Choosing a monitor is like choosing any computer component – there are things to consider that would make or break your budget and lead you to the best buy you could find.
But here’s one thing you should decide before searching for a particular brand, size, and model monitor: should you go with the traditional flat screens, or are you open to the immersive world that curved monitors could bring?
What is a Curved Monitor?
Curved monitors (the opposite of flat-screen monitors) use a newer technology designed to provide users with a more immersive viewing experience.
The difference is in the design – the concave screen wraps around a user’s eyes, creating a more natural viewing angle than flat screens. Experts explain that since our eyes aren’t flat (they’re also curved), they do not strain when viewing anything on a curved monitor.
To Buy or Not to Buy
Of course, the most suitable option for you may not be the most suitable for your friend or colleague, and vice versa. It would still boil down to personal preference and work requirements. So here’s a quick guide to give you an idea of which “team” to pick:
WHEN TO BUY A CURVED MONITOR
Consider buying a curved monitor if:
- You need to increase productivity. Curved monitors allow you to multitask more effectively. This is in part because the size of curved monitors is wider and offers more real estate or work space to any user. You can open multiple programs or documents in one display and save time switching between apps.
- You want an enhanced viewing experience. The wider, concave screen eliminates the need to adjust your position constantly when working. The reduced amount of movement your eyes, head, neck, and back experience could contribute to lesser aches and pains associated with extended work hours on the computer.
- You’re looking to show off your work setup. There is no denying that a curved monitor is exceptionally wow-worthy. It looks like a mini cinema, regardless of how you feel about curved monitors. If your job is in the creatives (game development, video production, movies, and other similar industries) and you can afford to buy a big-sized curved monitor, then adding this to your setup will surely impress a lot of people.
- You need fewer distractions. Working from home or remotely has its upsides, but one downside everyone shares is having too much distraction. With a curved screen, you can focus on your work more effectively because you no longer need to tilt your head or glance to the side of your display to be able to view the entirety of your screen. If you have a big enough curved display positioned perfectly in the center of your workspace, you’ll have a natural viewing experience that doesn’t require extra movement on your part.
WHEN NOT TO BUY A CURVED MONITOR
Consider choosing a traditional flat monitor if:
- You need to bring your computer to the field. If you’re going to work remotely in different locations, curved monitors won’t be much of a help. It is bulky and impractical to move around. Your best bet is to choose portable monitors that are lightweight and flexible enough to be carried wherever you go.
- You’re used to how traditional flat screens work. Yes, curved monitors do provide you with a unique experience that is comparable to 3D. But not everyone enjoys watching 3D movies, right? It’s the same with curved displays. If you feel that a curved monitor is too much of a departure from flat screens that you’ve gotten used to, working on a curved monitor can actually be non-beneficial to you.
- You have a limited workspace. If your home office isn’t big, it can be tricky to fit a curved monitor. This is because curved displays are bigger and if you place a big screen in a small office, it would be challenging to position everything else. Plus, the back of curved monitors does not allow you to hang it up on the wall as flat screens do so say goodbye to space-saving techniques you used to know.
- You have a tight budget. Curved monitors are generally more expensive than your non-curved alternative not only because of the technology used but also because you’ll need a larger-sized monitor to take advantage of the curved screen’s benefits. If you’re going to pay for the monitor out of your pocket (and not provided by your company), this could mean you’d have to save more and wait longer to buy a curved monitor or choose a flat monitor instead.
The Bottom line
Curved monitors are super-sexy appearance-wise and provide a unique experience especially if you’re dealing with advanced graphics on games, movies, and other content.
However, as with any new technology, curved monitors still have limitations. For one, you have to really go big to enjoy the immersive experience and because bigger monitors mean more expensive, you need deeper pockets for your remote work set-up.