More people now prefer live content, and it’s easy to understand why. Live content is more original, relevant, and has the all-too-important human touch. For creators, this only means one thing: live streaming is about to get more lucrative, and the party is only getting started.

This also means stiff competition as everyone tries their hand at it. The best monitor for streaming is vital if you’re to stand out as a streamer. However, there are many options out there. So how can you determine the best monitor for your streaming needs?

Find below what makes a monitor ideal for streaming and what to look for in the market.

6 Best Monitors for Streaming to Check Out:

	Display size	Resolution	Aspect ratio	Contrast ratio	Refresh rate
Samsung Odyssey G7	32″	2560 × 1440	16:9	2500:1	240Hz
MSI Optix MAG342CQR	34″	3440 × 1440	21:9	4000:1	144Hz
Razer Raptor 27	27″	2560 × 1440	16:9	1000:1	144Hz
ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM	24.5″	1520 × 1080	16:9	1000:1	280Hz
HP 24mh FHD	23.8″	1920 × 1080	16:9	1000:1	75Hz
Samsung Smart Monitor M8	32″	1920 × 1080	16:9	3000:1	60Hz

Samsung Odyssey G7 – Best for Streaming Overall

Features:

• Display size: 32 inches
• Resolution: 2560 × 1440
• Response time: 1ms
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Contrast ratio: 2500:1
• Refresh rate: 240Hz

Other features: curved design: Quantum Dot technology, 125% more color space than sRGB.

Out of all the monitors on this list, Samsung Odyssey G7 ticks most boxes, cost, durability, performance, and build quality; you name them. This monitor offers an incredible viewing experience with its curved QLED display, providing crystal-clear visuals in vibrant colors. 

The Odyssey G7 features Free Sync Premium Pro technology, allowing you to reduce screen tearing and stuttering while playing games or streaming videos. 

It also has a response time of 1 ms and a refresh rate of 240Hz, making it perfect for gaming and streaming. With such a remarkable refresh rate, your viewers will never miss any part of the action.

In addition, it also comes with HDMI and DisplayPort ports, making it easy to connect all your devices. With its impressive features and sleek design, the Samsung Odyssey G7 is the ideal choice for any streamer who wants an immersive experience.

Pros:	Cons:
Minimal motion blur Crystal clear visual quality Fast response time and numerous connectivity ports	Limited stand adjustment options Steep price given other options

MSI Optix MAG342CQR – Best High-End Monitor for Streaming

Features:

• Display size: 34 inches
• Resolution: 3440 × 1440
• Response time: 1ms
• Aspect ratio: 21:9
• Contrast ratio: 4000:1
• Refresh rate: 144Hz

Other features: RGB led stripes in the back panel; 1780 viewing angle; tilt, swivel, height, and pivot adjustment

When budget is a non-issue, it’s only fitting that you get the best available. MSI Optix MAG342CQR is the perfect pick if you’re on a no-expense-spared search for the best high-end monitor for streaming.

This curved monitor features an impressive 34-inch VA panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time. It also supports AMD FreeSync technology, which helps reduce tearing and stuttering during gameplay. The 1800R curvature ensures a wide field of view, while its ultra-thin bezel gives it a sleek, modern look. Additionally, it has a peak brightness of 400 nits and 100% sRGB coverage.

The MSI Optix MAG342CQR monitor has plenty of ports to choose from, including two HDMI 2.0 ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, one DVI port, four USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and one USB 3.2 Type-B port. It also comes with two built-in speakers for added convenience. Regarding ergonomics, the monitor has a height adjustment stand with swivel, tilt, and pivot capabilities.

Overall, the MSI Optix MAG342CQR is an ideal choice for gamers and streamers who want a high-end monitor with great features. The crisp image quality and fast response time make this monitor perfect for streaming at high resolutions and frame rates.

