This article is for photo editors who need to edit high-quality media with tools like Lightroom and need to choose the best monitor for photo editing. Here we have reviewed best monitor for photo editing.
A high-quality monitor is as important as colors in photos. It is not just about your eye satisfaction or viewing comfort, but you must come up with accurate details and appropriate colors in your photos. So, if you have a monitor which is not up to the mark, you probably end up with low-quality editing, and that could slip a high-paying client out of your hands.
Hence, keeping everything in mind, as a witty person, why don’t you think of buying a high-end monitor for your bread-and-butter work? In this guide, we have features of the best monitors for your photo editing work which are affordable, come from the trusted house, and value-for-money products. Take a close look at the monitor that meets your requirements and is fits your work.
Reviews of 10 Best Monitor For Photo Editing
1. LG 27UL500-W 27-Inch UHD
This white-colored IPS monitor with Radeon FreeSync technology from electronic giant LG is packed with brilliant features that will streamline your photo editing process. This monitor offers four times the resolution provided by full HD, and hence you enjoy pixel-perfect image editing and ultra-deep granularity. The 4K UHD screen comes with industry-standard HDR 10’s for high dynamic range imaging.
Most screens have the problem of gradual color changes while editing. However, with proper color calibration, the colors of the image are maintained while editing. It comes with a wide viewing angle, keeps the colors consistent, and reproduces 98% coverage of the sRGB color spectrum. The Radeon FreeSync technology and the processor communicate with each other smoothly that aids in reducing the tearing and choppiness of images.
You should note that FreeSync technology only works when you connect it via a Display port or HDMI. It offers first-person shooter game mode and RTS pre-set mode and allows you to easily control monitor settings, such as audio, picture, and screen split in just a few clicks.
- Reliable monitor for gaming, programming, and photography
- 4K capable budget-friendly monitor
- It goes well with Macbook pro
- No flickering while working
- The stand is not sturdy
- Display port is required to support 4K@60fps
2. ASUS Designo Curve MX38VC 37.5″ Monitor
This ultra-wide Quad HD curved monitor with an award-winning frameless design from Asus comes with a 178° viewing angle and offers 21% more on-screen space. Packed with SonicMaster technology from Asus and 10W Harman Kardon speakers, it eliminates the need for external speakers and offers its users a rich sound experience.
The status monitoring lighting comes embedded with a 15W Qi wireless charging pad. Also, the wireless built-in Qi charging pad keeps your workspace neat as you do not need a separate setup to charge your Qi-compatible mobile devices at a faster rate. You can enjoy the editing process and stable image quality with TUV Rhineland-certified flicker-free backlighting. It, combined with Asus eye care technology and a blue light filter, minimizes eye strain.
The sundial base pair is transparent and comes with hidden, a 5-way navigation key and down-firing inputs that seamlessly blend to create an elegant and high-performance setup.
- Lightweight, huge screen with vibrant colors
- Designed specifically to deliver theatre quality audio
- Stream music by connecting Bluetooth enabled smartphones
- Comfortable viewing with Asus Flickr-free technology
- Inadequate volume with maximum settings
- Cannot raise monitor height but only tilt it
3. LG 32UN880-B 32 Inch
This LG 32″ ultrafine 4K monitor comes with an ergonomic stand with C-clamp. The 4K UHD IPS display screen comes with industry-standard HDR 10’s for high vibrant imaging. You can view images in their true colors, high clarity, perfect contrast, clarity even while viewing at wide angles. It supports 178° viewing. The innovative and specifically designed display will boost your working and workplace productivity.
Ergonomic design offers a comfortable and flexible setup as per your needs. You can easily adjust the height, tilt it, or swivel. It is compatible with every posture. It is Flickr safe and comes with AMD FreeSync technology. Pale or washed images are displayed on a typical LCD monitor with deep black tones. However, the users do not face this problem while working on this monitor.
It comes with a bundled HDMI cable, USB Type-C cable, power cable, smart USA elite suite bundled with 18 standard editing softwares. In addition to the full manufacturer warranty, it offers an extended protection plan for one year.
