Choosing a monitor with built-in speakers involves more than just evaluating sound quality. You need to consider the overall image quality, color gamut, and brightness to ensure a vibrant display in various lighting conditions. Essential features include strong contrast ratios for dynamic scenes, ergonomic adjustments for comfort, and blue-light filters to reduce eye strain.
Our comprehensive analysis reviewed 196 monitors and sifted through 321,248 customer reviews, filtering out 71% of untrustworthy expert reviews. Six monitors earned a place in our guide, certified for quality and performance using our True Score system. These models excel in both visual and audio performance, making them stand out in a crowded market. Now you with the confidence to make an informed decision when shopping for the best monitor based on reliable test data and genuine insights.
How Did We Rank the Best Monitors with Speakers?
Our review process for finding the best monitors with speakers involved an extensive analysis of over 200 websites. We scrutinized various testing methods, considered expert reviews, and delved into customer feedback to understand key pain points. This thorough approach helped us identify 2 required test results and 1 essential specification. By integrating these factors into our true score system, we deliver a buying guide that highlights the top-performing monitors, ensuring you make a well-informed choice based on precise and reliable data.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Must have built in speakers.
? Test Criteria
- Contrast Ratio: 1000:1 or higher (infinite), offering deep blacks and bright whites for an exceptional viewing experience.
- Color Accuracy: At least 85% of the DCI P3 color gamut, providing rich and vibrant colors.
Latest Updates
- 04/29/2024: Published the list of best monitors with speakers based on our True Score system.
Top Monitors with Speakers For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Asus ROG PG27AQDM
Best For Gaming
Despite its premium price, the Asus ROG PG27AQDM excels at seamless audio-visual immersion with its fast response time, high refresh rate, and integrated speakers.
True Score
878910Experts
906kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $120$899.00$779.00
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Stellar Picture Quality
- Fast Response Time
- Low Input Lag
- High Refresh Rate and VRR Support
- Wide Viewing Angles
Reasons to Avoid
- No HDMI 2.1 Support
- Low Overall Brightness
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB 
Bluelight Filter Yes 
Built-In Speakers Yes 
Built-In Webcam No 
Curved Screen No Display Type LED 
Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 
Panel Type OLED Refresh Rate 240 Hz 
Response Time 0.03 ms 
Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 26.5" 
Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 311 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 0 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 95 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 90 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 71 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 11 Response Time (ms) 2 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 2 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 70 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 70 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 70 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 70 All Retailers
$779.00$899Save $120
$779.99$1,451Save $671
Our Verdict
If you value a seamless and lag-free audio-visual experience, the Asus ROG PG27AQDM is a standout choice for a speaker monitor. It offers superior display performance and has the fastest response time in its class, at 2.1 ms, delivering crisp, blur-free visuals essential for gaming and multimedia. Its 13.9 ms input lag ensures a perfect sync between visual output and audio feedback, complemented by a high refresh rate of 240 Hz for uninterrupted viewing and listening.
The monitor’s brightness of 311.2 nits makes it suitable for brightly lit spaces. Its integrated speakers enhance the OLED display, ensuring vibrant visuals in any lighting. The OLED technology provides deep blacks and rich colors, with 94.90% DCI P3 color gamut coverage. This color precision, paired with the high-quality audio from the speakers, makes it ideal for graphic design and photography professionals who need accurate color and sound.
Usability features further elevate the Asus ROG PG27AQDM’s appeal. A rotatable screen enhances viewing angles, aligning perfectly with the audio output for an optimal listening and viewing experience. A blue light filter and flicker-free technology, along with a minimal reflectivity of 2%, ensure comfort during long hours of use, whether you’re engrossed in a gaming session or creative work. The speakers provide a consistent audio backdrop.
As a premium offering, the Asus ROG PG27AQDM’s price mirrors its advanced features, including the exceptional combination of low response time and high refresh rate, making it an excellent investment. For those seeking a monitor that delivers a high-quality, integrated audio-visual experience for gaming, professional tasks, or general entertainment, the Asus ROG PG27AQDM stands out as an exceptional choice.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
HP OMEN 27QS
The HP OMEN 27QS with speakers shines with high brightness and low input lag for top gaming performance in bright environments.
