The Top New Displays Your Laptop Needs This Year
Hey, if you want to ramp up your laptop experience this year, you need to check out the latest display options to connect to it. We’re talking full HD, retina-popping resolution, and screens so crisp you’ll feel like you’re inside the action. Why stick with that standard 13-inch display when you can go big, go bright, and go bold? Here are the top 3 new displays you need to hook up to your trusty laptop right now. With options from portable to panoramic to palatial, one of these screen sensations is sure to take your tech to the next level. So what are you waiting for? Ditch those tired, squinty eyes and get ready to be wowed by the high-def, extra-wide, incredibly advanced new generation of external laptop displays. Your future is bright – literally.
Introduction to Upgrading Your Laptop’s Display
Upgrading your laptop’s display is one of the best ways to improve your overall experience. The default display that came with your laptop is likely limited and basic. By installing a new, high-quality display, you’ll wonder how you lived without it. Here are three of the top options to consider this year:
An Ultra-Wide Display
If you frequently work with multiple windows or tabs open, an ultra-wide display is ideal. With an aspect ratio of 21:9 instead of the standard 16:9, you get a much wider viewing area that can fit more on the screen at once. Popular options like the Dell U-Series 38-inch Screen LED-Lit Monitor offer stunning clarity and color for an immersive experience.
A 4K Display
For the ultimate in high definition, you can’t beat a 4K display. With four times the resolution of 1080p HD, 4K displays offer incredible detail, vibrant colors, and life-like images. Many options now offer 4K resolution at affordable prices, such as the ViewSonic VP2458 24-inch 4K Monitor which provides stunning 4K visuals with wide viewing angles.
A Touchscreen Display
If you want a display that offers more interactivity, a touchscreen model is the way to go. Touchscreen displays allow you to control on-screen elements directly with your fingertips, just like a smartphone or tablet. Options such as the Planar Helium PCT2235 Touch Screen 22″ Full HD Monitor combine responsive 10-point touch technology with a stylish bezel-less design that’s ideal for hands-on work or entertainment.
With the variety of high-performance displays now available, upgrading your laptop’s visuals has never been easier or more worthwhile. Any of these options will transform how you view and interact with your laptop.
The Benefits of a Better Laptop Screen
A new laptop display can transform your experience and productivity. Here are three of the top options to consider upgrading to this year:
4K Display
With four times the resolution of Full HD, a 4K display provides an incredibly crisp, vivid picture. Everything from graphics to text will pop, and you’ll be able to view more content on the screen at once. 4K is ideal for photo and video editing or any tasks requiring high visual detail. The only downside is that 4K displays often cost a bit more and can drain your battery faster.
Touchscreen
If you like hands-on interaction, look for a touch-enabled display. Touchscreens let you navigate, zoom, and manipulate on-screen items directly with your fingers. They’re also useful if you plan to use your laptop as a tablet or for note-taking. However, touchscreens tend to cost extra and the glossy surface is more prone to glare and fingerprints.
OLED Display
OLED stands for organic light-emitting diode. OLED displays produce stunning image quality with deep blacks, wide viewing angles, and vibrant colors. OLED is one of the best display technologies currently available but is typically the most expensive option. OLED displays are also more prone to burn-in if displaying static content for long periods.
Upgrading your laptop’s display can provide significant benefits, but consider your needs, usage, and budget to choose the option that’s right for you. With the ideal display, your laptop will become an even more powerful productivity and entertainment tool.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a New Display
When choosing a new display for your laptop, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The right display can make a world of difference in how you use your laptop, so take the time to consider what matters to you.
Size
Do you want a larger display for easier viewing and multitasking, or a more compact size for portability? Displays range from around 13 to 32 inches or more for laptops. Think about how much space you have and how often you travel with your laptop. For most people, a 15 to 17-inch display is a good versatile size.
Resolution
Higher resolution means sharper images, text, and video. Look for a display with at least Full HD 1080p resolution, which is 1920 x 1080 pixels. Even better is a 4K display with 3840 x 2160 pixels for incredibly crisp visuals. The higher the resolution, the more you can fit on the screen and the less you’ll need to zoom in. However, higher resolution may reduce battery life slightly.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen displays allow you to control your laptop with taps and swipes of your fingers, just like a smartphone or tablet. This intuitive way of navigation is perfect if you want a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that functions as both a notebook and tablet. Touchscreens do tend to cost a bit more, though, and they may have slightly worse battery life.