- Reliable monitor for programming and photography
- 4K capable budget-friendly monitor
- Flexible desktop set up for comfortable working
- No flickering or lowered color contrast while working
- Average display colors and brightness
- Not reliable USB hub
4. Eizo ColorEdge CG319X 31.1″
Eizo widescreen LED monitor offers 4k resolution, which is four times the pixel count of full HD. This makes this monitor a perfect choice for color grading, composting, visual effects, or 2D and 3D CGI. The monitor is packed with excellent features, such as a 1500:1 contrast ratio, 4K (4096 X 2160) resolution, and 350 cd/m2 brightness.
The feature that makes it ahead of other monitors is editing images and graphics to the smallest pixel. The wide IPS panel with an LCD module offers a 178° viewing angle that results in a great cinematic experience. The monitor displays raw images with complete color accuracy on converting to AdobeRGB.
There is no flickering, and color tone, and contrasts remain stable throughout the screen without any brightness fluctuations while working. A typical LCD monitor displays pale or washed images with deep black tones. CG319X of the CG series solves this problem as it comes with a retardation film.
See Also: Top 10 Best Laptops for Graphic Design
- Uniform viewing experience across the entire screen
- Integrated calibrated sensor for maximum color accuracy
- ColorNavigator allows quick recalibration of the monitor
- Flexible base allows height, tilt, and rotation adjustments
5. Dell U2719D UltraSharp QHD
This thin and stylishly designed ultra-sharp QHD LED-backlit LCD monitor from Dell comes with In-Pane switching technology that offers a wide viewing angle and consistently displays true-to-life colors. The borderless design that features InfinityEdge enables users to enjoy seamless content viewing across multiple monitors. Also, productivity can be increased by 18% by using dual monitors.
The monitor comes with a flexible stand whose height can be adjusted. You can also tilt or swivel it as per your comfort level. You can keep the riser at the same place due to a hinge on the riser. The monitor is TUV certified and comes with a comfortable view for a Flickr-free viewing experience. It protects eye strain by reducing the emission of harmful blue rays.
The Dell display manager software comes with an easily arrange feature that enables the user to multitask by organizing multiple applications using customized or predefined templates.
- Stylish thin panel with compact base free up desk space
- Adjustable setting for all-day comfort working
- Optimized for using full day long without causing eye strain
- Hide cable clutter with cable management design
6. ViewSonic VP3881 38in IPS UltraWide Curved Pro Monitor
Introducing an advanced 38-inch curved surface pro monitor from display giant ViewSonic offers the best quality screen resolution and vast size. It is well suited for graphic content creators and editors with exceptional color accuracy & processing capabilities. This 4K ultra HD IPS display is designed for creative graphic design and multitasking, equipped with versatile color adjustment features.
It is highly loaded with various connection ports such as HDMI, USB type C port, display port for easy connection with windows PC. USB type C port offers Apple users to connect with Macbook seamlessly. The screen split feature is well developed to perform graphic designs and access multiple screens in one place.
Elegant curves provide a better viewing experience and help to reduce eye strain and fatigue during long sessions. This monitor is equipped with an available 60 Hz screen refresh rate for mid-range games.
- 38″ UHD curved 4K monitor and best viewing experience with a curved surface
- Highly suitable for graphic content creators
- Experience the solid color accuracy
- Connect windows and iMac based systems Seamlessl
- Connection ports like HDMI, USB type C port, display ports make one of the best monitors
- Apple users face issues as a USB type C port offers less power to Mac PC
- 60hz screen refresh rate is not enough for a high-end game experience
7. Acer ProDesigner PE320QK bmiipruzx 31.5″
When graphic designers look for an attractive and high-performing pc monitor, it’s time when Acer offers ProDesigner PE320QK. This 4K 31.5-inch ultra HD IPS display is designed with high resolution (3840×2160) and delta E technology to ensure the best Colour accuracy. Users can experience an exceptional viewing experience with high picture details.
The modern HDR Xpert technology improves the picture quality and components suitable for Photographers, video editors, and others working in creative industries. This monitor is designed with Delta E technology, making it ideal for color-sensitive projects by producing new color accuracy.
Acer takes care of Apple users by providing a USB type C port to connect with Macbook and HDMI port and display ports. Users can adjust the height and viewing angle by its adjustment panel.