True Score
85834Experts
91986Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $80$299.99$219.95Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good Image quality
- Low response time
- Low input lag
- High refresh rate
Reasons to Avoid
- Low contrast ratio
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type LED Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 2560 x 1440 Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 240 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 27" Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 390 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,014 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 94 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 86 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 68 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 9 Response Time (ms) 4 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 5 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 32 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 33 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 26 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 27 All Retailers
- $219.95$300Save $80
$299.99$430Save $130- $429.00
Our Verdict
If you’re in the market for a monitor that excels in gaming and performs well in bright rooms, the HP OMEN 27QS is a standout, especially considering it comes equipped with speakers. Its peak brightness of 389.5 nits tops its class, ensuring clear visibility in any lighting condition. The monitor also leads with an impressively low input lag of 8.5 ms, surpassing its rival, the Asus ROG PG27AQDM, and providing a notably smoother and more responsive experience essential for gaming.
Though the HP OMEN 27QS trails slightly behind the Asus in response time at 4.2 ms versus 3.2 ms, this small difference is generally imperceptible, maintaining a seamless visual performance crucial for immersive gaming experiences. This monitor boasts a 240 Hz refresh rate, promoting fluid motion in fast-paced scenes and complementing the integrated speakers for an all-around engaging audio-visual experience.
With a 1014:1 contrast ratio, the HP OMEN 27QS may not reach the heights of some competitors but still offers satisfactory image depth. Its DCI P3 color gamut coverage of 94.40% delivers slightly less range than the Asus model but ensures that colors remain vivid and accurate, which is ideal for games and media. Although its reflection handling at 4.8% isn’t the best, the monitor’s ergonomic design features, like a rotatable screen, blue light filter, and flicker-free technology, make it comfortable for extended use.
The HP OMEN 27QS offers superb value and an excellent balance between cost and functionality. It is a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers and users seeking a monitor that delivers solid performance without skimping on essential features like built-in speakers.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Gigabyte Aorus FI32U
For a mid-range monitor with built-in speakers, the Gigabyte Aorus FI32U offers solid performance and features at an attractive price point.
True Score
79796Experts
84618Customers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $100$749.99$649.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent color accuracy
- Great ergonomics
- Wide viewing angles
- High refresh rate
- 4K Screen resolution
Reasons to Avoid
- Low contrast ratio
- Mediocre HDR brightness
- No built-in speakers
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 32" Sync Technology AMD FreeSync, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, G-Sync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 373 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,022 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 86 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 123 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 81 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 106 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 19 Response Time (ms) 4 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 37 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 37 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 33 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 30 All Retailers
- $649.99$750Save $100
$649.99$750Save $100- $1,205.10$1,768Save $562
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a mid-range monitor that combines good performance with built-in speakers, the Gigabyte Aorus FI32U is a noteworthy option. Its 372.58 nits brightness ensures vivid displays in most environments, though it falls slightly short of the HP OMEN 27QS. Its DCI P3 color gamut coverage, 85.86%, is the lowest among the monitors on our list, offering adequate but not exceptional color accuracy. This should be taken into consideration for those needing precise color matching. However, its 5.9% reflection handling rate might challenge setups in brightly lit spaces, potentially affecting screen visibility and speaker sound immersion.
Its 4.4 ms response time and 144 Hz refresh rate cater well to various multimedia uses, providing an excellent viewing experience, especially when paired with its audio capabilities. With the highest input lag of 19.3 ms on our list, the Gigabyte Aorus FI32U might not be as quick off the mark as its competitors, which could be noticeable in rapid-paced games.
However, the monitor’s strong point is its 1022:1 contrast ratio, which edges out the HP OMEN 27QS. This ratio provides deep image depth, enhancing visual content for a richer multimedia experience.Overall, the Gigabyte Aorus FI32U is a solid mid-range choice with speakers, effectively balancing price and features. Its design features, such as a rotatable screen, blue light filter, and flicker-free technology, add to user comfort for prolonged use, making it a versatile pick for everyday multimedia activities.
Did you know 71% of computer monitor reviewers are untrustworthy?
Our research found only 33 of 110+ computer monitor reviewers as of July 2024 can be trusted. This is why Gadget Review is committed calculating the most accurate product scores on the web.
To do this, we give every computer monitor review site a Trust Rating, which measures how trustworthy the site and their testing claims are. We then leverage AI & a machine learning model to combine and calculate the Trust Rating with data from experts and consumers to deliver the True Score, the web’s most accurate product quality rating.
