Best Monitors for Watching Movies – Ultimate Buying Guide
Looking for the best monitor for watching movies… look no further. With the wide availability of streaming content from Netflix, Hulu, Disney, YouTube, HBO, and more on your pc, a computer monitor is actually perfect for watching movies.
When watching movies on a pc, you get the increased control of a full keyboard and mouse, full access to the internet, and the increased visual clarity of a monitor. There are plenty of sizes, features, resolutions including 1080p and 4k, and price ranges to ensure you get what you’re looking for.
- Best Monitors for Watching Movies – Ultimate Buying Guide
- Best Monitor for Watching Movies – Quick List
- Best Monitor for Watching Movies – Reviews
- 1. Dell S2721QS – Best Overall & Best 4K
- 2. Philips 246E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 24 inch
- 3. Philips 276E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 27 inch
- 4. Philips 328E1CA – Best Color Coverage 32 inch 4K
- 5. LG 32ML600M-B Monitor – Best LG 32 inch
- 6. Viotek SUW49DA Monitor – Best Ultrawide
- 7. ASUS VS248H-P – Best Bugdet 24 inch
- 8. Viotek GNV27DB – Best 144Hz
- 9. Samsung SR35 – Best Budget 27 inch
- 10. LG 34WK650-W – Best Budget Ultrawide
- 11. Samsung M7 – Best Samsung 4K
- 12. AUZAI – Best Portable Color Coverage
- 13. ViewSonic VA2452SM_H2 – Best Dual Monitor
- 14. Cocopar – Best 17 inch Portable
- 15. Amatage – Best Budget Portable
- What to Look for in a Monitor for Watching Movies
- Is a Curved Monitor Good for Watching Movies?
Best Monitor for Watching Movies – Quick List
- Dell S2721QS – Best Overall & Best 4K
- Philips 246E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 24 inch
- Philips 276E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 27 inch
- Philips 328E1CA – Best Color Coverage 32 inch 4K
- LG 32ML600M-B – Best LG 32 inch
- Viotek SUW49DA – Best Ultrawide
- ASUS VS248H-P – Best Budget 24 Inch
- Viotek GNV27DB – Best 144Hz
- Samsung SR35 – Best Budget 27 inch
- LG 34WK650-W – Best Budget Ultrawide
- Samsung M7 – Best Samsung 4K
- AUZAI – Best Portable Color Coverage
- ViewSonic VA2452SM_H2 – Best Dual Monitor
- Cocopar – Best 17 inch Portable
- Amatage – Best Budget Portable
Best Monitor for Watching Movies – Reviews
1. Dell S2721QS – Best Overall & Best 4K
| Screen Size | 27 inch |
| Resolution | UHD/4K | 3840 x 2160p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The Dell S2721QS is not only our Best Overall pick, but our Best 4K pick as well. 4K displays have quickly become the standard for tvs, and computer monitors are keeping pace. If you want the full experience of watching movies on a computer monitor, you have to see it in 4K. With a 4K monitor the detail is even more pronounced and vivid, compared to most TVs, because of the typical monitor size. The pixels are not spread out as much on a monitor, creating a more detailed and engaging experience.
A 4K monitor is perfect for watching movies on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Originals in their full (4K) glory.
2. Philips 246E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 24 inch
| Screen Size | 24 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The Philips 246E9QDSB has one of the best screens on the market when it comes to color coverage. It has incredible color accuracy of sRGB 129%, which means that all of your favorite tv shows and movies will be as vibrant and true to life as can be. There are plenty of other very desirable traits with the Philips 246E9QDSB as well. Such as minimal bezels, a 75Hz refresh rate, and VESA mounting capabilities. Your mind should be blown when you see how affordable the price is.
3. Philips 276E9QDSB – Best Color Coverage 27 inch
| Screen Size | 27 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The latest Philips E-line model delivers sharp colors in a stylish design. The 27-inch HD monitor with IPS panel enables high color accuracy up to 124% sRGB gamut. It provides the perfect view, making it possible to watch the screen from almost any angle. IPS displays give remarkable images for movies, photos, or web browsing, and professional applications as they provide color accuracy. Created with Philips LowBlue and FlickrFree technology, it offers eye protection and reduces fatigue. Its Free Sync technology also provides artifact-free gaming performance.
4. Philips 328E1CA – Best Color Coverage 32 inch 4K
| Screen Size | 32 inch |
| Resolution | 4K | 3840 x 2160p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The Philips 328E1CA is ready for streaming your favorite movies with its bezel-free design, 1500R curve and large 32-inch, 4K screen. For less than $500, it proves that you don’t have to break the budget to get a 4K curved monitor with 120% sRGB, built-in speakers, and even AMD FreeSync to eliminate screen tearing during fast-paced action scenes. The Philips 328E1CA is definitely hard to resist when considering all that it has going for it.
