7 Best Monitors for Web Designers

In this post, we reviewed these 7 recommended monitors for web design :

Creative and professional web designers know that the right equipment produces exceptional results. Of course, much of the outcome depends on the competence of the designer, but the right gear is also a crucial factor. This is why in web design you need the best tools – hardware and software – as much as possible.

In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the top computer displays or monitors that you can use for web design. We cannot overstate the importance of this particular piece of equipment because without it you can’t make accurate web mockups, determine the right colors, and have an overall assessment of the design, among other tasks.

Good thing there are lots of excellent and affordable choices when it comes to monitors. We’ve compiled seven of them that you can consider if you’re thinking of a new buy or replacing your old one. We’ll also go through some things you need to know before buying a monitor that you’ll use for web design.

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Best Monitors for Web Designers

Let’s go straight in. Keep in mind it’s always your personal choice that counts which means any purchasing decision is subjective. Nevertheless, be guided by what users and reviewers have to say because there are certain criteria that can help you in your choices such as those in our Buyer’s Guide section in the latter part of this article.

1. LG 27UL850-W

The LG 27UL850-W epitomizes premium design and features without the premium price. It retains the form of its predecessors with a sturdy chassis and matte black finish. It has thin bezels on top and sides that you’ll barely notice when using the monitor. It won’t take up a lot of space on your desk when upright. You can swivel, tilt, and change the height with quick adjustments on the stand.

The LG 27UL850-W carries all the ports and inputs you need – a display port, HDMI, an audio jack, and USB 3.0. Further leveling up its tech focus is a USB-C port as well as a joystick instead of OSD buttons. This lets you quickly adjust monitor settings with a click of the mouse, something you’d appreciate when calibrating colors to your exact specifications. Of course, with its IPS tech, you get high refresh rates, clearer images, and higher color consistency.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 16:9
• Audio Jack (5mm)
• Brightness – 350 cd/m²
• Built-in Speakers – Yes (2 x 5 Watts)
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.4 x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB 3.0 x 2, USB-C 60w x 1,
• Contrast Ratio – 1000:1
• Dimensions With Stand (WxHxD) – 24.14″ x 22.03″ x 9.21″
• Panel Technology – In-Plane Switching (IPS)
• Refresh Rate – 60Hz
• Resolution – 3840 x 2160 4K
• Response Time – 5ms
• Screen Size – 27 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Pivot, Tilt, Swivel
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Functional and sturdy design
• Easy to calibrate
• Excellent color quality
• USB-C monitor

Cons

• Low contrast
• Not ideal default settings

2. Samsung U28H750

The Samsung U28H750 offers lots of features including a massive viewing space, exceptional color output, Quantum Dot backlighting, 4K ultra-high-definition native resolution, and lightning-fast response time. You may think its capabilities are made for gaming. It is, but as a web designer, you would want your monitor to be as fast and capable, providing you with stunning color displays and sharpness.

Speaking of sharpness, this Samsung model boasts one of the clearest image and video displays. It can bring out highlights and other fine-grain details which is an advantage when doing video and photo edits. You’ll be able to work on pixel-level dimensions to give you maximized views and clean edges.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 16:9
• Audio Jack (Headphone)
• Brightness – 250 cd/m²
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 2, 3.5mm
• Contrast Ratio – 1000:1 (Static)
• Panel Technology – Twisted Nematic (TN)
• Refresh Rate – 60Hz
• Resolution – 3840 x 2160 UHD
• Response Time – 1ms
• Screen Size – 28 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Pivot, Tilt, Swivel
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Amazing display quality
• Sharp, crisp details
• Large screen area
• Sleek design

Cons

• Average gamut coverage
• Very basic stand

3. ViewSonic VP2768 

The ViewSonic VP2768a-4K is a great entry-level 4K computer display for professionals like photographers, graphic artists, and web designers. It’s made for editing, not gaming because its strength lies in accurate color depiction and superior image quality. You get a 27-inch IPS panel at 3840 x 2160 resolution, a 1300:1 contrast, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a 350 cd/m2 brightness.

