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18 Best Monitors For Photo Editing Under $500

By Emily Hutton
  • Last Updated: Apr 28, 2023
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If there’s equipment that a professional photographer uses more than their camera or lens, it’s their photo editing monitor. Finding a color-accurate and high-resolution monitor is indispensable if you do image post-production on your own.

This detailed article reviews the top 18 best photo editing monitors under 500, reviewed based on versatility and advanced features such as display resolutions and color contrast ratio.

18 Best Photo Editing Monitors:

  1. AOC quad HD frameless monitor
  2. U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K
  3. AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS frameless monitor
  4. Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C monitor 
  5. INNOCN 15.6″ OLED monitor
  6. LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD
  7. Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI
  8. BenQ EL2870U 28″ 4K
  9. BenQ Zowie XL2540K
  10. KOORUI 27 inch WQHD monitor
  11. Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS
  12. HP 24mh FHD monitor IPS 1080p display 
  13. Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch portable monitor 
  14. InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI
  15. VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz
  16. TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS
  17. SideTrak Swivel 14″ FHD IPS USB
  18. BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S

Ultimate Review Of The Best Photo Editing Monitors Under $500

AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor
AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor
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U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K
U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K
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AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor
AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor
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Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor
Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor
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INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor
INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor
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LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD
LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD
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Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI
Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI
See Review
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BenQ EL2870U 28 4K
BenQ EL2870U 28" 4K
See Review
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BenQ Zowie XL2540K
BenQ Zowie XL2540K
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KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor
KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor
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Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS
Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS
See Review
Check Price
HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display
HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display
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Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor
Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor
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InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI
InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI
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VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz
VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz
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TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS
TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS
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SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB
SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB
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BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S
BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S
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AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor
Image Courtesy Of Amazon

1. AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor

4.7
4.7/5

Product Specifications

  • 32″ 2K curved HD
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
  • 32 inches screen display
  • 2565 x 1441 pixel resolution
  • LED display
  • 145-hertz refresh rate
  • 16.07 lbs weight
  • Dimension:21.7 x 9.66 x 20.88 inch
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AOC offers Quad HD resolution at an amazing 2565 x 1441 pixels, providing you with four times the clarity of 720p HD. To put this in perspective, this would allow you to fit four 720p HD photos on the monitor at once. A Quad HD display on a 32″ widescreen enables you to see more details with more space, resulting in clean and colorful graphics. Whether you’re editing photographs or videos, this CQ32G1 provides clarity and quality on its widescreen.

Its FreeSync feature support offers you a stutter and tear-free editing performance at whatever frame rate you use. This monitor’s LED display panel shows a mega-detailed resolution with a blistering 145 Hz refresh rate and a 1ms turnaround time. With this fast refresh rate, your photos and videos will have unmatched smoothness, fluidity, and almost immediate responsiveness to mouse and keyboard operations.

Using multiple monitor setups, you can broaden your visual capacity. The frameless layout (with a thin border) provides the best editing station with less bezel disruption and an ultra-clean setup. Feel free to relax and enjoy those long, intensive editing sessions with its direct power backlighting feature that eliminates flickering, reducing eye stress and fatigue.

The curved shape sweeps around you, putting you right in the middle of the action and providing an immersive editing experience. Its size, responsiveness, and color accuracy make it excellent for ordinary editing and professional computing.

Pros

  • The image quality is great
  • A wide-angle of view

Con

It needs extra calibration to achieve good results.

AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor

4.7
4.7/5
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AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor
U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K

2. U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K

4.4
4.4/5

Product Specifications

  • 4K UHD clear monitor
  • LED display
  • 27inch screen
  • 3850 x 2170 display resolution
  • HDMI connections
  • Advanced IPS panel
  • FreeSync support
  • VESA mount
  • Eye-care feature
  • 69 Hz refresh rate
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This 27-inch monitor’s exceptional resolution produces stunning, realistic, and detailed images. When paired with HDR10 innovation, the display delivers incredible image quality, with rich blacks and dazzling whites that allow you to see every detail even in the brightest or darkest environments. Immerse yourself entirely into your editing with its breathtaking visual sharpness.

The monitor’s high-end IPS screen expands the angle of view, enabling a 178° panoramic viewing experience, making it easier to view and share editing work material. The IPS panel guarantees that the image and video visuals are consistently precise and vibrant from all angles. The three-sided monitor and ultra-slender stand give this sleek monitor a minimalist design while providing you with a visual banquet to maintain the spotlight on your photo editing experience.

You can connect several devices to the display thanks to the two HDMI connections and two display ports. Using the HDMI connector, you will enjoy the crystalline 4k UHD quality at a refresh rate of 60Hz. Although the monitor features two built-in speakers, you can improve the sound quality by connecting your speakers and headphones via the 3.6mm audio connector.

