Best Monitor For Photo Editing: Top 7 Models to Look for in the Market

7 Best Monitor for Photo Editing

After you invest the time and money to shoot great photos with a quality camera, you will equally need a sufficient monitor to help you edit your images.

You will want the best monitor for photo editing to reduce your eye strain, glare, and project your photos in true hue, color, and clarity. Depending on how you like to set up your monitor, you may need to compare what width provides enough space to view your photos. All monitors are not equal when it comes to the available screen resolution, canceling out noise, and reliability.

Before you consider bargain hunting or plunking down your money for the most expensive monitor your money can buy, check out this review first. The best monitor for photo editing might sharply contrast from your initial choice of monitor.

Using Multiple Displays Versus Single Display

Depending on how you like to set up your space for editing photos, you will want to consider the best monitor for photo editing if you desire more than a single display. Utilizing multiple monitor displays has its advantages.

Benefits of using more than one monitor on your desk for editing include the following.

• You may feel an increased sense of productivity and greater control over your editing process
• When splitting work between multiple screens, you can focus on comparisons and sharpening details
• You can multi-task between email, accessing multiple programs, and editing between screens

One monitor may provide you with a view of your photo in high resolution and sharp contrast, but multiple monitors can make the process of editing more comfortable.

When using editing software like Lightroom, you may find it better to use more than one monitor.

It may be an expensive venture to purchase more than one monitor, or you may not have enough desk space. However, using multiple screens may enhance how you approach editing photos and grant you improved results.

How We Choose Our Ratings

Before we compiled this list of top monitors to enhance your photo editing process, we checked considered a few different factors. We surveyed reviews from real people, examined the different features offered by trusted brands, and considered the cost for the performance provided.

We think that you will find a quality monitor worth investing in for editing photos, that will work for various budgets, preferences, and expectations.

Top 7 Best Monitors For Photo Editing

Here you will find some of the top monitors that both amateur and professional photographers trust to edit their photos. After investing in the right camera, a reliable computer, and editing software, you will desire a monitor worthy of your artistic expression.

The following monitors each offer must-have features for varying price points and are manufactured by some of the best electronics companies on the market.

EIZO CS2730-BK-CNX Color Edge Monitor

5 Stars	EIZO Color Edge Monitor (CS2730-BK-CNX) LED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 Features an anti-glare panel to lessen eye strain 1000:1 Contrast Ratio, 99% Adobe RGB Coverage Comes with a 5-year warranty 24/7 Tech Support Desk in North America Mounting type: Mounting-Hole Pattern : 100 x 100 mm

The resolution on this monitor is not as stellar as newer 4k monitors released by EIZO. However, you can enjoy editing photos on the LED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440.

Thanks to features like an anti-glare panel, moments of eye fatigue and eye strain is lessened. Your photos will come through with a nice range of gradients and tones, all because of the 10-bit simultaneous display and a contrast ratio of 1000 to 1.

Shifting between editing photos and printing your images is made easy with the Quick Color Match tool.

Aesthetically, this monitor will spruce up the look of your desk and workspace while editing photos, thanks to slim design, matte finish, and convenient carrying handle. Images shown on this monitor will come through with richness and depth, but there is not full-color support for Adobe sRGB.

One drawback is that you will have to invest in hardware for color calibration, which can be costly on top of the initial price tag for this monitor.

Overall, this monitor is a solid choice for photographers, videographers, and designers. Connectivity is made possible via an HDMI port, 3.0 USB port, and DVI-D port. This screen is less bulky than others on the market, has an ergonomic design, and is useful for smaller spaces.

This monitor comes with a 5-year warranty.

