Thursday, July 8, 2021

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When you’ve got the best monitor in your PC setup, you’re up for a much more immersive experience. We’re not just talking about gaming, either. Whether you’re playing the latest and greatest PC games, creating video content in 4K, or simply getting through your daily emails and reports, you’ll benefit from having an excellent monitor.

Sure, you can get by with any decent display. However, a top-notch alternative will deliver better picture quality, higher resolutions, and great features – not to mention, a screen that’s kinder to your eyes. All of those together will then improve your viewing experience many times over. In fact, only the best monitors can do the best PCs, as well as the best processors and best graphics cards inside them, justice.

So, do yourself (and your eyes) a favor and get the best monitor for you. To make it easy to find one, we rounded up the best of the best on this list, which spans every budget and every need. From ultrawide displays and 4K monitors that are ideal for gaming to a few of the best curved monitors and the best monitors for MacBook Pros, here are our top choices. Short of space? Our picks of the best portable monitor might be more ideal.

BenQ PD3200U

3D designers particularly love the BenQ PD3200U. (Image credit: BenQ)

1. BenQ PD3200U

Top for (some of) the gamers and pros

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 8.5kg

4K resolution
Large screen
Design may seem dull to some
Some features a bit niche

Now that the best PCs can handle 4K easier than ever before, the best 4K monitors are all over the place. That’s why BenQ released the PD3200U, a massive 32-inch Ultra HD display, as part of its Designer Monitor range. 3D designers particularly love this display, thanks to the factory-calibrated color accuracy and CAD/CAM mode. Marketed to creatives and professionals, BenQ has designed, seemingly by mistake, a panel that gamers will enjoy as well, making it one of the best monitors all-around – so long as they can find the space for it on their desks.

Read the full review: BenQ PD3200U

LG UltraGear 38GN950

(Image credit: LG)

2. LG UltraGear 38GN950

A killer ultra-wide gaming monitor

Screen size: 38-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 1600 | Brightness: 450 cd/m2 | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 20.3 lbs

160Hz refresh rate
Super-responsive
Expensive
HDR can’t compete with high-end TVs

It’s hard not to be impressed by the LG UltraGear 38GN950. If you’re looking for the ultimate gaming monitor, this is certainly the one to beat, with a 144Hz refresh rate that can be easily overclocked to 160Hz, 1ms response time, spectacular image quality, and many other gaming features like G-Sync, an ultra-wide aspect ratio and DisplayHDR 600. If you’re serious about gaming, then this is the gaming monitor to get – if you can afford it, that is.

Read the full review: LG UltraGear 38GN950

BenQ SW321C PhotoVue

(Image credit: BenQ)

3. BenQ SW321C PhotoVue

Affordable pro-level 4K photo monitor

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 250 cd/m2 | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: 99% AdobeRGB, 95% P3, 100% sRGB | Weight: 25.6kg

Improved brightness and color uniformity
USB-C connectivity
Main connection bay is hard to reach
‘Paper Color Sync’ needs refining to be truly useful

Pro-level displays are no longer the premium priced, inaccessible purchase they started out to be. At least as far as the BenQ SW321C PhotoVue is concerned. This 32-inch 4K photo monitor is up a step or two in terms of both performance and usability, featuring an incredibly wide color gamut of 99% of the Adobe RGB color space and 95% of DCI-P3. If you’re in the cinematography or photography sphere, that’s exactly what you need. And, that’s on top of all the other features this monitor boasts. This is among the best monitors you’ll find for photo and video editors, and the best part is you’re getting it for cheaper than all others.

Read the full review: BenQ SW321C PhotoVue

Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ

The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ combines so many high-end features. (Image credit: Asus)

4. Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ

Expensive, but beautiful

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 50,000:1 | Color support: Adobe RGB 99% | Weight: 28 pounds

HDR 
Beautiful image quality 
Very expensive 

If you’ve been searching for one of the best monitors, and you’re ready to just give up and buy the most expensive monitor you can find, you’re in luck. The Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ combines so many high-end features that it almost seems like too much. It doesn’t just feature a 4K UHD display at 144Hz, but it also rocks Nvidia G-Sync and HDR. This is simply the best monitor on the market, but it will also cost an arm and a leg. If you’re playing games, doing photo and video editor work, or even just general desktop work, you can’t go wrong with this monitor, as long as you have the cash to shell out.

Read the full review: Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ 

Dell 4K S3221QS Curved Monitor

(Image credit: Dell)

5. Dell 4K S3221QS Curved Monitor

Best curved 4K monitor

Screen size: 31.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Curve radius: 1800mm | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response time: up to 4ms | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: 1.07 billion colors

Picture-in-picture with two PCs
Surprisingly decent sound
Elegant design
Not very fast
Limited ports

The Dell S3221QS is a gorgeous monitor inside and out. Its simple yet elegant silver design gives it a unique look that sets it apart from all the gamer-centric or boring black office monitors you're most likely to find. It comes with a stunning 4K VA panel to match, making everything from movies to gaming a pleasure to watch. And, to make it an even better proposition, it’s got some great features as well – namely, decent-sounding speakers and an interesting picture-in-picture functionality that will let you display two different computers in the same display. That’s pretty nifty and a great way to make up for the fact that there’s no USB-C connectivity.