Other things to consider include:
•Matte vs glossy screen: Matte reduces glare but colors appear duller. Glossy has vivid colors but attracts more glare.
•Refresh rate: Higher is better for gaming. Look for at least 60Hz, preferably 120Hz or 144Hz.
•Brightness: Most displays today offer at least 250 nits, but brighter is better for use in well-lit spaces.
•Viewing angles: Wider viewing angles mean the display looks good even when viewed from the side. This is important if you share your screen with others frequently.
•Ports: Consider what types of ports, like HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C, you need to connect peripherals.
By weighing these key factors based on how you use your laptop, you’ll choose a new display that suits your needs perfectly. The right display can make your laptop feel like new again and elevate your computing experience.
Our Top Display Picks for 2023
Our Top Display Picks for 2023
If your trusty laptop is still going strong but the display is starting to feel a bit lackluster, it may be time for an upgrade. Adding an external monitor can make a world of difference in productivity, visuals, and overall user experience. Here are our top recommendations for the latest and greatest laptop displays this year:
Dell 27-inch QHD Monitor (S2721QS)
For around $250, Dell’s 27-inch QHD monitor hits a sweet spot of generous size, solid features and affordable price. With a 2560×1440 resolution, pictures and text will be crisp and clear. It has an IPS panel for wide viewing angles, anti-glare coating, and support for over a billion colors. The three-sided ultra-thin bezel design is modern and sleek. This is an excellent all-around choice if you’re looking for a substantial upgrade over your laptop display without breaking the bank.
HP V28 4K Monitor
If you want to go all out with a state-of-the-art 4K display, HP’s V28 monitor is stunning. It’s on the higher end at around $450, but you’re getting a premium 28-inch IPS panel with 3840×2160 resolution for incredibly detailed, lifelike visuals. It covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color gamut used in cinema for true-to-life colors. The monitor is also HDR-compatible for greater dynamic range and contrast. This is the kind of monitor creative professionals and gamers dream of, with the performance to match.
AOC 24B2XH 24-inch Monitor
For budget-friendly basic needs, AOC’s 24B2XH 24-inch monitor is a solid, no-frills choice under $150. It has a 24-inch 1080p VA panel, so resolution and viewing angles won’t be as wide as our other picks but will work well for everyday tasks. It’s flicker-free with low blue light for reduced eye strain. The monitor also has built-in speakers, VESA mount compatibility and multiple ports. If you’re looking to simply increase your screen real estate without shelling out a lot of cash, the AOC 24B2XH gets the job done.
In the end, choosing a new external display comes down to how much you want to spend and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether it’s affordable and practical, a major multimedia upgrade or high-performance for specialized needs, there are great options at various price points to breathe new life into your laptop this year.
Best 4K Displays for Crisp Visuals
If you’re looking for a display to connect your laptop to for an upgraded viewing experience, 4K options are the way to go. 4K displays have four times the resolution of regular HD, resulting in an ultra-sharp, crisp image. Everything from graphics to text will appear more defined. Here are three of the best 4K displays to pair with your laptop this year.
Dell S2721QS 27-inch 4K UHD Monitor
This Dell 4K display is an excellent all-around option for most people. It’s 27 inches, giving you plenty of screen real estate, and it’s an IPS panel so you get wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction. The 3840 x 2160 4K resolution means text and images will be razor sharp. It’s versatile too, with options to mount it on a wall or arm, or just use the included stand. At under $350, it delivers great value for the price.
HP VH240a 23.8-inch 4K UHD Monitor
For those on a budget, the HP VH240a is a solid 4K display choice under $250. It’s a bit smaller at 23.8 inches but still provides a crisp 4K image. It has an IPS panel, built-in speakers, and AMD FreeSync technology which helps prevent choppy gameplay. The stand is fairly basic but gets the job done. For casual gaming, streaming 4K video, and general productivity, the VH240a is a good affordable 4K option.
