If you're looking for a gaming monitor for the first time, you will have asked if you actually need a PC to use one.
Well, there's some good news, but there are a few catches too that you'll want to watch out for to avoid disappointment, especially if you're looking for the best monitor for Xbox Series X or the best monitor for PS5.
Here's everything you need to know.
Do Gaming Monitors Need A PC?
The short answer is no, they don't need a PC, as gaming monitors now have more connectivity options than ever before.
These range from USB-C ports to connect devices like tablets or phones, to HDMI ports for consoles and other devices.
Connecting Consoles To Gaming Monitors
Thanks to HDMI ports, you can use a monitor with practically any console that has the connection port.
There are two types of HDMI ports that are mainstream at the moment: HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1.
For PS4, Xbox One and other 'old-gen devices, you'll see HDMI 2.0 ports and this means you'll be able to use it with any monitor that has the same.
For PS5 and Xbox Series X, things get slightly more niche when it comes to which displays can get the most out of the new 'next-gen' power. What you need is a monitor which has HDMI 2.1 ports instead.
For PS5 and Xbox Series X, grabbing the best HDMI 2.1 monitors around, plus an HDMI 2.1 cable is essential.
The new port and cable allow for 4K at 120fps, which is highly sought after for those looking for high framerates and resolution.
Connecting PCs And Laptops To Gaming Monitors
Depending on your machine you can use two different ways of connecting. Many people use Display Port connections, however, you can also use HDMI if you'd like also.
There are also a nunber of adapters that you can use that should have a display that only has one type of port, however, this is very rare with most of the best gaming monitors nowadays.
How To Pick The Best Gaming Monitor For You
If you're on the hunt, you're in luck, as we've selected a number of what we think are some of the best gaming monitors based on specs, reviews, and features they offer for you to browse.
We've also answered the most frequently asked questions around what can be a complex topic, such as what is G-Sync, what's variable refresh rate, and if you can use a gaming monitor for work.
Check out the guides below for more.
- The Best Gaming Monitors
- The Best HDMI 2.1 Monitors
- The Best PS5 Monitors
- The Best Xbox Series X Monitors
- The Best PS4 Monitors
- The Best 1440p Monitors
- The Best 240hz Monitors