Its premium seamless sync technology substantially reduces screen tearing, stuttering, and input latency, providing an unparalleled photo editing experience. It supports a VESA mount of 110 x 110mm, so the display can easily be mounted on the wall, allowing you to choose the best position for the monitor freely.

Its HDR feature gives you a larger spectrum of color, revealing more lifelike photos by reproducing a higher range of brightness than is achievable with standard digital imaging. The flicker-free and low blue light feature will filter blue light output and adjust colors to a softer spectrum for more pleasant viewing while protecting your eyes during extended usage.

Pros

  • Excellent image quality
  • There is no motion blur 
  • Compatible with VESA mounts

Con

  • The stand is weak and small.

U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K

4.4
4.4/5
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U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K
U27P4K Z-Edge Ultra HD 4K
AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor

3. AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor

4.3
4.3/5

Product Specifications

  • 27″ 4K UHD 
  • 3840 x 2160 resolution
  • Wide angled IPS panel
  • 3-Sided frameless design
  • 360 cd/m² brightness
  • 6ms response time 
  • 99% sRGB accurate color
  • 90% color gamut
  • HDMI, & DisplayPort connectivity
  • 20, 000, 000: 1 contrast ratio
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AOC has specialized in creating excellent display monitor capabilities for more than a half-century. AOC sets the standard on monitors, probably your computer system’s most significant editing component. This U2790VQ features a frameless, modern layout design that optimizes the screen area and delivers a clean, appealing appearance.

Its color accuracy spectrum of 10-bit delivers finer color transitions and can display additional colors than standard 8-bit color depth screens. You can broaden your viewpoint when editing your photos using multiple display setups. Its frameless design provides the best editing workstation with little bezel interruption and a perfect setup.

Images are crisper and single pixels are imperceptible with its 4K ultra HD clarity at 384 x 2160 pixels, excellent for creating and editing material or viewing streaming media. Its IPS displays give you accurate colors that do not fluctuate when viewed from the side.

To avoid display flickering, the flicker-free function employs a smooth lighting scheme. This lowers visual fatigue and other negative impacts on your eyes, which is especially useful while working long hours.

Pros

  • Color is great
  • Text and photographs have incredible clarity.
  • There is no visible backlight bleed
  • Excellent viewing angles
  • In a multi-monitor system, a minimal bezel looks great

Con

  • Due to slow pixel response times, there is some ghosting or trailing.

AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor

4.3
4.3/5
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AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor
AOC U2790VQ 4K IPS Frameless Monitor
Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor

4. Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor

4.3
4.3/5

Product Specifications

  • Dell 27 4K 
  • 3842 x 2162 display resolution
  • 60Hz refresh rate
  • 8MS response time 
  • Built-in Dual 3W speakers
  • 1000:1 contrast ratio
  • 16:09 aspect ratio
  • ‎15.17lbs weight
  • ‎Dimension: 24.07 x 6.89 x 20.10 inches
  • Platinum Silver color
  • ‎240 Volts (AC) power
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High utility meets excellent aesthetics with the three-sided super-thin frame design that enables you to view more with fewer distractions on this 27-inch 4k monitor.

The Dell S2722QC‘s headlining feature is the USB-C, and it is its primary upgrade over its forerunners. The updated model includes a USB-C connector with a 1.4 DisplayPort and an energy supply of 75 watts. This allows you to connect and charge your computer with a single USB-C connection. This single-cable approach lowers desktop clutter while simultaneously transmitting power, image, and video data. It’s a convenient alternative, and the S2722QC is one of the least costly 4K monitors.

With the magnificent new silver platinum coating and a delicately textured back that offers your 4k monitor a distinctive look, you can add modern refinement to any area. You can also personalize your viewing experience with an adjustable height base that tilts, pivots, and swivels to allow you to see in the most comfortable position.

Controls over image quality are modest. There is sharpness, contrast, brightness, and restricted RGB color correction in its customized color display setting.

Dell’s color accuracy is one of its strong points. The S2722QC has a color error rate of less than two, which is more than sufficient for day-to-day photo editing work.

HDR is available but is disabled by default. To make HDR accessible in Windows 10, you must enable it in the display’s on-screen menu. Switching on HDR raises the highest brightness to 418 nits and, more crucially, raises the contrast ratio to 1180:1. That is an excellent performance for a mid-range IPS panel and a significant improvement in image quality. Its Gamma has also gotten closer to the desired aim of 2.2. The image’s composition offers a good mix of detail in both the dark and light parts.

It also has twin 3W inbuilt speakers to handle all your audio functions during video conferencing or streaming.