Read the full review: Dell 4K S3221QS Curved Monitor

Acer Predator X34

The Acer Predator X34 is a fantastic example of what an ultra-wide monitor can do. (Image credit: Acer)

5. Acer Predator X34

A gaming monitor with attitude

Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3440 x 1440 Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms G2G (grey-to-grey) | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 100 million:1 | Colour support: SRGB 100% | Weight: 9.9kg

Aggressive design
Perfect color accuracy
Limited port selection
Underpowered speakers

When you’re growing tired of the same old 16:9 aspect ratio, nothing hits the spot like a cinematic 21:9 display. It’s not the best for watching Netflix or YouTube, but the Acer Predator X34 is a fantastic example of what an ultra-wide monitor can do. Boasting an eye-catching aluminum bezel and polygonal stand that looks like a bird’s foot, this massive 34-inch monitor is a marvel to behold. More significantly, armed with Nvidia’s G-Sync tech, you won’t require V-Sync stressing out your graphics card. The Acer Predator X34 does all the heavy lifting for you. This is about as immersive as a gaming monitor can get, and one of the best monitors to buy this 2021.

Read the full review: Acer Predator X34

Asus Designo Curve MX38VC

The Asus Designo Curve MX38VC has a massive 3,840 x 1,600 resolution. (Image credit: Asus)

6. Asus Designo Curve MX38VC

Whole wide world

Screen size: 37.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 1,600 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Response time: 5ms G2G (grey-to-grey) | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: 1.07 million colors | Weight: 9.9kg

 A lot of pixels 
 Qi wireless charging 
 No HDR 

Ultrawide monitors have been around for a while: they’ve constantly made it on folks’ the best monitors list for a few years now, in fact. These wide monitors are lifesavers when it comes to productivity, and they’re only increasing in popularity. The Asus Designo Curve MX38VC, however, takes it to the next level. Not only does this monitor have a massive 3,840 x 1,600 resolution, but with USB-C compatibility and a Qi wireless charger built into the base, it’s going to be a workplace companion you won’t want to live without. It’s a tad pricey, and doesn’t feature HDR, but that’s a worthy sacrifice, especially for professionals.

Read the full review: Asus Designo Curve MX38VC 

Dell UltraSharp UP3218K

The Dell UltraSharp UP3218K's build quality and color reproduction are the best in the business as well. (Image credit: Dell)

7. Dell UltraSharp UP3218K

Back to the future

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 7,680 x 4,320 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 6ms | Viewing angle: N/A | Contrast ratio: 1,300:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 8.5kg

Stunning 8K resolution
Nice design
Very pricey
Limited 8K content

We don’t usually run into technology that’s so far ahead of the curve that we’re left dumbfounded, which is why the Dell UltraSharp UP3218K has impressed us even more. Finding one of the best monitors that can reach the raw gorgeousness this one can should be next to impossible. It’s not just the resolution, either. Dell went so far as to ensure that the build quality and color reproduction are the best in the business as well. The Dell UltraSharp UP3218K is aimed at professionals, obviously, so if that sounds like it’s made for you, it’s probably the best monitor you’ll ever find.

Read the full review: Dell UltraSharp UP3218K 

  • This product is only available in the US and UK at the time of this writing. Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the BenQ PD3200U 

BenQ EX3203R

The BenQ EX3203R offers a ton of high-end features in a product that is very reasonably priced. (Image credit: BenQ)

8. BenQ EX3203R

High-res, low-cost

Screen size: 31.5-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 90% | Weight: 13.4kg

Affordable 
Great for gaming 
Sub-par HDR implementation 

If you’re looking for a first-rate 1440p monitor with HDR for multimedia and gaming, then the BenQ EX3203R might be the display for you. One of the best monitors this 2021, this one’s noteworthy as it offers a ton of high-end features in a product that is very reasonably priced. Sure, 32 inches might sound like a bit much for a monitor, but the 1800R curvature on this BenQ panel means that it’s easy to use, both for productivity, as well as for immersion in your games and media.

Read the full review: BenQ EX203R 

  • This product is only available in the US at the time of writing. UK and Australian readers: check out a fine alternative in the Acer S277HK  

LG 32UN880 UltraFine Display Ergo

(Image credit: LG)

9. LG 32UN880 UltraFine Display Ergo

A beautiful display at any angle

Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 10.30 kg

Versatile monitor stand
Beautiful picture quality
Not bright enough for true HDR

The LG 32UN880 UltraFine Display Ergo has done something cool. Instead of going for the same homogeneous mount and stand that all monitors have, it has opted for a C-Clamp, One Click Mount that allows it to extend, retract, go high, go low, tilt and pivot like no other. That’s versatility turned up to 11. It also boasts incredible color accuracy and beautiful picture quality. The best part is that you’re getting all that without burning a massive hole in your pocket. This is, without a doubt, among the best monitors out there.

Read the full review: LG 32UN880 UltraFine Display Ergo

MSI Optix MPG341CQR

The MSI Optix MPG341CQR has a super-wide resolution, incredibly fast response time and a viewing angle of 178 degrees. (Image credit: MSI)

10. MSI Optix MPG341CQR

MSI’s hot new 34-inch gaming monitor

Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 nits | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB 105% | Weight: 21.16 pounds

Punchy VA panel
Great gaming performance
Really strong overall feature set
This class of monitor is expensive

If you’re searching for a gaming monitor with a super-wide 1440p resolution, incredibly fast response time of 1ms, a viewing angle of 178 degrees and a quick refresh rate, then the MSI Optix MPG341CQR is something you should consider. If not for those, then perhaps for the fact that MSI has decided to go with a VA panel, as opposed to IPS, giving it more contrast and punchier colors. A few bonuses are included, as well: snazzy “Mystic Light” RGD LEDs, USB-C connectivity, an integrated camera and a competitive price.

Read the full review: MSI Optix MPG341CQR

The best monitors aren't cheap, so you'll want to make sure they are insured against accidental damage or theft. If you're in the UK, then you can shop around and compare contents insurance to keep your gadgets, including monitors and other PC peripherals, protected.

Gabe Carey and Bill Thomas have also contributed to this article



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Are the best 2-in-1 laptops the future of portables? Although there are still quite a few laptops out there that haven’t quite made the transition from their traditional form – MacBooks and gaming laptops are the prime culprits – more and more laptops are adopting this versatile form factor. And, that’s a great thing.

