The Best 4K Displays (March 2024)

Here are the recommendations for the best 4K displays:

Dell UltraSharp U2723QE: A top pick for a 4K monitor that offers superior contrast compared to other options. It has a quality display, color accuracy, and USB-C charging capability.
HP Z32k G3: An excellent choice for a larger 4K display with Thunderbolt 4 support and great contrast similar to the top pick.
GIGABYTE AORUS FV43U: Recommended for gaming and productivity, offering features like a 144Hz refresh rate, 99% Adobe RGB/DCI-P3 color coverage, and proper HDR1000 capability.
Gigabyte M28U: Known for being an affordable 4K display with a stunning IPS panel and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it a standout option among cheaper 4K monitors.
Philips Brilliance 279P1: Ideal for general use, this business-oriented monitor features a USB hub, Ethernet jack, solid brightness, strong sRGB color coverage, and an ergonomic stand.

Sources used: Reddit [1, 2, etc.], The Wire Cutter

What’s 4K

The term “4K” refers to a display resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, approximately four times the number of pixels found in a traditional 1080p display. This increased pixel density translates into sharper text, more detailed images, and an overall more immersive viewing experience.

Moreover, 4K monitors offer a significant increase in usable desktop space, allowing multiple windows and applications to be displayed side by side without sacrificing readability or image quality. This feature is particularly beneficial for multitaskers, professionals working with large spreadsheets or coding projects, and creative individuals editing high-resolution photos or videos.

Top Recommendations

After extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down our top recommendations for the best 4K monitors currently available on the market:

Dell UltraSharp U2723QE
- Our top pick for the best overall 4K monitor
- Features an IPS Black display for superior contrast and color accuracy
- Offers a wealth of ports, including USB-C with 90W charging
- Highly adjustable stand for ergonomic viewing
HP Z32k G3
- Our upgrade pick for a larger, more color-accurate screen
- Utilizes the same IPS Black technology as our top pick
- Supports Thunderbolt 4 for faster data transfer speeds
- 32-inch display provides ample screen real estate

Key Considerations

While our top picks offer exceptional value and performance, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a 4K monitor. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Display Size The size of your 4K monitor plays a crucial role in determining the overall viewing experience. Larger displays, such as 32-inch models, provide a more immersive and spacious working environment but also consume more desk space and may require a longer viewing distance. Smaller monitors like 27-inch models strike a balance between screen real estate and desktop footprint.
Display Technology The display technology used in a 4K monitor significantly impacts image quality and viewing experience. The most common technologies are IPS (In-Plane Switching), VA (Vertical Alignment), and TN (Twisted Nematic). IPS and VA panels are generally preferred for their superior image quality and overall viewing experience.
Color Accuracy and Gamut Coverage For professionals working in fields such as graphic design, photography, or video editing, color accuracy and gamut coverage are crucial considerations. Monitors with excellent color accuracy ensure that the colors you see on the screen accurately represent the intended colors in your work, while wider gamut coverage allows for a broader range of colors to be accurately displayed.
Refresh Rate and Response Time For gamers and those who value smooth motion and responsiveness, refresh rate and response time are essential factors to consider. Higher refresh rates and lower response times provide a more fluid and responsive gaming experience.
Connectivity and Ports In today’s world of multiple devices and peripherals, connectivity and ports are crucial considerations. Look for monitors with a variety of ports, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C, to ensure compatibility with your devices.
Ergonomics and Adjustability Spending long hours in front of a monitor can take a toll on your posture and overall well-being. Choose a monitor that offers ergonomic adjustments, such as tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustment, or compatibility with VESA mounts for greater flexibility and customization.
Warranty and Customer Support As with any significant investment, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. Look for robust dead pixel policies and extended warranty periods to protect your investment, as well as reputable manufacturers known for excellent customer support.