Pros

  • 4K USB-C display with HDR option at an unbeatable low price
  • High color accuracy and brightness

Con

  • Low contrast ratios drain SDR vibrance

Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor

4.3
4.3/5
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Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor product photo3
Dell S2722QC 4K UHD USB-C Monitor product photo3
INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor

5. INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor

4.0
4/5

Product Specifications

  • One mini HDMI
  • 400 brightness units
  • 15.6-inch screen display
  • 1920 x 1080 resolution
  • 100% color gamut
  • 100,000:1 contrast ratio
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This 15.6″ OLED laptop monitor offers a bright, vibrant, and realistic visual experience! With this gem, you’re editing photos on a portable display that provides an incredible true-to-life image with negligible latency.

INNOCN OLED compact monitor utilizes complete lamination manufacturing craftsmanship and superior color calibration technology, bringing you more precise color contrast as a creator.

This portable computer monitor provides two signal input options: USB C or HDMI, and is compatible with most laptops, Switch, USB C smartphones, and digital cameras. You simply connect, edit, and share! There is no need for a driver with this monitor as it provides a solid connection and consistent data delivery.

INNOCN editing monitor is the ideal option for increasing work productivity and enriching your digital world. This lightweight display has flicker-free and minimal blue light technology for a pleasant viewing experience. It has an ultra-slim design (0.29″) and is lightweight (1.5lbs), making it an excellent choice for multi-tasking editing.

This OLED monitor delivers the latest backlit technology, a high color gamut of 100% DCI-P3, and a 1920 x 1080p resolution, making it an outstanding photo and video editing monitor. Its 400 nits brightness and 100000:1 contrast ratio are unrivaled, and it’s an Apple-compatible friendly monitor with a 1ms response time.

Pros

  • Extended warranty period (when registered)
  • Can charge cellphones and tablets

Con

  • It is expensive
  • OLED requires a lot of electricity

INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor

4.0
4/5
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INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor
INNOCN 15.6" OLED Monitor
LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD

6. LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD

4.7
4.7/5

Product Specifications

  • 27 inches QHD 
  • 2563 X 1441 Nano display
  • NVidia compatible
  • Dimension: 614.2 x 574.8 x 274.4mm
  • 144 Hertz refresh rate. 
  • Ultra-thin tilt and bezel
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Whether you’re a photo editor or a graphic artist, a portable monitor may bring an extra dimension of analysis to your job. This 27-inch screen makes it simpler to have a refined editing workflow for maximum efficiency.

This LG monitor has a hd+ display with a fast reaction time and wide viewing angles.

This is the perfect product if you’re searching for a quality, affordable 27-inch display below 500. It’s a compact monitor that is simple to set up and operate. Its screen is bright and clear, with plenty of contrast and vibrant color shades.

Pros

  • Brilliant, vibrant colors
  • The color gamut is excellent
  • Viewing angles are pretty broad
  • Response time is swift

Con

  • Poor contrast ratio
  • Low black color uniformity
  • Ergonomics are limited

LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD

4.7
4.7/5
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LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD
LG Ultragear 27GL850-B QHD
Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI

7. Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI

4.6
4.6/5

Product Specifications

  • 200Hz refresh rate
  • LED display
  • 21.9 aspect ratio
  • 30-inch screen size
  • 2562 x 1080 pixel resolution
  • Wall mount
  • 12.21 lbs weight
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With a high definition resolution of 2560 x 1080 pixels and a frame rate of 200Hz, this magnificent display can generate eye-catching pictures and movies. You can link your laptop, pc, and other devices via various connecting methods, including DisplayPort and HDMI.

Plus, the 30-inch curved monitor contains a variety of functions to enable you to get as much out of your screen as possible, such as integration for AMD FreeSync processing, which helps prevent screen tearing and stuttering.

Furthermore, its anti-flicker innovation prevents screen flickering, and the HDR40 boosts pixel density and produces more precise images.

The Sceptre photo editing screen display delivers the most authentic experience for pros who enjoy editing photos at a rapid frame rate with minimal latency. It has a quick response time, making the activity on-screen feel alive.

It has an Nvidia G-sync feature that improves picture quality by continuously altering the frame rate to suit the refresh rate of the program you’re working on and is also supported by its curved monitor. These capabilities are pretty helpful when undertaking advanced photo editing.

Its blue light shift function decreases the blue light emitted by your display to shield you against eye fatigue, discomfort, and strain. This allows you to concentrate on editing projects, watch videos, or play games for extended durations.

With a VESA wall installation arrangement, you can effortlessly mount your Scepter monitor on your wall in an aesthetically beautiful and functional manner. You save a lot of space and see the screen from the best angle available when editing your photos.