Pros:	Cons:
Impressive handling of tearing and stuttering instances thanks to FreeSync Wide display screen	May not be suitable for certain kinds of gaming Limited HDR support with no option for local dimming

Razer Raptor 27 – Best for Gaming and Streaming

Features:

• Display size: 27 inches
• Resolution: 2560 × 1440
• Response time: 1ms
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Contrast ratio: 1000:1
• Refresh rate: 144Hz

Other features: solid aluminum base with Razer Chroma RGB and built-in cable management

This high-end monitor is designed to deliver a fast response time and smooth gameplay, along with a vibrant picture that is perfect for streaming.

The Razer Raptor 27 features a 1440p resolution, 144 Hz refresh rate, and 1 ms response time. This monitor is perfect for gamers who want to get the most out of their gaming experience, as it allows you to enjoy a smooth and responsive gaming session. The monitor also has HDR support, making it ideal for streaming content in HDR.

The Razer Raptor 27 also features an ergonomic design that makes it easy to adjust and customize your viewing experience. It has adjustable height, tilt, swivel, and pivot options to find the perfect position for the monitor. 

Furthermore, the Raptor 27 comes with RGB lighting and a unique cable management system that helps keep your setup organized.

Last but not least, size matters in gaming and streaming. A larger monitor means more immersive gameplay, more convenience, and better content for your audience. This is why the Raptor’s 27-inch display makes perfect sense.

Overall, the Razer Raptor 27 is the perfect choice for gamers who want the best gaming and streaming performance. With its amazing picture quality, smooth performance, and ergonomic design, this monitor is sure to please even the most demanding gamers.

Pros:	Cons:
Free cable management system Adaptive Sync technology built-in Great image and video quality	Limited HDR and sRGB color coverage More expensive than similar options

ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM – Best Budget Streaming Laptop

Features:

• Display size: 24.5 inches
• Resolution: 1920 × 1080
• Response time: 0.5ms
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Contrast ratio: 1000:1
• Refresh rate: 280Hz

Other features: ELMB (extreme-low-motion-blur technology); variable-refresh-rate (VRR) technology enabled by default

Tight budget? Look no further than ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM.

This 25-inch monitor features a fast refresh rate of up to 280Hz and an impressive 1ms response time. It also has Free Sync and G-Sync compatibility so that you can enjoy smooth, tear-free gameplay with compatible graphics cards.

The VG259QM has a Full HD 1920×1080 resolution, which provides plenty of detail without taking up too much computing power. It also offers wide viewing angles, so you can enjoy movies and videos without distortion. In addition, it comes with various adjustable settings that allow you to customize your display to your needs.

When it comes to streaming, this monitor shines. It has low input lag, so you won’t experience any delay or stuttering while broadcasting your gameplay. The monitor is equipped with ASUS Eye Care technology, which reduces eye fatigue and helps you stay focused during long streaming sessions.

The ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM is an excellent option for streamers who don’t want to break the bank but still want to deliver the best content to their audience. 

Thanks to a high refresh rate, low input lag, and a range of adjustable settings, this monitor will take your streaming experience to the next level.

Pros:	Cons:
Fast refresh rate and minimal response time Delicate and somewhat elegant design Designed with ultimate user comfort in mind Immersive visuals	Limited connectivity ports No built-in speakers

HP 24mh FHD – Best Cheap Secondary Monitor for Streaming

Features:

• Display size: 23.8 inches
• Resolution: 1920 × 1080
• Response time: 5ms
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Contrast ratio: 1000:1
• Refresh rate: 75Hz

Other features: ultra-slim IPS display; built-in speakers; Low Blue Light Mode

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly monitor for streaming but don’t want to sacrifice too much quality, the HP 24mh FHD is a great choice. 

The HP’s 24-inch monitor offers plenty of real estate and 1080p resolution. It also has a 75 Hz refresh rate and 5ms response time, so it’s fast enough for streaming and gaming.

