Choosing the best vertical monitors could mean the difference between an error-ridden programming job or a crisp, well-written code thanks to great visibility on a high resolution, responsive screen.
Our evaluation focused on performance/display, resolution, ergonomics, and the number of ports. After more than 18 hours of research, our pick for the best vertical monitor goes to the Dell UltraSharp U2515H Vertical Monitor. It is a rockstar performer, leading with vivid QHD 2K 2560×1440 resolution, Easy Arrange mode for on-screen customization of apps and documents, and a non-glare screen that is easy on the eyes.
Keep reading to learn more about other best vertical monitors available for purchase. You can also check out the best computer monitors from our other buying guides, as well as our top picks of gaming monitors starting with our write-up of the Acer Nitro VG271U FreeSync gaming monitor.
Top 10 Best Vertical Monitors
#1 Dell UltraSharp U2515H Vertical Monitor
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This vertical monitor comes with sharp QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution and Easy Arrange for customized window optimization – an excellent choice for people who prefer to see applications sorted side by side.
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- Excellent 78° viewing depth
- Non-glare screen; easy on the eyes
- Easy Arrange mode app customization for multitasking
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- So-so contrast ratio and lack of black depth
- May see yellow tint when viewing at certain angles
- Lacks a touch screen
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This vertical monitor for streaming has a healthy spec and color space range, starting with an IPS panel and QHD 2K 2560×1440 display resolution for a crisp and clean picture. An Easy Arrange mode allows users to customize their layouts, especially useful with dual or multi-monitor configurations to multitask. Streamers will appreciate how this best Dell monitor will keep their streams organized and efficient.
We also appreciate this best vertical monitor for Mac’s super-wide, 178° viewing angle, which gives it enough pop for group collaboration and sharing on-screen content with coworkers. Kudos for two included HDMI ports, as well as one Mini DisplayPort and 1 DisplayPort, along with four touch buttons located on the bottom right screen for easy access. For additional options with Mac compatibility, check out our best monitor for Mac Mini buying guide.
#2 BenQ PD2700Q Vertical Monitor
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This best vertical monitor comes with IPS 2560×1440 QHD display resolution and a DualView function, enabling side by side display modes – an excellent choice for multi-taskers or for photo and video editing.
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- Sharp visuals (1+ billion shades)
- Excellent grayscale performance
- In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology for excellent viewing depth
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- “DarkRoom” OSD setting may be too bright for some people
- So-so sound quality ( 1-watt speaker)
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This best vertical monitor for coding offers powerful specs, leading with 100% sRGB coverage for outstanding color space accuracy and picture quality. 10-bits of color depth translates to more than 1 billion colors, which helps as well. We see this QHD as an excellent choice for photo professionals that want to prioritize an accurate color display over refresh speed, response time, response rate, and input lag.
Our favorite feature with this vertical portrait monitor is its selection of task-oriented picture modes. It can be preset to the darkroom, CAD/Cam, and animation modes, each of which optimizes image detail to remain true-to-form depending on the type of project. With ergonomics, it is also a winner, with a solid tilt angle ( 25°), swivel ( 45°), and 5 inches of height adjustment. It’s one of the best photo editing monitor options on our list.
#3 Samsung Business SR650 Vertical Monitor
Award: Best for Movies
WHY WE LIKE IT: This best vertical monitor is an all-around workhorse, featuring a 1920×1080 resolution IPS panel and AMD FreeSync technology for optimized refresh rates/response time, an excellent choice for heavy movie watchers.
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- AMD FreeSync with healthy refresh rates
- Eye Saver mode for reduced eye fatigue
- Numerous port options, including a built-in USB hub
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- Learning curve attaching the base to screen
- Brightness levels could be higher (250 nits)
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This Samsung best vertical monitor really pops with a 1920×1080 IPS Panel. This unit also boasts a 75Hz refresh rate/response time and is compatible with AMD FreeSync technology, which calibrates refresh rates to reduce screen lag – doubling as a formidable monitor for gamers. Kudos for its Eye Saver mode, which works to reduce glare causing eye fatigue with prolonged use.
Connectivity options with this Samsung monitor are also plentiful, good for one HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA along with an integrated USB hub (fits 4) for device charging and connecting external devices such as sound systems and mice. Plus, it is VESA compatible for easy wall installation. All in all, we were very impressed with this vertical monitors’ combination of display quality and motion handling. It’s a great gift for anyone looking for the best monitor for watching movies.
#4 ASUS Vertical Monitor VN279QL Vertical Monitor
Award: Best Compact Design
WHY WE LIKE IT: This vertical monitor comes with ASUS VividPixel Technology and a narrow bezel ( 0.8cm), making it an excellent choice for tighter spaces.
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- Crisp picture with VividPixel Technology
- Dynamic Backlight Adjustment to reduce noise bars and flicker
- Conveniently placed HotKey buttons (front of panel)
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- HDMI-to-HDMI cable not included
- Stand may not sit level with heavy use
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We like this vertical monitor’s Full HD 1080p resolution and VividPixel Technology, which produces a crisp, color pop by leveraging Smart Dynamic Backlight Adjustment technology for noise bar reduction, flicker-free performance, and low blue light filtering to reduce eye fatigue. A 178° viewing depth also works for group collaboration. All in all, this vertical monitor offers a potent combination of panel quality and brightness optimization.
Our favorite feature with this vertical monitor is its display size and design. Its super-thin bezel is only 0.8cm with VESA wall mount compatible, taking virtually no space in a crowded desk or console table. With ergonomics, it’s a winner, with HotKey buttons conveniently placed on the bottom front right side. HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI inputs are included. Its sleek design makes it a contender for the best business monitor on our list.
#5 ViewSonic XG2560 Vertical Monitor
Award: Best for Digital Recreation
WHY WE LIKE IT: This vertical monitor comes with sharp Full HD 1080p resolution and a blazing fast 240Hz refresh rate/response time, making it an excellent choice for gaming and watching movies.
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- Black Stabilization dark image handling
- Game Mode Hotkeys for dedicated color palette based on application
- Generous four USB 3.0 slots
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- Only one HDMI port
- HDMI 2.0 connection needed to take advantage of 240Hz
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This vertical monitor is solid across the board, featuring Full HD 1080p resolution for vivid color pop and a 240Hz refresh rate/response time paired with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology for frame rate optimization, resulting in no blur high motion and silky smooth scenes. We are also big fans of this set’s Black Stabilization feature, which works to make dark scenes brighter. There is nothing better than good visibility while shooting down combatants in Call of Duty.
In terms of ergonomics, we’re big fans of this best vertical monitor’s Game Mode hotkeys, which offer different color palettes and schemes based on gaming conditions (e.g. FPS for first-person shooters). Kudos for a VESA bolt pattern for easy wall mounting and four USB 3.0 slots to charge or connect multiple external devices such as dedicated gaming mice and soundbars. If great visuals are an important feature, our best HDR monitor buying guide might also be of interest to you.
#6 HP VH240A Vertical Monitor
Award: Best for Office Use
WHY WE LIKE IT: This budget vertical monitor comes with a 1080pFHSD IPS display and decent color accuracy (72% sRGB), making it a great choice for everyday office tasks that do not require high pixel density or color gamut rating (e.g. photo and video editing).
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- Excellent viewing angle (170°)
- Low blue light filter reduces eye fatigue
- Solid all-around ergonomics (e.g. 30° tilt angle)
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- HDMI 2.0 connection needed to take advantage of 240Hz
- Hotkey placement could be better (back of the display)
- Low 2x2W built-in speakers output
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This vertical monitor comes with pretty good specs for a low price point machine. It leads with a 1080p FHSD IPS display, which translates to healthy viewing angles (170°), good for office work-sharing alongside coworkers. Color accuracy is OK (72% sRGB color gamut), making it a better choice for less resource-intensive such as pouring through a spreadsheet or checking email.