Pros

  • Native contrast ratio is high
  • Excellent picture resolution

Con

  • Vertical viewing angles are poor
  • Motion blur is unpleasant
  • Poor ergonomics

Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI

4.6
4.6/5
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Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI
Sceptre 30-inch curved HDMI
BenQ EL2870U 28 4K

8. BenQ EL2870U 28" 4K

4.4
4.4/5

Product Specifications

  • 28″ IPS screen
  • 3840 x 1260 clarity
  • 1000:1 contrast ratio
  • 5secs response time
  • 10-bit color gamut
  • 16-bit LUT support
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The EL2870U monitor from BenQ is ideal for individuals who want increased color accuracy for their photo editing and other graphic design tasks. It features 99 percent Adobe color gamut coverage saturation and 100 percent of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color space. This BenQ monitor supports HDR for Hybrid Log-Gamma and HDR10 to make your pictures more detailed and lifelike.

The EL2870U is clear and straightforward to set up as it has a Type-C USB connector that enables photo and video data transmission of close to 60W output. It has 1.4 DisplayPort and HDMI 2.0 inputs, rendering it adaptable to a wide range of computer setups. Its 3.0 type A USB port is a plus to its HDMI feature inputs, allowing you to connect supported accessories directly to the panel. A built-in card scanner that supports SD, MMC, SDXC, and SDHC media is also included.

Once you set this monitor, you can adjust its hardware further to achieve appropriate color rendering through its palette calibration software that simplifies color fidelity optimization. You can also take advantage of its advanced black and white feature to convert your colored pictures to seamless black and white. It has a Gamutduo mode that allows you to see all details in various color spaces simultaneously when you alter display settings on the monitor.

As a content creator, all steps are crucial, from capturing your image to editing it and printing it out. The EL2870U is specially designed to give you a simplified, seamless editing-to-printing procedure.

This monitor’s screen-to-print coherence allows for simple, reliable photo previewing before printing. The BenQ company has developed a unique paper color sync program that provides simulated pictures calibrated to the color and printer settings and copy paper. You’ll get an on-screen presentation identical to your final printed photo.

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • Excellent USB port connectivity
  • It covers 99 percent Adobe RGB 
  • Highly adjustable stand

Con

  • No built-in speakers
  • Modest HDR effect

BenQ EL2870U 28" 4K

4.4
4.4/5
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BenQ EL2870U 28" 4K
BenQ EL2870U 28 4K
BenQ Zowie XL2540K

9. BenQ Zowie XL2540K

4.3
4.3/5

Product Specifications

  • 1920x 1080 resolution
  • 34″ screen display
  • 21:9 aspect ratio
  • 98% of DCI-P3
  • 100% sRGB
  • Type C USB connectivity
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Tell your tale in vivid color with the Zowie photo editing monitor. This BenQ is a jack of all trades for photo editing. With just one cable, you can transfer the image and video data while also receiving 65W of power. The ease of a single line removes unnecessary clutter in your workstation. There’s also a handy USB hub for different connections.

If you’re a Mac user considering buying this monitor, you’ll need a hue similar to your Mac. This is possible with M-Book mode, which you can access using the hotkey G2 puck program. ICCsync also seamlessly integrates color palettes between your display and your Mac when activated from the program. The hotkey G2 puck also makes it simple to navigate your screen settings, switch system settings, and access color input options.

Go with a split-screen if you wish to modify your workflow using the (PIP) picture In picture mode. With its camcorder function, you will have a better line and form a contrast in technical photo representations. Its dual-view mode displays your creations in two formats side by side for greater efficiency and productivity. It also offers an advanced animation option that improves the sharpness of dark places on your images while not overexposing the bright parts.

Pros

  • The excellent vivid color palette
  • HDR10 format support

Con

  • Lacks adaptive sync support

BenQ Zowie XL2540K

4.3
4.3/5
Check Price
BenQ Zowie XL2540K
BenQ Zowie XL2540K
KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor

10. KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor

4.5
4.5/5

Product Specifications

  • 2K WQHD 
  • 2560 x 1440 pixels
  • 60Hz refresh rate
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This monitor offers a 178-degree broad viewing angle and produces bright and clear pictures. This is your safest bet if you’re looking for a monitor that provides a realistic, accurate, and consistent appearance of all color angles.

The 27-inch QHD monitor has 95 percent DCI-P3 expert color gamut, Delta E2 precision, and a seamless palette that regenerates more than 16.9M colors. A 300cd/m2 brilliance on an 8-bit panel results in the best color fidelity and authentic pictures.

The sleek bezel screen will assist you in removing visual distractions such as the adjacent black frame, widening your workspace, and making your editing a more delightful experience.

