Without one of the finest monitors for video processing as part of your setup, it’s quite difficult to produce high-quality movies. Whatever the project, everything you see must be faithfully recreated to transition properly to various displays and media. The only idea to confirm it is with a presentation that ticks all the proper boxes.
In particular, it should have a high contrast ratio & brightness as well as a color gamut that is at least 95% DCI-P3 and has a color accuracy of delta E 2 or greater. As more projects are being created in 4K or higher, resolution is also crucial. Depending on the kind of footage you’re producing, HDR could also be a feature to consider.
Having examined our share of monitors, I know how vital it is to locate one that can do justice to your editing work. Having a display that is as powerful as your computer, which you have already spent a fair amount of money on, is essential.
In addition, we carefully analyze various aspects before adding it here, including color accuracy, color spaces, design, and even ergonomics, much as we take our testing of monitors extremely seriously. We also consider various skill levels and financial constraints, so you’ll find alternatives on our list for aspiring and seasoned video editors, from low-cost solutions to the top 4K displays and beyond. Some of these suggestions have already been tested; others have been chosen based on their merits or our own experience.
The Top Video Editing Monitors on the Market Right Now
1.BenQ SW321C PhotoVue
Video editing on the BenQ SW321C PhotoVue is a delight. Along with a lovely 32-inch display and crisp 4K resolution, it also has broad color support—99 percent AdobeRGB, 95 percent P3, and 100 percent sRGB—and color accuracy with Delta E 2 lets you see your work as it should be viewed.
Our testing revealed that in addition to having excellent color spaces and accuracy, it is also remarkably homogeneous throughout the screen. But the SW321C delivers much more than just a superb screen. It has also made it to the top of our list since it is a highly feature-rich monitor far less expensive than competing displays.
It has an SD card reader, which we don’t typically see on many displays, and almost all the connectors you could need to connect numerous sources. Picture-by-picture and picture-in-picture modes are included in the feature set, and you may connect numerous sources. However, the fascinating feature is the ability to view the same image in two distinct color modes using the picture-by-picture mode.
Of course, as we noted in our BenQ SW321C PhotoVue review, it’s not flawless. The complicated built-in ODS controls upset us. However, the display somewhat compensates for it by including a hotkey puck. A nearly ideal display for video editing is completed with a USB hub and a reasonable price (for a professional-grade monitor).
2. LG 32UK550
The LG 32UK550 is a good option for individuals on a budget, whereas most displays created with video producers and editors in mind cost double, treble, and often quadruple mostly what general use monitors cost. The use of a VA panel that keeps prices low while yet providing a mostly acceptable viewing experience is part of the rationale for this. This monitor benefits from utilizing a VA panel in several aspects since it offers a high contrast ratio and deep black depths.
Additionally, while being on the more affordable end of the spectrum, it offers a considerable amount of screen space due to its 32-inch display and UHD resolution. As a consequence, completing tasks is simple. You also get 300 nits panel brightness, HDR10 capability, and 95 percent DCI-P3 color coverage.
Some of the top players on this list could have superior specifications, especially color accuracy. Neither a USB hub nor the increasingly important USB-C connector is present here. But even if you don’t have a lot of money, this basic choice is still a viable candidate.
3. Eizo ColorEdge CG319X
The Eizo ColorEdge CG319X could be the perfect display for video editing because of its unrivaled performance and unique self-calibration capability. It was created for creative professionals conducting professional work with no room for mistakes. We thought the show was simply exceptional. Its price is the sole drawback, essentially the only reason it isn’t at the top of our list.
Video editors would like several things here despite the unimaginative appearance. For example, Rec. 2020 and DCI-P3 have 98 percent color coverage among their selection of broadcast & cinema presets, making them a great option for most creatives. In our evaluation of the Eizo ColorEdge CG319X, we also noticed superb color accuracy. Additionally, filmmakers filming in this format benefit greatly from the greater DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) resolution, which allows them to see the original video at 1:1 pixels regardless of the format to which you could convert it while editing.
The great part is that it has a self-calibration mechanism built-in, where a sensor regularly checks its accuracy and corrects any problems without you doing a single thing. This implies that you’ll spend more time perfecting your footage and less time adjusting the screen. This is the greatest video editing monitor if you can afford it.