The HP 24mh FHD also features a wide viewing angle of 178 degrees, ensuring that colors remain consistent no matter where you sit or stand, giving you more flexibility which may be handy if you move around or switch workstations regularly.

It also has anti-glare technology to reduce eye strain while streaming. The monitor comes with VGA, HDMI, and DisplayPort connections, so you can easily connect it to your computer or streaming device.

The HP 24mh FHD is an excellent monitor for streaming on a budget. The picture quality is good enough for most applications, and the features are more than enough for everyday streaming. Similarly, despite its low price tag, this monitor can take about anything you can throw at it and deliver spectacularly. 

Pros:	Cons:
Smooth, crisp, and clear visuals Extremely ultra-light design Relatively short response time and fast refresh rate	Limited connectivity ports Less gaming-dedicated features

Samsung Smart Monitor M8 – Best Monitor for Streaming Movies

Features:

• Display size: 32 inches
• Resolution: 1920 × 1080
• Response time: 4ms
• Aspect ratio: 16:9
• Contrast ratio: 3000:1
• Refresh rate: 60Hz

Other features: built-in webcam and speakers; pre-installed Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services; works with Alexa

The Samsung Smart Monitor M8 is a sleek and modern monitor featuring a wide 32-inch display that is perfect for streaming your favorite movies and TV shows in high definition.

Since the point is to deliver a pleasant viewing experience for you and your audience, picture quality should be top-notch, and you’ll also want to make sure that the display size is large enough to see all the details of the movie.

When it comes to HD visuals, nothing comes close to the M8. The monitor has HDR10 technology for vibrant color and contrast and features 4K UHD resolution for a crisp, clear picture.

Add to the fact that it’s equipped with Samsung’s Eye Comfort mode to reduce eye strain, and you have the perfect choice for a monitor to stream movies. Several smart functions, such as access to streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and more, only serve to sweeten the deal.

Pros:	Cons:
Simple setup Gentle to the eye, thanks to sharp and detailed visuals	Poor ergonomics Bad audio quality

What to Consider Before You Choose the Best Streaming Monitor:

It’s difficult to tell outright which is the best monitor for streaming. There are numerous considerations, from resolution and refresh rate to size and connectivity options, which can greatly impact the overall quality of your viewer’s streaming experience.

Here’s a look at some of the vital components that make a monitor ideal for streaming:

Resolution and Display Size

Resolution and display size are crucial factors when choosing the best streaming monitor. 

Resolution is the total number of pixels a monitor can display, often expressed as width x height (e.g., 1920 x 1080). An image with quality will be.

It’s important to note that the resolution should correspond to the size of the monitor. For example, a 1080p resolution will look sharper on a 24-inch monitor than it would on a 55-inch monitor. Generally speaking, you want to get the highest resolution possible for your display size, and to clarify, a larger display requires a higher resolution.

In addition to resolution, you also want to think about display size. If you’re streaming games or movies, you want to ensure your monitor is large enough to enjoy the experience fully. Otherwise, you’ll be straining to stream your content, and that won’t work out well 

Response Time

The response time of a monitor is how quickly it can update the image being displayed on the screen. A higher response time will result in a less responsive and more laggy experience, while a lower response time will result in a more responsive and smoother experience. 

A good response time should be between 2 and 5 milliseconds (ms). Anything lower than that may be too fast for some viewers, and anything higher may cause noticeable lag. 

Response times can vary from monitor to monitor; unfortunately, some manufacturer-reported features are in no way near reality. Therefore, to avoid being duped, it’s important to read reviews or watch videos of people testing the monitors to get an idea of how well it performs.

Also, if you can, please try out the monitor and confirm everything yourself.

Aspect Ratio

Aspect ratio is a numerical expression that describes the width and height of an image or video on a display screen. The most common aspect ratios for streaming monitors are 16:9 and 21:9.

A 16:9 aspect ratio means that the width of the image or screen is 1.78 times greater than its height. This is the standard aspect ratio for HDTVs and computer monitors, as well as movies and digital video. 

