Summary
PC gaming keeps gaining followers because players can experience high frame rates and significantly better graphics performance thangaming TVs. What beats enjoying your games on a single monitor display? Dual monitors, of course. Dual monitors offer a considerable improvement in gameplay thanks to a wider field of vision, leading to a more realistic feeling. You can use the extra screen space to do several things like check out map strategies, and trophies, and even visit YouTube to find a walk-through video to help you figure out a tricky puzzle. Multi-tasking is possible with a dual monitor set-up.
Streamers can even leverage the massive screen space to set up live streams while playing, taking viewers along for the ride. Despite their popularity, a lot of gamers may still be torn between sticking with a singlegaming monitoror going ahead to upgrade. For those who remain undecided, we’ve curated a couple of reasons that should tell you whetherdual monitors are good for gaming.
Reasons Why Gamers Like Dual Monitors
More and more players gravitate to a dual-monitor setup instead of the traditional single monitor arrangement. Below are a few reasons why two monitors are becoming increasingly popular.
3. Eliminates the Inconvenience of Cable Clutter
Provides A Vast Field of View for More Immersion
When playing open-world games likeDays GoneandHorizon Zero Dawnthat involve continuous exploration, having two screens can improve your experience by far as you can get a better look at the vast in-game landscape. While the in-game environment often seemed constrained to a single monitor, you can extend the zombie-infested wasteland inDays Gonethrough a dual-monitor setup. By doing so, you not only get a thrill from playing, but you also enjoy the rush of experiencing the virtual world.
Aside from open-world titles, you can also improve the experience with flight simulators likeMicrosoft Flight Simulator. Imagine piloting a 747 across an ocean that no longer seems small because it’s not rendered on a single screen. With dual monitors, you can see more of the ocean, plus the experience of being in the cockpit feels more realistic. The same goes for race simulators likeForza Horizon 5,where being in the cockpit while displayed on two screens expands the field of vision by far, allowing you to be more aware of your surroundings. You can even spot obstacles and turn quicker than you would when playing on a single monitor.
Of course, it’s worth mentioning that to guarantee compatibility with your favorite games, you’d need to buy two monitors that have the same specs. This includes refresh rate, screen size, and response times. Having two monitors with the exact specs will ensure that you can operate both units as one, thereby upgrading your gameplay by far. Having two monitors with different capabilities could pose compatibility issues, especially if the hardware for both displays is on different levels. As such, getting two monitors of the same kind seems like a healthy decision. Unfortunately, it’s an expensive decision that may be difficult to put together unless one has a generous budget. This is true especially when the monitors have premium features, such as an OLED display panel.
You should also note that not all games work with a dual monitor setup. First-person shooter titles may run fine, but may also not deliver the same experience you’ve come to admire on a single monitor display. This is due to the bezels of the monitors which interfere with games that have crosshairs in the middle of the screen. It’s worth researching the best games for two monitors so you can weigh your options properly.
Creates a Setup with Improved Ergonomics
Ergonomics ensures that PC gamers can easily interact with their peripherals and gadgets without posing any immediate or eventual threat to their health. Since players can be fixated on screens for hours, it pays to have a set-up that can boost one’s health and performance simultaneously.
For instance, anergonomic gaming chairallows your back to be positioned correctly, thereby reducing the chances of experiencing back pain and fatigue. Some chairs even have footrests which also help you to maintain an excellent posture. Dual monitors offer some degree of ergonomics as they are designed to provide optimal comfort while you’re focused on exploring the seemingly endless universe ofNo Man’s Sky.
Having a dual-monitor arrangement greatly improves your set-up as it lets you perfect the positioning of the displays so you may game for extended periods without worrying about neck strain. Provided they have height adjustment features, you can set them at an angle that is within eye level. This ensures that you can look squarely at the screen without tilting your head often, which can cause body pains.
However, making your setup ergonomic means investing in certain accessories, especially when dealing with dual monitors. Instead of getting one monitor arm or stand, you’d have to get two. You may also need to invest in smart lights you can customize to match your preferences using a smartphone app instead of getting up to hit the switch. Depending on your needs, you could end up getting LED light strips, gaming desk lamps, smart bulbs, or ambient light panels. You’d also need a gaming chair, height adjustable desk, keyboard, and mouse designed with ergonomics in mind. Acquiring all of these things is a pricey effort, so it’s smart to have a sizable budget beforehand.
Eliminates the Inconvenience of Cable Clutter
Cable clutter is a sight that no gamer wants as it not only looks unattractive but can pose serious tripping hazards. As such,desks with cable management traysare strongly recommended for players who want to rid themselves of dangling wires. A dual-monitor set-up can eliminate the issue of cable clutter and space management, especially if you’ve got a compact desk that can barely take two displays. Unlike two separate monitors that could take up a great deal of space, you can opt to harmonize two screens which gives you additional desk space for peripherals, like a mouse and keyboard, or other accessories likegaming controllers.
