10 best monitors for photographers

The monitor is one of the main components of a computer. This device, regardless of the tasks performed, is constantly in front of the user's eyes. The selection criteria for such products differ depending on the needs of a particular buyer. So, for photographers it is very important that the monitor accurately conveys colors, lighting features and other nuances of the frame, conceived by the author. Of course, the more efficiently the technique copes with its task, the more expensive it will cost. Today we decided to take a look at the best monitors for photographers from different price categories.

Rating of the best monitors for photographers

It should be noted that the monitors presented are well suited not only for processing images, but also for working with graphics. Of course, we took into account other features of each model, since they are unlikely to be used exclusively for work. When evaluating each device, not only its personal characteristics were taken into account, but also the opinions of real owners and the experience of our experts. As a result, we managed to compile the TOP, which presents monitors for any needs.

If you do not find among the products reviewed an option that ideally suits your wishes, then in addition we will give some advice on choosing a device for photographers.

1. LG 27UL650 27 ″

Nice monitor for photo processing from LG. The device provides true-to-life color reproduction with 99% coverage of the sRGB color space. The 27UL650 also boasts DisplayHDR 400 certification, making it suitable for viewing extended range content. Moreover, a similar function can be used for SDR content, which makes it more colorful. The 4K monitor offers a 10-bit matrix (8 bit + FRC), so it can display over a billion colors. And there is also a very comfortable stand.

Advantages:

• high screen resolution;
• variety of settings;
• well-developed management;
• saturation of the picture;
• thoughtful stand;
• monitor equipment;
• good margin of brightness.

Disadvantages:

• uniformity of illumination on a white background;

2. ASUS ProArt PA27AC 27 ″

ASUS has created a monitor that not only offers great performance, but also a great design. The front panel of the monitor is completely monolithic, although the bezels are still present here. All controls (6 buttons, including the power key, and a 5-way joystick) are located at the back at the right end, which is quite convenient.

The LCD monitor is incredibly stable, for which the aluminum stand is commendable. The option to use a VESA-compatible mount is also available. In terms of the variety of interfaces, a high-quality ASUS monitor will definitely not disappoint: three HDMI inputs, one DisplayPort, three Type-C, of ​​which two are Thunderbolt 3, and a pair of USB-A.

Advantages:

• gorgeous color rendering;
• maximum brightness 400 cd / m2;
• 100% coverage of sRGB space;
• the ability to charge a variety of devices;
• menu in Russian;
• variety of interfaces;
• flicker-free backlight;
• high uniformity of illumination;
• DisplayHDR 400 and HDR10 support.

Disadvantages:

• almost useless 2W speakers;
• high price;
• not the most convenient control menu.

3. Acer Nitro VG270UPbmiipx 27 ″

If, when choosing a monitor, it is important for you to find a model that will allow you not only to work, but also to have fun, then the Acer Nitro VG270UP is an excellent option to buy. This device offers a first-class sensor with a maximum brightness of 350 cd per square meter and a color gamut of 100% sRGB. Display resolution - Quad HD.

Depending on the vendor, the monitored model can be based on either AHVA or AAS. Both are high-quality varieties of the IPS matrix.

The typical response time of an inexpensive Acer monitor is 4 ms, and the use of the acceleration function can improve this indicator to just 1 ms. An important plus of the Nitro VG270UP is its high refresh rate of 144 Hz. First of all, this, of course, will delight gamers. But in everyday use, the smoothness is also noticeable.

Advantages:

• good brightness margin;
• matrix refresh rate;
• adaptive sync;
• reasonable cost;
• color temperature stability;
• decent color rendering;
• gamma control;
• high matrix speed;
• optimal resolution.

Disadvantages:

• illumination, unfortunately, is not perfect;
• noticeable highlights on a dark background.

4. AOC U2777PQU 27 ″

Premium UltraHD monitor from popular manufacturer AOC. The U2777PQU stand is styled in metal. It is glossy, so it collects fingerprints well. The leg contains a hinge that allows you to change the angle of inclination and rotate the screen 90 degrees. Also, the monitor can be adjusted in height (range about 15 cm).