ViewSonic VP2785-4K 27-inch 4K Frameless Monitor
If color accuracy is most important to you, ViewSonic’s VP2785-4K display is an excellent choice. It’s a 27-inch 4K monitor tailored for graphic designers and photographers. It has a frameless IPS panel, 14-bit 3D look-up table and 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 color gamut coverage for precise, uniform color. It’s also factory calibrated to achieve a Delta E<2 color accuracy. At around $500, it’s not cheap but delivers superb color performance for professional creators.
In summary, 4K displays offer a huge upgrade in image quality over regular HD monitors. Whether you want an affordable 4K display for everyday use, a larger screen for work or play, or a color-accurate panel for creative work, there are great 4K options at multiple price points to choose from. Your laptop will love you for it!
Top 1080p Displays for Affordability
When looking for an affordable external display for your laptop, here are three solid 1080p options to consider this year:
Acer SB220Q bi 21.5″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS Ultra-Thin Zero Frame Monitor
This Acer monitor is an affordable 1080p display perfect for basic tasks. It features:
•A 21.5-inch full HD IPS display with 1920 x 1080 resolution for clear details and vivid colors.
•Ultra-thin bezels provide an edge-to-edge screen experience.
•IPS panel offers wide viewing angles up to 178° horizontally and vertically.
•Zero frame design is ideal for multi-monitor setups.
•VESA mounting compatible for wall mounting or arm installation.
•DVI, VGA, and HDMI ports provide multiple connectivity options.
•Eye Care technologies like Flicker-less, Blue Light Filter, and ComfyView reduce eye strain.
•3-year limited warranty.
For around $100, this Acer monitor gives you a high-quality 1080p display with an IPS panel and thin bezels at an affordable price. The generous port selection and eye care features are added bonuses for the budget-friendly price tag.
HP VH240a 23.8-inch Full HD 1080p IPS LED Monitor
This HP monitor is another good 1080p choice with:
•A 23.8-inch full HD IPS display with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
•IPS panel provides vivid colors and wide viewing angles up to 178°.
•Built-in speakers for streaming audio without external speakers.
•VGA, HDMI, and HDCP ports offer multiple device connectivity.
•Height adjustment stand for an ergonomic setup.
•3-year limited warranty with 24/7 support.
Priced around $130, the HP VH240a is a solid, versatile 1080p monitor with an IPS panel, built-in speakers, and a height-adjustable stand. The larger 23.8-inch screen and additional connectivity options make this a good choice if you need more desktop space or want to connect multiple devices.
Scepter E248W-19203R 24″ Ultra Thin 75Hz 1080p LED Monitor
For under $100, the Scepter E248W-19203R is a 24-inch 1080p LED monitor with:
•A 24-inch LED display with 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution.
•Ultra-thin profile with thin bezels.
•Up to 75Hz refresh rate provides smooth visuals for basic gaming and multimedia.
•HDMI, VGA, and HDCP ports offer connections for laptops, gaming systems, and streaming devices.
•Built-in speakers for audio without external speakers.
•Anti-
Best Portable Monitors for on-the-Go Use
When you’re on the go, a portable monitor can make working on your laptop so much easier. Here are some of the best portable monitor options for 2023 that provide an extra screen with minimal bulk.
ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC 15.6″ Portable USB Monitor
This highly-rated portable monitor from Asus is lightweight at just 1.7 pounds with an ultra-thin design. It connects to your laptop with a single USB-C cable for power and video transmission. The full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution IPS panel provides a wide viewing angle and vibrant colors. At just $250, this is an affordable option for occasional use on business trips or vacations.
Lepow Portable Monitor 15.6 Inch Computer Display
If you’re on a budget, the Lepow portable monitor is a solid choice under $200. It features an IPS screen with full HD resolution, dual speakers and connects via HDMI or USB-C with most laptops. The Lepow monitor folds flat for travel and can be used in either landscape or portrait orientation. For basic productivity and entertainment, this no-frills portable monitor gets the job done at a wallet-friendly price.