It’s worth stating that not all dual monitors have integrated cable management systems, meaning that you risk experiencing cable clutter and potential tripping accidents. In such instances, a cable management tray becomes necessary as it will help store your cords healthily. Monitor stands also come in handy in this instance as they can elevate your monitors, freeing up space and reducing clutter. Another smart way to handle cable clutter is to unplug devices when not in use so that you’ll free fewer wires on display during a break from gaming. Adopting these practices should complement the monitors' efforts, thereby translating to a safer gaming station.
The Verdict
Using a dual-monitor set-up is a great way to create several amazing gaming experiences. With a vast screen of real estate, you can gain a competitive edge over opponents in FPS titles thanks to an increased field of vision. In racing simulator games, you have a greater chance at spotting turns and obstacles thanks to having dual screens. It’s also the perfect option for players looking to optimize ergonomics in their setup.
However, players should come to terms with the fact that not everyone will enjoy the idea of a dual-monitor setup. For instance, players who own two monitors with different hardware specs will find it difficult to operate both displays as one. In that instance, it’s necessary to purchase amatchingsecond monitor. Another reason why two monitors may not be the right move for some gamers is that the setup doesn’t support all games. Players whose games aren’t supported may not welcome the idea of getting two monitors.
If you already own equipment likeheight-adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and mice designed to alleviate carpal tunnel, you can enjoy a better experience by going for dual monitors. If you don’t have them, that means you should prepare to splurge on them. Furniture like desks come in different styles, such as L-shaped and height adjustable, making their pricing vary from one to another. It’s better to stick with a single monitor until you have the money to enjoy a fully ergonomic setup.
Aside from purchasing ergonomic accessories, ensure that the monitors are properly aligned. This helps to prevent neck or eye strain due to constant frequent movements. Even though you have two monitors that share hardware specs, it’s important to set both screens to display images to the same resolution to avoid visual discomfort.
Asus ROG Swift PG27AQDM
The ASUS ROG Swift PG27AQDM is a 27-inch OLED gaming monitor that boasts a 2560x1440 resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 0.03ms response time for an incredible gaming experience. With HDR10 support and 1000 nits peak HDR brightness, the ROG Swift PG27AQDM delivers a consistent and crisp visual experience. There is an ROG logo on the back as well as an ROG projection at the bottom of the stand. On top of the stand is a 1/4-inch tripod socket for mounting accessories.
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor
The 24-inch Alienware AW2524H comes with a suite of excellent features for under $1000. Buyers get a mind-blowing 480Hz refresh rate which, along with an NVIDIA G-SYNC certification, translates into tear-free gameplay and lucid visuals. The monitor also prioritizes eye care as the ComfortView Plus Low Blue Light Feature helps prevent fatigue after long periods of gaming.
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM takes 1080p gaming to a whole new level by introducing a 280Hz refresh rate on a fast IPS panel that is highly responsive for competitive gaming. Equipped with FreeSync Premium for a tear-free experience and minimal ghosting, the VG259QM is a killer 1080p gaming monitor for enthusiasts.
LG 27" UltraGear QHD Gaming Monitor
LG 27" UltraGear 27GR83Q-B monitor is aimed towards enthusiasts who would like to have a high refresh rate display with good color accuracy without breaking the bank. The display supports AMD FreeSync Premium, and HDR and has a fast IPS panel to provide high responsiveness. Its wide color gamut makes it ideal even for color grading and the gaming world will be filled with vibrant colors.
Samsung 32" Odyssey Neo G8 Gaming Monitor
The Samsung 32" Odyssey Neo G8 features Quantum Matrix Technology and UHD resolution. These technologies work together to deliver a crystal-clear picture with high-quality colors. The monitor also has a 240 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time. These specs contribute to smoother and more responsive gameplay.The display of the Odyssey Neo G8 is matte which reduces glare. The monitor’s 1000R curvature is designed to mirror the human eye for the optimal viewing angle.
ASUS ROG Swift PG34WCDM
ASUS ROG Swift PG34WCDM is the latest addition to the Ultrawide monitor family in Asus’s catalog. Featuring a curved panel with a 34-inch display size, it is very immersive for gaming. Through an OLED panel, it offers unmatched picture quality and has premium specs for competitive gaming. From ergonomics to connectivity, everything is top-of-the-line.
FAQ
Q: What is the best dual monitor layout for gaming?
An ideal dual monitor layout for a gaming setup should have the monitors arranged side by side. Doing this expands your field of vision, allowing you to experience an even greater level of realism.
Q: What are the disadvantages of Dual Monitors?
Although dual monitors pack a ton of benefits, it’s worth noting that they come with potential neck and back pain. This is due to repeated body movements to find the perfect viewing angle. Fortunately, aligning the monitors so they are within eye level should reduce the chances of this happening.
Q: Is a 27-inch monitor good for gaming?
Yes. 27-inch monitors are among the most popular sizes as they offer a vast field of view that comes in handy for FPS games. They also support higher resolutions which translate to a better viewing experience.