The monitor covers 100% sRGB space, can display over a billion colors, and offers decent backlight uniformity. Thanks to these parameters, it is very pleasant to work with it. Also, the IPS-monitor pleased with the interface set, which has almost all types of inputs (DVI-D, HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA) and a 4-port USB hub.

Advantages:

• functional stand;
• wide choice of connectors;
• reasoned cost;
• color display accuracy;
• excellent equipment;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• excellent lighting;
• 2 built-in 3W speakers.

Disadvantages:

• easily soiled glossy surfaces;
• standard monitor settings.

5. ViewSonic VX2776-4K-MHD 27 ″

The popular photographer monitor from ViewSonic offers a quality 4K sensor with 10-bit color display. Of course, given the declared cost, you shouldn't count on "honest" 10 bit, that's why they are achieved here using FRC. But in most cases, this is enough even for people who work with content professionally.

In the reviews, the monitor is praised for the stand. It looks great, holds the display securely on the table, not allowing it to wobble. True, from the degrees of freedom, only the tilt angle is available here, which will not please all buyers. But the contrast ratio of the used IPS-matrix is ​​increased to 1300: 1, which is an important advantage of the VX2776 model. ViewSonic also announces support for HDR10. But it's definitely just for show.

Advantages:

• excellent pixel density;
• relatively affordable price;
• variety of settings;
• attractive design;
• increased contrast.

Disadvantages:

• almost useless speakers;
• highlights on a dark background.

6. BenQ PD2710QC 27 ″

Perhaps the most interesting decision in the ranking of the best monitor models for photographers and designers. BenQ has created an original device that can be recommended to owners of ultrabooks. In addition to the PD2710QC's excellent color reproduction reaching 100% sRGB and about 75% Adobe RGB and NTSC spaces, the monitor offers a wealth of connectors.

The functional stand allows you to change the tilt angle, adjust the screen height, and switch it to portrait mode. There is no rotation around its axis.

Probably you immediately thought of USB? Yes, there are 4 standard Type-A here at once, and the device also has Type-C. The latter allows you to connect to a laptop to ensure that all interfaces work at once. And there are plenty of them in one of the best monitors for photographers: RJ-45, two DisplayPort 1.2 (input and output) and one Mini DP of the same version, 3.5 mm jack, and in duplicate, and HDMI input.Simple acoustics are also available.

Advantages:

• "Frameless" design;
• high-quality assembly;
• large selection of interfaces;
• excellent viewing angles;
• great stand;
• excellent factory setting;
• flicker-free backlight;
• no Cross-hatching;
• no crystal effect.

Disadvantages:

• rather big cost;
• uniformity of illumination on a black background.

7. HP Z27n G2 27 ″

One of the best monitors in 2020 in terms of balance of cost and performance. The device offers a wide variety of connectivity options, including regular and Mini DisplayPort, HDMI version 1.4, digital DVI-D and even USB-C. There are also 3 Type-A ports that can be used to connect external HDD / SSD, flash drives, peripherals.

The matrix in the Z27n G2 monitor is 8-bit with very good color rendering. The resolution is Quad HD, and this is the optimal value for such a diagonal. With Full HD, individual pixels would be visible, and Ultra HD is not suitable for everyone due to the increased load on the hardware and the reduction in the size of some elements in Windows (even taking into account scaling). In order for a high-quality monitor for novice photographers to accurately display colors, it has a calibration.

Advantages:

• can be connected via USB-C;
• modern appearance;
• high-quality stand;
• high gradation;
• color rendition out of the box;
• wide viewing angles;
• thoughtful menu.

Disadvantages:

• minor highlights.

8. ASUS MZ27AQ 27 ″

Wonderful monitor from ASUS from the proprietary design line Designo. The appearance of the MZ27AQ is really beautiful. True, the functionality of the stand is minimal here - only tilt angle adjustment. There are not too many connectors here either: a pair of HDMI, DisplayPort, a 3.5 mm jack and an input for a complete subwoofer. Yes, the sound from one of the best monitors according to customer reviews is really great. The same applies to color rendition and viewing angles - they are almost reference here.

