Samsung QN55S90CAFXZA 55-inch OLED 4K Smart TV
The Samsung S90C packs some exciting gaming features for a smart TV. It supports streaming on platforms like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Xbox. It packs Samsung’s OLED technology along with 4K resolution and a native refresh rate of 120 Hz. Among its strong points are the Neural Quantum Processor with 4K upscaling, Quantum HDR OLED, and Real Depth Enhancer. It features the Samsung Gaming Hub where gamers can play console games and check out game streaming apps.
Alienware AW2524H Gaming Monitor
The 24-inch Alienware AW2524H comes with a suite of excellent features for under $1000. Buyers get a mind-blowing 480Hz refresh rate which, along with an NVIDIA G-SYNC certification, translates into tear-free gameplay and lucid visuals. The monitor also prioritizes eye care as the ComfortView Plus Low Blue Light Feature helps prevent fatigue after long periods of gaming.
With some of thebest TVsnow attempting to matchgaming monitorsin performance and graphics, it should be increasingly difficult for gamers to decide. Each option has its strengths, as TVs offer a larger display and can act as a home entertainment hub, while monitors are excellent for competitive gaming and feature several connectivity options.
Similarly,gaming consoleshave evolved over the years as the current generation has demonstrated processing power. Finding the right display to pair with a console is an important task as it ensures you have a blast each time you sit down to play. While both TV and monitor are terrific options that any gamer can choose from, which one is better for console gaming?
Finding the next screen to use for your gaming set-up can be tricky, seeing as the market is filled with TVs and monitors. Unless you have an idea of their strengths and weaknesses, making an informed decision can be difficult. To help you decide between a large TV or a responsive monitor display, below are some of the parameters we have used to judge their capabilities.
Refresh Rate
Console games look great on TVs and monitors, but when it boils down to refresh rate, monitors have a considerable edge. The refresh rate of a device such as a smartphone or a monitor refers to the number of times it can display a new image. So, a refresh rate of 360 Hz means that the device can draw up a new image 360 times per second, which is pretty good. TVs are severely limited in this aspect, with intending buyers forced to choose between 60Hz TVs and 120 Hz TVs. With a 120 Hz TV, you can expect a superior viewing experience that translates to better motion handling, thereby allowing you to see some details inLeague of Legendsand other games that a TV with a lower refresh rate could not have been able to. However, TVs still don’t measure up to monitors regarding refresh rate.
Monitors are clearly the way to go if you want to enjoy gaming at the best level. Unlike TVs, the technology used to make monitors has evolved over the years, allowing manufacturers to offer refresh rates that go all the way to 500Hz, as seen in the ultra-wide Alienware AW2524H. Perfect for players of fast-paced titles such asCall of Duty: Modern WarfareIIIandForza Horizon 5,high refresh rate monitorscan offer unparalleled fluidity that makes one’s gameplay feel more realistic than ever.
Response Time
The slightest delay when attempting to win a boss fight inElden Ringcan seriously impact one’s gaming experience. As such, it’s strongly recommended to play with devices that have the lowest response times. Response time is the amount of time it takes a display to switch colors. Having a low response time is good as it means you can handle action-packed scenes without worrying about ghosting on the screen. The LG C3 and Samsung S90C offer some of the lowest response times that you can find among today’s crop of TVs. Of course, both models qualify as high-end due to their hefty pricing, which puts them out of reach for budget-conscious gamers.
Interestingly, players can grab a monitor with a great response time of 1 ms, like the Sceptre C255B-FWT240, for less than $200. What’s more, the monitor market has a couple more options with low response times that won’t set you back by a wide margin, unlike a premium TV. It’s also worth noting that while monitors offer a lower response time in general, models withIPS panels offer the bestresponse times compared to alternative panels like VA and TN.
Convenience of Use
Although monitors outmatch TVs in terms of performance, TVs are easier to use right out of the box. All you need to do is to plug the cord into a wall socket, and it’s already running. Monitors aren’t that straightforward, as you need to pair them with a PC or a console to begin gaming. You must also plug in several peripherals such as a mouse, keyboards, and controllers. As such, the gaming setup for a monitor takes a lot of time to arrange compared to a TV.
Nowadays, monitors aren’t the only displays that offer tilt, swivel, and height adjustment features. Thanks to a growing number ofTV mounts, you can find one that allows you to tilt the large display until you find the perfect viewing position.
Value for Money
Until recently, monitors offered the most value for money. The entry of TVs with incredible gaming capabilities such as HDMI 2.1, Game Mode, 120Hz refresh rate, a low response time, and Nvidia G-Sync compatibility has leveled the playing field. What’s more, many TVs are considerably more affordable than monitors, especially the OLED types.
While high-value monitors tend to cost up to $1,000, you’re able to spend less than that amount and get a competent TV that delivers life-like values while running demanding games with ease. TVs also come in sizes that can exceed 85 inches, giving you a massive display to use for gaming, streaming shows, or watching live sports.
The Verdict
Whether you choose to play on a TV or a monitor, both displays are pretty impressive in general and should deliver a thrilling experience, no matter the one you eventually pick. It’s cheaper to game on TVs thanks to their affordable prices, plus they have started featuring advanced specs like HDMI 2.1 ports, which make 4K/120 Hz gaming with current-gen consoles more enjoyable. You can now get Game Mode on TVs which, when activated, tweaks its performance to run games smoothly. Fortunately, you don’t need to spend so much to get a TV of this caliber, as even the budget types are pretty loaded with features as well.
Gaming monitors may offer a higher refresh rate, lower response times, and be a competitive gamer’s dream come true, but TVs are more affordable. TVs don’t need additional gadgets like a PC, console, and peripherals for the setup process. If you love gaming on a large display with some of the latest performance-oriented specs, then a TV is your best option.
FAQ
Q: What are the disadvantages of a gaming monitor?
If you’ve got an OLED monitor, there’s an increased chance of screen burn-in. Additionally, some gaming monitors don’t have the best viewing angles, which can seriously hamper one’s experience.
Q: Can a normal monitor be used for gaming?
Sure. You can use a basic monitor for casual titles like Minecraft, but a dedicated gaming monitor is required if you want to run demanding titles.
Q: What gaming features does a TV have?
Modern TVs now come with HDMI 2.1 input, low input lag, Game Mode, and a few more features that improve one’s experience.
