10 Key Differences Between Computer Monitors vs TVs for Gaming: What You Need to Know

If you’re thinking about upgrading your gaming setup, you might be debating between using a computer monitor or a TV for gaming. While both can offer great gaming experiences, there are some important differences you should know before making a decision. In this article, we’ll discuss 5 key differences between computer monitors vs TVs for gaming to help you choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re gaming on a PC or a console, understanding these factors will ensure you get the most out of your gaming experience.

1. Response Time: Why Computer Monitors Are Better for Fast-Paced Gaming

One of the most important factors when choosing between a computer monitor vs TV for gaming is response time. Response time refers to how quickly a screen can change its pixel color. In fast-paced games, especially first-person shooters (FPS) or competitive multiplayer games, a low response time is crucial for smooth gameplay.

Computer monitors are typically designed to have much lower response times than most TVs. While many gaming monitors offer response times of 1ms or 2ms, most TVs have higher response times around 5ms to 10ms or more. A faster response time helps reduce motion blur and ghosting, which can be a real problem in fast-action games. If you’re into competitive online gaming, a gaming monitor is likely your best bet.

2. Refresh Rate: Understanding How It Impacts Your Gaming Experience

When comparing a computer monitor vs TV for gaming, the refresh rate is another important consideration. The refresh rate refers to how many times per second the screen refreshes, which is measured in Hz (Hertz). Higher refresh rates lead to smoother and more fluid gameplay, especially in action-packed games.

While many gaming monitors offer refresh rates up to 240Hz, most smart TVs typically offer refresh rates between 60Hz to 120Hz. A high refresh rate monitor can make a noticeable difference, especially in fast-moving games like racing simulators or sports games. If you’re serious about competitive gaming or esports, a gaming monitor with a high refresh rate will provide you with a more responsive and immersive experience.

3. Input Lag: Why Monitors Are the Clear Winner for Competitive Gamers

Input lag is the delay between pressing a button on your controller or keyboard and seeing the action happen on screen. If you’re playing action games or multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs), input lag can significantly affect your performance.

Gaming monitors generally have much lower input lag than most smart TVs. While TVs can have input lag up to 50ms or more, monitors often have input lag of 10ms or less. For console gamers using a gaming TV or gaming monitor on PS5 or Xbox, input lag is a critical factor to consider. A low input lag monitor will make your gaming experience more responsive and will give you an edge in fast-paced gaming situations.

4. Picture Quality: TVs Are Better for Cinematic Gaming Experiences

When it comes to picture quality, most smart TVs offer better features for an immersive cinematic experience. They often have 4K resolutions, HDR (High Dynamic Range), and larger screen sizes. This makes TVs the ideal choice for gamers who enjoy story-driven games or open-world games where visuals and cinematics are key.

On the other hand, gaming monitors are typically smaller and focus more on functionality than image quality. While some gaming monitors do offer 4K resolution and HDR, they may not match the overall visual quality of a TV. If you’re looking for a gaming TV for PS5 or a gaming TV for Xbox, you can expect better colors, contrast, and brightness for those long, cinematic gaming sessions.

5. Size and Viewing Distance: What’s the Best Size for Gaming Monitors and TVs?

When deciding between a computer monitor vs TV for gaming, size and viewing distance are crucial factors. Gaming monitors are typically smaller in size, ranging from 24 inches to 32 inches, which makes them ideal for desk setups. They are designed to be viewed from a short distance, so you can easily see everything clearly without having to strain your eyes.

TVs, on the other hand, are much larger and are meant for sitting back and relaxing while gaming. They range from 40 inches to 80 inches or more, and they are better for playing from a couch or bed. If you prefer sitting farther away and want a larger screen to immerse yourself in your games, a gaming TV will provide a better experience. However, gaming monitors excel in close-range gaming situations, such as PC gaming or high FPS games where precision matters more than screen size.

6. Connectivity Options: Which Has More Ports for Gaming Accessories?

When choosing between a computer monitor vs TV for gaming, it’s essential to consider connectivity options. A gaming monitor typically offers a wider range of input ports, such as DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1, and USB ports for connecting multiple devices. This is ideal for PC gamers or anyone who needs to connect a gaming keyboard, gaming mouse, or external storage to their setup.

Smart TVs, on the other hand, usually come with HDMI ports and may include USB ports, but their focus is more on streaming services and media consumption. If you’re looking to connect multiple devices for console gaming or want easy access to game consoles like PS5 or Xbox Series X, a gaming monitor may offer more flexibility. Additionally, some monitors come with built-in features like built-in speakers, RGB lighting, and audio jacks for a more integrated setup.

7. Viewing Angle: How Different Screens Handle Wide Viewing Angles

Another key consideration when comparing computer monitors vs TVs for gaming is viewing angle. Gaming monitors tend to have a narrower optimal viewing angle, especially if they use IPS or TN panel technology. For optimal viewing, you’ll need to be seated in front of the monitor, making them more suited for desk gaming setups or PC gaming stations where you’re close to the screen.