4. LG 32UN880 UltraFine Ergo
The LG 32UN880 provides value that novice and casual filmmakers & vloggers will find appealing. It’s one of the cheapest 4K monitors, with a nice-sized screen, 95 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, HDR10 compatibility, and stunning image quality. Additionally, it has a hub for all of your video editing equipment and a USB-C connection.
It’s not only for newbies, however. Its adjustable mount and stand will be appreciated by seasoned editors searching for a more adaptable arrangement. Its C-Clamp one And Click Mount combination provides a more minimalist configuration and essentially allows for any monitor movement. It allows for extensions up to 180mm, height adjustments up to 130mm, a 25-degree tilt up and down, and a 90-degree pivot. Additionally, the arm can rotate up to 280 degrees, which is useful while working in a studio environment.
To satisfy the strict requirements of professional-level filmmakers, we just wish that it were brighter and had greater HDR support. The LG 32UN880 does, however, unquestionably have a place in the realm of video editing.
5. ViewSonic VP3268a-4K
Not all colorists and video editors use the DCI-P3 color space. Rec. 709 is still used by most post-production operators in the broadcast & web sectors, despite DCI-P3 being the preferred color space for film productions. The ViewSonic VP3268a-4K is a great choice if you fall into this category. This monitor isn’t a newbie to the market; rather, it’s an updated version of the outdated ViewSonic VP3268 that now has a USB-C connection to make it even more useful for video makers.
This display has a lot to admire, including its 350 nits of brightness, 100% Rec. 709 & 100% sRGB color gamut coverage, and UHD resolution for additional screen space. Additionally, it promises greater color fidelity than the original model and Pantone confirmation. If you want to change gears and write emails, make contracts, or do some accounting for your company, it’s also a wonderful productivity monitor. Although it is somewhat more expensive than its immediate competitors, the mid-range pricing makes it accessible to even aspiring artists.
6. Dell UltraSharp 32 PremierColor UP3218K
If you’re dealing with 8K or 6K footage and need the means to examine it at full 1:1-pixel resolution, this is the ideal display for video editing. Although there aren’t many 8K display alternatives available now, the Dell UltraSharp UP3218K ensures that if you get one, it will be an unquestionably superior screen in every aspect. You also get 98 percent DCI-P3 color coverage, 100 percent AdobeRGB, 100 percent sRGB, and 100 percent Rec. 709 color coverage, so it’s not only about the resolution.
There are fewer connections available due to the lack of an HDMI 2.1 port, twin DisplayPort connectors are the only ones that handle 8K, and there is no USB-C at all. However, if you’re pushing so many pixels, you’re probably accustomed to thinking it’s a bit of a problem. It is also a reasonably usable size at 32 inches, despite having an absurdly high amount of pixels.
7. Acer ConceptD CP3271K
Even for customers who aren’t searching for inexpensive solutions, the Acer ConceptD CP3271above K’s $1,000/£1,000 price tag can be a tough pill to swallow. However, as we pointed out in our review of the Acer ConceptD CP3271K, this excellent piece of equipment has a few high-end characteristics that make it pricey for creative workers.
It is the ideal blend of screen real estate, lower footprint, and appropriately scaled graphics thanks to its delicious 4K resolution on a 27-inch display. Additionally, it is a fantastic tool for video makers because of its 400 nits maximum brightness, 99 percent sRGB and 90 percent DCI-P3 color gamuts, and a Delta-E precision of less than 1. Additionally, we discovered that its color space coverage claims were accurate and its color and brightness uniformity was excellent, though not particularly outstanding. Naturally, we also like the shade hood’s addition.
The relatively new 144Hz refresh rate on 4K displays guarantees clear, crisp, and butter-smooth gameplay when it’s time to rest after work.
8. Asus ProArt PA32UCG-K
To benefit from a genuine HDR display, you don’t necessarily need to shoot all your videos in HDR, but you need to be a true pro. The high cost of the Asus ProArt PA32UCG-K is evidence that HDR displays aren’t the most affordable. The DisplayHDR 1400 and 1,600 nits at peak brightness will astound you if you have big funds, however.