Similarly, a 21:9 aspect ratio means that the width of the image or screen is 2.33 times greater than its height. This is becoming increasingly popular among streaming monitors, as it allows for a wider viewing area, allowing for more on-screen elements such as chat windows and sidebars.

It’s important to note that not all content is created in the same aspect ratio, so you should make sure your monitor can handle different types of content, such as 4K, 8K, or even 21:9 movies/ games. 

If necessary, you may have to resize the content on Wave.video to a more appropriate aspect ratio and broadcast it as a pre-recorded stream.

Contrast Ratio

This ratio describes the disparity between the brightest white and the darkest black it can display. The higher the contrast ratio, the greater the range of brightness available, allowing you to view more detail in darker and brighter areas of the image.

A higher contrast ratio will also provide better picture quality, making it easier to distinguish between colors and shades on the screen. 

Ever watched a TV show or stream and couldn’t make out the characters or scenes? An inadequate contrast ratio was probably the culprit with your display or monitor.

Generally, most monitors have a contrast ratio of 1000:1 or higher, which is adequate for most uses. However, if you’re looking for a monitor with even better picture quality, look for a monitor with a contrast ratio of at least 3000:1 or higher.

Refresh Rate

A display’s refresh rate determines how often it refreshes the image displayed on the screen. This is measured in hertz (Hz), and the higher the number, the smoother the motion and the less motion blur you will get while streaming. Refresh rate is particularly important if you plan to watch fast-paced action movies or play video games with a lot of rapid movement.

Most monitors have a refresh rate of about 60 Hz, but some higher-end monitors can go as high as 144 Hz or even 240 Hz. If you’re looking for a smooth gaming experience or watching movies, you should get a monitor with a higher refresh rate. However, it’s worth noting that the higher refresh rate does come with higher power consumption, so it’s not always the best choice for everyone.

Connectivity

Look for a monitor with multiple ports to ensure it is compatible with your devices. The most common connections are HDMI and DisplayPort. HDMI ports can connect DVD players, gaming consoles, or computers. DisplayPort allows you to connect monitors that have higher refresh rates and resolutions. Additionally, look for USB ports if you want to plug a keyboard or mouse directly into the monitor.

Some monitors also offer wireless connectivity, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Bluetooth connects peripherals like mice and keyboards, while Wi-Fi can stream media from other devices. Remember that not all monitors have built-in wireless capabilities, so you may need to buy an external adapter if your monitor doesn’t have one.

Choosing a monitor with adequate connectivity options that meet your needs is equally important. By having multiple ports and wireless capabilities, you can ensure that you can use all of your peripheral devices without any problems.

Build Quality and Overall Design

Choose a monitor with good build quality and materials such as aluminum or other durable materials that can last a long time. Check out reviews to get an idea of what others have said about the monitor’s build quality.

Also, consider the design of the monitor. Will it fit comfortably in your workspace? Do you like the style and aesthetic? Are the colors on display pleasing to you? All of these factors should be taken into consideration before you make a purchase.

Finally, make sure you check out the overall size of the monitor. This is important, especially if you plan to move it around or put it away when not in use. Monitors come in all shapes and sizes, so make sure to find one that fits your needs and space.

Webcam and Speakers

Most streaming monitors come with integrated webcam and speakers, so if you plan to use the monitor for streaming or video conferencing, it is necessary to check the specifications of the webcam and speakers before making a purchase. 

Look for a webcam with HD resolution, wide-angle capabilities, and integrated noise-cancellation technology. Regarding speakers, the built-in options are usually more than sufficient for most needs, but external speakers may be necessary for those who want better sound quality. 

As you choose an external speaker, consider the type of audio output the monitor supports and any available features, such as EQ settings or surround sound capabilities.

FAQs

What are the benefits of having a dual monitor setup when streaming?

While it may not be that obvious, cost-wise, a dual monitor setup can provide many advantages. 

With two screens, you can quickly switch between programs without ever losing sight of the live stream. This makes it easier to manage multiple applications at once and helps to keep the viewer focused on what’s happening in the live stream.

Having two screens also provides more real estate to work with. You can have one screen dedicated to the stream and another to tools, chat windows, and other tasks. Having two monitors also allows for an expansive view of multiple media sources, such as games or videos.

A dual monitor setup can also help you become a better streamer overall. With two monitors, you can read chat while looking at your video and sound levels, adjust graphic settings on-the-fly, and manage your broadcast more effectively. You can even read the text of your script on one screen while streaming on the other.

Finally, a dual monitor setup can help you save time when setting up your stream. Instead of switching between different applications, you only have to move from one screen to another. This allows you to set up quickly and start streaming as soon as possible.

Should my streaming monitors be the same?

This is a personal decision, as each option has benefits and drawbacks.

The main benefit of having the same monitor is that you will have a consistent look and feel while streaming, which can help create a unified aesthetic. On the other hand, if you have two different monitors, you can take advantage of some of the unique features each monitor offers. For example, one monitor may have better color accuracy than the other, so you can use it for editing or grading purposes.

Another potential benefit of having two different monitors is that it can give you greater flexibility in configuring your streaming setup. You can place one monitor higher for gaming and another lower for video production tasks. Additionally, some monitors may offer unique features that would benefit a particular task, such as a curved display for an immersive gaming experience.

Ultimately, whether you decide to use two different monitors or two of the same depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want consistency in your streaming setup, having the same monitor may be the way to go. 

However, if you want to take advantage of the specific features that each monitor offers, then having two different monitors may be the right choice for you.

Can I use a tablet as a secondary monitor?

Yes, you can use a tablet as a secondary monitor for streaming. However, the experience may not be as good as with a dedicated monitor. Tablets are typically limited in size, resolution, and refresh rate, making them less suitable for gaming or streaming activities requiring fast response times and clear visuals.

That said, tablets can still be used as secondary monitors and provide some nice added functionality. For instance, a tablet can be a great choice if you need an extra screen for multitasking or video conferencing. Additionally, some tablets can be paired with a laptop or desktop to give you additional screen space and flexibility.

When using a tablet as a secondary monitor, make sure to research the specs before you buy. Look for features like USB ports, Bluetooth connection, and display port compatibility. Additionally, check the resolution and refresh rate of the tablet to ensure it can handle streaming-related tasks. 

Twitch Requirements for Streaming

Unlike other platforms, Twitch is quite relaxed with its requirements for content creators looking to showcase their work. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t. Here’s a look at the minimum Twitch requirements for streaming:

Before you start your first stream, ensure you read, understand and abide by the Twitch community and content guidelines. Twitch has this in place to protect users on its platform, and getting it right from the start will save you unnecessary headaches should you be penalized or, worse account closed due to policy violations. 

Aside from that, the bar is low for creators who want to start their first stream. According to Twitch, anyone should be able to stream on the platform provided they have access to a reliable internet connection, a device with an encoder, and of course, unique and interesting content.

Internet is available almost everywhere nowadays, and as for encoders, most smartphones and computers come with a decent built-in encoding utility. 

These built-in encoders should handle any streaming easily, but if you want to enhance your stream quality, you can always upgrade to dedicated hardware encoders. These are quite pricy, but they guarantee splendid results.

To ensure your viewers have the best experience, switch to an internet plan with an upload speed of at least 3MBps; if you can get more, the better. Ideally, your internet upload speed should be approximately 1.5 times your regular streaming bitrate.

Also, double-check with your ISP and verify the upload speed. Some providers only provide a blanket figure that usually reflects the download speed; the upload speed may be significantly lower.

That out of the way, it would be naïve to believe the bare minimum cuts it with Twitch or any other streaming platform worth paying attention to. While this may come off as cliche, competition is cutthroat among Twitch streamers, and it isn’t an exaggeration. Find out more about how to stream like a pro.