On the ergonomic side, this vertical monitor works, with swiveling, 30° tilt angle, and five inches of height adjustment up or down. One HDMI and one VGA port are included to charge smartphones, mice, and other external devices. Our only downside is that I/O ports are located on the backside – reach could be improved. It’s great a option for someone looking for the best monitor for graphic design at a reasonable price point.
#7 Samsung SE450 Vertical Monitor
Award: Best Ergonomics
WHY WE LIKE IT: This Samsung vertical monitor features a low-glare TN panel and MagicAngle technology, an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals looking to avoid strained eyes and necks at all costs during long workdays.
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- Sharp palette with HD resolution
- Sleek, near-bezel less design
- Eye Flicker and Flicker-free technology to reduce eye strain
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- So-so 60 Hz refresh rate
- No included DVI-HDMI cable
- No camera or built-in speakers
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This best horizontal monitor and vertical monitor has a formidable screen starting with full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution for a vivid color palette. A combination of an anti-reflection TN panel, eye/saver/flicker-free, and MagicAngle technology all work in tandem to reduce eye strain and work well in bright rooms. Kudos for a 178° IPS wide-viewing-angle that displays colors accurately for most seating positions.
We are also big fans of this Samsung’s vertical monitor set up with a fully adjustable stand with heavy swivel, tilt, and height adjustment angles. Connectivity options are also plenty with a single VGA Port, DVI Port, and a Display Port. Our only knock is that this monitor does not include built-in speakers or an HDMI input to connect. If you anticipate spending long hours in front of the screen, you might also want to consider looking for the best monitor for your eyes as you search.
Moreover, sometimes a stationary monitor isn’t ideal for some individuals. In that case, a portable monitor might work best. Our discussion of the leading portable monitors can provide you with more insight.
#8 Acer ET241Y Vertical Monitor
Award: Best Value
WHY WE LIKE IT: This vertical computer monitor comes with crisp Full HD resolution widescreen IPS Display and a bezel-less frame – an excellent choice for value-conscious users looking for a second monitor for a large household.
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- Kensington lock slot for anti-theft
- Blue-light reduction mode for reduced eye strain
- Two 2-watt speakers
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- Only includes 1 HDMI & 1 VGA port
- Stand offers no height adjustment
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This best vertical computer monitor offers serviceable specs. Image quality offers decent color accuracy and a blue-light reduction mode helps reduce eye strain for longer work periods. With only a 263cd/m2 brightness rating, it’s a better option in offices, under the partial sun, or in dark rooms.
On the ergonomics side, it’s modest, with a simple stand and basic back and forth tilting with no swivel or height adjustment. On-screen display controls are below and behind the screen’s right edge – not the most optimal placement but manageable. A Kensington lock slot also attaches a cable from your monitor to a stationary object (e.g. the underside of the table or a wall) to prevent it from getting stolen – a nice-to-have for a mischievous office! Kudos for four rear VESA mounting points for easy mounting on a wall. If you think a widescreen option would better suit your needs, our best widescreen monitor guide can help you make an informed decision.
#9 Dell U2414H Vertical Monitor
Award:
WHY WE LIKE IT: This vertical monitor comes with a vivid, widescreen LED Backlit IPS display and a decent 96% sRGB color space rating, an excellent choice as a second or third editing monitor for less intensive tasks.
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- Multiple ports for device connecting
- Easy tilt, pivot, and swivel functions for comfort
- 96% sRGB color space for solid color accuracy
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- The stand could be sturdier
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For a value machine, we love this 23.8 inches vertical monitor’s picture quality. Although its 96% sRGB color space rating and Full HD resolution are a notch below higher-spec machines, it is well-rounded in all other areas, starting with a healthy number of port options (two HDMI and multiple DisplayPorts) and a four-port USB hub to connect and charge external devices.
