People replacing one ageing work screen
If you use a desktop for documents, websites and business applications, start with the PC’s outputs and the space available for a single primary monitor.
Who is this for?
People doing text-heavy work
For spreadsheets, documents, code or several open windows, consider native resolution alongside screen size, text scaling and the position you can achieve at your desk.
People seeking a simpler cable setup
A USB-C monitor is worth considering if your computer supports video through the intended port. Check the monitor’s data and power-delivery functions separately if you need those too.
What matters when choosing?
For a single desktop work screen, establish the connection and workable screen position first; then choose the resolution and audio arrangement that suit your tasks.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| PC ports and cables | Match the PC’s video output, monitor input and cable ends. For USB-C, confirm video support and any required data or charging functions. | When replacing an old screen, I need the new one to work with my existing desktop. Getting that connection right is the primary concern for about 31% of consumers. |
| Desk fit and adjustment | Compare the screen-and-stand dimensions with your desk. Check whether the stand lets you position the display directly ahead at a comfortable height and distance. | A shallow desk leaves little room to move a screen back, so its footprint and stand matter to me. About 31% of consumers put workable positioning first. |
| Text workspace | Compare native resolution with screen size and your preferred operating-system scaling; confirm your PC supports the intended display mode. | If I work across documents or spreadsheets, I want enough usable space without making text awkward to read. That is the main priority for about 25% of consumers. |
| Everyday audio | Check whether the exact model lists built-in speakers; an audio output alone does not establish this. Decide where a headset or separate speakers would connect. | For calls and alerts, I need to know whether sound will come from the monitor or another device. Audio arrangements come first for about 13% of consumers. |
Buying pitfalls
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Assuming every USB-C port can send video
A USB-C-shaped connector does not establish that the computer can drive a monitor or use its hub and charging functions.
Check the computer’s documentation for compatible video output, such as DisplayPort Alt Mode, then compare the exact monitor’s USB-C functions with what the computer needs.
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Choosing by diagonal size without measuring the desk
The stand also occupies desk space. The Health and Safety Executive advises placing a work screen directly in front of you, roughly an arm’s length away, with its top near eye level.
Measure usable depth and width, compare them with the monitor-and-stand dimensions, and check the stand’s adjustment range.
If the screen cannot be positioned comfortably, a compatible monitor arm or a change to the desk setup may be needed.
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Assuming an audio connection means built-in speakers
Dell notes that a monitor can appear as an audio playback device even when it contains no speakers. A headphone socket can likewise be an output for separate audio equipment.
Confirm the exact model’s speaker specification and consider a headset or separate speakers if you need a different audio arrangement.
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Choosing resolution without considering text size
More pixels do not settle how comfortably you will read text at your desk; screen size, viewing distance and scaling also matter.
Compare native resolution and diagonal size together, then consider the scaling you normally use and where the screen will sit.
Brands to consider for office monitors
Dell
Dell’s UK range includes conventional adjustable office screens and USB-C hub models. Its E2425HSM and P2726HE illustrate those different configurations.
- Dell specifies height, pivot, swivel and tilt adjustment for the E2425HSM; the P2726HE lists up to 100W USB-C power delivery.
- Check speakers, USB-C functions and power delivery on the exact model rather than assuming the features apply across the range.
BenQ
BenQ’s GW home-office models offer different combinations of USB-C connectivity, stand adjustment and integrated audio.
- BenQ lists built-in speakers for the GW2785TC and 65W USB-C power delivery for the GW2790QT.
- Those features belong to the named models. Check the resolution, connections and stand of the version you intend to buy.
Lenovo ThinkVision
Lenovo’s ThinkVision P24h-30 is a compact QHD office-monitor option with USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet and USB hub connections.
- The P24h-30 combines a 23.8-inch 2560 × 1440 IPS display with several connection options.
- Its connection functions are model-specific; confirm that your computer supports the intended USB-C display setup.
Home-office monitors on Joybuy
These monitors are options for a single desktop work screen, including QHD or WUXGA choices and a Full HD model. Match the exact model to your PC connections, desk and preferred text size.
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ASUS ProArt PA278CV IPS WQHD
Consider this for a single work screen if WQHD is the resolution you want. The listed display is IPS WQHD; check its connections and stand footprint against your PC and desk.
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ASUS ProArt PA24ACRV IPS QHD
Consider this model if QHD suits your document work and you want to assess a USB-C setup. It is listed as IPS QHD; confirm video compatibility, charging requirements and the stand footprint before buying.
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ASUS ProArt PA248CRV IPS WUXGA
For document work, compare this WUXGA option with the text size you prefer. Its listed display is IPS WUXGA; verify the available inputs, desk footprint and any USB-C functions you intend to use.
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ASUS ProArt PA328QV IPS WQHD
Consider this WQHD model for a fixed desktop workstation if its screen-and-stand dimensions suit your desk. It is listed as IPS WQHD; confirm that your PC has a matching video output.
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Dell P2425H 24-inch Full HD
Consider this for a conventional desktop replacement if a 24-inch Full HD screen suits your work. The listed specifications include a 1920 × 1080 IPS display, 100Hz refresh rate, and HDMI, DisplayPort and VGA connections. USB-C is also named, but check its exact functions if you intend to use that port; confirm stand dimensions for your desk.
Common questions
What should I check on my PC before choosing a monitor connection?
Identify the video outputs on the PC or graphics card, then match an output to the monitor input and cable ends. For USB-C video, check the computer’s documentation for compatible output, such as DisplayPort Alt Mode; also confirm the resolution and refresh rate available through the connection you plan to use.
Should I choose Full HD or QHD for office documents?
Choose with screen size, desk depth and your preferred text scaling in mind, rather than resolution alone. QHD provides more pixels than Full HD, but the useful text size depends on the screen and your settings. The Health and Safety Executive advises placing a work screen roughly an arm’s length away, so check what fits at that viewing position.
Does HDMI or a headphone socket mean the monitor has speakers?
No. Check that the exact model explicitly lists built-in speakers. Dell notes that some monitors appear as audio playback devices despite having no speakers; an audio output may instead be a connection for a headset or separate speakers.
What can I do with an old monitor when replacing it in the UK?
Check the seller’s electrical-equipment take-back arrangements and local recycling options. GOV.UK says retailers covered by its waste-electrical-equipment rules must offer take-back for waste of the same type as the item purchased, including when the new item is bought online or by mail order.