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
Product Description
For years, ASUS has excelled in flat screens with attractive interfaces, but they joined the HD Club with the release of their High Definition monitors and have never looked back ever since. One of the best monitors in their ensemble is the TUF 32 inches curved monitor. If you are an avid gamer, this is one monitor you want to have at home. It has an extremely low motion blur, loud, high-quality speakers, an adaptive sync feature and, of course, an integrated HDMI port.
What’s more? ASUS TUF has Adaptive-Sync and a Free Sync feature as well as a display port. You also have the option to position the screen in an elevated position by using the display port the monitor forms with. Suffice to say that ASUS TUF comes with all the features that a modern HDMI monitor should have.
This monitor uses what we call a shadow boost technology that edges out dark areas during your gaming sessions but will not overly expose bright areas. So what you get is an enhanced viewing experience. Imagine playing a game, and in the thick of the action, there are enemies hidden in dark areas; with ASUS TUF, you can spot them without the monitor ruining the color quality. Asus so has rich connectivity, so you have the option of using different connections besides HDMI 2.1. There is the option of DisplayPort 1.2 and the HDMI v.2.0 port for other types of multimedia devices.
So if you enjoy playing high-impact, fast-action games, this is the monitor you want to have at home. With ASUS TUF, you enjoy an immersive experience that only a few monitors can offer.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Immersive features
- Advanced Shadow boost technology
- Widescreen
Cons
- Tilts to the side when raised high
- May cause eye strain after several hours of use
Samsung Odyssey 27 inches G7 Series
Product Description
When reviewing the best HDMI 2.1 monitors, no list will be complete without mentioning Samsung’s Odyssey monitors. It appears that with each new addition to the product line, the quality of the screens just continues to improve. The G7 Series is currently one of the best HDMI monitors in the market. This 27-inch monitor is an immersive screen with curved features and a combination of Gsync and FreeSync premium. Odyssey G7 Series is very bright and will reveal the small, hidden details that most monitors will struggle to pick up. It has a refresh rate of 240hz and a one-minute response time.
This monitor supports Infinity Core lighting, so screen brightness will never be a problem. So if you are buying a monitor solely for console gaming, look no further than the Odyssey Series ranging from G7 to G9. Gamers will love the unmatched immersive features of this minor because it brings you very close to the action via the 1000R panel. The attractive curvature enhances your viewing experience and minimizes eyes strain. This is why the characters on the screen appear lifelike, with a pixel density of 1.7, similar to Full HD screens. How about the WQHD? You get to enjoy an incredibly detailed set of sharp images and an unmatched visual experience.
Odyssey G7 is also one of the best combat-ready monitors for high-octane company games. The drop-down frames and NVIDIA Sync support projects quality graphics that only very few monitors will match. Let’s not forget the 240hz refresh rate, which is four times the frames displayed by traditional screens. And the infinity core visuals.
All these features combine to give gamers stunning visuals and incredible audio quality. So if you are looking good buy the best HDMI 2.1 monitors, this Samsung G7 Series is another very good option we recommend. With G7 Series, you get your money’s worth and nothing less.
Pros
- Striking visuals
- Fast response and refresh rate
- 125% more color
Cons
- Not very wide at only 27 inches
LG 27GL83A-B Ultragear
Product Description
Another gaming monitor that captures the heart and minds of gamers worldwide is the Ultragear by LG. This 27-inch monitor is a compatible gaming device with a 3-side borderless bezel which makes it quite unique. Ultragear has a pivot adjustable stand you can adjust for your convenience. The stand can also be used to tilt or raise the screen to an appropriate height. The package comes alongside a 100 x 100mm Display Port and an HDMI connection. But it is when you begin to analyze Ultragear’s features that you will begin to notice just how great this device truly is.
LG Ultragear has one minute response time and a 144HZ refresh rate. It is NVIDIA and G-Sync compatible with an astonishing surface treatment haze. Also, the 3-side borderless design makes virtual viewing much easier. From combat games to adventure games, you will enjoy your gaming experience with Ultragear. However, it is when you play sports games with this monitor that you truly begin to appreciate the value of its 3 borderless screen technology. You enjoy a smoother, faster and clearer image, and every movement detail is captured just like in real life.