PROS

• Uses a crystalline wide-gamut LED display
• 27-inch monitor offers 2560 x1440 resolution
• Supports Adobe RGB by 99%

CONS

• You will need to shell out more money for additional hardware to set up and ensure color quality

Dell UltraSharp 32 Inch 8K Monitor (UP3218K )

4.5 Stars	Dell UltraSharp 8K Monitor (UP3218K ) 32in 8K 7680×4320 Can swivel the monitor up to 60-degrees when adjusted vertically Provides impressive color quality at 100% for AdobeRGB, and sRGB with a little over 1 billion colors he monitor is also capable of swiveling up to 90-degrees to alternate between a portrait or landscape view

This monitor gives graphic designers and photographers 32 inches of workspace for editing images. Although the initial sticker shock may cause some people to pass this monitor up, the 8k resolution is worth the investment.

The resolution and accuracy for photo editing are beautiful, and the monitor’s design is attractive with a durable build.

The 8k resolution may be lost on most users who are content with a 4k monitor, but professionals may appreciate the enhanced results. Putting this monitor together is a cinch, and the neck and base of the monitor are constructed from durable aluminum.

In addition to using this monitor for gaming, editors will value that they can swivel the monitor up to 60-degrees when adjusted vertically.  The monitor is also capable of swiveling up to 90-degrees to alternate between a portrait or landscape view, which is helpful for editing.

On the downside, because this monitor is 8k and ultra-powerful, you won’t find many ports available, as it cannot handle the power. Both of the two display ports will have to be plugged into the same graphic card for users to enjoy the full resolution offered by this monitor.

The monitor is calibrated at the factory and provides impressive color quality at 100% for AdobeRGB, and sRGB with a little over 1 billion colors.

PROS

• The 8K resolution offers a view of 7,680 x 4,320 pixels for clarity of an image
• Stunning color coverage and handling
• Uses cutting-edge technology, making it a leader for future monitors

CONS

• This monitor is on the expensive side and may run hot during operation, requiring breaks to cool down

ASUS Designo MX27UC 27 Inch 4K UHD IPS Monitor

4.2 Stars

ASUS Designo MX27UC 4K UHD IPS Monitor 27” 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) AH-IPS monitor with a wide 178° viewing angle. Display viewing area(HxV) : 596.7 x 335.6 mm, pixel pitch : 0.155mm and contrast ratio (maximum): 1300:1 ASUS Eye Care technology with TUV Rheinland-certified flicker-free backlighting and blue light filter minimizes eye fatigue 3W x 2 stereo, RMS, with 3Wx2 Amplifier, SonicMaster sound optimization technology was co-developed by ICEpower | Bang & Olufsen Technology to provide rich, spacious sound while eliminating the need for external speakers Award-winning frameless design and sundial-inspired base with a metallic, icicle gold finish.Designo MX27UC features an exquisite edge-to-edge frameless panel with a bezel measuring just 0.1cm thick Support 4K video/data transmission and power delivery with a single USB Type-C port to pair perfectly with devices such as the ASUS Transformer 3 Pro (T303)Industry leading 3 years warranty with Rapid Replacement

ASUS is more known for technology for gaming, but this affordable monitor is perfect for homeowners or hobbyist photographers looking to edit footage.

The screen measures at 27 inches and this monitor is designed to take on mixed uses for versatility. The resolution is 4K, and the refresh rate is 60Hz, with a contrast ratio of 1000 to 1.

This monitor doesn’t allow for swiveling or pivoting, but you can tilt it for improved viewing. There are a host of ports for video and audio, and the monitor comes with two built-in speakers. The monitor is Bluetooth compatible for enjoying music wirelessly.

Honestly, this monitor is slightly better suited for gaming than professional-level photo editing because of the warm colors, and 3,840 x 2,160 resolution. It can be challenging picking up pixels and graininess. However, you can get 100% sRGB coverage.

To offset the disadvantages, you may have to experiment with the contrast and brightness levels. Overall, this is a decent monitor if you are editing photos for fun, but not requiring to have the most polished results.

