Best USB-C Monitors 2024: Reviews, Buying Guide | PCWorld

The Ultimate Guide to USB-C Monitors: Simplify Your Workspace and Boost Productivity

USB-C. It’s becoming ubiquitous, a single port promising to connect all your devices. And its increasing presence on new monitors is no accident. A USB-C monitor offers far more than just a display – it’s a potential hub for your entire workspace, decluttering your desk and streamlining your workflow. But navigating the world of USB-C monitors can be tricky, with varying features and a price range that reflects the complexity. This guide breaks down the benefits, clarifies the confusing jargon, and highlights some top recommendations to help you find the perfect USB-C monitor for your needs.

The Allure of USB-C: More Than Just a Port

The core appeal of a USB-C monitor lies in its versatility. It’s more than just a video input; it’s a potential powerhouse. Here’s what a USB-C monitor can offer:

• Integrated USB Hub: Ditch the separate USB hub cluttering your desk. A USB-C monitor can function as a central connection point, offering multiple USB-A ports for your keyboard, mouse, external hard drives, and other peripherals.
• Video Input Alternative: USB-C can replace traditional video connections like HDMI or DisplayPort. This is especially useful for modern laptops that are increasingly ditching these older ports in favor of the slimmer USB-C.
• Power Delivery: Some USB-C monitors can even charge your connected laptop, tablet, or phone while you’re working. This eliminates the need for a separate power adapter, further reducing clutter.

However, the capabilities of a USB-C port can vary significantly. Understanding the nuances is crucial before making a purchase.

Navigating the USB-C Labyrinth: Understanding the Specs

USB-C is a physical connector, but its capabilities are determined by the underlying protocols it supports. Here are some key terms to understand:

• DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode): This crucial feature allows the USB-C port to transmit video signals using the DisplayPort protocol. Without DP Alt Mode, you’ll need a separate HDMI or DisplayPort connection for video. All the monitors recommended in this guide support DisplayPort Alternate Mode.
• USB Power Delivery (USB PD): This protocol allows the USB-C port to deliver power to connected devices. The amount of power delivered can vary, from a modest 15W to a substantial 240W. For laptops, a Power Delivery of 65W to 90W is generally sufficient for charging while working, but power-hungry gaming laptops may require more power than a USB-C monitor can provide.
• Data Transfer Speeds: USB-C ports can support different data transfer speeds, typically measured in gigabits per second (Gbps). Higher speeds are essential for transferring large files and can also impact the performance of connected USB devices.
• Thunderbolt 3/4 and USB4: These are advanced protocols that use the USB-C connector and offer even higher data transfer speeds (up to 40Gbps) and broader capabilities, including support for multiple displays and external GPUs. If your laptop has Thunderbolt, you can expect seamless connectivity and maximum performance with a compatible monitor.

Our Top USB-C Monitor Recommendations

Here are a few of our favorite USB-C monitors, catering to various needs and budgets:

• Dell Ultrasharp U3225QE: The Professional Powerhouse

  This 31.5-inch 4K monitor is a connectivity champion. Its Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C ports provide 140W of Power Delivery, enough to charge most laptops. It also includes HDMI, DisplayPort, a secondary DisplayPort for daisy-chaining, a built-in 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, six USB-A ports, and a KVM switch. The IPS Black panel offers excellent color accuracy and contrast, making it ideal for demanding professional tasks. While it lacks built-in speakers, the U3225QE’s extensive features and high-quality display make it a top choice for professionals who need a central hub for their workspace. If you need a smaller version check out the Dell Ultrasharp U2725QE.

• BenQ GW2786TC: The Budget-Friendly Champion

  For under $200, the BenQ GW2786TC offers a surprising amount of value. This 27-inch 1080p monitor has a 100Hz refresh rate, an ergonomic stand, USB-C with 65W Power Delivery, and DisplayPort-out for daisy-chaining. Built-in speakers, a noise-canceling microphone, and an ambient light sensor add extra convenience for home office use. While it lacks adaptive sync, its numerous features and low price make it an excellent budget-friendly USB-C monitor. It works with Macbooks, Windows PCs, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops.

• Viewsonic VP16-OLED: The Portable Perfectionist

  If you need a high-quality display on the go, the Viewsonic VP16-OLED is hard to beat. This 15.6-inch 1080p OLED monitor delivers exceptional color accuracy, gamut, and contrast. Its innovative stand can be used as a kickstand or expanded to hold the monitor upright. It includes two USB-C ports (both supporting power and video input) and a micro-HDMI port. While its MSRP of $399.99 is relatively high for a portable monitor, its image quality and design make it an excellent choice for professionals who demand the best.

• LG DualUp 28MQ780-B: The Productivity Powerhouse

  The LG DualUp has a unique 16:18 aspect ratio that’s almost exactly square and can rotate into a 18:16 aspect ratio if you’d prefer. This monitor has a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90 watts of Power Delivery. The USB-C port can extend connectivity to two additional USB-A ports. The monitor’s odd form factor is ideal for viewing large, complex documents and can be useful for editing portrait or square photos.

• Philips Evnia 8000: The Immersive Ultrawide Experience

  For those seeking a truly immersive experience, the Philips Evnia 8000 is the ultimate big-screen, super-ultrawide monitor. This 49-inch QD-OLED monitor combines top-notch design and extensive connectivity with impressive image quality. It features multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port with 90W Power Delivery. The monitor also includes a USB hub with four USB-A ports and an additional USB-C port. With a 5120×1440 resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate, the Evnia 8000 delivers vibrant visuals and smooth motion. The monitor also excels in contrast and color accuracy.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a USB-C Monitor

Beyond the specific models, here are some general factors to keep in mind:

• Display Quality: Look for a monitor with a sharp, vivid, bright, and contrast-rich screen. Panel type (IPS, VA, OLED) also affects image quality, with each having its own strengths and weaknesses.
• Resolution and Refresh Rate: Choose a resolution and refresh rate that suits your needs. 1080p is fine for basic tasks, while 1440p or 4K offer greater detail. A higher refresh rate (e.g., 144Hz or 240Hz) is beneficial for gaming.
• Power Delivery: Ensure the monitor’s Power Delivery is sufficient for your laptop. Check your laptop’s power adapter specifications to determine its power requirements.
• Connectivity: Consider the number and type of ports you need. Do you need Ethernet? Multiple USB-A ports? A DisplayPort output for daisy-chaining?
• Ergonomics: Look for a monitor with an adjustable stand that allows you to adjust the height, tilt, and swivel for comfortable viewing.
• Price: USB-C monitors typically cost more than comparable monitors without USB-C. Be prepared to pay a premium for the added functionality.

Gaming and USB-C: A Word of Caution

While USB-C can technically support gaming features like high refresh rates and adaptive sync, many USB-C monitors lack these features. If you’re a gamer, make sure the monitor specifically supports your desired gaming features and that you’re using a dedicated DisplayPort or HDMI video cable for optimal performance.

Is a USB-C Monitor Right for You?

A USB-C monitor is an excellent way to expand your computer’s connectivity without the added clutter of a USB-C hub or dock. It reduces the wires present on your desk, freeing up space for other uses. It’s also excellent when used with a USB-C laptop that consumes less than 90 watts of power at load. Docking a laptop at a desk can be annoying if you use a wired keyboard, wired mouse, and external monitor. A USB-C monitor can consolidate all your wired devices to a single USB-C cable.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a USB-C monitor depends on your individual needs and budget. If you value convenience, decluttering your workspace, and simplifying your connections, a USB-C monitor is definitely worth considering. By understanding the technology and carefully evaluating your options, you can find the perfect USB-C monitor to enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow.