Choose around the task that would otherwise interrupt plotting: a compact, adjustable monitor when desk space is tight, a compatible KVM-equipped monitor when computers regularly share a keyboard and mouse, or a higher-resolution display when tide tables and reference windows need to stay visible together. A larger screen needs enough room for each user to position it comfortably; USB-C alone does not establish that a laptop can send video and receive the charging it needs.
If two computers take turns using the desk, check whether a KVM can share the keyboard and mouse, and whether each computer supports the monitor’s required video and USB connections. LG and Samsung list KVM functions on specific models, but the connections still need checking for your devices.
If the tide table, chart and source notes must remain visible together, compare the resolution and window layout you can use with the space the monitor occupies. Dell lists large 4K and ultrawide models with room for different layouts; their dimensions still need to fit the desk and viewing position.
If users need different screen positions, check the stand’s height, tilt, swivel and pivot options alongside the chair, desk and lighting. The Health and Safety Executive advises adjusting screens and lighting to address reflections and glare as part of the wider workstation setup.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Handovers between computers | Check KVM operation, video inputs and USB connections for both computers; match any USB-C charging output to the laptop’s needs. | If I switch computers during plotting, I want the keyboard and mouse ready without repeatedly changing connections. Around 36% of consumers would put easier device handovers first. |
| Space for simultaneous windows | Compare resolution and aspect ratio against the tide table, chart and references you need open together. | Keeping source data beside a chart matters when hiding one window would break my place. For roughly 29% of consumers, simultaneous workspace would be the primary concern. |
| Workstation adjustment | Check the stand’s adjustment range and position the screen and lighting to limit reflections. | When another person takes over the desk, I need to reposition the display for their work rather than leave it fixed for mine. About 21% of consumers would prioritise workstation adjustment. |
| Keeping the desk clear | Measure the monitor’s full dimensions with its stand, and decide whether you will use its hub or multi-PC functions. | If paper charts and other equipment share the surface, I need enough clear desk space more than a larger screen. Roughly 14% of consumers would make compactness their first consideration. |
USB-C monitors differ in video, data and power-delivery arrangements, so a port alone does not establish that a particular laptop can use the display and charge through it.
Check the exact monitor’s video support and power-delivery rating against each computer, as well as the KVM connections and cables needed for the setup.
A large 4K or ultrawide display may accommodate more windows but can occupy space needed for documents, equipment or a second user’s preferred screen position.
Measure the available width and depth, then compare the monitor’s full dimensions and each user’s viewing position.
An adjustable stand or named viewing mode does not address the chair, lighting and reflections on its own. The Health and Safety Executive treats the wider workstation as relevant to display-screen work.
Adjust the screen, chair and lighting for the current user, and use the employer’s workstation assessment process where it applies.
Replacing a working display also means arranging an appropriate route for the old electrical equipment.
Check the retailer’s take-back arrangements and the applicable local electrical-waste collection options before replacing it.
Relevant when several plotting and reference windows need space, or when more than one computer uses the display.
Relevant when a compact display also needs connections for a shared-computer setup.
Relevant when changing users need screen-position adjustment.
Relevant to either a KVM-equipped ultrawide setup or a compact adjustable display, depending on the model.
These models include 4K options for plotting with several windows open and a ZenScreen option for a desk where repositioning matters. Check each model’s connections, physical fit and adjustment options against the computers and users sharing the workstation; this list is not a selection of confirmed KVM setups.
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Consider this for tide-table plotting alongside reference windows when a 27-inch display fits the shared desk. Its stated 4K UHD resolution and 16:9 format are useful layout details; check the connections, stand adjustment and full dimensions for your setup.
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Consider this if several plotting windows need to stay open and there is room for a 32-inch screen. The product name specifies a Nano Glossy IPS display and height-adjustable stand; check reflections at the desk and the actual computer’s USB-C video and charging requirements.
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Consider the stated 3840 × 2160 resolution if you want to arrange tide tables and references together. The product name also lists a USB hub and 65W Type-C connection; check the curved screen’s dimensions and viewing positions, plus the computer’s video and charging compatibility.
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Consider this 31.5-inch, 4K UHD IPS model when keeping plotting and reference windows visible is a priority. Measure the shared desk for a screen of this size, and confirm what its USB-C connection must provide for each computer.
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Consider this option if moving or repositioning the display matters at the shared desk. Check which mounting arrangement gives each user the position they need, whether its workspace fits your tide-table layout and whether your computer supports the required USB-C video connection.
No particular model is required by the Health and Safety Executive guidance cited here. For workers using display-screen equipment daily for continuous periods of an hour or more, employers must assess the workstation and address risks across the equipment, furniture and working conditions, rather than choose by screen specifications alone.
Hot-desking can still fall within display-screen equipment requirements when the working pattern meets the relevant conditions. The Health and Safety Executive advises a basic risk assessment when workers regularly change desks, so the screen position and wider setup should work for the person using that desk.
A built-in KVM is useful if two computers regularly need to share one keyboard and mouse. Samsung describes that arrangement for its S65UC, while LG lists a KVM on the 24BA750; check the exact monitor’s inputs and USB connections against both computers before choosing one.
Arrange an electrical-waste route rather than putting the monitor in ordinary household waste. UK government guidance describes the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2013, as amended; check the retailer’s take-back arrangements or your local authority’s collection options for the outgoing display.