Computer monitors made nothing new but have been around for as long as computers have been, but they have gone through different modifications over the last three decades. Today, we have the best HDMI 2.1 monitors with high-definition picture quality. HDMI 2.1 monitors have new features that HDMI 2.0 monitors or other monitors do not have. But these features can only be enjoyed by users who have specific needs, especially gamers. So while HDMI 2.0 is great, the 2.1 version has better picture quality.
What is an HDMI 2.1 Monitor?
An HDMI 2.1 monitor is a special type of monitor essentially meant for gamers who want to enjoy high-definition sounds and picture quality. The HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. This technology was first introduced to the market in 2002, and ever since, the standard has continued to go up as electronic engineers have upgraded the image quality standards. These standard updates have made HDMI screens clearer with high refresh rates and higher image resolutions. Besides those, the sound has also improved massively from each update.
And when it comes to computer monitors, you already know that all monitors are not created equal as some are just better than others in certain aspects. Just like computer programs that improve with each update, so also have HDMI monitors improved.
The best Screens for gamers
The best HDMI 2.1 monitors have become the new high thing for gamers right now. These monitors are the new generation monitors for console gamers who enjoy playing their PS5s and Xbox Series console games. To enjoy the full value of these console games, they need a monitor that projects the visuals and sounds of these games effectively.
And no other monitor technology can match the quality of HDMI 2.1 at the moment. They have DSC-equipped slots and will constantly refresh without compression. Furthermore, they can unlock the 4K 120Hz of Xbox series X and PS5 console games.
Another thing about HDMI 2.1 monitors is that they can serve as an all-in-one display, which is proof that they are the best option for gamers compared to conventional television units or older monitor models with a lower refresh and response rate. So if you are a gamer and would like a screen solely for gaming, it is best to buy an HDMI 2.1 screen rather than an LCD or OLED TV.
How does an HDMI Monitor Work?
An HDMI Monitor works by connecting it to a high-definition multimedia interface port. This connection is often the first problem many people experience when they first buy a monitor. And as you already know, if the port uses a different connection the screen won’t come on. LCD monitors, for instance, use both HDMI and VGA ports, but if the user wishes to enjoy high-definition images, he will have to use the HDMI port for connection. However, for HDMI monitors, the choice of using VGA or HDMi will not be a problem because most monitors have multiple connection ports.
When it comes to modern entertainment systems, there have flat screens, monitors and conventional Television sets, and of all three, HDMI monitors project the best images, so they have become the gold standard. While ports like DVI will transmit images in their original digital format, HDMI monitors improve visual quality by taking it several notches higher.
Our Top Picks
Now let us review some of the best HDMI monitors on sale today.
Asus TUF 32-inches Gaming HDR Curved monitor
Samsung Odyssey 27 inches G7 Series
LG 27GL83A-B Ultragear
BenQ EW3280 4K Monitor
Dell S3222 FHD 32-inch Curved Monitor
HDMI Monitor Buying Guide
When shopping for an HDMI 2.1 monitor, there are certain features you need to look out for. We review them below.
Special features
When making your selection, you want to ensure that the monitor cons with special features like the following.
- Touchscreen
- Adjustable heights
- Curved Display
- In-built USB
- SD card slot
- Built-in speakers
- A high refresh rate of at least 143HZ
- FreeSync/Gsync synchronization feature
Monitors with more of these features cost a lot more, but they offer you more value and an immersive viewing experience. You may choose to go for FreeSync, which is cheaper because this feature is designed by the manufacturer, but Gsync is better and a little more expensive since the latter is a proprietary synchronization Software. Or better still, you may choose to buy a monitor that has FreeSync and G-Sync.
VESA Mounting Interface
Some users prefer to have their monitors on a desk, but if you are like many others who prefer their screens on an elevated mount, you should only buy a brand that comes with a VESA mounting interface. VESA mounts improve your viewing experience since they make you look up. They all create more room on your desk for other devices and items. However, make sure that the VESA mounts are adjustable, not static.
HDR Blue Light
LED blue light is one of the leading causes of eye strain and screen-induced headaches, and many gamers and professionals who use screens for a very long time suffer from these complaints. If you know that you will be using your screen for a very long time, you should only buy the best HDMI 2.1 monitor with low blue light technology. With a low blue light resolution, you enjoy warmer color tones with reduced brightness
Price
HDMI 2.1 monitors are quite expensive, and some models cost as much as HD televisions. So you want to make sure you only buy the best that offers real value. These monitors command different prices, so you want to do your due diligence before making a final choice. Let your need influence your decisions. If you want to watch movies with it, a 4K resolution model will serve you well. However, if it is strictly for gaming, you want to focus on the refresh rate and brightness more than anything else.
