Thinking of using your television as a computer monitor? As TV technology has advanced, featuring cutting-edge display panels, high resolutions, and gaming-centric features, they‘ve become viable options for PC users seeking an immersive screen for work and play.
But not every TV on the market is going to provide a great experience as a monitor replacement. As we dive into this guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting the best TV for PC monitor use, from ideal specs to smart setup. Let‘s get started!
Why Consider Using a TV as a Monitor?
Let‘s first look at some of the benefits of using a TV as your computer‘s primary display:
- Cost Savings – TVs are significantly cheaper than monitors of the same size. A 50-inch TV can cost hundreds less than a comparable sized monitor.
- Larger Screen Sizes – TVs are available in very large sizes, up to 85-inches for a truly immersive experience. Most monitors max out below 40 inches.
- Stunning Picture Quality – With 4K resolution, HDR, and advanced panel technologies like OLED, the latest TVs match or beat monitors in display performance.
- Ideal for Gaming – Modern TVs have high refresh rates, variable refresh rate support and low lag for buttery smooth gaming.
- Entertainment Versatility – Use the TV to watch movies, streaming, and more when you‘re not computing.
- Console Gaming – TVs allow using the same display for computer and console gaming.
Using a TV as monitor gives you an ultra-large screen with premium visuals at an affordable price. Very compelling benefits for both work and play!
Key Factors to Look for in a TV Monitor
While today‘s top-tier TVs have all the makings of excellent PC displays, you‘ll want to be sure that any model you‘re considering is optimized for monitor functionality. Here are the key factors to evaluate:
Display Resolution – For crisp text and clear image quality, you‘ll want a minimum of 1080p (Full HD) resolution, but 4K (Ultra HD) is strongly recommended. 4K provides four times as many pixels as 1080p, resulting in super sharp image quality.
Display Panel Technology – TV screens use LCD (standard), QLED (enhanced LED) or OLED (best) panel technology. OLED is ideal for monitors thanks to perfect blacks, vivid colors and wide viewing angles. But QLED and high-end LCD are decent options as well.
Refresh Rate – A higher refresh rate (60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, etc.) means smoother visuals and responsiveness. Look for at least 120Hz.
Response Time – This measures how fast on-screen motion is displayed. Faster response times reduce blurring. Aim for 10ms or lower.
Input Lag – How much delay between pressing a key and seeing the action. Look for low input lag (15ms or less). Game Mode can help minimize lag.
Connectivity – Necessary ports like HDMI 2.1 and multiple HDMI inputs allow full 4K @ high refresh rates. USB ports are useful too.
Viewing Angles – Wider angles prevent color shift when viewing the screen off-center, which is handy for multi-viewer setups.
HDR Support – HDR allows for richer colors and contrast. Look for HDR10, Dolby Vision or HLG formats.
Picture Modes – Modes tailored for gaming and PC use can optimize display settings for the best experience.
Getting a TV with strong specs in the areas above will ensure it doubles well as a monitor. But you also need the right setup…
5 Setup Tips for Using a TV as a Monitor
To seamlessly connect your TV display to a Windows PC or Mac, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the highest bandwidth HDMI port, usually HDMI 1, for full 4K/120Hz support.
- Enable game mode or PC mode on the TV, which reduces input lag and optimizes settings.
- Adjust aspect ratio so image fills screen properly without distortion.
- Match chroma subsampling and color space between TV and graphics card.
- Disable auto standby/sleep so the TV doesn‘t go idle when used as a monitor.
Following these steps will guarantee you‘ve got the TV configured optimally as a monitor substitute right out of the box.
The 5 Best TVs to Use as Monitors
Ready to see some great options? Here are 5 of top-rated TVs this year that serve as excellent PC displays based on the criteria discussed above:
1. LG OLED C2 Series
With LG‘s brilliant OLED technology providing perfectly deep blacks and vibrant colors, the C2 Series TVs are ideal options for use as PC monitors.