- Delta E1 technology for precise color accuracy
- 31.5 ultra HD 4K monitor with a custom resolution of 4k, 2k, HD
- Highly recommended for graphic creators and photo & video editors
- Comfortable viewing experience with height adjustability
- Connect with HDMI, USB type C, and display ports
- 60hz refresh rate is not enough for heavy gamin
- A wide bezel takes more space in a room or office
8. MSI Prestige PS341WU 34″ 5K UHD Curved Screen
MSI Prestige PS341WU is designed for heavy graphic projects and video editing sessions. Its 5k Ultra HD curved display is excellent enough to provide high resolution and multitasking abilities to every graphic designer. It is beautifully designed and has an elegant look and advanced adjustment features to experience the most productive time. 178° wide-angle with strong table stand.
Other attractive specifications such as 5120 x 2160 5K resolution, a 1200:1 static contrast ratio, 1.07 billion colors, and 60hz refresh rate make it one of the best video & photo editing monitors of all time. It comes with an affordable price tag with amazing advanced features. Connect this giant monitor with HDMI, USB port type C, and display ports with windows and Apple devices.
MSI allows users to split-screen for multitasking at the single monitor with multiple screens. Various 5K resolution monitors come with a price range of 1K USD, but it has highly competitive prices and exceptional editing features.
- 5K ultra HD curved display with high resolution
- 1200:1 static contrast ratio and 1.07 billion colors
- Smart screen splitter improves multitasking
- Attractive look and design to reduce eye strain and fatigue on long sessions
- Multiple Connection ports such as HDMI, USB port, display port
- 60hz screen with 5k resolution makes it suitable for graphic content creators only
- Poor gaming experience with the low refresh rate
9. BenQ EX3501R 35″ 21:9
This curved-shaped gaming monitor is also an ideal monitor for photo editing work. This silver-colored with extended stand monitor comes with a 100 Hz refresh rate, 3440 x 1440 resolution, FreeSync technology, and 4ms response time, making it a think-about-it-once monitor to buy. You will get branding on the stand and the front side of the monitor; black combinations with the silver color, on the other hand, are eye-catching that can fit into every desk color.
This 35-inches LCD Monitor is perfect for your editing work and work-from-home use. Its 25-inches curved screen will give you a rich feel when it comes to color and material quality. Talking about the hardware and connectivity part, you will get USB, USB Type C, HDMI support simultaneously.
You would feel that picture quality is second-to-none, easy to customize, and adjustable height options are enough reasons to go with this BenQ 25-inches LCD Monitor.
- Picture quality is remarkable
- HDMI, Display Port, USB-C available
- Sleek and beautiful curved appearance
- Freesync technology
- The back shield is smaller
- It is more a gaming monitor
10. BenQ GW2280 Eye Care 22 Inch 1080P Slim Bezel Monitor
This BenQ HD monitor is sleek and affordable, and if you are looking for everyday homely work or an office use monitor, there is no doubt that this is the best monitor for you. This model of BenQ house comes with great resolution power, faster response time, and a top-notch swift refresh rate. This ultra-slim monitor with less bezel, 1920×1080 resolution makes it one of the affordable 22-inch monitors, among others.
This monitor is excellent for home, office, library, etc. Another feature that we truly appreciate is an eye-care feature because, as a photo editor, you spend most of your time in front of the monitor. So, it becomes more necessary to go with an option that provides you with eye-care features and user comfort in this case. Another thing that makes it a more appropriate monitor for photo editing work is flicker-free technology to reduce the brightness levels and eye fatigue effectively, low blue light technology, and 3000:1 native contrast ratio.
This means, if you buy this BenQ Monitor, you will end up with great real-time features for your high-end work as well as your eye health.
See Also: Top 10 Best Laptops for Video Editing
- Conventional LCD screens flicker 200x per second
- Low Blue Light modes
- An ultra-high native contrast of 3000:1
- It comes with an ultra-slim bezel and eye-care features.
- The screen size is relatively small
- The Speaker tone is not up to the mark
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Monitor for Photo Editing?
