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For creative professionals, dedicated gamers, and television aficionados, OLED technology stands out as the premier choice for high-quality displays, renowned for their vibrant colors, rich contrasts, and intricate details. As the prices of OLED TVs and monitors decrease, an increasing number of users are upgrading their workspaces and entertainment setups with these superior screens. However, given the similarities in capabilities between OLED TVs and monitors, selecting the right option can be a challenge for some consumers.
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Since both types of displays offer comparable picture quality, this guide will clarify the key differences between OLED TVs and monitors, aiding you in your decision for a home office, gaming setup, or home theater.
Consider an OLED TV if…
1. You need a large screen
While ultrawide OLED monitors, such as the 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9, come at a premium cost and may not provide the necessary screen space. This is particularly relevant if you often utilize split-screen functionality instead of a multi-monitor arrangement. Opting for an OLED TV offers a wider range of sizes at more reasonable prices. You may still need to budget significantly, but a 55-inch OLED TV can be found for around $1,000 during sales. In contrast, a device like the Samsung Odyssey Ark (which isn’t even an OLED display) costs about $2,700.
2. You want a customizable, multifunction display
In recent years, brands like LG and Samsung have introduced several smart monitor models aimed at bridging the gap between PC users and television enthusiasts. While these devices can enhance your setup, they often lack crucial features that OLED TVs provide and may not be compatible with all devices.
Read more: Mini LED vs. OLED
OLED TVs typically offer plug-and-play compatibility with Windows, Linux, and Mac computers via HDMI connections, as well as screen sharing capabilities with iOS and Android devices. Additionally, TVs generally have more HDMI inputs compared to standard monitors, which allows for the connection of multiple devices, including a second computer, gaming console, or DVD player, making them versatile displays.
3. You want integrated audio
A significant limitation of most OLED monitors is the absence of built-in speakers, necessitating additional expenses for external audio solutions. Even those monitors with integrated audio typically do not match the sound quality of OLED TVs.
Modern smart TVs come equipped with various preset sound profiles to simplify tone balancing, and some even allow users to create custom EQ settings or utilize built-in sensors to adjust audio based on the environment. The audio output from a TV will generally sound richer and more balanced than that of a monitor; for example, Samsung’s OLED TVs employ Object Tracking Sound+ technology alongside Dolby Atmos to create immersive 3D sound that follows the action on screen, making them ideal for both serious creators and video producers.
Consider an OLED monitor if…
Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET1. You want a higher refresh rate
Typically, smart TVs limit their refresh rates to 60 or 120Hz, though newer models have reached up to 144 or even 165Hz. This brings them in line with many mid-range monitors; however, for ultra-smooth video playback essential for creative tasks, a dedicated monitor is preferred. Some monitors offer a native refresh rate of 240Hz, with others reaching an impressive 480Hz at 1080p. Many monitors also feature support for both Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync, enabling the screen’s refresh rate to synchronize with your hardware, thereby eliminating screen tearing and stuttering.
2. You need professional-grade calibration solutions
High-end OLED TVs, such as the Sony Bravia 9 II, allow for adjustments in custom color saturation and white balance; however, they often lack built-in calibration tools to ensure the most accurate color representation. While many monitors also do not include such features, calibrating a PC display is typically more straightforward and cost-effective using available software and equipment.
More: How to turn your monitor into a TV
Devices like the Calbrite Display 123 colorimeter facilitate the quick assessment of color accuracy and brightness, granting creative professionals enhanced control over the visual quality of their work across screens and print.
3. You require faster, consistent response times
Experiencing lag while gaming or working on creative projects can be frustrating. Although smart TVs have made significant strides in improving response times, with the latest models like the LG C6 OLED achieving response times as low as 0.1ms, they do not maintain consistency compared to PC monitors. High-performance OLED monitors, like the LG UltraGear 32-inch, can achieve even lower response times (around 0.03ms) and sustain these rates across various applications and media types. Whether you’re an avid gamer or a digital artist, having immediate on-screen feedback is crucial for a seamless experience.