321,248Monitor Reviews Analyzed
196
Total Products Analyzed
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Acer Nitro XV282K
The Acer Nitro XV282K impresses with swift response, solid visuals, and integrated sound, making it a versatile mid-range 4K monitor with speakers.
True Score
79775Experts
85296Customers
Mixed Reviews
$534.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- High Refresh Rate
- 4K Resolution
- Fast Response Time
- Low Input Lag
- Wide Viewing Angles
- Versatile Stand
Reasons to Avoid
- Low Contrast Ratio
- Lousy Local Dimming Feature
- Sub-Par Build Quality
- Low Brightness in HDR
Specifications
Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter Yes Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam n/a Curved Screen No Display Type IPS Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10, HDR400 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen Yes Screen size 28" Sync Technology Adaptive Sync, AMD FreeSync Premium All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 250 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,053 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 88 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 83 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 112 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 13 Response Time (ms) 3 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 39 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 38 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 34 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 All Retailers
- $534.99
- $564.51$871Save $307
Our Verdict
The Acer Nitro XV282K is a commendable mid-range 4K option for those who prioritize visuals and integrated sound. Its swift 2.7 ms response time ensures minimal blur, making it superior to the LG 40WP95C W and just a notch below the Asus ROG PG27AQDM. The 12.7 ms input lag is sufficient for immersive gaming and media use. The 144 Hz refresh rate is a bonus for gamers, providing clear, smooth visual experiences for an engaging gaming or viewing session.
This monitor has a 1053:1 contrast ratio, bringing vivid imagery that complements its audio capabilities well. Although its DCI P3 color coverage at 88.1% doesn’t top the charts, it still provides a broad color spectrum that enhances the overall multimedia experience. However, its lower brightness at 250.3 nits could limit its use in brightly lit spaces. Its reflection handling at 5.5% ensures fewer distractions from screen glare. Moreover, the Acer Nitro XV282K’s ergonomic features, like a rotatable screen, blue light filter, and flicker-free technology, enhance viewing comfort, which is crucial for enjoying its sound and visual quality over extended periods.
Overall, the Acer Nitro XV282K stands out as a versatile 4K monitor with speakers. It offers a mix of affordability and functionality. Its performance and features make it a solid pick for gamers, multimedia enthusiasts, and professionals, emphasizing a harmonious blend of sound and visual quality.
DON’T SEE WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR?
If you’re in search of a balance between performance and resolution, check out our reviews of great 1080p gaming monitors. For higher resolution needs, explore our guide to the best 4k monitors.
Those who prefer a mid-sized display can read our recommendations for great 27-inch monitors. Gamers looking for optimal size and performance might consider our selection of top 27-inch gaming monitors. Lastly, if space is a constraint or you prefer a more compact display, our selection of excellent 24-inch monitors could be exactly what you need.
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Gigabyte M32U
The Gigabyte M32U excels with its bright display, ideal for gaming or use in bright settings, despite slower response times and some ergonomic limitations.
True Score
76757Experts
83702Customers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $150$729.99$579.99Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Low input lag
- Outstanding refresh rate
- Great build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Subpar image quality
- Slow response time
- Limited ergonomics
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 16:9 Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter No Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen No Display Type LED Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 3840 x 2160 (4k) Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 144 Hz Response Time 1 ms Rotating Screen No Screen size 31.5" Sync Technology AMD FreeSync Premium Pro All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 352 Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) 1,016 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 88 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 85 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 118 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 64 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 12 Response Time (ms) 12 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 39 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 39 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 34 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 All Retailers
- $579.99$730Save $150
- $579.99$730Save $150
- $579.99$1,378Save $798
Our Verdict
If you’re going to use your monitor for gaming or need a bright screen to combat sunlight, the Gigabyte M32U has an impressive 352.3 nits brightness. It has a 4K resolution and uses an IPS panel, offering clear and detailed visuals for various types of content. Regarding color accuracy, it boasts a contrast ratio of 1016:1 and a DCI P3 color gamut of 87.8%, providing an immersive viewing experience with deep colors and good image depth. However, its reflectivity is a bit high, at 5.6%, potentially causing distractions under certain lighting conditions.
Its response time is the slowest of its peers, at a sluggish 11.9 ms, which may result in visible blur during fast-paced scenes. Additionally, with an input lag of 11.7 ms, it falls behind in responsiveness compared to quicker models, potentially impacting the immediacy of on-screen actions. The monitor also supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, further enhancing the gaming experience by reducing screen tearing. On the downside, it lacks ergonomic features such as a rotating screen and blue light filter, which could affect comfort during extended use.