This QHD monitor has an ergonomic frame with a -7° +20° tilt, +40° -40° swivel, +80°-80° swivel, and 0 90mm height adjustment to allow varied portrait views. This adjustable height monitor is VESA compatible, ideal for homes and small office spaces.

The 27-inch computer monitor has a USB Type-C interface for high-speed data, audio, and video transfer. Furthermore, it has reverse charging linked devices, so you can conveniently charge your cell phones/hosts.

It has several connectivity ports, including type-C/DP/HDMI. It can connect to your PC, Playstation, and XBOX ONE through the DisplayPort 1.2 and HDMI 1.4, making it your ideal work and play buddy.

Pros

  • Authentic picture quality
  • Ultra-thin bezel
  • It can charge your connected external devices

Con

  • No full 4k HD resolution

KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor

4.5
4.5/5
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KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor
KOORUI 27 inch WQHD Monitor
Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS

11. Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS

4.6
4.6/5

Product Specifications

  • 22inch screen
  • LED display
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
  • 75Hz refreshing rate
  • 1920×1080 max resolution
  • 7.71lbs weight
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The ergonomic characteristics of the Samsung FT45 improve both all-day convenience and productivity. With its freely adjustable stand, you can place the monitor exactly where you want when editing.

It has eye-saver mode technologies to ease eye strain and tiredness. Its flicker-free technology improves visual comfort by minimizing flickering throughout all brightness settings.

The FT45 Series has an IPS screen for superior image quality, brilliant color calibration, and crystal-clear pictures. The IPS technology also gives you up to 179 angles of view, ensuring that information is not damaged and calibration is simple.

Text and images are presented nicely in a three-sided bezel-free frame, allowing you to see more photo graphics and less plastic. Multi-monitor arrangements are nearly flawless with their ultra-slim bezels.

With DisplayPort, HDMI, and a USB hub, a versatile connection makes things easier as you can connect several gadgets to the panel.

For a more cost-effective monitor option, its energy-saving features can assist in cutting power usage by up to 10% while preserving image quality. It modifies the intensity of the screen’s black regions while also modifying the RGB strength values.

Pros

  • Sleek bezel
  • Excellent color calibration
  • Wide viewing angles

Con

  • It is costly

Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS

4.6
4.6/5
Check Price
Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS
Samsung Business FT452 Series 1080p 75Hz IPS
HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display

12. HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display

4.7
4.7/5

Product Specifications

  • 23.8″ FHD 
  • IPS display type
  • 1920 x 1080 resolution 
  • 60 Hz refresh rate
  • 5 ms gray to gray
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
  • 1 DisplayPort HDCP 1.2 
  • 1 HDMI HDCP 1.4
  • 52.9 x 29.67 cm display area
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With extremely high resolution and lightning fast refresh rate, you’ll enjoy the image precision and wide-viewing spectrum of select desktops and mobile phones on this FHD monitor with IPS innovation.

Less space, more display! With a stylish and ultra-slim design, you’ll have more workspace than imagined. The sleek edge display has almost no bezel enclosing the screen on three sides, allowing fluid multi-monitor configurations.

Its panoramic view offers rich detail from virtually any angle, with constant color and picture clarity maintained over an ultra-wide 179° lateral and perpendicular angle range.

Get the image quality you want without the extra dongles! Quickly connect to your PC, game console, and accessories for big-screen amusement with various connectors, including HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort interfaces.

With equipped in-built 2W speakers, you can enjoy fantastic sound and more engaging entertainment as you edit your images.

Its low blue light option reduces eye strain by shifting colors to a softer spectrum and making whites more authentic.

Pros

  • Panoramic display feature
  • Fast shutter rate
  • Excellent resolution
  • Excellent RGB color space preset

Con

  • One year limited warranty
  • Decent screen brightness

HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display

4.7
4.7/5
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HP 24mh FHD Monitor IPS 1080p Display
Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor

13. Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor

4.2
4.2/5

Product Specifications

  • USB and mini HDMI connectivity
  • 800:1 contrast ratio
  • IPS panel type
  • 3-5 secs response time
  • LCD backlight
  • 1.40lb net weight
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This matte 15.6″ monitor boasts an incredible 1920 x 1080 maximum resolution as an IPS screen with a super HDR option. It has a lightweight design making it simple to carry and perfect for traveling.

The USB C portable display offers an excellent feature of Plug’n’Play, which eliminates the need for driver installation. It supports Thunderbolt 3 compatibility and Picture – in – Picture modes, increasing productivity and making editing more enjoyable. 

It has an original waterproof cover with a robust PU leather surface that folds into three different places to form a stand. Because of the clever design, you can effortlessly stand the panel by simply using one hand.

It is a portable monitor with a USB C, tiny HDMI, and USB connector that allows you to effortlessly connect to phones, laptops, PCs, or keyboards to edit images or showcase your graphic design presentations.