Twitch may not state it explicitly, but here are some recommendations to get you ahead of your competition and eventually rally more viewers to your channel.

First, your monitor should have a minimum resolution of 1280×720 pixels. This will ensure that viewers can see your stream with enough detail. It is also recommended that your monitor be at least 22 inches in size or larger to ensure your stream looks excellent.

You’ll also want to ensure that your monitor has a low response time. The response time indicates how quickly pixels can change color, so low response time ensures that fast-paced action in games or videos will not blur on-screen. Ideally, you should look for monitors with a response time of 5ms or less.

Twitch also recommends having a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is standard for most monitors. This ensures that videos and images appear with no distortion or stretching. To understand this better, try watching a video optimized for mobile devices on a larger screen, whether a computer monitor or TV screen. 

By default, most displays fill up the extra space with padding on either side of content meant for 9:16 (usually mobile device displays) is cast on a display with a 16:9 aspect ratio.

A good contrast ratio is also vital for ensuring vibrant colors. Twitch suggests aiming for a minimum of a 1000:1 contrast ratio for the best possible experience.

Finally, when streaming, it’s crucial to have a high refresh rate of at least 60Hz. This will ensure that motion appears smooth and free from stuttering or juddering. In addition to speed, you’ll want to look for a monitor with low input lag, so you can be sure that your inputs are being registered quickly so it can be as realistically live to your viewers as possible.

Here are three other considerations that’ll make your Twitch stream stand out from the rest:

• The Quality of the Stream

The quality of your stream will be one of the main factors viewers look at when deciding whether to stay and watch. A good stream should be crystal clear and free from lags or delays. The quality of your stream also includes the lighting, camera angles, and other visuals you use during your broadcast.

To achieve the best quality possible, it is crucial to ensure your internet connection is strong and reliable. You will also want to ensure that your camera, microphone, and other equipment are all in good working condition. Here are some of the best audio mixers for live-streaming

• Streaming Bitrate

In simple terms, this is the amount of data sent from your computer to the Twitch servers and measured in kilobits per second (kbps). Your bitrate should range between 2,500 and 6,000 kbps, depending on your connection speed and video quality. 

A higher bitrate will produce a higher quality video, but it will also require more bandwidth. If your internet connection cannot handle a high bitrate (i.e., less bandwidth), you may experience buffering and lag issues.

It’s important to note that the maximum bitrate allowed by Twitch is 8,000 kbps. However, this is not recommended unless you have an incredibly fast internet connection. Generally speaking, 3,500 kbps should ensure a smooth, consistent stream.

• Frame rate

Frame rate refers to how many images, or frames, are being shown per second. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the motion will be. Generally, a frame rate of 30 frames per second (FPS) is considered the standard for streaming. However, some streamers may choose to go with a higher or lower frame rate, depending on the content of their stream and the hardware they have available.

When selecting a frame rate for streaming, it’s important to consider both the content you’re broadcasting and the capabilities of your hardware. If you’re streaming content that doesn’t require a lot of movement or action, you can get away with using a lower frame rate. 

This will help reduce the strain on your hardware and keep your stream running smoothly. On the other hand, if you’re streaming content that involves lots of movement and action, you’ll want to use a higher frame rate to ensure everything looks smooth and professional. 

In addition to the content of your stream, it’s also important to consider the capabilities of your hardware when selecting a frame rate.

Final Thoughts

Livestreams are increasingly becoming popular, and if you’re a streamer or content creator, this presents a remarkable opportunity. But as with every lucrative venture, competition is stiff and rising.

The best monitor for streaming is vital if you plan on giving your audience an unforgettable viewing experience. Conventional media has already set the pace, and people are used to – no, demand nothing but the best.

As you consider the best monitor for streaming from this guide, remember other factors still contribute to the success of your streams. When ready, consider expanding your fan base with these best live-streaming platforms.