Advantages:

• stunning design;
• minimum thickness;
• image quality;
• accuracy of shades;
• convenient control
• decent sounding;
• long warranty (3 years);
• excellent lighting.

Disadvantages:

• no VESA mount;
• stand capabilities.

9. Iiyama ProLite XUB2792QSU-1 27 ″

Do you want to buy a monitor with the perfect price-performance ratio? We recommend looking towards the Iiyama company, or rather its ProLite XUB2792QSU model. It can display over a billion colors, fully covers the sRGB color space, and has excellent viewing angles. Thanks to the good anti-reflective coating, working with the ProLite XUB2792QSU is very pleasant, because the image remains clear and does not distort.

The manufacturer says about the use of a 10-bit matrix AU Optronics. However, this would be too good for its price, so the device uses an 8-bit display and FRC technology (that is, special backlight control).

The ideal monitor for the photographer among budget models offers 3 types of inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI-D. A 3.5 mm output is also available, but undemanding owners will be satisfied with a pair of standard speakers with a total power of 2 W. If you not only work with snapshots, but also love to play, then FreeSync support will be a pleasant bonus.

Advantages:

• color calibration;
• ergonomic stand;
• FreeSync technology;
• availability of DVI;
• reasonable price tag;
• lack of PWM;
• excellent equipment;
• two USB-A 3.0 ports;
• brightness margin (up to 350 cd / m2).

10. DELL P2415Q 23.8 ″

And the rating ends with a great option for photographers and designers. The DELL P2415Q IPS monitor has a diagonal of 23.8 inches, which at 4K resolution provides a very high pixel density of 185 ppi. To see individual dots, the user almost needs to bury their nose at the screen. But the display pleases not only with this, but also with excellent color reproduction: 99% sRGB and 72% NTSC. The response speed of the monitored model is quite slow (at least 6 ms), but when processing photos, the monitor should not give better results. And if you also want to play, then you need to look at other options.

Advantages:

• stand capabilities;
• screen resolution;
• excellent color rendering;
• maximum brightness;
• color temperature stability;
• presence of a USB 3.0 hub with 4 ports;
• the backlight does not flicker.

Disadvantages:

• noticeable glow effect;
• turns on slowly.

Monitor selection criteria for photographers

1. Matrix type... Displays in monitors are divided into three main categories: TN, IPS, and VA-like. The former are fast, which is important for gamers. But for photo processing such models are better not to take. VA screens are of better quality, and their contrast is even better. But photographers should still prefer IPS.
2. Color depth... Or the capacity of the matrix. If the monitor has an 8-bit display, then it can display just over 16 million shades. Matrices with a capacity of 10 bits are already offered over a billion. But it should be borne in mind that in some cases, FRC technology is used to reduce the cost of production.
3. Color gamut... If color depth is a gradation of a range, then gamut is the range of colors itself that can be displayed by the display. For working with graphics, for example, sRGB coverage is sufficient for at least 95%. If the model approaches or exceeds Adobe RGB, then for the photographer it may even be overkill.
4. Aspect ratio... It is advisable to look at widescreen monitors mainly when a person is engaged in video editing. For processing photos on the contrary, standard 16: 9 screens are better suited. However, if you play on the computer more often, and less often work with pictures, then perhaps it is better to choose 21: 9.
5. Backlight uniformity... The better this parameter, the more correct the final work will be. The backlighting can become non-uniform due to the insufficiently high quality of the diffusing glass, inaccurate observance of the distance between the diodes and other features characteristic of budget models.

Which monitor is better for a photographer

If a high pixel density is important to you, then, of course, it is better to choose a DELL monitor. High definition is also offered by the brands LG, ViewSonic and AOC. Moreover, the latter asks for a reasonable price for its model. The best monitors for photographers in terms of value for money can be found from BenQ and ASUS. If you want to save money, we recommend buying Iiyama products.