Pros

  • Versatile ergonomics
  • Excellent resolution
  • Full viewing angle

Con

  • Low contrast ratio

Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor

4.2
4.2/5
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Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor
Full HD ZSCMALLS 15.6 Inch Portable Monitor
InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI

14. InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI

4.5
4.5/5

Product Specifications

  • 15.8-inch screen
  • 179° viewing angle
  • LCD
  • 16: 9 aspect ratio
  • 1920×1080 max resolution
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This InnoView external monitor has a 15.8-inch modern IPS screen with excellent image display resolution. It features an HDR processing technique that restores the natural image by increasing dynamic range, contrast, and visual details to make your photo layered, resulting in a fantastic viewing experience. It has mirror, portrait, and extended models modes for extra superb viewing.

The ports with exclusive dual type-c complete features allow you to link a single USB C 3.0 cable, saving you time and increasing efficiency. You can also connect it to your device through HDMI and power connection; no drivers are required.

With InnoView compact monitors, you can connect to a MAC, laptop, or tablet through a mini HDMI or a type-c connector, providing stable connectivity and reliable data transfer.

It is made of an ultra svelte IPS panel and weighs only 1.5lb. It includes an adjustable weather-protective leather stand case, and it’s pretty suitable for travel or outdoor use.

Pros

  • Wide-angle of view
  • Excellent quality resolution

Con

  • Requires further calibration for better results

InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI

4.5
4.5/5
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InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI
InnoView FHD 1080P USB C HDMI
VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz

15. VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz

4.5
4.5/5

Product Specifications

  • VA panel
  • 21:9 aspect ratio
  • 360 cd/m2 brightness
  • 178° viewing angle
  • 44hertz refresh rate
  • 5ms response time
  • 16.8million display colors
  • 99% RGB color gamut
  • 4000:1 contrast ratio
  • 1:1 contrast ratio
  • 47Hz-144Hz FreeSync
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Like every monitor screen, brightness regulates the lighting level, but this viotek also features a black level slider that modifies the Gamma in the image’s darkest areas. You may adjust it to make shadowy elements more prominent or make the blacks darker. The excellent contrast option in the brightness menu works remarkably well, just with SDR inputs.

Its color setting includes all RGB parameters required for calibration for various editing kinds. The RGB sliders begin in the middle of the range and permit a relatively precise grayscale tuning.

If you’re concerned about eye strain, you can activate a low blue light option, which warms the color temperature somewhat. If needed, you may also change the color intensity and hue.

To produce commendable editing results, utilize the color temp of the standard image mode user. The sliders in this mode begin in the middle range, allowing for balanced tweaks and improved contrast while editing.

With HDR transmissions, the display automatically converts to HDR mode, with one exception: it maintains the screen brightness from SDR configuration and disables backlight adjustments. That implies that if you have your brightness set to 200 nits before editing an HDR picture, you will be confined to that threshold for HDR, which isn’t ideal. Before using HDR, make sure the brightness slider is up. The maximum white will then reach roughly 350 nits.

Pros

  • Extended color modes
  • Fast refresh rate

Con

  • A low wobbly stand that lacks height adjustments
  • Lacks sRGB mode

VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz

4.5
4.5/5
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VIOTEK GNV34DBE2 34-Inch UWQHD 144Hz
TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS

16. TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS

4.3
4.3/5

Product Specifications

  • LCD
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
  • Desktop mount
  • 60Hz refresh rate
  • 1920 x 1200 maximum resolution
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Connect a Teamgee external monitor to your Mac, and you’ll have two different displays for your everyday picture editing work. Teamgee has focused on portable monitor technology for over five years, giving the greatest alternatives for the multipurpose and mobile workplace.

This gem has excellent picture quality. Its displays are bright, vibrant, and immersive. This ultra-portable screen can expand or mirror your computer display using the personalized settings option.

You can then modify the brightness and volume level of the built-in speakers and activate the eye care setting. You can rotate the screen display for better editing sessions from 0 to 210°.

Chrome, Windows, Mac, and Switch are all supported by this laptop monitor. If you’re worried about connectivity, there is no need to install drivers for connections because, with this monitor, it only takes USB-C or HDMI ports to connect to other external devices.

Pros

  • Full HD screen display
  • Eye-care feature for eye protection
  • Built-in speakers

Con

  • Unstable HDMI connection

TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS

4.3
4.3/5
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TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS
TeamGee Portable,12” Full HD IPS
SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB

17. SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB

4.4
4.4/5

Product Specifications

  • 14″ screen size
  • LCD
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
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SideTrak Swivel is an LCD IPS lightweight monitor that securely connects to the rear of your laptop to provide the efficiency of editing on two displays while maintaining the convenience of a computer.