The monitor gives exceptional sharpness that makes it ideal for image editing, graphics, and web design. It’s even capable of video editing with a fast response time and a large viewing area and complete sRGB rendering. Another thing going for it – you can immediately use it from the start with its excellent factory pre-calibrated setting. In other words, use it right out of the box without spending time making further tweaks.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 16:9
• Audio Jack (3.5mm)
• Brightness – 350 cd/m2
• Built-in Speakers: Yes (2 x 2 Watts)
• Connectivity – DisplayPort x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB-C PD90W x 1, USB 3.2 x 3
• Contrast Ratio – 1300:1
• Dimensions With Stand (WxHxD) – 24.1″ x 21.38″ x 8.5″
• Panel Technology – In-Plane Switching (IPS)
• Refresh Rate – 60Hz
• Resolution – 3840 x 2160 UHD
• Response Time – 6ms
• Screen Size – 27 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Pivot, Tilt, Swivel
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Well-calibrated factory settings
• Exceptional sharpness
• Designed for professional editors
• Lots of connectivity features

Cons

• Average contrast
• Not able to render deep black

4. Dell U2417H

Full HD 1920 X 1080 At 60 Hz | IPS, Anti-Glare with Hard Coat 3H|Vesa Mounting Support | Tilt | Pivot | Swivel |Height | Adjustable Stand

I have used this screen for many years. Dell quality is top-notch, and the colors are perfect ! It’s the most common alternative to most expensive Apple monitors.

The Dell U2417H would come as a default choice for many who want a capable and great-looking monitor with the excellent build quality. It may not be UHD but a full high-definition display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, 24-inch IPS panel, 6ms response time, and 60Hz refresh rate. These may not be enough for casual gamers but more than adequate for web designers especially since the monitor can produce an sRGB gamut of 100%.

The display size perfectly matches the 1080p panel, resulting in a near balance between legibility and level of detail. This means extra crispness, defined image edges, and an overall better visual experience. Having a relatively lower resolution also translates to GPU that consumes fewer PC resources. In addition, you only need standard connectors (not specialized ones) available practically everywhere. Another plus point for this model is its exceptional factory calibration, making it ready to use out of the box.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 6:9
• Audio Jack (5mm)
• Brightness – 250 cd/m²
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, DP 1.2 Mini x 1, DisplayPort Out x 1, HDMI with MHL x 1, USB 3.0 x 5
• Contrast Ratio – 1000:1 (Static)
• Dimensions with Stand (WxHxD) – 21.16” x 13.99” x 7.40”
• Panel Technology – In-Plane Switching (IPS)
• Refresh Rate – 60Hz
• Resolution – 1920 x 1080p FHD
• Response Time – 6ms
• Screen Size – 24 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Pivot, Tilt, Swivel
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Perfect pixel pitch
• Several connection features
• Great factory calibration
• Superb build quality

Cons

• Average color accuracy

Lower resolution

5. BenQ EX3501R

BenQ EX3501R 21:9 Ultra-wide Curved QHD Monitor | 34-inch class (35 Inch) | HDR (3440 X 1440) | eye-care Tech | 100 Hz Refresh Rate | Free Sync

If you want next-level visual experience and impressive performance, BenQ EX3501R is right up your alley. It has a huge 35-inch curved display that gives you unprecedented screen real estate ideal for entertainment, gaming, business, and professional work. Despite its dimensions, it isn’t as intrusive though, occupying only a foot of depth space which can be further reduced if you opt for its VESA mounting.

Display and performance are impeccable with a 3440 x 1440 resolution and a 100Hz refresh rate, 2500:1 contrast ratio, and 4ms response time. It has comprehensive gamut coverage, HDR compatibility, and exceptional black-and-white balance. A nifty feature is its Brightness Intelligence which automatically adjusts brightness depending on your ambient lighting. This reduces eye strain from working long hours in front of the screen.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 21:9
• Audio Jack – (3.5mm)
• Brightness – 300 cd/m²
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.4 x 1, HDMI 2.0 x 2, USB 3.1 x 2, USB-C x 1
• Contrast Ratio – 2500:1 (Static)
• Dimensions (WxHxD) – 32.83″ x 19.84″ x 12.16”
• Panel Technology – Vertical Alignment (VA)
• Refresh Rate – 100Hz
• Resolution – 3440 x 1440 UW-QHD
• Response Time – 4ms
• Screen Size – 35 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Tilt
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Carries several image presets
• Great HDR emulation
• Auto adjust brightness
• Superior B&W balance

Cons

• Tends to oversaturate colors
• No pivot and swivel adjustments

6. BenQ GW2780

BenQ 27 Inch IPS Monitor | 1080P | Proprietary Eye-Care Tech | Ultra-Slim Bezel | Adaptive Brightness | Speakers | GW2780

If you do web design or graphic design, you need a quality monitor with accurate colors. That’s what this BenQ display brings to the table aside from its sleek and stylish form as well as impressive specifications. The 27-inch IPS panel has a 1920 x 1080 resolution, a WLED backlight, and a 1000:1 contrast. The colors cover 92% sRGB, delivering high color accuracy.