5. LG 32ML600M-B Monitor – Best LG 32 inch
| Screen Size | 27 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
If you want a somewhat larger screen for pc use and to watch movies, most people opt for a 32 inch. To begin with, a 32 inch monitor can dramatically elevate your productivity with a larger work area. And when you sit back to watch a movie… you literally feel like you’re in your living room viewing a tv. The LG 32ML600M-B not only has an impressive 32 inch display, but it’s also one of the most affordable monitors available.
6. Viotek SUW49DA Monitor – Best Ultrawide
| Screen Size | 49 inch |
| Resolution | QHD | 5120 x 1440p |
| Display Technology | VA |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Response Time | 4ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 2x DisplayPort |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
Viotek may not be a household name, but don’t let that fool you, the Viotek SUW49DA has one of the most impressive setups you’ll find for watching flicks. This is a super ultrawide monitor with a whopping 49 inch screen. It’s huge screen can used for a number of things. For work related tasks, you literally can multitask with the same combined size of 2 standard monitors. Your pc games will wrap around you and pull you in, with it’s curved screen and 120hz refresh rate. And watching movies becomes a cinematic experience. You won’t miss your large screen tv at all… it even comes with a remote.
7. ASUS VS248H-P – Best Bugdet 24 inch
| Screen Size | 24 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 2ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
ASUS monitors are known for having incredible designs, and this model is no different. It is slim, serving a 24 inch display, and has a quick response time of two milliseconds. This helps eliminate the tracers and ghosting for powerful video playback. The smart view technology adjusts the color parameters to deliver the same image quality and straight viewing colors. Its splendid intelligence technology automatically optimizes image quality with color, brightness, sharpness, and contrast. There are inputs of HDMI, DVI-D, and VGA (D-Sub) connectivity.
8. Viotek GNV27DB – Best 144Hz
| Screen Size | 27 inch |
| Resolution | WQHD | 2560 x 1440p |
| Display Technology | VA |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Response Time | 4.8ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The Viotek QHD widescreen is likely to be the best QHD monitor for movies as it produces stunning images and captures every detail. It turns every frame into a visual feast with its deep 1500R curvature. Its HDR400-ready VA panel displays around 16.7 million colors with a 3000:1 contrast ratio. The three HDMI ports or DP can be used to connect to other devices. This 27 inch monitor can work as a gaming monitor and is designed to give you a competitive edge. The 144hz monitor is protected by Zero-Tolerance Dead Pixel Policy and comes with a three-year limited warranty.
9. Samsung SR35 – Best Budget 27 inch
| Screen Size | 27 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x HDMI, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
This could be the best 27-inch monitor with Samsung’s active crystal color technology to let you experience vibrant and stunning colors. Its 3000:1 contrast ratio offers bright whites and deep blacks even in the brightest or darkest scene. It offers a truly immersive viewing experience of bold and stunning panoramic views with the 1800R screen curvature. The AMD FreeSync technology generates smooth images even during the fastest moving scenes.
The ultra-slim and sleek profile monitor measures less than 0.5in thick and comes with a simple circular stand that adds a modern touch to your space. The eye saver mode optimizes comfort viewing by reducing flickers and blue light emissions. You can play games, edit photos, watch movies, and read documents for extended periods without worrying about eye pain or fatigue.
10. LG 34WK650-W – Best Budget Ultrawide
| Screen Size | 34 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 2560 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
This is another good computer monitor with an ultrawide full HD resolution. You can watch movies, enjoy your webinar sessions on widescreen, and also manage lectures, searches, and conversations in a single view. It is compatible with HDR10 supporting specific levels of brightness and color.
The 99% of sRGB gamut coverage makes it a great option for graphic designers, professional photographers, or anyone who wants to work on highly accurate colors. LG’s FreeSync technology provides gamers with a smooth gaming session. Flicker safe and reader mode offer a comfortable working environment.
11. Samsung M7 – Best Samsung 4K
| Screen Size | 32 inch |
| Resolution | 4K | 3840 x 2160p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x USB-C, 3x USB |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The Samsung M7 is a 32 inch, 4K monitor that offers smart features usually included on Samsung’s TVs. It even goes further by providing Office 365 and the ability to open a desktop environment from your smartphone or tablet. It’s kind of like a: 4k monitor, smart tv, and pc all in one device. It even comes with a remote with a built-in microphone and voice recognition.
12. AUZAI – Best Portable Color Coverage
| Screen Size | 15.6 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x USB-C |
| VESA Compatible | No |
This is probably one of the best full HD monitors with 1920×1080 resolution. Its HDR technology offers a broader spectrum of colors and contrasts, while its IPS panel enables a wide viewing angle and flicker-free screen that protects the eyes. It is compatible with phones, laptops, Xbox, PS3, and PS4, and connects to them through USB and type C/HDMI ports.
It has stereo speakers that offer exceptional audio performance. The OSD menu is easy to master and allows you to view different settings and adjustable options. It is handy, lightweight, and slim, making it ideal for traveling, gaming, and businesses. The monitor includes a screen protector and case that prevents scratches and cracks.
