Why Do Monitors Keep Getting Bigger Rather Than Better?

It is a common observation that monitors are continuously evolving, with most of the focus on increasing their physical dimensions rather than enhancing other aspects of display technology. This article seeks to explore the reasons behind this trend and address the myth that monitors are not getting better.

The Shift to Larger Monitors

Over the years, the size of monitors has dramatically increased, from conventional 20-inch displays to 34-inch and beyond. Many users marvel at the sheer size of modern monitors, but what often gets overlooked is that these monitors are overwhelmingly not just bigger, but also significantly better in terms of performance.

The Paradox of Size and Quality

It is a well-documented trend that people are willing to pay a premium for larger monitors. For example, a high-end Alienware 34-inch QD-OLED monitor, priced at €1200, is seen as a worthwhile investment. Unlike the previous conventional 20-inch monitors, the 34-inch model offers not just a larger screen but also a plethora of other advantages.

Key Improvements in Display Technology

The rise in monitor size often comes hand in hand with significant improvements in display technology. There are several factors contributing to this:

Resolution: Higher resolutions mean more detail and clarity, enhancing the viewing experience. Refresh Rate: Faster refresh rates reduce motion blur and offer smoother, more fluid gameplay. Latency: Lower input lag ensures that what the user sees on the screen is closer to real-time action. New Technologies: Advancements like OLED matrices offer the best of both worlds - the superior color accuracy and contrast of IPS displays combined with the rapid refresh rates of LED screens. Color Accuracy and HDR

Moreover, modern monitors excel in color accuracy, bringing images and videos to life in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. The highlight of many high-end monitors is their amazing HDR support, which greatly enhances the image quality and viewing experience. The pixel density is often high enough to provide a comfortable viewing experience, regardless of whether it is high DPI or not.

A Balancing Act of Value and Quality

It is important to note that the increase in monitor size does not mean sacrificing quality. In fact, larger monitors often come with better quality and features, reflecting the trend in the tech industry where form follows function.

Education and Reality

There is a school of thought that suggests that monitors are not getting better and instead are becoming bigger. However, this perception needs to be reconsidered. Monitors have indeed become better, with advances in technology and design ensuring that users get more than just a big screen. The size increase is merely a natural progression, making monitors more suited to various use cases, from gaming to multimedia viewing.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, while monitors are getting bigger, they are also becoming better. The increase in size does not detract from their quality; instead, it enhances the overall viewing experience. It is time to challenge the notion that monitors are not getting better and instead recognize the advancements in display technology that continue to improve the user experience.