be overwhelming. Whether you need a screen for gaming, work, content creation, or general use, the right display can make all the difference in your experience. Different computer monitors impact colour accuracy, refresh rates, viewing angles, and overall performance.

This PC monitor guide breaks down the different computer display types and explores their pros and cons to help you determine the best monitor for your specific needs.

Types of monitor display technologies

1. IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays

IPS panels are known for their superior colour accuracy and wide viewing angles. They’re the go-to choice for professionals who require precise colour representation.

Best for: Content creators, photographers, video editors, and professionals who need colour precision.

Pros:

• Excellent colour accuracy, IPS monitors are the preferred choice for professionals who require precise and consistent colour in their work. Ideal for editing, design, and video work, IPS panels offer top-tier colour accuracy.
• Wide viewing angles allow for better visibility from different positions without experiencing colour distortion or contrast shifts. This makes IPS displays great for multi-monitor setups and collaborative work environments.

Cons:

• IPS monitors have slower response time compared to other display technologies, which may result in minor motion blur, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios. While newer IPS panels have improved response times, most still lag behind TN displays in this area.
• They are more expensive than TN and VA panels due to the advanced technology used in IPS screens. Users seeking premium colour accuracy and viewing angles must be willing to invest more in an IPS monitor.

2. TN (Twisted Nematic) displays

TN panels are known for fast response times and high refresh rates at an affordable price point.

Best for: Budget-conscious gamers and users looking for high-speed performance without prioritizing colour accuracy.

Pros:

• TN monitors have high refresh rates. Ideal for gaming, they ensure smoother motion and a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
• Reducing motion blur and ghosting effects, their fast response times is crucial for shooters and action-packed games. TN panels typically have response times as low as 1ms, making them one of the fastest options available.
• More budget-friendly than IPS and OLED, they offer high-speed performance at a fraction of the price.

Cons:

• With poorer colour accuracy than IPS and OLED, TN panels are less suitable for tasks that require precise colour reproduction. Colours can appear washed out, and the overall image quality may not be as vibrant.
• They have limited viewing angles, meaning the image quality degrades when viewed from the side. This can be an issue if you frequently share your screen with others or use a multi-monitor setup.

3. VA (Vertical Alignment) displays

VA panels strike a balance between IPS and TN by offering higher contrast ratios and deeper blacks. However, they have slightly slower response times.

Best for: Casual gamers, movie lovers, and budget-conscious users.

Pros:

• VA panels feature high contrast ratios. They make dark scenes look deeper and more immersive, a great choice for watching movies and playing games with rich visual detail.
• They are more affordable than IPS panels, while still offering better visual performance than TN displays. This balance of cost and performance makes VA panels an appealing option for users who want good image quality without the high price tag of an IPS monitor.
• They have better colour accuracy than TN panels, though not quite as precise as IPS. While they may not be the top choice for professional content creation, VA panels still provide a respectable level of colour fidelity that works well for everyday use and casual gaming.

Cons:

• VA panels have slower response times, which can lead to ghosting in fast-paced games. Competitive gamers who need ultra-fast pixel transitions may find VA panels less ideal compared to TN or OLED options.
• With narrower viewing angles compared to IPS, image quality may degrade when viewed from extreme angles. If you frequently move around while using your monitor or work in a multi-screen environment, this could be a drawback.

4. OLED displays

OLED panels deliver stunning visuals with perfect blacks, vibrant colours, and ultra-fast response times.

Best for: Gamers, high-end content creators, and home entertainment enthusiasts who want the best visual experience

Pros:

• With exceptional contrast and deep blacks, OLED panels provide superior picture quality and immersive visuals. Since these panels individually illuminate each pixel, they achieve true blacks without the need for a backlight, enhancing contrast and depth in images.
• Their vibrant colours with high accuracy make them ideal for content creation and cinematic experiences. The self-emissive nature of OLED displays allows for richer, more precise colours, ensuring accurate image representation for professional video editing, photography, and design work.
• Fast response times ensure smooth motion and reduced blur in gaming and media playback. OLED monitors have near-instantaneous pixel response times, so they’re an excellent choice for high-refresh-rate gaming and action-packed visuals.

Cons:

• OLED panels risk burn-in with static images, particularly for users who leave the same elements on the screen for extended periods. While newer OLED technology has mitigated this issue with pixel-shifting and automatic dimming features, users who frequently display static UI elements, like stock traders or programmers, should still be cautious.
• Their higher price point makes these monitors a premium option that may not fit every budget. Due to the complexity of OLED manufacturing, these displays tend to be more expensive than IPS, TN, or VA panels.

5. LED vs. LCD

LED and LCD monitors are often compared, but it’s important to understand that LED displays are actually a subset of LCD technology. Traditional LCD monitors use fluorescent backlights, while LED monitors utilize energy-efficient light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for improved brightness and longevity.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability, as well as users looking for energy-efficient monitors that deliver good overall performance.

