Monitor vs TV – when setting up a new PC gaming set up or creating a working area you often have to decide between a Monitor or a TV. They both have their positives but use different targeted cases. So, whether you’re looking for the best TV for gaming, a monitor for gaming setup, or simply want to know if you should use a monitor or TV for graphic design — here’s our breakdown of the key things you need to know.
Difference Between Monitor and TV: The Key Differences
Both monitors and TVs may look similar, but their design and features differ greatly depending on their intended purpose.
1. Refresh Rate: Monitor Refresh Rate vs TV Refresh Rate
The best difference I can remember between a monitor vs TV is the refresh rate. Generally, monitors have much higher refresh rates, they start at 60Hz, and go to 120Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz, etc, and that makes games or fast-paced applications feel smoother and motion much less jarring. As most TVs have refresh rates (60Hz or 120Hz) lower than most monitors, monitors are the preferred tool to use when you need things to respond fast, like when gaming or video editing.
2. Input Lag: Monitor Input Lag vs TV Input Lag
It’s input lag – the delay between pressing a button and seeing the action on the screen. All monitors should have minimal input lag so that they can function for games. On the other hand, though, TVs usually have a higher input lag, though some modern TVs have a lower input lag since they have a “Game Mode”. And if you’re comparing Monitor vs TV for Console Gaming, you’ll find that monitors have much faster response times, but certain high-end TVs can provide the same experience.
3. Screen Resolution and Pixel Density
Screen resolution and pixel density comparison are usually in favor of monitors over TVs. What is meant about this is that the image will be sharper on a monitor, even when watching a close distance which is why a monitor for gaming setup or graphic design. If you are sitting close to the screen however, TVs tend to be larger and are designed to be able to be seen from a bit further away so you may not be able to see quite so sharp an image.
4. Screen Size: Which Size to Choose?
A common question is whether to use a monitor or TV for graphic design. Monitors are often smaller, typically 24 to 32 inches or so for work or design purposes because it’s good for work that needs precision and sharpness. But if you want to spend some time watching the movies or playing games on a much more casual setup, a large TV (40 inches or more) might just give you the immersive experience you’re looking for. A TV might be a better choice for console gaming or a home theater setup.
5. Response Time: Response Time on Monitor vs TV
Often, monitors have faster response times, or how fast a pixel can change the color. In gaming, however, motion blur or ghosting effects become possible if your response time is lagging. All gaming monitors are specialized in this area; their response time is 1 ms to 5 ms, while TVs have slower response times.
6. HDR Performance: HDR on TV vs Monitor
Besides this, there is another consideration between Monitor vs TV and it is High Dynamic Range (HDR). Monitors, however, usually outnumber TVs in quality HDR content because TVs are engineered to amplify viewing, offering richer color and contrast, making monitors a better choice for high-definition movies or high-quality videos.
Monitor vs TV for Specific Use Cases
TV vs Monitor for PC
Monitors are usually the better choice if you’re planning to use a screen for a PC gaming setup or work-related tasks. Being high pixel density and having faster refreshes makes them perfect for work that needs clear and fine details, like coding, graphic design, and gaming.
Monitor vs TV for Console Gaming
The choice depends on the type of games you play when it comes to console gaming. If you’re into fast-paced and competitive gaming, having a monitor with a low input lag and fast refresh rate will provide you with the edge in this game. However, if you are after a more cinematic experience (i.e. for RPGs or story-driven games), a TV has a bigger screen and better HDR performance to give you.
Best TV for Gaming
If you are into using a TV for gaming, search for 120Hz Refresh rate and low input lag models. Sure, many high-end OLED vs QLED models offer great gaming, with fast response times and brilliant visuals, but not all high-end OLED vs QLED models are great. If you’re already a gamer, it’s wise to consider something good at black levels and high response times, like OLED TVs, while QLED TVs excel at bright, vibrant colors when paired with lots of light and/or a large space to work with.
Monitor or TV for Watching Movies
If your job is to watch movies and TV win out. Their larger size, superior HDR capabilities, and much better sound systems are all factors that make them a good option for setting up a home theater. If you're watching content close up, such as at a desk, on one hand, a monitor may be the better solution.
Conclusion
When deciding between a monitor vs TV for work, gaming, or entertainment, consider your primary use case. Monitors are generally better for fast-paced gaming and tasks that require precision, while TVs offer a more immersive viewing experience for movies and casual gaming.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can I use a TV as a computer monitor?
A: Of course, you can use a TV as a computer monitor, but it does come with trade-offs. Input lag and lower refresh rates for TVs can mean poorer gaming and more precise action performance than on a monitor. It is also worth noting that TVs have lower pixel density, so text and finer details may not be as sharp when you’re close to the screen.
Q2: Which is better for gaming, a monitor or a TV?
A: A monitor is mostly better for fast-paced, competitive gaming with a lower input lag, higher pixel density, and faster refresh rate. But if you’re a more casual gamer and like the larger screen, then a TV makes for a better experience.
Q3: Is a 120Hz TV good enough for gaming?
A: A 120Hz TV is good enough for most gaming purposes, at least for console gaming. It offers improved motion than a 60Hz TV, and it’s able to better handle fast action. But for competitive gaming, you’ll want a higher refresh rate monitor.
Q4: What size monitor should I get for work?
A: For work, a monitor between 24 to 32 inches is usually sufficient. A larger screen provides more space for multitasking, but keep in mind that too large a screen might cause eye strain if you're sitting too close.
Q5: Are monitors more expensive than TVs?
A: Monitors are often more expensive than TVs when comparing similar sizes, especially when you factor in gaming or high-performance monitors. This is because monitors are designed with higher refresh rates, better response times, and greater pixel density, which are important for professional and gaming use cases.