TVs, however, offer much wider viewing angles, especially if they use OLED or IPS technology. This makes them better suited for couch gaming or when multiple people are gaming or watching together. If you’re playing co-op games with friends or family on a large TV screen, the wider viewing angle will ensure everyone has a clear view of the action, no matter where they sit.

8. Color Accuracy and Brightness: Which Offers Better Visuals?

If you’re into games with stunning graphics or you prioritize realistic visuals, the color accuracy and brightness of your screen are important. Gaming monitors designed for professional use often offer excellent color accuracy and are calibrated to deliver accurate, vibrant colors, which is essential for game designers or players who focus on visual details.

However, smart TVs typically have higher brightness levels and can deliver more vibrant colors thanks to their HDR support, which is great for cinematic games or games that emphasize rich environments and lighting effects. For example, if you want the best experience in games like Horizon Zero Dawn or The Last of Us Part II, a 4K TV with HDR will provide superior brightness and contrast compared to a standard gaming monitor.

9. Price: How Budget-Friendly Are Monitors vs TVs for Gaming?

When comparing the price of gaming monitors vs TVs, monitors tend to be more affordable for lower-end models. However, the price can rise significantly for high-end gaming monitors with features like 4K resolution, high refresh rates, and low input lag. If you’re looking for a budget gaming monitor, you might find great options around 24 inches or 27 inches, but for top-tier ultrawide monitors or 144Hz gaming monitors, the price could be comparable to a mid-range TV.

Smart TVs vary greatly in price depending on size, features, and quality. While budget TVs (around 40 inches) are relatively inexpensive, high-end gaming TVs with OLED panels, 4K resolution, and 120Hz refresh rates can be pricier than many gaming monitors. If you’re looking for a gaming TV for PS5 or gaming TV for Xbox Series X, you might have to invest a bit more to get features like 4K HDR and low input lag.

10. Portability: Which Is Easier to Move Around?

Finally, portability is a factor to consider when choosing between a computer monitor vs TV for gaming. Gaming monitors are generally more portable due to their compact size and lighter weight. Whether you’re taking your PC gaming monitor to a friend’s house for a LAN party or need to move it to a different room, monitors are easier to transport and set up.

On the other hand, smart TVs, especially larger models, can be bulky and harder to move. TVs are designed to be placed in one spot, and their larger size can make them challenging to relocate. If portability is important, like for traveling gamers or students with small spaces, a gaming monitor is likely the better option for a flexible and easy-to-move setup.

1. What’s the best gaming monitor for PS5 and Xbox Series X?

When choosing the best gaming monitor for PS5 and Xbox Series X, look for features like 4K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and low input lag. Popular models such as the LG 27GN950-B or Samsung Odyssey G7 provide excellent performance with fast refresh rates and vibrant visuals, perfect for both consoles. If you’re into competitive gaming or want a smoother gaming experience, these monitors will maximize the capabilities of your next-gen consoles.

2. Is a gaming monitor better than a TV for competitive gaming?

Yes, a gaming monitor is better than a TV for competitive gaming due to its faster response time and lower input lag. Monitors typically have response times as low as 1ms, which is crucial for fast-paced games like first-person shooters (FPS) or MOBA games. TVs, on the other hand, usually have higher input lag and slower response times, which may negatively affect your gaming performance, especially in competitive situations.

3. Can I use a 4K TV for gaming on PS5?

Yes, you can use a 4K TV for gaming on PS5, and it’s actually recommended for an immersive experience. PS5 games in 4K look stunning on 4K HDR TVs, offering rich colors and high contrast. Make sure the TV supports HDMI 2.1 to unlock the full potential of 4K at 120Hz for smooth gameplay. If you’re looking for a gaming TV for PS5, models like the LG OLED CX or Samsung QLED Q80T provide exceptional visual quality and smooth performance.

4. What’s the difference between an IPS gaming monitor and a TN gaming monitor?

The difference between an IPS gaming monitor and a TN gaming monitor lies in color accuracy and response time. IPS monitors offer better color reproduction and wider viewing angles, making them great for story-driven games and open-world gaming. However, TN monitors are known for faster response times and lower input lag, making them ideal for competitive gaming where speed and accuracy are crucial.

5. Which is better for gaming: 144Hz monitor vs 60Hz TV?

If you’re looking for smoother gameplay, a 144Hz monitor is much better than a 60Hz TV for gaming. A 144Hz gaming monitor offers a much higher refresh rate, resulting in smoother, more fluid visuals, especially in fast-paced genres like racing games, FPS games, and esports. On the other hand, 60Hz TVs are more suitable for casual gaming or cinematic experiences but will not deliver the same smoothness and responsiveness needed for competitive gaming.