Pros of LED:

• LED monitors consume less power than traditional LCDs, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
• Slimmer design makes them ideal for modern, space-saving desk setups and wall-mounted configurations. The absence of bulky fluorescent backlights allows LED monitors to be significantly thinner and lighter.
• LED monitors provide higher brightness levels and they’re well-suited for well-lit environments and HDR content.

Cons of LCD:

• Traditional LCD monitors rely on outdated CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent lamp) backlighting, which is less efficient and produces lower image quality compared to LED alternatives.
• LCD monitors are often thicker, heavier, and consume more power. This can lead to higher electricity costs over time and make them less ideal for compact workspaces.

6. Curved monitors

Curved monitors are designed to provide a more immersive experience by wrapping slightly around the viewer’s field of vision.

Best for: Gamers, movie enthusiasts, and professionals who need an ultra-wide screen for an immersive and productive experience.

Pros:

• With immersive viewing experience, the curvature of the screen creates a panoramic effect. It draws the user into the content and is for gaming and movies.
• They reduce eye strain by matching the natural curvature of the eye, making them ideal for users who spend long hours in front of the screen.
• Great for multitasking, many curved monitors come in ultra-wide formats, providing extra screen real estate for multitasking.

Cons:

• Due to their advanced design and manufacturing process, curved monitors often come at a premium price compared to traditional flat-screen models.
• Depending on the degree of curvature, they may not be the best choice for tasks requiring precise straight-line accuracy, such as graphic design or CAD work. Additionally, their wider footprint may not fit well on smaller desks.

Comparison of monitor display types

When selecting a computer monitor, understanding the key features and their performance can greatly enhance your decision-making and ultimately improve your overall experience.

Choosing the right monitor display based on your needs

Different tasks, such as gaming, content creation, office work, and entertainment, have unique requirements that influence the ideal monitor choice. Consider factors like refresh rate, resolution, panel type, and colour accuracy, so you can find a display that enhances your experience.

For gaming

Prioritize refresh rates (144Hz, 240Hz) and low response times to ensure smooth gameplay and minimal motion blur. A high refresh rate allows for fluid movement, giving competitive gamers an edge in fast-paced games. OLED and IPS displays offer the best visuals with vibrant colours and wide viewing angles, while TN panels provide excellent speed and affordability for budget-conscious gamers.

For content creation

Look for high resolution and excellent colour accuracy to ensure precise work in photo editing, video production, and graphic design. A 4K resolution monitor provides detailed images, while colour-calibrated IPS panels deliver true-to-life colours with wide viewing angles. For professionals, investing in a monitor with high AdobeRGB or DCI-P3 colour coverage is essential for maintaining accuracy in creative projects.

For office use

Opt for an ergonomic design, appropriate screen size, and budget-friendly options to enhance productivity and comfort. Adjustable stands, blue light filters, and flicker-free technology can reduce strain during long work hours. VA or TN panels offer good value for office tasks, providing clear text and efficient performance without the need for high refresh rates or extreme colour accuracy.

For entertainment (movies & TV)

A curved VA or OLED monitor enhances immersion with deep blacks, vibrant colours, and superior contrast. VA panels provide excellent contrast ratios, making dark scenes more detailed, while OLED displays offer perfect blacks and infinite contrast for a true cinematic experience. A larger screen size with high resolution (1440p or 4K) further enhances viewing quality.

Key factors to consider when buying a monitor

Beyond selecting the right display type, additional factors such as resolution, size, refresh rate, connectivity, and price play a crucial role in choosing the perfect monitor.

• Resolution: Choose between 1080p, 1440p, or 4K depending on your needs and budget. Higher resolutions provide sharper images but require more powerful hardware.
• Size: Ensure the monitor fits your workspace while providing a comfortable viewing experience. Larger screens offer more immersion but require sufficient desk space.
• Refresh rate & response time: These specs are critical for gaming. Higher refresh rates reduce motion blur and create smoother gameplay.
• Connectivity: Make sure the monitor supports HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C based on your setup to avoid compatibility issues.
• Price range: Entry-level monitors offer basic functionality at an affordable price, making them suitable for casual users and office work. Mid-range monitors provide better resolutions, refresh rates, and colour accuracy, catering to gamers and content creators who need more advanced features. Premium models deliver high-end performance with OLED panels, high refresh rates, and professional-grade colour accuracy, but they come with a higher price tag.

Want to learn more? Read ’s post on key computer monitor specifications you need to know.

Find the right computer monitor for you at Best Buy

Selecting the right type of monitor display is crucial as it significantly impacts your overall experience. Whether you need a fast gaming monitor, a colour-accurate display for creative work, or an immersive screen for entertainment, Best Buy has a wide selection to suit your needs. Explore the full range of computer monitors at Best Buy Canada today and find the perfect display for you!

This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.