In an era where digital interaction dominates our daily lives, the humble computer monitor often goes overlooked. Yet, this radiant array of pixels is the window to our productivity, creativity, and entertainment. Whether you’re crunching numbers, designing masterpieces, or diving into immersive gaming worlds, the right display can profoundly transform your experience. A superior monitor can significantly boost efficiency for laptop users, while a dual-display setup unlocks new levels of multitasking. More importantly, it can elevate your visual content, making games and movies truly shine (or, with a poor choice, disappoint). At WIRED Reviews, our team relies on these external screens daily across diverse setups, making us uniquely positioned to bring you the definitive guide to the best computer monitors of 2026.
Our Top Monitor Picks for 2026
We’ve rigorously tested a vast array of displays to bring you our curated selection of the finest computer monitors available today. This guide is continually updated to reflect the latest advancements and our ongoing evaluations, ensuring you have the most current recommendations. You’ll also find essential buying advice to demystify technical jargon and help you make an informed decision.
Updated February 2026: This edition includes fresh insights on the Dell 27 Plus (S2725HSM) and new MSI Pro monitors, alongside a special note on the Asus ProArt 6K Display, complementing our LG Ultrafine Evo 6K recommendation.
Here’s a glimpse at some of the standout monitors featured in this guide:
- Best Overall Computer Monitor: Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor (S2725QS)
- The Best Budget Monitor: MSI Pro MP243W E14
- Best HDR Monitor: Dell 32 Plus 4K QD-OLED Monitor (S3225QC)
Best Gaming Monitor:
AOC QD-OLED Monitor (Q27G4ZD)
The Best Overall Computer Monitor: Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor (S2725QS)
There was a time when advocating for a 4K monitor as the go-to choice for most users seemed ambitious. However, with models like the Dell 27 Plus 4K (earning a commendable 8/10 and a WIRED Recommends badge) now rivaling 1080p displays in price, opting for those extra pixels is a no-brainer. This 27-inch monitor delivers breathtaking sharpness thanks to its 4K resolution. Coupled with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, animations and motion appear incredibly fluid, enhancing everything from scrolling documents to casual gaming. Its integrated AMD FreeSync Ultimate support further solidifies its credentials as a capable gaming display when needed. We were particularly impressed by the surprisingly rich and full-sounding 5-watt stereo speakers. For a display offering such crisp visuals and a sleek, minimalist white aesthetic, finding a comparable model under $300 packed with this many features is a genuine challenge.
While the Dell 27 Plus 4K stands out, it’s worth noting a couple of minor drawbacks. Chief among these is the absence of built-in USB ports. Fortunately, Dell offers an identical model with a convenient USB-C hub, perfect for laptop users. Additionally, while the stand allows for extensive adjustment, tilt, rotation, and swivel, it cannot fully rotate for vertical orientation. However, its VESA mount compatibility means you can easily achieve a vertical setup with a separate monitor arm.
Ultimately, this monitor represents the ideal choice for the majority of users right now. Its price frequently dips below its $300 MSRP, sometimes as low as $225, offering exceptional value. For those seeking an even more budget-friendly option, the 1080p Dell 27 Plus (S2725HSM) is available for around $175, retaining the same impressive adjustability and VESA mount – rare features at that price point.
Dell 27 Plus 4K Monitor (S2725QS) Specifications:
- Size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 (4K)
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
- Panel Type: IPS LCD
- Speakers: Yes
- USB Hub: No (available on a separate model)
- Vertical Adjustability: 5.1 inches
What We Love:
- Elegant, thin, and lightweight design
- Stunning 4K resolution for exceptional sharpness
- 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth, responsive visuals
- Outstanding value for its feature set
- Surprisingly clear and robust integrated speakers
What Could Be Better:
- Lacks integrated USB ports
- Standard stand does not support full vertical rotation
The Best Budget Monitor: MSI Pro MP243W E14
Expectations must be tempered when considering a monitor priced around $100, and the MSI Pro MP243W E14 is no exception to having a few compromises. Adjustments are limited to tilt, a common characteristic in budget-tier displays, and its port selection is basic, featuring only HDMI, DisplayPort, and a headphone jack.
However, where it truly matters, the MSI Pro E14 shines: image quality. We measured a respectable brightness of 359 nits, and its color coverage proved surprisingly good in both saturation and accuracy for its price point. Furthermore, a 144Hz refresh rate means this monitor can capably serve as an affordable gaming display. Its design is also a highlight, boasting thin bezels and a clean, all-white exterior that belies its budget status.
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