While it’s a budget monitor and doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles, it nevertheless is conducive for everyday use. It’s positioned for casual gaming and editing and should do well for web design. For everyday users, it offers a Flicker-Free and Low Blue Light technology to reduce eye strain. This is on top of an anti-glare coating to minimize light reflections on the screen. 

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 16:9
• Audio – Built-in Speakers (2 x 2 Watts) + 3.5mm Audio Jack
• Brightness – 250cd/m²
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI 4x 1, VGA x 1
• Contrast Ratio – 1000:1 (Static)
• Dimensions with Stand (WxHxD) – 24.09″ x 18.23″ x 21″
• Panel Technology – In-Plane Switching (IPS)
• Refresh Rate – 60hz
• Resolution – 1920 x 1080 Full HD
• Response Time – 5ms
• Screen Size – 27 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Tilt
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Rich colors and super blacks
• Flickr-free tech
• Anti-glare coating
• Quality built-in speaker

Cons

• Limited connection features
• Only tilt adjustment

7. AOC CQ27G1

AOC CQ27G1 27″ Curved Frameless Gaming Monitor QHD/2K, 1ms, 144Hz, Free Sync | Display Port | HDMI | VGA | Height adjustable

The AOC CQ27G1 provides a lot of value, bringing with it a 2560 x 1440 screen resolution at an impressive 144hz and 100% sRGB. With a high refresh rate, it enhances response time to 1ms. To support convenient and stutter-free viewing, there’s FreeSync support. Similarly, you will be able to attach multiple monitors using the three-sided frameless design. This adjustable and ergonomic monitor has a fantastic contrast ratio of 80,000,000:1.

Gaming-grade specs will translate to optimal graphic, video, and image editing as well as facilitate web design works. It provides an immersive experience with its large curved screen and smooth performance. Further, it has a high static contrast ratio of 3,000:1, which results in deep blacks, vibrant colors, and vivid details.

Features

• Aspect Ratio – 16:9
• Audio Jack – 3.5mm
• Brightness – 250cd/m²
• Connectivity – DisplayPort 1.2 x 1, HDMI x 1, VGA x 1
• Contrast Ratio – 80,000,000:1
• Dimensions with Stand (WxHxD) – 27.32″ x 9.84″ x 18.62″
• Panel Technology – Vertical Alignment (VA)
• Refresh Rate – 144hz
• Resolution – 2560 x 1440
• Response Time – 1ms
• Screen Size – 27 Inches
• Stand Adjustments – Height, Tilt, Swivel
• VESA Mount Compatible

Pros

• Excellent contrast ratio
• Splendid default color accuracy
• High contrast ratio
• Good build quality

Cons

• Not HDR compatible
• Much to be desired viewing angles

Buyer’s Guide to Choosing a Web Design Monitor

A monitor for web design should ideally have the following capabilities and features:

Size

The monitor should range between 24 inches to 27 inches in screen size. Most professional graphic and web designers prefer 27-inch monitors because of their wide viewing angle and fit effortlessly in the majority of spaces.

Resolution

The monitor should have higher display resolutions. For example, it should have more than 1366 x 768 pixels. The higher the resolutions, the better as it will allow you to do pixel-level editing and view design with great detail.

Color Correction

The monitor must have color correction as well as calibration features. Monitors with gray gradients are the ideal selection for web design. These monitors can produce quality displays by allowing colors to fade without color breaks.

Gamut

Gamut is the range of colors that a device like your monitor can display. A wider color gamut, for example 100% or more of sRGB color space, means the monitor can produce more vivid colors and vibrant images.

Flexibility

This refers to the stand which should allow the monitor to tilt, swivel, pivot, and adjust the height for your most comfortable viewing position. A VESA capability is also preferred to give options for wall or arm post mounting.

Panel Type

There are three main panel technologies:

• In-Plane Switching (IPS) – Ideal for web design monitors because it offers color accuracy and excellent viewing from all angles. It may have a lower refresh rate which may not matter much to web and graphic designers but is crucial, on the other hand, to gamers and video editors.
• Twisted Nematic (TN) – This panel is less costly and super responsive with a higher refresh rate. However, they have inaccurate color rendering and may result in color distortions.
• Vertical Alignment (VA) – This panel is a better option than the Twisted Nematic panel when it comes to color calibration. However, they are not that much preferred as they fall below the capability of IPS panels.

The Bottom Line

Whatever monitor you choose be sure to test them out first if the vendor allows it in their store. And if you purchase one, make sure you get a legitimate warranty. As a web designer or creative professional who do editing and design works, a monitor is a crucial investment and will serve you in the long run. So, getting the right one at the start is vital. Take note of our tips and guides here and you’re on to getting the perfect monitor for web design.