Additional Features and Considerations

Beyond the core specifications and features, there are several additional factors to consider:

HDR Support High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology offers improved contrast, wider color gamuts, and more realistic image reproduction, enhancing the viewing experience for those who enjoy watching HDR content or working with HDR-compatible applications.
Built-in Speakers and Webcams Some 4K monitors come equipped with built-in speakers and webcams, providing a more convenient and integrated solution for video conferencing, multimedia consumption, and other multimedia applications.
Software and On-Screen Display (OSD) Controls Look for monitors with intuitive and user-friendly software and OSD menus, allowing you to easily adjust settings, customize profiles, and fine-tune the display to your preferences.
Design and Aesthetics While performance and specifications are paramount, the design and aesthetics of a 4K monitor should also be considered. Premium monitors often feature sleek and modern designs, with slim bezels and minimalist aesthetics that complement contemporary workspaces and home environments.
Power Consumption and Energy Efficiency For those concerned about energy efficiency and environmental impact, consider the power consumption and energy-saving features of a 4K monitor, such as adaptive brightness and power-saving modes.
Calibration and Color Management If you work in fields that require precise color accuracy, look for monitors that support hardware calibration and advanced color management tools, allowing you to fine-tune the display’s color performance and ensure consistent color representation across multiple devices.
Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light Technology Some monitors incorporate flicker-free and low blue light technologies, which reduce visual discomfort and potential long-term eye strain, making them suitable for extended periods of screen time.

Advantages of 4K

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the key features and considerations, let’s explore some of the practical applications and benefits of 4K monitors:

Photo and Video Editing For photographers, videographers, and other visual artists, a 4K monitor is an invaluable tool. The increased resolution and color accuracy allow you to view and edit your work in stunning detail, ensuring that every nuance and subtlety is captured accurately.
Graphic Design and Multimedia Production In the world of graphic design and multimedia production, precision and attention to detail are paramount. A 4K monitor’s increased desktop real estate and high pixel density make it easier to work with complex layouts, intricate designs, and high-resolution assets.
Content Consumption and Entertainment While 4K monitors are often associated with professional applications, they also offer an unparalleled entertainment experience. With their stunning visuals and vibrant colors, 4K displays bring movies, TV shows, and video games to life in ways that traditional displays simply cannot match.
Multitasking and Productivity In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking has become a necessity for many professionals. With a 4K monitor’s increased desktop real estate, you can easily arrange multiple windows and applications side by side, allowing you to seamlessly switch between tasks without sacrificing productivity or readability.
Medical and Scientific Imaging In the fields of medicine and scientific research, accurate and detailed imaging is crucial. 4K monitors provide the resolution and color accuracy required to analyze intricate medical scans, microscopic images, and scientific visualizations with precision and clarity.
Creative Workflows and Collaboration In collaborative environments, a 4K monitor can facilitate seamless communication and enhance creative workflows. With their large canvas and detailed visuals, these displays make it easier to share and review work with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
Future-Proofing and Scalability Investing in a 4K monitor today can future-proof your setup for years to come. As 4K becomes the standard for many applications and devices, a 4K display ensures that you’re ready to take advantage of the latest advancements without the need for frequent upgrades.

Working With 4K Monitors

To ensure you make the most of your 4K monitor investment, here are some tips and best practices to keep in mind:

Calibration and Color Management For professional work or color-critical applications, properly calibrating your 4K monitor is essential. This process ensures that the colors you see on the screen accurately represent the intended colors in your work, reducing the risk of inaccuracies or inconsistencies.
Ergonomic Setup and Positioning To maximize comfort and reduce strain during extended periods of use, set up your 4K monitor ergonomically. This includes positioning the display at an appropriate height, distance, and viewing angle to minimize neck and eye strain.
Cable Management and Connectivity With multiple devices and peripherals connected to your 4K monitor, cable management can quickly become a challenge. Invest in cable organizers, cable sleeves, or cable trays to keep your workspace tidy and organized, and take advantage of connectivity options like USB-C or Thunderbolt to simplify your setup.
Display Settings and Customization Most 4K monitors offer a range of display settings and customization options to enhance your viewing experience. Experiment with different presets, color modes, and brightness levels to find the optimal settings for your specific use case.
Power Management and Energy Efficiency While 4K monitors offer stunning visuals, they can also consume more power than their lower-resolution counterparts. Take advantage of any power-saving features or eco-modes offered by your monitor to minimize your environmental impact and reduce energy costs.
Regular Maintenance and Care Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your 4K monitor. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and handling, and consider investing in a monitor cover or dust shield when your 4K display is not in use.
Stay Informed and Up-to-Date The world of display technology is constantly evolving, with new advancements and innovations emerging regularly. Stay informed about the latest developments in 4K monitors, as well as emerging technologies like HDR, high refresh rates, and wider color gamuts, to ensure you’re always equipped with the latest and greatest in display technology.