Did you know that the largest LED screen display in the world is 820 feet tall located at The place, a mall in Beijing, China? It is composed of five huge screens forming a digital canopy that sweeps across the entire outdoor corridor of the mall. The overhead screen is the prime attraction of the mall as it gives a cinema feel.Â
While this screen LED screen is of no importance to you at this time, it goes to show how far monitor manufacturers are willing to go to meet their client’s needs. As a programmer, therefore, what’s the best monitor size for programming needs?
Should you go for the largest monitor ( Samsung CHG90 at 49 inches wide) or go smaller? Is size even that important? This article lays out all you need to know about monitor sizes and how to pick the best for your programming needs.
Why Monitor Size Matters in Programming
The best size monitor is determined by how far you will sit from your monitor. A larger screen would be best if you plan to sit far away. However, if your programming setup requires you to sit close to the monitor, a smaller screen would suffice. Get it?
However, this is not the only factor to consider.
You see, a smaller monitor would allow you the advantage of fitting more windows into your field of view. This way, you won’t have to move your eyes as much. On the other hand, larger monitors give you space for more apps and windows on the screen. But here’s the kicker, a bigger screen doesn’t equate to better clarity. At least not entirely.
Also, choosing a monitor size depends on how much clarity you want. For example, you might need an excellent user interface and text quality. That would mean a higher resolution which would look better on a bigger screen. Therefore, a 1440p picture would look crisper compared to 1080p.
What to Consider When Choosing a Monitor Size
A common misconception is that you only need to focus on the CPU when buying a programming computer. However, the monitor has a big role to play. If you want to create high-definition software, you must have a screen with the same resolution or higher. Here, you will find out how to choose the best monitor size for programming.
1. Check The Display Size
Different brands in the market offer different monitor sizes. However, the smallest monitor size for programming would be 22 inches. With this size, you can perform basic programming and web design tasks. But if you plan on creating high-definition software, you would need a bigger monitor size like a 27-inch monitor. That way, you can open more windows at a time and perform more functions.
2. Resolution
The most popular resolution today is 1080p, which is 1920×1080. The HD quality this resolution provides can work for codes of 2×80 characters at a go. However, if you are working on high-performing software, you should go for 4K or UHD. Again, you would appreciate 4K better on a larger screen. Go for a 4K UHD display when working on video game software. Alternatively, you could use a 4K TV as a monitor if you must. However, this method is shied upon by many industry experts.
Also Read: Why you shouldn’t use a TV as a computer monitor
3. Usage
Again, it matters how you are going to use your monitor. Are you going to use it for general coding and software development? Will you create games, or are you more into web design? Considering the usage of the monitor will help in choosing the size as general coding doesn’t require a huge screen. However, if you create gaming software, a bigger screen would work best because of the high resolutions needed to create awesome games. For this case, think of 1080 and 4k resolution monitors.
4. Curved vs. Straight Display
Curved screens don’t have a different resolution, but their concave screen gives a different experience. If you are looking to buy a curved screen, you will be better off with a larger screen. A 22-inch curved screen is a waste as it doesn’t improve the viewing angle as much. However, a 32-inch monitor with a curved screen makes sense.
5. Setup and Mounting
It would be best to choose a monitor size considering the type of setup you plan on building. If you have two or more monitors in your setup, better choose a smaller monitor. Also, if you have a small space and want to mount your monitor to free up space, a smaller screen would be easy to work with. You could also set it up to watch movies and play games on the monitor but don’t use a TV as a monitor.
6. Price
Larger monitors are usually a lot more expensive than smaller ones. That is something you should think about when choosing a programming monitor. It might be better to buy a smaller monitor if you already have another. You can then connect the two and use them as one screen. That way, you will save money and won’t have to dispose of a perfectly working monitor. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a pricier monitor. If price is not an issue, you could find a larger screen that offers better features.
Other Things to Consider When Buying a Programming Monitor
A great programming monitor is more than just the size. You have to consider how it performs. It should have vibrant colors and crisp images. Also, consider the viewing angle and refresh rates. Check out some other things to look out for when buying a programming monitor.
1. Display type
Here, you could choose LED or an LCD. Then, an IPS (In-Plane Switching) display would be great for programming as it provides smooth performance and better visuals. A TN (Twisted Nematic) display offers a better response rate, but the picture quality is not up to the mark. Unfortunately, VA (Vertical Alignment) display is backdated and so won’t be suitable.
2. Color Accuracy
When working on characters with a black background, it is crucial to display accurate colors. That way, you won’t have to strain your eyes or take too much time on a task. For such cases, get yourself an IPS display as it offers vibrant colors.
3. Viewing Angle
The viewing angle is also quite important for programmers. That is especially true when working with a team. Everyone will need to see what’s going on. Therefore, find a monitor that provides a wide viewing angle. Even better, get a curved monitor for the best viewing angle from any side.
4. Ports
When working with C or Python, you will need to connect two or more monitors. Therefore, you should choose a monitor with several ports that would allow you to connect multiple cords. Also, lookout for a typecast port, HDMI port, and VGA.
5. Refreshing Rate
Programming requires a quick response if you are to work quickly and efficiently. Obviously, this makes a slow refresh rate a nuisance because you will have to deal with constant lagging when running programs. Therefore, even if you choose a big 4K screen, ensure that it comes with a fast refreshing rate.
Best Monitor for programming: Dell S2721QS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large display | No USB Ports |
| 4K resolution | |
| Great Ergonomics | |
| Ultra-thin bezels | |
| VESA Certified |
At 27 inches, the Dell S2721QS provides plenty of space for multitasking. It has 4K resolution, allowing crisp images and exceptionally sharp text. The ergonomic adjustments and the great stand make it possible to rotate to portrait mode. With a refreshing rate of 60Hz, the monitor allows for increased productivity.
Best Alternative: HP VH240a
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great price | Displays scribble lines |
| Great Ergonomics | |
| Decent size screen | |
| HDMI and VGA ports | |
| VESA Mounting |
At 23.8 inches, the HP VH240a is just the right size for multitasking without eye strain. The full HD monitor makes for smooth pictures and text without blurring. It is thin with a nice design that provides a full range of adjustability. The size is also great if you want to have a multi-monitor setup. You could get a second monitor or add to an existing setup. The monitor could even come with a different stand to make for a dual setup.
