Large Format Displays

What should I consider when choosing a large format display?

Touch Screen or Standard Format

• Touch - allows you to control the computer without a keyboard or mouse. Compared to similar non-touch displays, they are less durable.
• Standard (non-touch) - these are more durable and cheaper than touch-screen displays. 

Size and Optimal Viewing Distance

Operating Time

When selecting a large-format display, consider the amount of time that the monitor will be used per day. You should not exceed the time recommended by the manufacturer.

Panel Type

• IPS/S-IPS monitors - excel in natural colours, low power consumption and wide viewing angles. The disadvantage is a higher purchase price.
• TN monitors - often characterised by low response times. Compared with IPS monitors they are cheaper, offer lower-quality colour reproduction and narrower viewing angles. While cheaper TN monitors are sufficient for less demanding users, models with 4ms response times are popular with gamers.
• MVA/PVA monitors - in terms of price and picture quality, these are somewhere between IPS/S-IPS and TN monitors. They provide more realistic colour reproduction and wider viewing angles than TN monitors and are cheaper than IPS monitors.

Screen Surface

• Matte - reflects little ambient light; provides less-saturated colour reproduction.
• Glossy - provides vibrant and realistic colours but reflects much more ambient light making the display can be difficult to see in bright sunlight.
• Anti-glare (glossy display with antiglare) - a compromise between glossy and matte screens; they are easier to view in direct sunlight than glossy screens but also offer lower quality colour reproduction.

Connectors

Before buying, make sure the monitor has at least one compatible port with your computer. If not, you will not be able to connect the monitor to it.

Useful Functions and Features

• Eyestrain-minimising technology - Flicker-free, Flicker-safe, etc.
• Adjustable height - allows you to adjust the monitor to a comfortable position.
• TV tuner - to watch television broadcasts.
• VESA mount - allows you to mount the monitor on a bracket.
• Web camera - useful if you plan to make calls over the Internet.
• USB Hub - play data from portable drives; connect a keyboard or mouse.
• Pivot - allows the screen to rotate horizontally; suitable for office work and reading texts from your computer.