Screen Sizes: 42", 48", 55", 65", 77", 83"
Resolution: 4K (3,840 x 2,160)
Panel Type: OLED
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Response Time: 1ms
Input Lag: 5ms
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
HDMI 2.1 Ports: 4
Key Features:
- Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium support for tear-free gaming
- Game Optimizer settings for low input lag
- Fast 1ms response time eliminates motion blur
The LG C2 checks every box for a top-notch monitor. Stunning OLED visuals, lightning-fast response, and tailor-made gaming features make it a pleasure to game or work on. It‘s exceptional for anything from office tasks to fast-paced first-person shooters.
2. Samsung S95B OLED TV
Samsung‘s new S95B OLED TVs combine the renowned picture quality of OLED panels with advanced gaming features, making them awesome 4K monitors.
Screen Sizes: 55", 65"
Resolution: 4K (3,840 x 2,160)
Panel Type: OLED
Refresh Rate: 144Hz
Response Time: 0.1ms
Input Lag: 5.8ms
HDR: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG
HDMI 2.1 Ports: 4
Key Features:
- Instant 1ms response time for ultra-smooth motion clarity
- 144Hz refresh rate support at 4K resolution
- Low input lag with Auto Low Latency Mode
With best-in-class 0.1ms response time, 144Hz maximum refresh rate, and the visual pop of Samsung‘s OLED panels, the S95B is ideal for competitive gaming, videos, and graphics work. This 2022 model leaves nothing lacking for a top-tier PC monitor.
3. Sony Bravia XR X90K LED TV
While not OLED, Sony‘s high-end X90K LED TVs deliver excellent picture quality with the specs needed for responsive PC use.
Screen Sizes: 50", 55", 65", 75", 85"
Resolution: 4K (3,840 x 2,160)
Panel Type: VA LED
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Response Time: 4ms
Input Lag: 8.5ms
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
HDMI 2.1 Ports: 2
Key Features:
- Cognitive Processor XR provides enhanced upscaling
- XR Contrast Booster for bright, uniform visuals
- Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Game Mode
With brilliant LED-powered 4K images, up to a huge 85-inch screen option, and dedicated gaming modes for low lag, the X90K is a versatile big-screen monitor choice for media creators and gamers.
4. Hisense U7H QLED TV
Hisense‘s U7H brings premium quantum dot color and advanced gaming enhancements at an affordable price point.
Screen Sizes: 55", 65", 75", 85"
Resolution: 4K (3,840 x 2,160)
Panel Type: QLED VA LCD
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Response Time: 5.3ms
Input Lag: 9.4ms
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+
HDMI 2.1 Ports: 3
Key Features:
- Quantum dot color provides over 1 billion color shades
- Full array local dimming increases contrast and brightness
- Dolby Atmos audio provides surround sound
This budget-friendly QLED monitor alternative still delivers gorgeous quantum dot-enhanced 4K visuals and gaming features like VRR and 120Hz support. External speakers or soundbar recommended for the best audio experience.
5. TCL 6-Series QLED TV
The TCL 6-Series continues to provide amazing value with high-end gaming features at a reasonable price.
Screen Sizes: 55", 65", 75"
Resolution: 4K (3,840 x 2,160)
Panel Type: QLED LCD
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Response Time: 5ms
Input Lag: 15ms
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG
HDMI 2.1 Ports: 1
Key Features:
- Quantum dot LED panel with Contrast Control Zones
- THX Certified Game Mode for desktop PC gaming
- 120Hz refresh rate support at 4K
No TV can match the 6-Series‘ combination of display technology, gaming enhancements and affordable pricing. It‘s a fantastic budget option for super-smooth desktop gaming and movies.
Putting it All Together
Modern TVs have the stunning visuals, smooth gaming performance and screen real estate for an ultra-immersive computing experience. Using the buying advice above and choosing one of the best TV monitors in 2023 recommended here, you can enjoy big-screen PC gaming, streaming and productivity without breaking the bank.
With the right specs, setup and model selection, your TV will transform into the ultimate jumbo monitor taking both work and play to the next level. The big screen awaits – happy viewing!