The best 2-in-1 laptops not just give you that versatility of being able to go from being productive to being creative to binge-watching your favorite shows or reading an ebook in one fell swoop. More importantly, they’re ensuring that you’re keeping your expenses and carbon footprint low by giving you several devices in one. And, many of them are fitted with the best processors, the best graphics cards, and speedy RAM as well, they’ll see you through demanding tasks without breaking a sweat.

The best 2-in-1 laptops will let you effortlessly go from doing your work using the traditional laptop form to taking down notes or planning your week in tablet form to watching Disney+ or Netflix in tent mode. With HP, Lenovo and Dell laptops sitting at the top of the pile, and options that range from the best Windows laptops to the best Chromebooks, here are our top picks.

HP Elite Dragonfly G2

(Image credit: HP)

1. HP Elite Dragonfly G2

One of the best laptops we’ve tested

CPU: 11th-generation Intel Core i3 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 8GB - 32GB | Screen: 13.3-inch diagonal BrightView LED FHD, 400 nits – 13.3-inch diagonal BrightView LED 4K UHD HDR-400 550 nits | Storage: up to 2TB SSD

Great design
Comfortable keyboard
Excellent screen
Expensive
USB-C ports on only one side

 HP’s impressive business laptop is back with its smart design, great battery life, and 2-in-1 prowess. Of course, it’s more powerful now than it’s ever been, touting 11th-gen Intel Core chips, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and now a 4K display, upgrading from its previous Full HD models. There’s a lot to love here, and it might just be as close to being the perfect business laptop as any manufacturer can get. If you can afford it. However, as it is meant for professionals, it’s definitely worth the investment. 

Read the full review: HP Elite Dragonfly G2 

HP Spectre x360 (2021)

(Image credit: HP)

2. HP Spectre x360 (2021)

A brilliant update

CPU: 11th-gen Intel Core i5 – i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 620 – Iris Xe | RAM: 8GB – 16GB | Screen: 13.3" diagonal, FHD (1920 x 1080) OLED touch – 13.3" diagonal, 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) OLED touch | Storage: 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD – 2 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD

Gorgeous design
Excellent battery life
Great performance for day-to-day work
Fans can get noisy
Pricey

The flagship HP Spectre x360 (2021) is the newest in the flagship product line and continues the tradition of pairing elegance and premium design with the newest in specs for a 2-in-1 laptop that’s as much substance as it is style. This gorgeous Windows laptop comes with the new 11th-gen Intel CPU and enough battery life to get you through a long day at work. While it does come with a price tag to match and its 2-in-1 factor can be bulky for those making use of its tablet mode, not to mention that it can get loud, it’s a stunning laptop with excellent performance.

Read the full review: HP Spectre x360 (2021)

Lenovo Yoga 9i

(Image credit: Lenovo)

3. Lenovo Yoga 9i

Powerful, stylish 2-in-1 that can go the distance

CPU : 11th Generation Intel Core i3 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: up to 16 GB LPDDR4X | Screen: 14.0" FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, glossy with Dolby Vision – 14.0" UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, HDR 400 | Storage: up to 1 TB PCIe SSD

Outstanding battery life
Garaged stylus
Expensive

If you want a high-performance 2-in-1 laptop that will keep going long after its rivals have given up, the Intel Evo-certified Lenovo Yoga 9i is the best 2-in-1 laptop for you. The price of entry here isn’t what you would categorize as cheap, but given the power, battery life, and premium features like the rechargeable Lenovo Active Pen and its reasonably-quick pen charging dock built-in on the laptop, it’s actually quite reasonably priced. This means that you’re getting a lot of value for paying just a bit more.

Read the full review: Lenovo Yoga 9i

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

(Image credit: Lenovo)

4. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

Everything that netbooks should have been

CPU: MediaTek Helio P60T Processor | Graphics: ARM G72 MP3 800GHz | RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4X | Screen: 10.1" FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, 400 nits | Storage: Storage: 64 GB eMMC

Lightweight and portable
Long battery life
Very affordable
Tiny keyboard and finicky trackpad
Charger and headphones share a single port

Is it a Chromebook or is it a tablet? Well, luckily, you won’t have to decide. True to its name, this Chromebook delivers two form factors in one, while utilizing the versatility of the Chrome OS and setting you back much less than many of the top Windows tablets out there. Of course, true to its Chromebook nature, its battery packs an incredibly long life of almost 22 hours – you could pull an all-nighter, work through the day and mid-afternoon, and you’ll still pass out before it runs out of juice. For this price, sacrifices have to be made, naturally – the keyboard is tiny, the trackpad isn’t as reliable, and the charger and headphones share one port. However, if budget is your top priority, this is definitely among the best 2-in-1 laptops in 2021.

Read the full review: Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook 

Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (2020)

(Image credit: Dell)

5. Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (2020)

One of the best Windows laptops around

CPU: 10th Generation Intel Core i3 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus | RAM: up to 16GB 4267MHz LPDDR4x | Screen: 13.4-in. touch display | Storage: up to 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD

Great display
Fantastic battery life
Expensive

The Dell XPS line has been upping the ante in the world of portables since launching, and that hasn’t changed. It may now have penetrated the premium game, forcing its budget-conscious fans to look for cheaper alternatives, but that higher price tag hasn’t changed the fact that these are some of the best laptops in the world, with the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (2020) touting more versatility thanks to its hybrid design. We love this laptop so much, we’d get it just for the pleasure of using it. But, if that price is holding you back, let us assure you: this is worth paying extra for.

Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 (2020) 

Acer Spin 5 (2020)

(Image credit: Acer)

6. Acer Spin 5 (2020)

A fantastic 2-in-1 laptop

CPU: 10th-generation Intel Core i5 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics | RAM: 8GB – 16GB | Screen: 13.5" (2256 x 1504) 3:2 touchscreen display | Storage: 256GB – 512GB SSD

Fantastic battery life
3:2 display perfect for note-taking
Feature rich stylus included
3:2 display not ideal for 16:9 video
Bloatware includes desktop pop-up ads

A great feature set definitely adds a lot of value, and if you’re looking for the best 2-in-1 laptops, that’s one thing to keep an eye out for. It’s that combined with its affordability that makes the Acer Spin 5 (2020) a terrific candidate. This 2-in-1 laptop isn’t just versatile due to its form factors and fantastic battery life. It also comes with a 3:2 display and a feature-rich stylus that together give it that extra advantage for students and professional over its rivals: an easy and seamless note-taking experience. If you’re one of those folks who have a contempt for typing up notes in class, this old-school approach might just seal the deal.

Read the full review: Acer Spin 5 (2020)

Lenovo ThinkBook 14S Yoga

(Image credit: Lenovo)

7. Lenovo ThinkBook 14S Yoga

An excellent 2-in-1

CPU: 11th Gen Intel Core i5 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: up to 24 GB DDR4 3200MHz | Screen: 14.0” FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, 300 nits | Storage: up to 1TB PCIe SSD

Great performance
Garaged stylus 
Battery life is just OK

Lenovo’s latest release, the ThinkBook 14S Yoga, is a solid and affordable convertible that comes with some great features and a terrific performance – not to mention that coveted 2-in-1 design and a garaged pen, which doesn’t come standard on every hybrid. There’s a lot to love here, starting with its great price-to-performance ratio, even though admittedly, it isn’t perfect. That battery life, for example, is no match to the competition. Still, this is among the best 2-in-1 laptops out there.

Read the full review: Lenovo Thinkpad 14S Yoga

Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

(Image credit: Lenovo)

8. Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

Putting the Microsoft Surface Pro on notice

CPU: 11th Generation Intel Core i3 – i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 8GB – 16GB | Screen: 12.3" FHD+ (1920 x 1280) IPS, anti-reflective touchscreen, 400 nits | Storage: 256GB – 1TB PCIe SSD

Lightweight
Good performance
Excellent battery life
Limited Ports
Terrible Speakers

Business laptops are a dime a dozen, but once in a while, you get one that’s just a little more special than the others. The Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable is a more versatile option, touting a detachable, portfolio-style keyboard that allows its users to seamlessly go from full tablet to full traditional laptop in seconds. Of course, as it is still a business laptop, it comes with a host of business-centric features, from robust security to a surprisingly long battery life.

Read the full review: Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

Lenovo Yoga C940

(Image credit: Lenovo)

9. Lenovo Yoga C940

The Lenovo Yoga is back and it means business

CPU: up to 10th-generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics | RAM: up to 16GB | Screen: 14” FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, touchscreen, glossy, 400 nits –14" UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS, touchscreen, glossy, HDR 400, 500 nits | Storage: up to 2TB SSD PCIe

Excellent design
Great performance
Comfy keyboard
Expensive
Battery life

The Lenovo Yoga C940 is a stunning laptop. It’s clear Lenovo spared no expense in its design, making a gorgeous looking portable. But, it also comes with plenty of power under the hood. Rounding the experience is a comfortable keyboard, a rotating soundbar with 2 additional speakers, touch pen as well as a TrueBlock Privacy Shutter. While it’s not a perfect computer – the battery life is not quite up to par – it more than holds its own against the competition, with Lenovo offering a stylish and powerful Ultrabook that’s perfect for any digital nomad.

Read the full review: Lenovo Yoga C940

Microsoft Surface Book 3

(Image credit: Microsoft)

10. Microsoft Surface Book 3

An extremely premium piece of kit

CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core i5-1035G7 – i7-1065G7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics – NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti with Max-Q Design | RAM: 8GB – 32GB 3733Mhz LPDDR4x | Screen: 13.5-inch 3000 x 2000 (267 PPI) – 15-inch 3240 x 2160 (260 PPI) PixelSense Display | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB PCIe SSD

Beautiful design
Comfortable keyboard
Gorgeous screen
Weak U-series processor
Tiny trackpad
Lackluster speakers

In many ways, the Surface Book 3 is an example of just how far the best laptops have come in just a few short years. It has an extremely premium piece of kit – with one of the best displays we’ve used in a laptop, a keyboard that will put the MacBook Pro’s new Magic Keyboards to shame, and a hybrid design with a removable screen. This follow-up to the outstanding Surface Book 2 is truly one of the best 2-in-1 laptops 2021 has to offer. Unfortunately, it’s held back by a weaker processor (next to its rivals), lacklust speakers and a high price tag. Still, it’s an excellent portable, if you’ve got the money for it and don’t.

Read the full review: Microsoft Surface Book 3

Gabe Carey and Bill Thomas have also contributed to this article

Images Credit: TechRadar

With the best 2-in-1 laptops, you'll often be taking them out and about thanks to their versatility and portability, so it's always a good idea to get them insured against accidental damage and theft. If you're in the UK, then you can shop around and compare contents insurance to keep your gadgets, including laptops, protected.



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Get one of the best gaming keyboards for the ultimate gaming experience. Having the best gaming laptop or the best gaming PC just isn’t enough. Having the best peripherals for gaming will not just improve the way you play the best PC games, delivering the responsiveness, comfort and accuracy you need to triumph over your enemies; it will make the most out of those powerful specs under the hood.

Specifically tailored to the needs of a PC gamer, the best gaming keyboards offer improved build quality, a range of mechanical switches, ergonomic designs, anti-ghosting, and N-key rollover, as well as software-based features to extract the most from the hardware.  That makes it crucial for the most immersive gaming experience and the fastest response. 

