A monitor is a display screen for viewing computer output. It shows text, images, video, and everything else the computer produces. Without a monitor, a desktop computer is a box with no voice. The monitor is the primary output device for most users.

Monitors come in many sizes and types. LCDs dominate. OLEDs offer better contrast. Gaming monitors have high refresh rates. Professional monitors have accurate colors. Some monitors are curved. Some are ultrawide. Some are touchscreens. The right choice depends on the task.

Key specs

• Resolution: 1080p, 1440p, 4K
• Refresh rate: 60Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz
• Panel type: IPS, VA, TN, OLED
• Color accuracy: sRGB, Adobe RGB coverage
• Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C

Monitors affect comfort and productivity. A low-resolution screen strains eyes. A slow refresh rate blurs motion. A poorly calibrated monitor misrepresents colors. For people who stare at screens all day, the monitor matters as much as the computer.