Choosing the Right Second Monitor for Gaming and Work

By Derek Self

Work and entertainment now largely take place on screens. With so much information in one place, it’s easy to get lost in the multiple tabs, applications and documents open on your computer monitor, especially if you’ve got a small laptop. How can you find the spreadsheet buried beneath the email inbox and sports livestream? Enter: the second monitor.

If you’re a remote worker or a gaming enthusiast, a second monitor can be a turning point for your at-home setup. By adding an extra screen, you can significantly boost your workflow efficiency, multitasking capabilities and immersive gaming experience.

But how do you select the right second monitor? Read on for important factors to consider when building your setup.

Why consider a dual-monitor setup?

Two monitors allows for the following:

• Increased productivity – More screen space means you’ll spend less time switching between apps, opening and closing them constantly. Research suggests this can make you more efficient.
• More effective multitasking – Displaying multiple documents or applications at the same time not only boosts productivity, it can make you more satisfied with your work experience, too.
• More effective presenter and participant on video calls – Making compelling arguments on a Zoom call can be more challenging than presenting during in-person meetings. Multiple tabs for slides and notes, and a weak internet connection, can quickly derail a presentation. With a second monitor, you can take a video call on one screen while having all needed tabs open on another.
• Better gaming experience – Games like “RimWorld” are ideal for a “second screen” setup—where you can check email, look up cheat codes and respond to comments on your Twitch stream while you play.

Ready to take the leap to dual monitors? Use this guide to decide what kind of setup is right for you.

Key factors in choosing a second monitor

Consider these three things when selecting:

• Size – The best size dual monitor for gaming and work is a 24–27-inch monitor. It provides ample viewing without taking up too much room in your workspace. If you’re an avid gamer, however, you may prefer a larger screen, up to 32 inches.
• Compatibility – Will your laptop support a second monitor? Most laptops are compatible with an external display. Check your computer’s specifications and ports before you purchase. And don’t forget the correct cords and adapters! Common connection types include HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C.
• Resolution and picture quality – You’ll want to have at least 1080p (Full HD) resolution. For gaming, specifically, if your budget allows, consider 1440p or 4K for a crisper display.

Must-have features for gaming

Because the world of gaming continues to make leaps in innovation, if you don’t have a quality dual monitor, you may be missing out on the immersive experience games can offer. Here are some specific features you’ll want to look for when selecting your monitor:

• High refresh rates – Monitors suited for gaming have a much higher image rate (144Hz or above) than a typical monitor. This allows for smoother motion and a more realistic in-game experience.
• Low response times – The response time refers to the time it takes for the monitor to change a single pixel. While most monitors today have a response time of under 10 milliseconds, 1 millisecond is ideal for gaming. This reduces input lag, so you can get a leg up during online play.
• Adaptive sync technologies – Adaptive sync technologies, such as Nvidia’s G-Sync or AMD’s FreeSync, synchronize the refresh rate and response time of your monitor with the output of graphics from the game. This also reduces input lag and prevents screen tearing, which is especially bothersome in 3D games like “The Elder Scrolls.”
• Popular monitors used by pro gamers – Gaming like a pro requires a high-performing monitor. Professional gamers opt for high-refresh-rate monitors (240Hz or even 360Hz) with low response times. Favorite models among pros include Dell U2723QE and the Samsung 32″ Odyssey Neo G8 Gaming Monitor.

How to setup dual display

Once you’ve selected the best monitor for your needs, connecting it is easy:

1. Turn your computer off.
2. Connect the monitor using the appropriate cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.).
3. Turn on your computer and both monitors.
4. The system should automatically detect the new display. If it doesn’t, select: System Settings > Display > Multiple Screens > Detect.
5. Go to Settings > Display to configure your new display to your liking.

Is your space now feeling cluttered with extra gear? For a clean setup, consider investing in a dual-monitor stand. This can free up desk space and allow for easier adjustment of your displays.

Choosing the right second monitor involves balancing size, resolution, features and budget with your specific needs. Whether you’re at work or play, there’s a perfect dual-monitor setup for you.

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