13. ViewSonic VA2452SM_H2 – Best Dual Monitor
| Screen Size | 24 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 75Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x DisplayPort, 1x DVI-D, 1x VGA |
| VESA Compatible | Yes |
The ViewSonic full HD 24-inch monitor is an ideal option for use at home and office. It is available as a dual pack, with two monitors and a wall-mount stand for easy dual-screen installation. Its super clear MVA panel technology and 3000:1 static contrast ratio deliver good viewing angles. It offers a wide range of grayscale to show deeper and thicker colors with more details in highlights and shadows. The future-proof DisplayPort, DVI, and VGA inputs allow you to connect it to various devices, including PCs, laptops, POS, and Macs. Also, the Flicker-free technology and a blue light filter help eliminate stress on the eyes.
14. Cocopar – Best 17 inch Portable
| Screen Size | 17 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x USB-C |
| VESA Compatible | No |
The Cocopar full HD monitor is ideal for travelers, gamers, professionals, and students. It comes equipped with a USB 3.1 Gen 2 port with a reversible Type C connector. The mini DP, HDMI port, and USB C ports make it convenient to use with your smartphone, laptop, MacBook, Xbox One, PC, PS3, PS4, or other game consoles.
This is a suitable gaming monitor that delivers a vivid image with precise motion and details built with FreeSync and HDR features. It comes with a smart case that is foldable into different angles for watching. The case also protects the screen from scratches. There are two built-in speakers and six display modes, including standard, game, movie, text, FPS, and RTS.
15. Amatage – Best Budget Portable
| Screen Size | 15.6 inch |
| Resolution | FHD | 1920 x 1080p |
| Display Technology | IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Response Time | 5ms |
| Connectivity Ports | 1x USB-C |
| VESA Compatible | No |
This Amatage 15.6-inch monitor with full HD resolution delivers a vivid image and gives an immersive viewing experience. Built with an IPS panel and W-LED backlight, this could be the best portable monitor that gets you to a wide view angle up to 178° and protects your eyes from fatigue. The ultra-portable slim monitor is just 0.39in thick and can be easily carried in your backpack when you travel.
It comes with two Type C USB ports, one mini HDMI port, one USB port, and one 3.5mm port. It has dual speakers and is compatible with PC, laptop, Mac, smartphones, Xbox, PS3, and PS4. The durable frame and back shell made of aluminum alloy protects from scratches and lasts long, and its carrying case makes moving it around easy.
What to Look for in a Monitor for Watching Movies
Screen Resolution
A monitor’s screen creates the image displayed with millions of multi-colored tiny dots, which is called a pixel. Each pixel has three subpixels, and one pixel is for each primary color. The more pixels a monitor has, the more realistic and vivid image the monitor will show. If someone wants to buy a 27 inch monitor, then it is important the monitor has a high resolution. The resolution that gives a really good output is 4K resolution and Ultra HD resolution. A 4K resolution gives a cinematic resolution of 4096×2160, which makes movie watching experience, a lot better.
Aspect Ratio
The aspect ratio is the length, compared to the height of an image. The common standard for monitors is 16:9, and it is a perfect ratio for movies. Even though monitors have stretched their aspect ratio of 21:9, this ratio is usually suitable for professional gamers.
Brightness
If you are buying a high end monitor, then you need to get something around 300 to 350 cd/m2. In case you are working in a well-lit room, then the extra brightness would come in handy. However, if you feel like too much brightness can cause a strain on your eyes, then you can get a monitor of 250 cd/m2.
Contrast Ratio
The contrast ratio of a monitor is the difference between how white or how black a monitor can become. When the contrast ratio is high, then the person using the monitor will be able to differentiate between colors.
HDR
High Dynamic Range is a recent addition to the computer monitors that you can use for watching movies. They have a really dynamic impact on the visuals of a movie. However, the proper benefit of HDR depends on the brightness of the monitor.
Response Time
The response time shows how quickly the image transition takes place on a monitor. If the response time is slow, then that could be good for an action movie or gameplay.
Viewing Angle
While deciding to buy the best pc monitor for watching movies, the viewing angle is very important for the monitor. If you watch movies with friends most of the time, then get one where your friends can see movies at the side as well; get something above 170 degrees.
Ports
If you intend to connect your monitor, with another source, then you need to see the number of ports that the monitor has. Make sure that the monitor has an HDMI port, USB-C connection, and a Display Port. Every good monitor has these three ports. If you want to run 4K resolution, then you need HDMI 1.4 connectivity. As for 8K resolution, with a 60Hz refresh rate, it would need a Display Port of 1.4.
Is a Curved Monitor Good for Watching Movies?
A curved monitor makes movie watching more immersive and takes advantage of 3D stereo and peripheral vision, giving a real-life experience. It directs the light from all angles towards the eyes and guarantees viewing comfort. Therefore, you can get a cinematic experience and limit eye strain with a curved monitor.
There is a wide range of computer monitors available to suit your every use and budget. Now that you have an idea of their specifications, we hope you can pick the best monitor for watching movies, gaming, or professional work.