PROS

• 4k screen resolution
• Popular for gaming and other uses
• Affordable monitor option

CONS

• Not the most ideal option for professional-level photo editing

BenQ 27 Inch 4K PhotoVue Monitor (SW271)

4.2 Stars

BenQ 27 Inch 4K PhotoVue Monitor (SW271) 27 INCH 4K UHD RESOLUTION: Exceptional clarity of fine details HIGH DYNAMIC RANGE (HDR): for sharpened brightness and incredible details.Dimensions (HxWxD mm) (w/o Base) (with shading hood) 14.65X24.64×9.37 inches Dimensions (HxWxD mm) (w/o Base) 14.52×24.16X2.46 inches AQCOLOR TECHNOLOGY: 99% Adobe RGB coverage, hardware calibration support for accurate colors for photography. Card Reader Support Format: SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC USB TYPE-C: Transmit data and video signal with one cable for easy hardware calibration. Video Signal Data : Horizontal Frequency – 27~140Khz. Vertical Frequency – 24~75Hz. Video Bandwidth – 600MHz HARDWARE CALIBRATION WITH PALETTE MASTER ELEMENT SOFTWARE: Tune and maintain the color performance of the monitor at its most optimal state

This monitor was made to handle enhanced accuracy for color when editing photos or graphics. 99% of Adobe RGB and 100% of sRGB and Rec.709 spaces are covered.

For improved brightness and clarity when editing, this monitor is built to support High Dynamic Range to bring out detail. You get a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 and 1.07 billion colors for clarity and detail in images.

You can readily connect to ports for video or use the USB ports for compatible devices. Viewers can use the Black & White mode, or GamutDuo to view images simultaneously in varying color spaces. The Palette Master Element Calibration Software helps ensure color performance.

This is an ideal monitor for professionals, and the quality of construction is durable. Aesthetically, this monitor doesn’t disappoint while seated on your desk, weighs in at a hefty 23.15 lbs., and comes in a matte black finish.

PROS

• 10-bit color display with HDR
• Black&White mode and GamutDUo assist with viewing images
• Included shading hood helps reduce glare, distractions, and ensure the accuracy of portrayal of images

CONS

• Color accuracy could be improved, and you may want to use a calorimeter

Samsung 32 Inch WQHD LED Monitor (S32D850T)

4.1 Stars	Samsung WQHD LED Monitor (S32D850T) 2560×1440 WQHD, which is about 1.8 times clearer than Full HD Aspect Ratio : 16:09.Product dimensions with stand 29.18 x 24.80/19.68 x 11.02 inches,Product dimensions without stand 29.18 x 17.36 x 2.69 inches Resolution : WQHD(2560×1440) Response Time : 5 (GTG)ms.Power Consumption (Max):100 W Mounting type: Wall-Mount: VESA 100 × 100mm, Bracket 200 × 200mm

This 32-inch monitor provides ample display space for images when editing photos, and covers 100% of AdobeRGB and sRGB. The resolution stands at 2560 x 1440 WQHD, which is slightly better than HD. However, there are better monitors available in this department. The contrast is 3000 to 1.

You get a wider viewing angle with this monitor, which tops at 178-degrees.

One thing that is a nice feature of this monitor is that the display will automatically adjust to the brightness level in the room, reducing glare and improving accuracy. On the downside, this monitor lacks a USB-C port.

Overall, this is a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to edit photos and graphics.

PROS

• Includes a picture-in-picture mode
• Budget-friendly option
• Provides a 178-degree viewing angle

CONS

• Does not include a USB-C port

LG 32UD99-W 32 Inch 4K UHD IPS Monitor

3.8 Stars	LG 32UD99-W 4K UHD IPS Monitor with HDR 10 32″ UHD 4K IPS Display (3840 x 2160) HDR 10 For PC. Viewing Angle: 178 (Top-Bottom) / 178 (Right-Left) DCI-P3 95% Color Standard Pivot & Height Adjustable Stand Ultra-Thin 1.3mm Bezel.Brightness Peak 550 nits

You might swoon over the aesthetics on this monitor, which comes in a slim chassis that is white, coupled with a minimalist aluminum stand.