This compact monitor stays linked to your MacBook and does not require a table, allowing you to edit your photos anywhere. This Swivel unit has a bigger screen, ultra-thin frames, and excellent full HD better image graphics.

The screen can expand, auto-rotate, and duplicate your laptop screen. You can also adjust its brightness to your desired levels.

Pros

  • Easy to set up and use
  • Firmly attaches to your laptop even when traveling

Con

  • It is costly
  • Short one year warranty
  • Slightly dim panel

SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB

4.4
4.4/5
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SideTrak Swivel 14 FHD IPS USB product photo2
SideTrak Swivel 14" FHD IPS USB
BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S

18. BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S

4.6
4.6/5

Product Specifications

  • 24.5-inch screen
  • LCD
  • 1920×1080 resolution
  • 240volts power
  • Weighs 12.55lbs
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Stunning visuals and flawless performance set the stage for endless editing efficiency with this unit.

BenQ’s specialized adaptive innovation adapts your monitor’s display to your surroundings. A built-in sensor can detect ambient light thresholds while assessing and adjusting on-screen images.

Color efficiency, complete contrast, and photo clarity are customized to deliver a mind-blowing display. This realism enhances the on-screen experience by making it more captivating and immersive.

Pros

  • Excellent visuals
  • Eye care feature
  • Adjustable stand

Con

  • No full HD resolution

BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S

4.6
4.6/5
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BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S Product Photo
BenQ MOBIUZ EX2510S Product Photo

Buyer's Guide: Best Monitor For Photo Editing Under 500

Skilled photography editors require a higher-quality monitor that provides excellent functionality. When it comes to buying the best photo editing monitor, a dedicated image editor understands that there’s more than just the price tag. Like any other piece of technology, buying a monitor necessitates some research. While there are many options available, if you don’t understand the suitable parameters, you may select a lousy monitor that is not up to your editing task. The buying guide below presents you with a checklist of items to consider before making considerable monitor investments.

Pixel Resolution

As an image editor, you should have a high pixel density monitor. As far as resolution is concerned, the higher the number, the better. This is particularly true for detailed or thorough editing tasks. High-resolution picture editing displays are significantly more expensive than Hd monitors. But, if the visual quality is a crucial goal, they are well worth the investment in the long term.

UHD (Ultra-High-Definition) displays have some of the best resolutions available, at 3,830 x 2,180 pixels. Then there’s Wide-Quad HD, which has a resolution of 2,550 x 2,180 pixels and is followed by WQHD or Wide-Quad HD, which has a resolution of 2,540 x 1,460 pixels.

Color Fidelity and Gray-scale

Editors want colors that complement the on-screen representation precisely as the final printed image. This needs the use of a screen that can show the colors accurately, and color consistency and fidelity are critical for this.

Here’s where your search for a model with cutting-edge technology, such as the AH-IPS display, begins. The display should support more than 99% of the RGB color space to be able to undertake frequent calibrations. It’s preferable if the monitor includes a 10- or 14-bit hash table to allow you to do frequent calibrations easily. 

As far as color constancy is concerned, there are a plethora of expert monitors on the marketplace that include both soft and hardware correction capabilities. If you are dissatisfied with the alternatives, you can buy a third-party calibrating solution. A monitor with an effective IPS panel may show various light and dark gray colors, which helps you decide the degree of shadow and shine on your screen.

Another significant feature of IPS innovation is that it allows broad viewing angles with high color vibrancy and accuracy, whether seen from the bottom, top, or sides.

Versatile Connections

DisplayPort 1.2, DV connectors, and HDMI are desirable features for your editing monitor display. If you want to link several displays, look for a device with USB in and out connections or a DisplayPort connector.

Monitor's Screen Size

While screen size might not sound important, it does matter for the photo editors working with great detail and high-resolution image files.

Those working on many editing projects simultaneously can use the entire screen area so that multiple projects may be displayed on the same monitor. If you want to save space on your screen while still being able to see many tasks at once, 29-inch UHD ultra-wide displays are the way to go.

It’s crucial to remember that larger isn’t necessarily better. Don’t forego the display performance of your monitor only to gain a bigger screen.

Monitor Adjustability

A tripod, as its name implies, has three legs. The legs are generally collapsible, telescoping u

You’ll most likely spend a substantial amount of time hooked to the editing monitor as you strive to produce the finest work possible. As a result, choosing a model with an ergonomic base is preferable. The ergonomic support allows you to adjust the height and swivel the display for the optimal viewing experience. A base that enables you to rotate the screen 90 ° is handier than one that merely turns halfway. 