Hardware
When evaluating your hardware needs, you should always factor in the strength of your PC or gaming console. Hardware with UHD 4k offers more value than 1440 or 1080 pixel panels. But if you just go for the former, be prepared to pay a premium price for it.
Choose between HDMI 2.1 and Display Port 1.4
Many believe there is a huge difference between 2.1 and Display Port, but there isn’t. The major difference is the connection shape and nothing else. HDMI 2.1 is the better option because it guarantees a higher transmission rate and data transfer. Since you are going for an HDMI 2.1 monitor, the device will come with a port. However, if you want a variety of choices, you may choose a device with the two.
Size
Size influences gaming and viewing experience more than any other thing so you want to keep that in mind when making your choice. Gone are the days when all we had were bulky monitors. Today, monitors are slender but with wide screens. As a general rule, we recommend that buyers buy monitors with 27 once displays and above. Bigger monitors are more enjoyable and minimize workspaces. They also project images much better than smaller monitors; that is why we rate them above smaller-inch displays.
Resolution
The display resolution is simply the number of pixels it has. But how do you rate resolution quality? There are two numbers for screen resolutions like 1920×1080. In this instance, the first number (1920) is the horizontal pixel while the latter is a vertical pixel. While higher numbers mean better images with sharp details, that is not an indication that the display will be better because the higher the resolution, the smaller the images on the screen.
Input
We recommend buying a Monitor with multiple input choices. Th common inputs today are
- HDMI
- Display Port
- VGA
- DVI
Since your monitor will have HDMI and probably a Display Port, consider a model that has the other options too.
FAQ
Are HDMI 2.1 Monitors good?
Yes, they are because they offer the ultimate viewing experience. They project amazing lifelike images, especially when you sue them for gaming. You can use them for your gaming consoles or your computers. You can even use them to watch your favorite movies. But if you want to use the monitor solely for your computer, Display Port monitors are better.
Can you enjoy gaming with any other Display?
Yes, you can. There are amazing displays like OLED and QLED screens, but HDMI 2.1 is the perfect option for gaming. This is because most of them come with 4k Resolutions and a high refresh rate. If you want to enjoy 120Hz, you should go for the monitor.
When was HDMI 2.1 released?
Manufacturers started releasing them for sale in late 2020, and newer updated versions have been released ever since. HDMI 2.1 has features that HDMI 2.0 does not have.
How much should I fork out for an HDMI 2.1 monitor?
That will depend on the features you are looking for. Larger screens of 27 inches and above cost more. The more features it has, the more it will cost you. A standard Monitor will cost you between $250 – $600. Higher models can cost close to $1000 or more.
Which should I go for? HDMI 2.1 Monitor or HDMI 2.1 TV?
If you want the display solely for gaming, the 2.1 Monitor will be ideal. But for general home entertainment, you want an HDMI 2.1 TV in your living room, not a monitor.
Do I need an HDMI 2.1 Cable for the HDMI 2.1 Monitor?
Yes, you do. The best HDMI 2.1 monitors have cables as one of their accessories when you buy them. Without the appropriate cable, you will not be able to use the monitor. While a 2.0 HDMI cable will work, newer 2.1 cables have much higher refresh rates.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for a 4k resolution?
HDMI 2.1 will enhance your gaming experience, but you don’t need it for 4k resolution. However, HDMI 2.1 can run 4k resolution perfectly.
Final thoughts
In this detailed review, we have carefully analyzed HDMI 2.1 and reviewed the best HDMI 2.1 Monitors for 2022. As you can see, these monitors have high-quality displays for picture-perfect visuals and work well with new generation gaming consoles. If you want to enjoy an ultimate viewing experience, consider one of the monitors we reviewed above, and you will be impressed with the image quality you enjoy. While Dell FHD can be used for gaming and professional use, monitors like the Samsung Odyssey Series and LG Ultragear are great for gamers and professionals. However, if you want a monitor with the best HDMI audio, BenQ should be your top choice because it has high-tech in-built speakers.