This eye-candy utilizes durable construction, weighs in at 18.5 lbs., and allows you to pivot, tilt, or adjust the height of the screen without fear of an accident.

Anyone who gets a kick out of device extras will love controlling this classy-looking monitor with a bezel-free face via joystick.

This monitor comes with dual HDMI 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and 5-watt speakers.

You get a resolution of 3840 x 2160 resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, and HDR compatibility. When you want to watch films, you can select the HDR cinema filter, which may cause a slight bluish tint, but it heightens the drama.

This monitor is a solid choice for gamers and photo editors and uses edge array lighting.

PROS

• 32-inch 4K monitor
• Versatile for photo editing and gaming
• Includes built-in speakers and has an aesthetically pleasing design

CONS

• The color accuracy could use some tweaking

BenQ BL2711U 27 Inch IPS 4K Monitor

3.8 Stars

BenQ BL2711U 27-Inch IPS 4K Monitor ULTRA HIGH RESOLUTION MONITOR: 27 inch LED 4K HD (3840×2160 resolution), 20,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio for exceptional color accuracy. Dimensions with Wall Mount (HxWxD inches)‎: 15.15X25.15X2.74. PROFESSIONAL GRAPHIC DESIGN DISPLAY: CAD/CAM and Animation Mode. Incredible image detail with 4ms GTG and 10-bit, 100% sRGB and Rec.709 Optimal Color Precision. CONNECT AND COLLABORATE: USB 3.0 and OSD controller for easily switching modes and multiple digital inputs, 3Wx2 Speakers. OS Compatibility- Windows 7,Windows 8,Windows 8.1Windows 10,MAC LATEST IPS PANEL TECHNOLOGY: 178/178 Wide Viewing Angle plus Picture-in-Picture (PIP) & Picture-by-Picture (PBP) to enhance convenience, productivity, and gaming experience.Response Time(Tr+Tf) typ-12ms, 4ms (GtG)‎ ERGONOMIC DISPLAY: Height Adjustable Stand, Eye Protector Sensor, Zero Flicker and Low Blue Light, plus Pilot software for customized monitor setting. Mounting type: VESA Wall Mounting 100x100mm

This monitor is excellent for anyone who needs to edit photos, uses CAD, edits video, or creates animated characters.

You won’t break the bank with this option, but will still enjoy comparable quality for effective results. You can use the picture-in-picture mode, or picture-by-picture mode to view your photos.

To protect against eye strain and fatigue, this monitor is outfitted with a low blue light option and flicker-free technology.

Take advantage of the 178-degree wide viewing angle by either mounting this monitor on a wall or using the included stand for your desk. The 10-bit panel provides 1.07 billion colors for accuracy and 100% coverage of sRGB.

PROS

• Budget-friendly option
• 3840 x 2160 resolution with a contrast of 1000:1
• Blue light reduction

CONS

• Lighting for OSD touch buttons could be improved for visibility

Comparison Table

Product	Image	Rating	Price
EIZO (CS2730-BK-CNX)
Dell UltraSharp (UP3218K )
ASUS Designo MX27UC
BenQ (SW271)
Samsung (S32D850T)
LG 32UD99-W
BenQ BL2711U

Buyer’s Guide

After reviewing our list of best monitors for photo editing, don’t forget the must-have features you will want your monitor to include for enhanced results.

Before you give in to bargain hunting, realize that specific features on different brands of monitors will help give you an edge on the competition. Keep in mind the screen resolution, color gamut, and refresh rate on your monitor, in addition to the type of photo editing software you like to use for cleaning up your images.

Once you realize what monitor you need to streamline your editing process efficiently, you can venture into options for a multiple monitor setup, or can increase control over how your adjust your images.