So, game wisely and in style with the best gaming keyboard. It’s an essential companion, whether you’re playing the latest and greatest titles or sticking with the best free games. When you’ve made your pick from this list, be sure to grab the best gaming mouse and the best gaming monitor as well.

Razer Huntsman v2 Analog on a white background

(Image credit: Razer)

1. Razer Huntsman v2 Analog

The best gaming keyboard right now

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Switches: Analog mechanical

Fully customizable key actuation
Delightfully tactile key clicks
Extremely comfortable wrist rest
Eye-wateringly expensive
Built-in twin-cable 

Combining the latest optical technology and Razer’s analog mechanical key switches, the Razer Huntsman v2 Analog is good enough to get a five-star rating from us. That’s under-selling it. This gaming keyboard delivers the best typing and gaming experience of any keyboard we’ve tested in the last few months, with extremely satisfying tactile feedback and a wrist rest that’s designed to let you game for longer. As far as keyboards go, it is sitting on the expensive side of things, but it’s definitely worth it.

Read the full review: Razer Huntsman v2 Analog

Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro on a white background

(Image credit: Roccat)

2. Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro

First in its class compact gaming keyboard

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Fast and accurate performance
Compact form factor
Pricey

Who needs a full-sized keyboard when TKL gaming keyboards such as the Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro exist? This compact gaming keyboard is among the best in performance, comfort, and looks, touting a classy brushed gunmetal finish and floating keys that brilliantly showcase its customizable RGB lighting. Roccat’s Titan optical switches are not only fast and accurate, but satisfying, quiet and robust as well. It’ll set you back quite a bit, but it’s so worth it.

Read the full review: Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro

Razer Huntsman Elite, gaming keyboard on a white background

(Image credit: Razer)

3. Razer Huntsman Elite

Light it up

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Fast key actuation
Tactile key switches  
Expensive 

If you have the need for speed, then the Huntsman Elite is your best bet, thanks to its new optomechanical switches. That sounds like a mouthful, but essentially, it means that Razer has managed to combine mechanical switches with optical sensors. This unthinkable allows the Huntsman Elite to take its actuation to the next level, and you would be hard-pressed to find a faster keyboard on the market. Switches aside, it’s also remarkably comfortable to type on. Plus, it’s covered with more RGB lighting than you can shake a stick at. Sure, it needs two USB cables for power and costs a small fortune, but with tech like this, it’s absolutely worth it.

Read the full review: Razer Huntsman Elite 

Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768, gaming keyboard on a white background

(Image credit: Alienware)

4. Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768

Shockingly good value

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

 Cherry MX Brown switches 
 Affordable 
 Plastic body 

When you think Alienware, “value” isn’t the word that comes to mind. But, this time around, the Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768 is a genuinely great deal. At under 100 bucks or quid, you’re getting the toughest gaming keyboard fitted with mechanical keys, dedicated macro keys and slick aesthetics. It’s not the most feature rich keyboard in the game, but at this price, it really doesn’t need to be. One of the best gaming keyboards in 2021, the Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768 gets the job done, and looks good while doing it.

Read the full review: Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768 

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum, gaming keyboard on a white background

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum is one of the best gaming keyboards we’ve tested. (Image credit: Corsair)

5. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum

The Rolls Royce of RGB gaming keyboards

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Hypnotic disco lighting
Handy media and shortcut keys
Classy aluminum build
Awkward software
Rubber palm rest gets grungy quickly

A $159 price tag on a gaming keyboard might a tad too steep, but the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum, one of the best gaming keyboards we’ve tested in the last year, really does give you a lot of ounce for your bounce. We’re not talking the more trivial bells and whistles like fancy RGB lighting either – although since we are on the subject, this one’s got a whole lot of them, not to mention its integrated 19-zone light bar and the 16.8 million color options, to boot. By bang, we actually mean its 6 dedicated macro keys, 8MB on-board storage and aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame.

Read the full review: Corsair K95 RGB Platinum

Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition, gaming keyboard on a white background

Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition manages to deliver fast performance without being expensive. (Image credit: Razer)

6. Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition

The Razer Huntsman, but smaller and faster

Interface: Wired, wireless | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Fast switches
Removable cable
Not many extra features

Shelling out more than $100 for a great gaming keyboard is to be expected if you’re even slightly serious your gaming performance. But the beauty of Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition is that it manages to deliver fast performance without being the most expensive keyboard in town. True, there aren’t a lot of features here, which puts it behind many of its feature-rich rivals, but it makes up for that by being small and boasting a removable to make it perfectly portable for on-the-go gaming.

Read our full review: Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition

Corsair K65 Mini, gaming keyboard on a white background

(Image credit: Corsair)

7. Corsair K65 Mini

Hard to ignore performance in a compact design

Interface : Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Beautiful yet sturdy
Hyper responsive keystrokes
No way to change elevation

60% keyboards are more than a passing fad. Gamers with smaller desks or just want a more compact setup in general will find these ultra-compact gaming keyboards a boon, and the Corsair K65 Mini is among the best of those. With incredibly satisfying presses, an impressive polling rate of 8,000Hz, and highly customizable keys, there’s a lot to love here. And, they make this keyboard well worth the admittedly steep learning curve if you’re used to full-sized keyboards. It may take a while to get used to not having arrow keys, for example, but you won’t regret it.

