Difference Between a Monitor and a TV

Christen da Costa Avatar

Written by:

Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:12 PM

Table of Contents

Computer monitors and televisions have become increasingly similar, at least in terms of looks. However, manufacturers still build them to different standards and prices. For example, while the top-tier TVs might be too expensive for lots of people, there are lots of good quality mid-range TVs available. The difference between a monitor and a TV comes down to some significant image-related differences. Additionally, the size of the monitor and the size of a TV are quite different.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • A computer monitor offers a higher refresh rate and sharper images.
  • TVs provide a larger screen that takes up more of the field of view and allows for wider viewing angles.
  • When it comes to image appearance, TVs typically have a more cinematic appearance than monitors.

What Does a Monitor Offer?

A computer monitor provides a few advantages over a TV. First, they typically have a lower response time and higher refresh rate. Response time is also referred to as “input lag” for TVs. This aspect measures the amount of time it takes for an action you take to show up on the monitor or TV. On the other hand, the refresh rate refers to how often the image on the screen is updated. Higher refresh rates mean that the image does not appear jumpy while things are going on.

Additionally, the image on the monitor may seem significantly different compared to that of a TV. This difference stems from the varying aspect ratios, size, color preferences, and the backlight panel type. The aspect ratio of a monitor is about 4:3, making the screen appear more square. Brands also make smaller monitors than they do TVs.

Combining these two aspects for the viewing experience causes monitors with a resolution similar to a TV to better image quality. The colors on the screen of a monitor may seem accurate to what you would see in real life, but they usually contain an edge-lit panel type, which can cause ambiguity in dark areas of the screen.

What Does a TV Offer?

TVs provide most consumers with a method to watch television shows and movies when they want. In more recent years, this content has expanded to include streaming services. To understand why many watch content on a TV instead of a monitor, you will have to understand the aspect ratio, size, and viewing angle differences.

Today’s TVs often have an aspect ratio of 16:9, meaning they are significantly wider than tall. Additionally, consumers want larger TVs because of how far they sit when watching one. If you’re trying to stick a 60-inch HDTV on a desk, you’re more likely to end up with headaches and eye strain. When you combine these two aspects, you end up with a wider viewing angle, which measures the angle at which you can see a consistent image from the TV. And if you are in the market for a new TV, consider donating your old one. There are lots of places where you can donate your TV, you just need to find them.

What Differences Are There in Images?

The colors on a TV also differ from those on a monitor because TVs feature vivid colors. Brands prefer the colors to be more dramatic and cinematic on a TV. This difference often results in an image that still looks realistic but does not represent the world in the same way. The pictures on a TV seem smoother than the sharp images of a monitor. TVs provide more consistency when it comes to brightness along each area of the screen. This consistency stems from the fact that most TVs use a full array panel with local dimming that allows certain screen areas to have significantly less light bleed-in. Also, lots of TVs offer the SAP service. This is useful for those with visual disabilities.

F.A.Q.S

What is the difference between an LCD TV and an LCD Monitor?

The differences stem from the fact that they are built to different standards. For example, TVs are typically wider and larger, with wider viewing angles and fewer pixels per inch. As a result, a monitor displays images sharper than a TV with realistic colors, higher refresh rates, and lower input lag.


Should I choose a TV or monitor for gaming?

It’s all up to your preferences. Many professional gamers prefer monitors because of the decrease in input lag and increase in refresh rate. However, some gamers prefer TVs because they don’t have to be right on top of the screen and feel TVs are more immersive.


Why is a monitor better than a TV for computers?

A monitor is better for computers because it has less input lag, which refers to the amount of time it takes for user input to show on the screen.



STAT: But if you’re trying to stick a 60-inch HDTV on a desk, you’re more likely to end up with headaches and eye strain. (source)

Christen da Costa Avatar

Learn More About TVs