What is a 2K gaming monitor, and what are its benefits? Furthermore, what is a full HD computer monitor? Resolution directly affects image quality within a given monitor. For the most part, you want a monitor with a higher resolution, especially when using a computer monitor as a TV. However, 2K resolution offers more than just improved image quality, including a high response time, pixel density, and enhanced color space, which is important for gamers. Consider researching terms you’re unfamiliar with in our guides, like if you’re wondering what pixel density is on a monitor. It also pays to know what is the best gaming monitor resolution before making a purchase.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- A 2K monitor refers to the resolution of a monitor, but many 2K monitors have additional features that can impact their usage.
- Many 2K monitors include high resolution, high response times, and expanded color gamuts.
- A QHD monitor has the highest resolution of the various 2K resolutions, and its aspect ratio matches that of a TV.
What is 2K Resolution for a Computer Monitor?
The best computer monitors should have a high resolution, such as full HD, 2K, or 4K. Many brands offer various high resolutions for their computer monitors. Still, you may not realize how important it and response time is for watching content, gaming, and working within specific applications. When it comes to a 2K monitor or gaming monitor, three monitor aspect ratios exist according to Lenovo: CinemaScope, DCI 2K native, and DCI 2K cropped resolutions. More recently, computer monitors have begun to have roughly the same aspect ratio as TVs, which is 16:9. Each of these falls under the standard set forth by the Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI.)
What are the 2K Gaming Monitor Aspect Ratios?
- CinemaScope has a 2.39:1 aspect ratio with about 1,755,136 and has the lowest monitor resolution of the various 2K monitors, about 2048×858.
- The DCI 2K cropped resolution features an aspect ratio of 1.85:1 with 2,157,840 pixels and a resolution of 1998×1080.
- The DCI 2K native resolution has an aspect ratio of 1.90:1 and a resolution of 2048×1080 with roughly 2,211,840 pixels.
- A QHD or WQHD monitor takes its form with a 16:9 aspect ratio, the same as a TV, and a resolution of 2560×1440. These monitors include roughly 3,686,400 pixels.
What Benefits Does a 2K Monitor Provide?
A wide range of features may be included in a 2K monitor and other types of high resolution monitor, especially a gaming monitor, including better response time due to a high refresh rate, expanded color space, and increased ability to work in certain programs. Additionally, manufacturers typically make both a standard computer monitor and a gaming monitor with smaller screen sizes than 2K TVs, increasing pixel density while reducing eye strain and the need for eye care. Know as well that there are advantages to both 2K vs 4K monitors.
Insider Tip
High response times help improve the input lag on gaming monitors, allowing gamers to have a more accurate picture of what is going on.
High Response Time in 2K Monitors
Professional gamers looking for a gaming monitor need a high monitor refresh rate to reduce response time (input lag). If the term “response time” is new to you and you’re wondering what response time is on a computer display, it measures the time it takes for the monitor to reflect changes made by the user. Comparatively, the response time of a gaming monitor remains much higher than the response time of a TV based on frame rates, reflecting changes in any game faster. These enhanced response times also eliminate lag when trying to switch to other applications or web pages.
Wider Color Gamut and 2K Monitors
You may want to find a gaming monitor with wider color space. One enhanced color gamut includes the Adobe RGB space used in HDMI inputs. Combining the increased response time and Adobe RGB color space, you may find that applications such as those in the Adobe Creative Suite work and look better on a 2K gaming monitor. In addition, you should notice a difference while watching TV using an HDMI DisplayPort with Adobe RGB. However, most monitors don’t offer as wide of a viewing angle comparatively even after the introduction of IPS display technology.
Eye Strain and Eye Care with Monitors
If you purchase a gaming monitor with a high response time while sitting too close, you may need eye care. The closer you sit to a large monitor screen, the more likely you are to strain your eyes, and the same is true if you use any monitor display size for too long. As a result, some brands offer HDR and eye-care technology in the 2,000-pixel range.
Warning
Make sure to take breaks to avoid eye strain, which occurs when you sit too close or use the monitor for too long.
F.A.Q.S
What is pixel density?
Pixel density measures roughly how many pixels are in each inch of the monitor, and it is measured in pixels per inch (PPI.)
How does response time affect computer monitors?
Response time represents the amount of time it takes the computer to respond to your input, such as clicking a mouse. High response times mean that your changes show up sooner.
Is 2K the same thing as 1440p?
No, 1440p refers to a specific type of 2K monitor with an aspect ratio of 16:9. This resolution has the highest pixel density of all of the 2K monitor types.
STAT: Standard DCI 2K native resolution is 2,048 x 1,080 pixels. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/faqs/pc-life-faqs/what-is-2k-resolution/
- https://www.benq.com/en-sg/knowledge-center/knowledge/what-is-resolution-of-monitor-full-hd-vs-2k-vs-4k.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2K_resolutionr
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphics_display_resolution
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPS_panel