Read the full review: Corsair K65 Mini

SteelSeries Apex 3, gaming keyboard on a white background

The budget-minded SteelSeries Apex 3 may come with a few concessions, but it also boasts some impressive features. (Image credit: SteelSeries)

8. SteelSeries Apex 3

The Apex of value

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: No

Affordable
Great RGB lighting
No mechanical switches
No USB passthrough

Not all great gaming keyboards have mechanical switches, as this affordable Apex keyboard is proving. The budget-minded SteelSeries Apex 3 may come with a few concessions, but it also boasts some impressive features that more than make up for those compromises. One of those features is its IP32 water resistance for protection against any spills – because who hasn’t accidentally knocked over a can of soda while gaming? Another is its reactive and customizable 10-zone RGB illumination to make your gaming experience all the more impressive. And, if you absolutely hate those clickety clacking noises that mechanical keyboards love to make, you’ll really appreciate this keyboard’s whisper quiet gaming switches. 

Read the full review: SteelSeries Apex 3

HyperX Alloy Origins 60

(Image credit: HyperX)

9. HyperX Alloy Origins 60

Compact gaming keyboard at an affordable price

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Switches: Mechanical

Affordable
Premium build
No macros

Gone are the days when mini keyboards were a novelty. These days, there’s not only a lot of options out there, but a lot more people are also making the switch. Still, it’s easy to find the best one for you. HyperX’s contender, for example, the Alloy Origins 60, is the best option if you’re looking for a mini keyboard that’s affordable yet extremely reliable. Some corners are cut, yes. At the same time, you’re getting a premium build and excellent performance so it’s still worth every penny.

Read the full review: HyperX Alloy Origins 60

SteelSeries Apex Pro, gaming keyboard on a white background

(Image credit: SteelSeries)

10. SteelSeries Apex Pro

Taking magnetism to another level

Interface: Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Programmable keys: Yes

Beautiful aluminum build
Custom actuation settings
Quiet
Expensive

The SteelSeries Apex Pro’s svelte aesthetic and clever OLED display are just the appetizers. The SteelSeries Apex Pro gets our coveted 5-star rating for many reasons, the biggest of which are its stunning and solid build, custom actuation and comfortable – not to mention, quiet – magnetic switches. Performance-wise, it’s among the best gaming keyboards we’ve tested yet, which makes its $199 price tag worth the splurge.

Read the full review: SteelSeries Apex Pro



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Latest Tech News

It’s not that simple picking out the best gaming monitor. But, it is worth the time and energy. That’s because a truly excellent monitor will help you get the most out of your games and the Nvidia RTX 3000 series GPU that’s powering your gaming PC. You’ll benefit from useful features like a wide aspect ratio, faster refresh rate, high resolution, and even curvature.

Don’t just go for the most expensive or most feature-rich one you can afford, however. Just like with the best gaming mouse and the best gaming keyboard, the best gaming monitor for you depends on your gaming needs. If you’re into expansive open-world games, a 4K monitor might be the most ideal option. However, if you’re into Esports, a speedy monitor with quick refresh rates is the way to go.

Run-of-the-mill computer monitors are good enough if you’re working on non-gaming computers. However, for gaming, only the best gaming monitors will do, no matter if you have the best budget gaming PC or a top-of-the-line behemoth. If your productivity or creative workflow is a priority, consider looking at the best monitor for MacBook Pros. Gaming on the go? Check out the best gaming laptops instead.

Best gaming monitors at a glance

  1. LG UltraGear 38GN950
  2. Samsung Odyssey G7
  3. Samsung CRG9
  4. Alienware AW3418DW
  5. AOC Agon AG352UCG6
  6. BenQ PD3200U
  7. Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27
  8. MSI Optix MPG341CQR
  9. Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q
  10. Acer Predator CG7 

LG UltraGear 38GN950

(Image credit: LG)

1. LG UltraGear 38GN950

A killer ultra-wide gaming monitor

Screen size: 38-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 1600 | Brightness: 450cd/m² | Response time: 1ms | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Weight: 20.3 lbs

160Hz refresh rate
Super-responsive
Expensive
HDR can’t compete with high-end TVs

It’s hard not to be impressed by the LG UltraGear 38GN950. If you’re looking for the ultimate gaming monitor, this is certainly the one to beat, with a 144Hz refresh rate that can be easily overclocked to 160Hz, 1ms response time, spectacular image quality, and many other gaming features like G-Sync, an ultra-wide aspect ratio and DisplayHDR 600. If you’re serious about gaming and want lots of screen real estate, then this is the best gaming monitor to get – if you can afford it, that is.

Read the full review: LG UltraGear 38GN950

Samsung Odyssey G7

(Image credit: Samsung)

2. Samsung Odyssey G7

Best of both Worlds

Resolution: 2,560 x 1,440 | Brightness: 350 nits | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 2,500:1 | Color support: 95% DCI-P3

Speedy refresh rate
Quality HDR
G-Sync and FreeSync
Awkward assembly
Needs to be calibrated
No USB-C

The best gaming monitors typically fall into two camps: fast refresh rate or high resolution. But, they almost never do both. With the Samsung Odyssey, that’s not the case. It manages to pack a 1440p resolution in the same display as a 240Hz refresh rate as well as excellent HDR, making this an ideal choice for any gamer that likes to play Esports one day and jump into an immersive open-world game the next. It’s not perfect as it does take some work getting it up and running, but the Samsung Odyssey G7 is an ideal choice for gamers who have some variety in their gaming libraries.

Read the full review: Samsung Odyssey G7

Samsung CRG9

(Image credit: Samsung)

3. Samsung CRG9

How big is too big?

Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 600cd/m2 – 1000cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: 1.07B

Great screen size
HDR
Menu can be tricky
Needs tweaking out of box

It may be very expensive and requires a killer gaming PC setup to run, but the Samsung CRG9 is completely worth it if you’ve got the extra cash laying around. This bigger-than-average 49-incher boasts bezels thinner than most gaming monitors and a picture by picture mode feature that lets you use two different inputs, simulating a dual monitor setup in a single monitor. And, that’s without mentioning that the Samsung CRG9 produces an out-of-this-world image right out of the box.