Its broad color space, which includes 98 percent DCI-P3 and 85 percent Rec.2020 gamuts, in addition to its 100% sRGB and 99.5 percent Adobe RGB, and Delta E 1 color difference, makes it even more valuable for the money. Smaller LEDs used in the panel provide 1152 shading zones for greater contrast & deep blacks. Additionally, several input ports are available, enabling you to stretch out and fully engage in your creative process. Furthermore, the 4K resolution automatically takes care of exhibiting flawless details.
Professional designers & content makers would be prudent to invest in this instead of amateur and low-budget video editors.
9. LG 38WN95C
The LG 38WN95C is a fantastic ultrawide display that is worth taking into consideration. Its magnificent 3840 x 1600 display gives you the screen space to stretch out when editing videos and keep all of your tools close to you so you can fully immerse yourself in the creative process.
Despite not being a 5K2K display such as the PS341WU, it has advantages. Its 99 percent sRGB and 98 percent DCI-P3 color gamuts will be most helpful to content makers. Meanwhile, the VESA DisplayHDR 600 accreditation will be useful to individuals who deal with HDR material. Additionally, its 110.93 pixel-per-inch ratio is ideal for making those pictures crisp and those words comfortable to read.
The LG 38WN95C is more than simply a screen for creating content. A terrific all-arounder, it also has an adjustable stand for programmers, office workers, and LG’s ambient light sensor. The 144Hz frame rate, 1ms reaction time, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Nvidia G-Sync are all features that non-professional and esports players lust for.
10. Apple Pro Display XDR
Although our assessment of Apple’s 6K display isn’t yet complete, we already know it’s a monster, aiming to be more like a monitor in the professional film production sense than a monitor in the sense of a “computer screen” that we’ve used it here. It aims to provide playback that is as nearly as flawless as possible given the cost (which is considerable). Your resolution of 6016 x 3384 is sufficient for most 6K formats (though not quite the 6K full-frame recording of a RED camera). Additionally, there are 576 separate dimming zones for backlight management and astounding HDR brightness levels of up to 1,600 nits, meaning that contrast will be enormous.
There are specialized reference modes for DCI P3, sRGB, NTSC, BT.709, and many more color spaces. There is also a “reference mode” for the “Apple display” that will adjust the brightness to match a MacBook Pro’s, giving them a uniform appearance when placed next to one another. For displays like this, there is also the option of the nanotexture effect to minimize reflection as low as it is possible.
It has three USB-C ports for syncing accessories, one Thunderbolt 3 port (which may be used at the end of a Displayport chain but not as a Thunderbolt hub), and one Thunderbolt 3 port. The drawback to this is that it’s quite costly, and the money we’re getting from these widgets is simply for the display. The official stand requires an additional $999, £949, or AU$1,699. If you’d like, you might be also purchase a VESA mount adaptor. If you’re interested in owning an Apple display, you may also want to look at Apple’s newest display; for more information, visit our review of the Apple Studio Display.
Is a 4K monitor good for video editing?
The resolution isn’t everything when picking the best monitor for video editing. But you’ll need to be able to view your work at its original quality if you want to create anything in UHD. Therefore, having a display with a 4K resolution is not merely advantageous. The majority of video editors need it. Just remember that a computer with sufficient processing power is required to send such high-resolution information to a 4K panel.
Are curved monitors good for video editing?
A curved display is not essential to provide excellent results in your video processing efforts. Curved displays do, however, have a few benefits. They are simple to use since you won’t have to strain as much to view the corners of your screen because they equalize the distance between the screen and your eyes. Additionally, many curved displays offer a larger 21:9 aspect ratio, giving you extra screen space and allowing you to work on projects in their original resolution while still having quick access to your editing tools. However, compared to flat panels, your viewing angles are more constrained. Colleagues who must view your work may not see an accurate portrayal of your project.
Is Hz important for video editing?
Although refresh rate is important for video editing, most modern monitors have at least a 60Hz refresh rate. Additionally, having a higher refresh rate won’t make a difference since most video is filmed at 30 or 60 frames per second. Naturally, having a faster refresh rate becomes more important if you want to game or perform the animation on the same monitor.