Whether you print photos or share them online, you always notice that they differ from the original stuff. The reason might be your monitor is not calibrated or suitable for photo editing. You might wonder how monitors can play a vital role in photo editing. Any piece of art will make a mark only if it is visually appealing.
So, proper color reproduction becomes essential. Any graphic, image, or video lacking color detail may not communicate the message you want to convey to your viewers. If you can see your images in their exact size, color, and detail, your editing task will make your editing task easy and inspire you to create more beautiful artwork.
Here I will show you what features you must consider before buying any monitor for photo editing purposes.
1. Resolution:
Consider screens with higher resolution. It means more content will fit the screen, and on zooming out, minute details can also be seen. A Full HD(1920X1080) monitor or a 4K(3840X2160) IPS panel is the best choice.
2. Size:
Aim for big monitors of 23″ or higher as they offer a great viewing experience and cause less eye strain.
3. Color Display:
90% of sRGB (standard 8-bit web color space) and 70% of the Adobe RGB spectrum (broad spectrum of colors) should be covered by the monitor. These are industry standard values.
4. Viewing Angle:
The viewing angle should not be less than 160° in any direction. IPS monitors offer the best viewing experience.
5. Adjustability:
Make sure the monitor offers a 90° rotation to edit portrait-style images with ease.
6. Response Time:
A quick response time does not hold much value if editing images alone. However, if you are into video editing too, take into consideration this feature also. It must be 10ms or less.
7. Black Level:
The difference exists between IPS and IPS in black levels. The darkest, the better. However, to date, there are no standard measurements for this. You can check out reviews posted by users on trusted review sites.
8. Calibration Settings:
Cheaper monitors for photo editing seldom come with efficient calibration settings. Then also, if you buy them, look for a service menu on midrange and professional displays that allows for 8-bit calibration, that is, from RGB (0,0,0) to (255,255,255). Some displays also offer 1 to 100 color calibration. For regular users, this value is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When it comes to the monitor’s resolution, it depends on the monitor size. Though, if you are looking for a 24-inch monitor, then it should have a 1980×1080 resolution. At the same time, if you consider buying a 32-inch monitor, which would be 4K in the resolution of 3840×2160. Generally, you can opt for a monitor that has at least a 1080p resolution.
Undoubtedly! A 4K monitor comes with a crisp display, excellent image quality, accurate colors, and many more. Therefore, when you edit photos on a 4K monitor, you would feel the difference and come to know the advantages of a high-end monitor.
If you edit photos regularly, you must have an HD monitor on your desk. In this very guide, we have picked the top 10 best monitors for photo editing. All the products are affordable and branded; you can choose any one of them as per your budget.
Yes, you can edit 4K photos on a 1080p monitor effortlessly. You can edit directly, or at the same time, you can use proxies. This means you can edit with lower resolution, and once you are done with the editing, you can replace it with the 4K footage accordingly.
Yes, there is no issue with editing photos on a curved screen. However, with curved edges, sometimes you can feel reduced image distortion. In contrast, an ultra-wide monitor provides you with extra room order to edit photos perfectly.
Apple Thunderbolt 27-inch LED-backlit IPS displays are well-versed and most-used monitors when it comes to photo editing. Apple Thunderbolt comes with excellent size and top-notch resolution of 2,560×1440 for photo editing work.
Yes, it will be a good choice if you are an editor or content creator. This means you have to edit your content with high-end clips using different colors, so it becomes more important that your monitor should display HDR.
Final Words
Choosing the best monitor is one of the head-scratching tasks because several brands are available to offer outstanding monitors for every range of customers. However, finding and selecting a monitor is not that much easy. We feel that purchasing a high-end monitor is one of the most valuable investments you make for yourself.
Because ultimately, a monitor is a key to your work, and everything you do cannot be possible without the monitor. So, on this positive note, why not pick a well-versed and HD monitor that will add value to your job? However, right before you make any decision, make sure you are happy with the monitor and the specification is well enough as per your work style.
In this guide, we have selected the most loved and amazing photo editing monitors for you. All the monitors are sleek, beautiful, and come with an excellent picture quality that will make your job easier. You can choose any one of the monitors mentioned in this article according to your desk requirements.