Read the full review: Samsung CRG9

Alienware AW3418DW

(Image credit: Alienware)

4. Alienware AW3418DW

The fastest ultrawide yet

Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 300 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 4ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 26 pounds

Highest refresh rate in an ultrawide
Alienware design and build quality
Expensive
Takes up a lot of space

The Alienware AW3418DW is one of the few gaming monitors that deliver a level of immersion that only a 21:9 aspect ratio can, while also offering up a high refresh rate. With a dense 3,440 x 1,440 resolution, ridiculously fast 4ms response times and a speedy 120Hz refresh rate, this ultrawide monitor gives you the best of both worlds. All these features don’t come cheap though, so budget-minded gamers might want to look elsewhere or start saving up. 

Read the full review: Alienware AW3418DW

LG UltraGear Ergo 27GN88A

(Image credit: LG)

5. LG UltraGear Ergo 27GN88A

Pro meets gaming

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 350cd/m² | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 8.1 lbs

Nice 1440p 144Hz IPS panel
Excellent response
No USB-C
Not a true HDR panel

Ergonomics and extended color coverage meet gaming in LG’s newest offering. The UltraGear Ergo 27GN88A may target a niche market, but it ticks all the right boxes for many, especially those that want to enjoy fast 1440p gaming without getting something that’s heavy and takes up a lot of space. Plus, having something that clamps on to a wide range of surfaces as well as offers both extensive adjustability and clever cable management will ensure you can game for hours on end.

Read the full review: LG UltraGear Ergo 27GN88A

BenQ PD3200U

(Image credit: BenQ)

6. BenQ PD3200U

A large 4K screen for your desk

Screen Size: 32-inch | Aspect Ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz | Response Time: 4ms | Viewing Angle: 178/178 | Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1 | Color Support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 19 lbs

4K UHD resolution
Large Screen
Inexpensive relatively
Design is a little bland
Professional tools are niche
Takes up a lot of space

While originally made for CAD professionals, the BenQ PD3200U is also great for gaming. This is mostly thanks to its rock-solid focus on graphic design so it’s able to offer incredibly wide viewing angles, which means that your friends can watch your game in comfort. And, unlike most 4K monitors on the market, you won’t have to mess around with the settings to get the best picture, since every unit is individually calibrated by BenQ before shipping. This is definitely one of the best gaming monitors out there, even though it wasn’t actually designed for gaming.

Read the full review: BenQ PD3200U

Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27

(Image credit: Porsche )

7. Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27

Fast 1440p monitor

Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 550 nits | Refresh rate: 240Hz | Response time: 0.5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 2500:1 | Color support: 16.7 Million | Weight: 8.9Kg

Built for speed
Beautiful performance
That 1000R curvature is a dream
RGB might be too subtle for some
Basic HDR

If you’ve got the need for speed – in your gaming, that is – then you have the need for this Porsche-inspired monitor by AOC. Abandoning the usual tapered red-on-black look that many gaming monitors have, this one comes with racing car design elements so that spectators know exactly that when it comes to speed, it doesn’t mess around. Just take a look at its specs of 240Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time. It also comes with DisplayHDR 400 support, classy RGB lighting, and a 1000R curvature.

Read the full review: Porsche Design AOC Agon PD27

MSI Optix MPG341CQR

(Image credit: MSI)

8. MSI Optix MPG341CQR

MSI’s hot new 34-inch gaming monitor

Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 3,440 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 nits | Refresh rate: 144Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB 105% | Weight: 21.16 pounds

Punchy VA panel
Great gaming performance
Really strong overall feature set
This class of monitor is expensive

While all of its extra frills make the MSI Optix MPG341CQR an even more appealing selection for potential buyers, it does an outstanding job of standing out on its own. The use of VA rather than IPS panel technology, for one, is a welcome advantage, offering punchier colors and better contrast. Plus, its super-wide 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh certainly give gamers an edge. The best part might be that this display is also reasonably priced, making it one of the best gaming monitors to consider in 2021.

Read the full review: MSI Optix MPG341CQR

Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q

(Image credit: Asus)

9. Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q

4K meets affordability

Screen size: 28-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 | Brightness: 350 cd/㎡ | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,000:1 | Color support: 90% color gamut, 1073.7M (10bit) | Weight: 7.6 kg

Incredibly affordable
Extremely flexible in viewing positions
Gorgeous, accurate colors
Some stuttering at higher settings
Not true HDR

With the Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q, you’re getting a lot of value for your money – especially considering the small price of entry. One of the most affordable 4K gaming monitors right now, this 28-incher can swivel, pivot and tilt practically however which way you need it (within reason, naturally) to serve your purpose. It also has deliciously thin bezels and a nifty cable management solution, as well as a few display settings to boost your viewing experience. Thanks to its rich vibrant colors, super sharp image quality and a design that is only subtly gaming-centric, this is among the best 4K monitors not only for gamers but for regular users who consume a lot of visual media as well.

Read the full review: Asus TUF Gaming VG289Q

Acer Predator CG7

(Image credit: Acer)

10. Acer Predator CG7

An epic screen

Screen size: 43-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 1000 cd/m² | Refresh rate: 120Hz | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178°(H)/178°(V) | Contrast ratio: 4,000:1 | Color support: 16.7 Million

Responsive
G-Sync support
4K support
Expensive
Lacks some features
Too big for some, not big enough for others

An epic gaming experience awaits you with Acer Predator CG7’s 43-inch screen, 4000:1 contrast ratio, 1ms response time and 120Hz refresh rate. To be fair, there are bigger and badder gaming monitors out there, but for some people – particularly, those looking for a TV with gaming-level specs, this one’s a winner. It’s got some extra features as well – namely, a remote control, icons on that stand to encourage game controller storage, and RGB lighting that can sync to your music and games – so you’re getting your money’s worth, even if you are paying for a lot.