Mobile Pixels Duex Pro Portable Dual Screen Laptop Monitor
For power users who need maximum screen real estate, the Mobile Pixels Duex Pro provides two side-by-side 13.3-inch 1080p displays. The adjustable kickstand holds the screens at the perfect angle, whether you’re typing, browsing the web or watching video. This innovative portable monitor solution does come at a premium, typically retailing for $500. However, for on-the-go multitasking, the Duex Pro can transform a single laptop into a triple screen workstation.
Any of these highly-rated options would make a great portable sidekick for your laptop. Compare the features and prices to find a portable monitor that suits your needs and budget. With a portable monitor in your gear bag, you’ll have an easy way to boost your on-the-go productivity whenever and wherever you need it.
How to Install and Set Up Your New Laptop Display
Congratulations on your new laptop display! Now it’s time to get it set up so you can start enjoying the improved visuals. Follow these steps to install and configure your display:
Connect the Cables
First, shut down your laptop and unplug the power cable. Then, connect one end of the display cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, etc.) to your laptop’s video output port. Connect the other end to the matching input port on your display.
Power On and Enter Settings
Power on your laptop and display. Once your laptop has booted up, access the display or screen resolution settings, typically found in the Control Panel or Settings app. Here, you may see your new display listed as a second screen. Select it, then choose options to extend your desktop onto the new display or mirror the screens to show the same content on both.
Adjust the Resolution
With your new display selected, you can adjust the screen resolution to your liking. A higher resolution like 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) or 2560 x 1440 (Quad HD) will make images, text, and videos appear sharper, while a lower resolution may be easier on the eyes. Find a good balance for your needs and preferences.
Set as Main Display (Optional)
If desired, you can set your new external display as the main display, with the laptop screen becoming the secondary display. This will make the external display the primary screen for applications, taskbars, and desktop icons. Just select the option to make the selected screen your main display.
Finish and Enjoy!
Once your settings are configured, your sleek new external display should spring to life and mirror or extend your laptop desktop. You may need to restart some apps to see them on the new screen. Enjoy the expanded screen real estate and enhanced visual experience! Let me know if you have any other questions about using your new laptop display.
FAQ – Answering Common Questions About Upgrading Displays
Many people have questions when it comes to upgrading their laptop display. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones:
Will an external display slow down my laptop?
Adding an external display won’t inherently slow down your laptop. However, if you’re running intensive tasks on both the laptop screen and the external display at once, it may put extra strain on your laptop’s graphics card and processor, which could potentially slow things down. For most everyday use like web browsing, streaming video, and office work, an external display shouldn’t cause any significant lag or performance issues.
Do I need a 4K display?
4K displays offer a higher resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, so images and text will look very sharp. However, 4K displays typically cost more, and your laptop may struggle to keep up with the high resolution, leading to lag. For most people, a standard 1080p HD display works great and is more budget-friendly. Only consider 4K if you do professional photo/video editing or want the best visual experience.
What size display should I get?
Choose a display size based on how you intend to use it and your available space. For casual use, a 19 to 24-inch display is a good compact size. For multitasking or entertainment, a 27 to 32-inch display works well. Anything larger than 32 inches may be too big for most desks and can strain your eyes if you sit too close. Measure your workspace and consider your needs to determine the right size for you.
Should I get a touchscreen display?
Touchscreen displays allow you to control the screen directly by touching it with your finger. They’re convenient but often cost more. For most people, a touchscreen display isn’t essential, especially if you already have a touchpad and keyboard on your laptop. However, if you want an interactive screen for gaming, art, or other creative work, a touchscreen display could be useful. It ultimately comes down to your needs, preferences, and budget.
With the right external display, you can transform your laptop into a powerful workstation. By understanding the options and how displays may impact performance, you can choose a screen that complements your needs perfectly.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the top new displays your laptop desperately needs this year. Any of these options will transform your laptop experience and boost your productivity, creativity, and enjoyment. What are you waiting for? Treat yourself to an upgrade that will make your tech life better in so many ways. Your eyes, back, and mind will thank you for investing in a high-quality display. And with so many affordable choices now available, there’s really no reason not to get a new external monitor to pair with your laptop. Here’s to a new year filled with crisp images, immersive visuals, and less eye strain. Happy shopping and upgrading!
