2K Monitors: Quad HD for Gaming and More
2K computer monitors are the latest step up in PC graphical performance. Gamers, artists, and other PC users looking for superb graphics have flocked to 2K monitors, thanks to these displays’ ability to run in incredibly crisp 1440p resolution. For this reason, they are also known as 1440p monitors.
The name 2K refers to the pixel resolution that these monitors use. Typically, this is 2560 x 1440, although wider 2K monitors use wider dimensions like 3440 x 1440. The average 1080p Full HD monitor is only 1920 x 1080 pixels - and as anyone who has ever run a game with stunning visuals or composed an art project on a 1440p monitor can tell you, those extra pixels make a big difference.
Why Choose a 2K Monitor?
One common question: Why use a 2K QHD monitor when you could have a 4K UHD monitor? It turns out that there are plenty of good reasons. First, a big concern for gamers is that not every PC game supports native 4K, and not every graphics card has the power to run it smoothly. 1440p offers a substantial upgrade in image quality from 1080p without the beefy system requirements of 4K.
2K monitors also often come at a lower price point than 4K models, so for many people 2K offers the best bang for the buck. Plus, you will still find that 2K monitors offer all of the little details that help provide a comfortable viewing and gaming experience, from anti flicker technology to blue light filters to adaptive sync compatibility.
Features to Consider on 2K Monitors
Screen Size: Ultrawide 2K monitors are extremely popular. Gamers love their wide aspect ratio for panoramic game world views, but office workers and designers also appreciate their ergonomic curved shape and extra room for multitasking. For those who want a smaller display, plenty of options are available as small as 27 inches.
Refresh Rate: This refers to how many times per second the monitor is able to display a new image. 60Hz is a suitable minimum for non-gamers, but gamers and particularly eSports players often go for a 144Hz refresh rate or even higher.
Ports and Connectors: Most monitors will include at least an HDMI port, but you might need a specific version of the HDMI standard to run 1440p at higher frame rates. DisplayPort and USB C connectors can also be important depending on your needs.
Panel Type: IPS panels usually provide wider viewing angles and exceptional response time, but they can struggle with contrast in dark scenes. VA panels provide exceptionally deep blacks and contrast ratio but might not be the best choice if you need wide viewing angles.
HDR Support: High dynamic range or HDR improves your display’s color accuracy, so it is often a must have feature for both gamers and artists. Note that different versions of HDR exist, so check which specific version a monitor supports.
Adaptive Sync: Gamers often use adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G Sync to improve performance. Not all monitors support both, so verify that it is compatible with your graphics card's technology.
Whether you are looking for a massive curved gaming monitor, a display for your design workstation, or just a high quality 2K display, you will find incredible deals on the top monitor brands at Micro Center. Shop top brands like ASUS, Dell, Samsung, and more right here, or see our full 4K monitor selection for the finest in UHD performance.