The Gigabyte M32U offers excellent brightness and color accuracy. Its built-in speakers and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support make it a solid choice for multimedia consumption and casual gaming. Nonetheless, its high reflectivity and lack of certain ergonomic features may require careful consideration of your specific usage needs and environment.
Category Snapshot
Computer Monitors
- Total Brands/Products Tested
27 Brands, 196 Products
- Top 2 Brands
Dell, HP
- Price Range (Budget-Premium)
$100-$1,500
- Average True Score
74.46
- Important Test Criteria
Brightness (cd/m2)
Contrast Ratio (1000:1) - Most Trusted Testers
- Top Monitor Experts
- Typical Warranty
2 years
- Covered by Insurance
Yes – AKKO
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
LG 40WP95C W
The LG 40WP95C W excels at immersive multimedia with its curved screen and vibrant colors, though it is not ideal for fast-paced gaming.
True Score
76752Experts
81342Customers
Mixed Reviews
SAVE $503$1,799.99$1,297.15Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent Image Quality
- Superb Text Quality
- Lots of Screen Real Estate
- Thunderbolt 4 Compatibility for Daisychaining
Reasons to Avoid
- Disappointing Refresh Rate
- Low Native Contrast Ratio
Specifications
Aspect Ratio 21:9 Available Inputs 3.5mm, DisplayPort, HDMI, USB Bluelight Filter n/a Built-In Speakers Yes Built-In Webcam No Curved Screen Yes Display Type LED Flicker Free Yes HDMI Inputs 2 HDR Format HDR10 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Yes Max Resolution 5120 x 2160 Panel Type IPS Refresh Rate 71 Hz Response Time 5 ms Rotating Screen – Screen size 40" Sync Technology AMD FreeSync All Specs
Test Results
Brightness (nits) 254 Contrast Ratio (as ratio x:1) 1,087 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) 94 Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 uv) 0 Color Gamut % (sRGB Coverage xy) 100 Color Gamut % (Adobe RGB Coverage xy) 90 Color Gamut % (Rec. 2020 Coverage xy) 70 Color Gamut % (Rec. 709 Coverage xy) 0 Input Lag (ms) 9 Response Time (ms) 9 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Left) 43 Horizontal Viewing Angle (Washout Right) 42 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Above) 30 Vertical Viewing Angle (Washout Below) 32 Reflections % (Total Reflections) 6 All Retailers
- $1,297.15$1,800Save $503
- $1,297.15$1,800Save $503
- $1,399.99$1,800Save $400
Our Verdict
The LG 40WP95C W is a standout ultrawide monitor for those fond of curved screens. Its built-in speakers enhance an enveloping multimedia experience, drawing you into the action. The screen’s curve makes it perfect for multimedia applications. It leads with an impressive contrast ratio of 1087:1, the highest among our reviewed monitors, delivering remarkable depth and image quality. Its 94.4% DCI P3 color gamut contributes to vibrant and true-to-life colors, making it a top contender for color accuracy.
The LG 40WP95C W’s brightness level of 254 nits falls short compared to the Gigabyte Aorus FI32U, potentially compromising visibility in brightly lit environments or places with significant ambient light. Although its input lag of 9.3 ms is decent, gamers should note it’s not the quickest, potentially impacting responsiveness in fast-paced gaming scenarios.
Additionally, its 8.6 ms response time is the slowest in our selection, which could affect users looking for the sharpest, most blur-free display during rapid-motion sequences. Despite this, the monitor’s 71 Hz refresh rate, though not tailored for high-stakes gaming, complements the built-in speakers well, providing a satisfying audio-visual experience for regular use and media consumption.
Despite some brightness and response time limitations, the LG 40WP95C W’s contrast and color fidelity, alongside its speakers, make it a premium choice for immersive multimedia experiences. While it may not be the go-to for competitive gaming, its general usage and media consumption performance are solid, appealing to those who prioritize a rich multimedia experience and are willing to invest in high-quality features.
Which Criteria Matters for Testing Monitors with Speakers?
