4K vs 2K Computer Monitors

If you are shopping around for a new display, you are likely comparing 4K vs 2K computer monitors. The best computer monitors around, after all, tend to ship with one of these high-definition resolutions. Keep reading to learn the key differences between the two monitor types.

Differences Between 4K and 2K Computer Displays

The obvious difference here is the pixel count and overall resolution. If you’re unfamiliar with what 2K resolution is, 2K displays are those fall in the 2,000-pixel range and 4K monitors fall in the 4,000-pixel range. 2K monitors are sometimes referred to as quad high-definition, or QHD, displays, though they are occasionally called 1440p monitors. 4K displays, on the other hand, are usually referred to as ultra-high-definition, or UHD. The differences in resolution between the two should be noticeable, though not as stark as when comparing 1080p vs 4K computer monitors.

Both options make great entertainment monitors, due to the sheer number of horizontal pixels and vertical pixels. Here are some more differences between the two display types.

Accessibility

The increase in resolution found with a 4K display does limit what PCs and graphics cards offer full support. In other words, 2K monitors will offer more universal compatibility and accessibility. If you are shopping for a 4K screen, make sure your CPU and GPU can handle the additional resources that will be required. When you do have the right PC hardware to handle a new monitor, you’ll want to start with the best 4K gaming monitors to date. 

Immersion

Higher pixel counts typically translate to a more immersive experience, particularly while watching movies or playing games. If you are looking to get totally lost in some content, a 4K monitor will be the better choice as a top monitor for your PS5. Just make sure you have plenty of desk space, as 4K screens tend to be much larger than 2K and 1080p displays. The smallest UHD monitors come in at around 27-inches. This would be the case even if you are comparing glossy vs matte computer monitors.

Refresh Rate, Response Time, and Input Lag

4K monitors demand more resources from the CPU, graphics card, and CPU. As such, if you are playing the latest computer games, you may notice a reduced refresh rate and response time compared to 2K monitors. You will also likely have a slight increase in lag when it comes to using a 4K monitor to play the latest PC games. These metrics may not be noticeable to average gamers, as they typically come into play during competitive gaming scenarios.

Cost

4K monitors are the latest and greatest out there, so they tend to cost significantly more than QHD monitors. Take that into consideration before making a purchase.

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