Read the full review: Acer Predator CG7 

How to buy the best gaming monitor in 2021

If in the market for the best gaming monitor 2021 has to offer, know that there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing which display should grace your desk.

You’ll want to familiarize yourself with the following terms and specifications to help guarantee that you’re getting the best gaming monitor that’s most ideal for you. It also means you won’t have to pay extra for additional features that you might not actually care about.

Screen size: When looking for a gaming monitor, one of the most important things to consider is the screen size. Larger display sizes can lead to more immersive gaming experiences as the game fills more of your field of vision, but you'll also have to make sure that you have the space to keep a large monitor. And, it goes without saying that the larger the monitor, the higher the price as well.

Aspect ratio: The aspect ratio of a gaming monitor helps determine the width and height of the display. Most widescreen monitors have an aspect ratio of 16:9, while older monitors have closer to a square format of 4:3 that might feel pretty out of date in 2021. Ultra-wide monitors with aspect ratios of 21:9 are rapidly growing in popularity, as they offer a wider view of your games, which is why many ultra-wides have made our list of the best gaming monitors 2021.

Resolution: One other critical factor to consider when searching for the ideal monitor for your needs is the resolution. The higher the number, the sharper the picture. You will, however, require a more powerful graphics card for anything over Full HD (1,920 x 1,080), even if many gaming monitors feature resolutions as high as 2,560 x 1,400 (WQHD) and 3,840 x 2,160 (4K).

Refresh rate: When you’re mostly looking to play Counter-Strike and other first-person shooters like it, refresh rate is even more vital. The higher the refresh rate, the more frames per second (fps) the monitor can support, leading to a considerably smoother gaming experience. A 60Hz refresh rate is still the most common in 2021, but refresh rates of 144Hz and even 200Hz are becoming more prominent – not to mention, more and more necessary.

Response time: An excellent gaming monitor offers low response times, which means you’re getting fast and fluid actions, with little to no input lag. The lowest response time for TN monitors (we’ll get to this in the next section) is 1 millisecond, whereas the newer IPS monitors typically have slower 4ms response times. When you’re playing games competitively, it’s vital to keep this number as low as you can in order to avoid latency.

Panel type: This is where things get a little technical. The type of panel a gaming monitor uses will largely contribute to its response time and image clarity. TN (twisted nematic) panels, which are often more affordable, have the lowest response times but usually don’t come with great viewing angles. IPS (in-plane switching) panels, on the other hand, have fantastic viewing angles and color reproduction, but usually have higher response times. Meanwhile, VA (vertical alignment) panels are between the two, although its slow response times makes these panels rare in the gaming world.

Viewing Angle: While most people play games right in front of their gaming monitor, this isn’t always be the case, particularly when there is an audience. A monitor’s viewing angles tell you what angle you can look at the monitor from and still make out a clear image. The closer these numbers are to 180, the better your viewing experience will be when standing further to either side of the monitor or looking at it from above or below.

G-Sync and FreeSync: You've probably noticed that many of the best gaming monitors in 2021 come with either G-Sync or FreeSync technology – sometimes even both. These help keep frames per second (fps) smooth, combat screen tearing and minimize input lag. G-Sync is developed by Nvidia, so it requires an Nvidia GPU. And, the tech is built into the monitor, which can bump up their price tag. FreeSync, on the other hand, was made by AMD. Since it is free to use by manufacturers, the monitors that have them are usually more economical.

The best gaming monitors aren't cheap, so you'll want to make sure they are insured against accidental damage or theft. If you're in the UK, then you can shop around and compare contents insurance to keep your gadgets, including monitors and other gaming peripherals, protected.

Check out our HDR Explained video below.

Gabe Carey, Bill Thomas and Michelle Rae Uy have also contributed to this article.

  • Looking for a more general monitor? Check out our list of the best monitors


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Wednesday, July 7, 2021

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Latest Tech News

After unveiling the UK's most advanced superconducting quantum computer back in 2018, Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) has announced that it is launching the country's first Quantum Computing-as-a-Service (QCaaS) platform.

The startup's new QCaaS platform will likely help boost the UK's ambitions to be a global quantum superpower while will also making it easier for businesses to explore the increasing commercial and technical benefits of quantum computing.

As OQC tries to become a pioneer of the QCaaS market, this will also be the first time that the company's proprietary technology is available to the enterprise via its private cloud.

CEO of OQC Dr. Ilana Wisby provided further insight in a press release on how the launch of the company's QCaaS platform will make quantum computing available to more industries and businesses, saying:

“The launch of our QCaaS platform is not only a remarkable achievement in the history of Oxford Quantum Circuits, but is a significant milestone in unlocking the potential of quantum computing both in the UK and globally. We know quantum computing has the power to be revolutionary but for decades this power and potential has been relatively untested and unverified in the real world. By making our QCaaS platform more widely available to strategic partners and customers, we are offering the world’s leading enterprises the chance to demonstrate just how far-reaching quantum will be within their industries.”

Quantum Computing-as-a-Service

Through its QCaaS platform, OQC will take its proprietary quantum technology to market through a private cloud where strategic partners and customers will be able to further experiment with quantum in an effort to tackle some of the world's most intractable problems.

The company's partner Cambridge Quantum will be given first access to its private cloud in order to demonstrate its Iron Bridge cybersecurity platform which will use quantum computers to generate unhackable cryptographic keys. To do this Cambridge Quantum will use one of OQC's systems named “Sophia” which is hosted at its state-of-the-art lab in the UK.

For those unfamiliar with OQC, the company names its systems after women in STEM and its Sophia quantum computer is named after the British physician Sofia Jex-Blake who led the campaign to secure women's access to a university education.

Organizations interested in taking advantage of the technical and commercial benefits of quantum computing can sign up here as OQC is now accepting registrations to its beta list.



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