By focusing on these criteria (2 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these computer monitors and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase the best monitor with speakers.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contrast Ratio | >1000:1 | Yes | The difference in brightness between the whites (lit sections) and blacks (dim or unlit sections) of a monitor panel. |
| Color Gamut (DCI P3 xy) | > 85% | Yes | How much of the DCI P3 xy color gamut is covered by the monitor, which helps indicate color accuracy for HDR content, which includes certain movies. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 110+ computer monitor reviewers and found that 33 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for computer monitors.
- Samuel Breton – Rtings, MuckRack
- Chris Eberle – Tom’s Hardware, LinkedIn
- Tony Hoffman – PC Mag, MuckRack
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every computer monitor review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Computer Monitor Test Data & Results
1. Contrast Ratio (as ratio, x:1) Test Results
Contrast Ratio
> 1000:1
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How bright the monitor will get, usually under specific testing conditions, like 10% windows (which means 10% of the screen is a white box.)
Units of Measurement: Ratio
Tools to Measure: Luminance meter or photometer or colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
Contrast ratio is how dynamic images are given detail and dramatic effect, with very dark areas appearing truly dark, while bright areas are bright and pop.
Contrast ratio is responsible for making images appear “dynamic” and “dramatic.” By having a good contrast ratio, a monitor is able to recreate dramatic differences between light and dark spots in scenes, images and games accurately.
At a minimum, we recommend a contrast ratio of 1000:1, as this will do a good enough job at allow for detail in dark scenes and images, making it ideal if you want the best monitor for watching movies. If contrast ratio gets too low, the picture quality suffers, and the monitor performs worse across the board, no matter the lighting condition. By getting a monitor with a sufficiently high contrast ratio, you can ensure the picture quality doesn’t suffer, and dramatic scenes with stark shifts in lighting, whether they be in games or videos, are created as accurately as possible.
Contrast Ratio (higher is better)
2. Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy) Test Results
Color gamut is responsible for making a monitor produce accurate colors when displaying a variety of content. The DCI P3 xy gamut is considered a “standard” gamut of sorts, and is used to help color grade films. Most HDR content will use this gamut at the very least (though other gamut exist) and it’s a commonly used gamut for films. For photographers who need precise color representation, consider our recommendations for the best monitors for photo editing, which can significantly enhance your editing accuracy.
When it comes to a computer monitor, having a panel that covers at least 85% of the DCI P3 gamut means it’ll output accurate colors when watching HDR content and movies that use the gamut. If a monitor doesn’t cover enough of the gamut, it causes color inaccuracies and shifts the image quality. If you care about maintaining accuracy in the movies you watch so they look the way they were intended, this gamut needs to be properly covered. If you’re particularly focused on HDR performance, explore our selection of top HDR monitors which can provide you with the best visual experience.
Color Gamut/Accuracy % (DCI P3 xy)
> 85%
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: The amount of the DCI P3 xy gamut that the monitor covers.
Units of Measurement: %
Tools to Measure: Colorimeter
Why It’s Important:
Color gamut coverage is important for ensuring that a monitor is able to accurately output colors. The DCI P3 xy gamut is responsible for making movies and HDR content look the way they were intended.
Color Gamut P3 XY (in %; higher is better)
Best Monitors with Speakers: Mistakes To Avoid
- Ignoring Audio Quality: Don’t assume that all built-in speakers are equal. Some monitors sacrifice audio quality for other features. Look for monitors with speakers that offer decent sound reproduction, clarity, and volume.
- Overlooking Connectivity Options: Ensure the monitor has the necessary input ports to connect to your devices. HDMI, DisplayPort, and audio-in ports are common. Also, check if it supports Bluetooth connectivity if you prefer wireless audio.
- Neglecting Power Output: Consider the power output of the built-in speakers. Higher power output typically means louder and clearer sound. Lower power output might result in weak or distorted audio, especially in noisy environments.
- Not Checking Reviews: Before making a purchase, read reviews from both customers and professional reviewers. They can provide insights into the monitor’s audio quality, durability, and any potential issues.
The Best Monitors with Speakers Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Brightness
|
Contrast Ratio
|
Color Gamut (DCI P3)
|
Color Gamut (sRGB)
|
Input Lag
|
Response Time (ms)
|
Reflections %
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 87 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|  $779.00 $899 $120 |
| 85 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $219.95 $300 $80 |
| 79 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $649.99 $750 $100 |
| 79 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $534.99 |
| 76 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $579.99 $730 $150 |
| 76 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| $1,297.15 $1,800 $503 |