On the ergonomics side, it also shines with four touch buttons on the front (as opposed to the back underside that is harder to reach and identify). Tilt and swivel works, along with a height adjustment range of 130mm. All in all, we were impressed with this best vertical monitor’s combination of value to features. Looking for a more eye-friendly, immersive option? You might also want to check out the best curved monitor options available.
#10 Dell UltraSharp B001Z7JRLA Vertical Monitor
Award: Best on a Budget
WHY WE LIKE IT: This budget-friendly vertical computer monitor comes with a serviceable 1440×900 native resolution and 300 nits of brightness for above-average image quality, an excellent choice for people who want to perform basic tasks (e.g. view photos or check emails).
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- Front-facing buttons & easy swivel
- 300 cd/m2 brightness rating for bright rooms
- Includes USB hub to connect external devices
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- No HDMI port & so-so frame rate
- 1440×900 resolution not the highest
- So-so contrast ratio (1000:1)
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This older vertical computer monitor has serviceable specs across the board, starting with a simple widescreen LCD (liquid crystal display) 1440×900 resolution on a 19-inch display. Horizontal and viewing angles are solid (160°). Kudos for a USB 2.0 hub with multiple USB ports, which is great for charging multiple devices. However, it does lack an HDMI port for more intensive audiovisuals.
Contrast ratios for this best vertical monitor computer screen are on the low end ( 1,000:1), which translates to the range between bright and dark colors. On the lower end, it is a better fit for simpler tasks that do not involve color scrutiny (e.g. photo editing, gaming, or movie watching). For better sound options, we’ve also identified the best monitor with speakers that’s worth checking out.
How We Decided
In determining the best vertical monitor to buy, we explored performance/display, resolution, ergonomics, and the number of ports.
Performance & display are at the top of the list with vertical computer monitors. Forgo LED displays and aim for image quality with a 4K Ultra HD resolution over HD and HD+, layered in with several technologies (both shared by multiple brands or exclusive) to create a more vivid picture (e.g. ASUS’ VividPixel Technology). It should also tie in with Adobe RGB color space with a high percentage rating for the highest color accuracy possible. On a lesser note, we appreciate 120Hz + refresh rates/response time, but not generally recommended for non-gaming applications where a better frame rate is appreciated.
Aside from how the monitor works and operates, consider ergonomics another important part of choosing the best vertical computer monitor. Opt for the best vertical monitors with swivel, pivot, and tilting functions, along with height adjustment and easy switch from a vertical to horizontal display. Ports should also be located on your monitor sides and bottoms for easy access, as opposed to rear-facing.
As for the number of ports, look for the best computer monitor with a minimum of 2 HDMI ports, along with DisplayPort, VGA, and USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports to accommodate all different types of devices to complement your graphic design work.
Best Vertical Monitors Buying Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
Performance/ Display
Our preference is for the best vertical monitors to carry 4K Ultra HD resolution over HD and HD+ for the highest quality picture. They are typically layered with different screen technologies (e.g. IPS displays for dynamic contrast with deep blacks and purer whites_). Note, LCD screens/LED displays are typically reserved for better brightness Dedicated technologies like ASUS
ASUS VividPixel Technology on Asus vertical monitors also produces a more vivid picture. Do not forget the refresh rate and response time for a smooth moving picture.
Ergonomics
The better the ergonomics, the more comfortable with different viewing distances and seating configurations. We love monitors with ergonomicaLLY designed stands that swivel, tilt, and move up or down for the perfect height relative to your viewing distance and scrolling motion. As far as screen size, we typically opt for 27 inches and larger for more intensive applications and less than 20 inches for simple tasks such as reading emails.
Number of Ports
The best vertical monitors should carry a minimum of 2 HDMI ports along with VGA, D-Sub, and Display Port for other commonly used devices. Some vertical monitors have as much as four USB 3.0 ports.