Gamers can enjoy a seamless playing experience using the Adaptive-Sync technology. The fluid movement of your gaming characters is captured in high resolutions, and you don’t have to suffer a drop in quality. Ultragear will not stutter, neither will the screen tear. We also like the Dynamic Action Sync that allows you to react to enemy characters quickly before they reach you because the screen does not lag. Every action is transmitted in real-time, even at an ultra-fast pace.
Also, when playing sniper games like Call of Duty, you can avoid enemy snipers hiding in dark rooftops since the screen will enlighten those areas without distorting the display’s overall quality. Overall, LG Ultragear is the ultimate gamer’s fantasy. You enjoy clear images, faster response times and an immersive gaming experience.
Pros
- Lifelike visuals
- Quality borderless imagery
- High-quality stand
- Quality audio
Cons
- It doesn’t have a Free Sync feature
- The screen is not very wide
BenQ EW3280 4K Monitor
Product Description
The BenQ 32 inch HDMI monitor is not just any monitor but also an ultra modern device per excellence. This monitor projects 4k imagery and comes with Multimedia HDMI connectivity and HDR eye care features. BenQ also has integrated speakers and special custom audio modes. So if sound quality is just as important as visual quality to you, BenQ should be your monitor or choice. Many gamers often complain that the quality of audio they get from external speakers is not as great as they want them to be or that the quality of audio produced by their monitors leaves much to be desired. So it appears that the manufacturer has worked to satisfy this market need for quality sound; hence they’ve invested in integrating woofer-like sounds into their monitor.
For starters, if you like wide screens, we are sure you will like the wide 32-inch screen of BenQ. The HDMI in this monitor enhances HDR content with clarity adjustment and color configurations using the intelligent system controls. So in case you don’t like the default setting of the monitor, you can always adjust it to suit your preference. BenQ also offers eye care technology with low blue light delivery and flicker-free output. Despite prevailing power supply conditions, the monitor will remain steady and consistent. Then there is the unique Intelligence Plus Technology for adequate lighting and detailed image projection. BenQ is always bright, making it a good monitor for playing games in dark mode or dark scenes.
BenQ offers incredible 4K imagery with the aid of proprietary HDR technology. The FreeSync and resolution features are also extra quality additions that make it one of the best HDMI 2.1 monitors on the market. However, it is in the area of audio quality that BenQ reigns supreme. Its 2 in 1 booster speaker sets it apart from other monitors as one of the best audio-clear monitors on the market.
Pros
- One of the best audio output
- Vivid color selection
- Advanced remote control
- Versatile connectivity (HDMI/DP/USB-C)
Cons
- It lacks G-Sync features
Dell S3222 FHD 32-inch Curved Monitor
Product Description
Dell has held its position as one of the industry leaders in computer technology over the last 30 years, and their FHD curved monitor is one of the best in the industry as well. Dell FHD 65Hz curved monitor projects up to 16.7 million colors and an 8 minutes response time when set to normal mode. This 1800R curve featured monitor spots a black body and an elegant design that will beautify your room or wherever you place it. The FHD is highly functional with a space-friendly base that will not take too much space on your desk. If you don’t want to place it on your desk, you can also use a VESA mount since it is VESA-compatible.
When it comes to organizing your work and switching applications, you will enjoy using this monitor because it is application-friendly. The Dell Easy Arrange setting helps you arrange all the applications you use in a single place. So who would need Dell FHD? Well, this monitor will be very useful for those who work with computers and will also want a monitor that they can use to watch their favorite movies and play console games. This monitor is a Jack of trade, so rather than buy a different monitor for your work and a different one for gaming, you can use the same monitor for work and play.
Just the elegant pictures of this 31.5-inch monitor will impress you with its 3000:1 contrast ratio and fantastic 99% RGB coverage. You are also guaranteed more lighting quality so you can see dark images clearly. Dells FHD also has two HDMI ports for easy switching between gaming and streaming. And the in-built audio allows you to adjust sound quality just the way you like it. Enjoy faster refresh rates and eye comfort with this TUV-certified monitor. Be protected from harsh blue light emissions and eyes strain caused by over-extended views.
It will also interest you to know that Del FHD has an energy-saving sleep mode feature that dims or completely switches off if left unused for a while. So enjoy the wonders of modern console gaming using this great HDMI monitor that guarantees value for money.
Pros
- Energy saver
- Inch perfect images
- Widescreen
- Low blue light
Cons
- Not the best speakers
- Quite expensive
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.