Ports that enable you to connect to flash drives or recharge your phones should be located beside the cabinets, where they are easily accessible. A memory card port may also be helpful, especially if you need to upload image files and your pc is below your desk.

p and down to adjust its maximum height. You can secure them in place with one of two systems: twist-lock or flip-lock.

Flip locks are much quicker to set up and disassemble than twist locks – you just need to snap the flip-leg lock back into place.

In comparison, you have to twist each leg several times to secure twist locks. If you’re using your tripod on the go or simply want a more convenient way to lock it in place, go with a quick-release flip-lock system.

Another thing to consider is the number of leg sections. More sections means a taller tripod, but it can also mean a less stable tripod. In addition to being more stable, a tripod with fewer leg sections also tends to be sturdier.

Panel Type

Many people are unaware that the panel influences how excellent your picture editing display is. There are several varieties of panels available on the market, which are as follows:

 

Twisted Nematic (TN) Panels

Due to their low cost, they are the most common and widely available. This kind offers the quickest reaction time, although it should not be a designer’s first focus when working. The colors and visual comfort on this screen are generally not very fantastic, which will skew the presentation of your creations.

Vertical Alignment (VA) Panels

While not as common as other alternatives, this panel design is an excellent mid-range alternative. The cost of VA panels is much higher than that of TN panels. They aren’t great value for money in terms of performance. Despite having superior functions to TN panels, the market value is nearly as high as the following kind of panel, leaving the IPS to monitor a preferable alternative.

In-Plane Switching (IPS) Monitors

These may be the most cost-effective option in terms of performance. They are usually more expensive than the VA type, but the performance gap is worth it. You’ll enjoy great viewing perspectives and excellent color rendition with IPS displays.

Super IPS Panels

This particular panel aims to have a faster reaction time and a richer color rendering while preserving its reasonable pricing. Many consumers choose this panel because of its affordable cost and high-quality specs.

Budget and Costs

Regardless of the type of the goods, the cost is a significant consideration when making a purchase. When comparing pricing for premium monitors on the market, it’s impossible to avoid spending a ton of cash on getting a suitable monitor for the work.

You may spend as low as $200 for a 25inch model or go all out to $3,500 or more for a 36-inch UHD editing monitor.

Please note that when it comes to picture editing, you want to get the most refined color rendition that does justice to your project. So, it’s essential not to settle with something less than ideal for the sake of saving you some bucks. If you’re in the commercial photo editing world, a worthy monitor investment will pay handsomely.

Blue Light Filter

Some of the best displays include built-in blue light filters. Because the blue light released by LED lights fluorescents is deemed the worst sort of light for human eyes, a blue light filter does wonders in the long term for eye care.

FAQS

Does the monitor size matter?

You can believe that a larger screen is simply a better screen. However, in the case of image editing, this is not always the case as there are other underlying aspects for better photo edits, such as the number of pixels. A massive LCD screen with a minimal resolution will not enable you to view all of the details in the images you’re working on. A small display with a super-high resolution, on the other hand, can be subpar as well. Instead of focusing on the monitor size, look at other essential specifications such as resolutions and display quality.

Is a 4K monitor good for photo editing?

The short answer is yes. The most apparent advantage of a 4K monitor is increased desktop space. More pixels equals more working space, but keep in mind that 4K on tiny screens under 30 inches may push you to boost scaling, negating some benefits.

Which panel type should I use: VA, TN, or IPS?

The three widely used LCD panel types are VA, TA, and IPS, and they all have unique sets of characteristics, strong and weak points. However, only one is ideal for photo editing. Put bluntly, that is the IPS. Most importantly, IPS provides the best color accuracy and great viewing angles. This implies it preserves accuracy whether you’re looking at the panel directly or from a distance. VA is the next best option for image editing; though not as reliable as IPS, it has better color fidelity than TN.

sRGB or Adobe RGB, which is better?

All excellent image editing monitors support the Adobe RGB and sRGB color spaces. In that case, you don’t have to make a decision just yet as both will be available to you. But if it is pressing, choose the sRGB because it is a less complicated default color space for digital computers and simplifies your editing workflow.

Final Thoughts

It is critical to pick the highest quality monitors for editing your photos. When it comes to achieving the best photo edits, your monitor must offer you the perfect rendition of image color and contrast details. We hope you found this article on the best monitors for photo editing helpful!

AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor

AOC Quad HD Frameless Monitor

4.7
4.7/5

Product Specifications

  • 32″ 2K curved HD 
  • 16:9 aspect ratio
  • 32 inches screen display
  • 2565 x 1441 pixel resolution
  • LED display
  • 145-hertz refresh rate
  • 16.07 lbs weight
  • Dimension:21.7 x 9.66 x 20.88 inch
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