Choosing the right monitor is important for any profession, but it’s especially crucial for architects. A good monitor can help you display accurate colors and images, which is essential for designing beautiful structures.
Without a quality monitor, it can be difficult to present clients with accurate images and dimensions, and it may even be difficult to design your projects.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best monitors for architects and help you determine which one is right for your needs.
Monitor Comparison Table
| Image | Monitor | Screen Size | Resolution | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | BenQ PD2700U | 27 inches | 3840x2160 | See details at Amazon |
 | Samsung U28E590D | 28 inches | 3840x2160 | See details at Amazon |
 | Philips 276E8VJSB | 27 inches | 3840x2160 | See details at Amazon |
 | ASUS PA329Q | 32 inches | 3840x2160 | See details at Amazon |
 | BenQ PD3200U | 32 inches | 3840x2160 | See details at Amazon |
 | LG 27UK850-W | 27 inches | 2560x1440 | See details at Amazon |
 | Dell UltraSharp U2715H | 27 inches | 2560x1440 | See details at Amazon |
 | ViewSonic VP2768 PRO | 27 inches | 2560x1440 | See details at Amazon |
 | Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q | 27 inches | 2560x1440 | See details at Amazon |
 | LG 34WK650-W | 34 inches | 2560x1080 | See details at Amazon |
Best Monitor for Architects in 2022 – Our Top 10
1. BenQ PD2700U 4K Monitor
The first the best monitor for architects on our list is the BenQ PD2700U. It is a high-performance monitor with 4K UHD display resolution so you can work on tiny details while still retaining great precision.
This monitor is equipped with professional productivity boosts which allow you to view work in CAD/CAM, animation or darkroom mode. You can even view two modes side-by-side with the DualView feature.
This BenQ model has built-in eye care protection for long periods of usage, including low blue light, flicker-free and Brighteness Intelligence technology.
You can switch between portrait and landscape mode efficiently. Meanwhile, the KVM Switch lets you control two PCs using one keyboard.
Pros
- Ultra high 4K resolution display
- DualView mode
- Eye-care protection
Cons
- Color uniformity may be off
- Screen brightness may be too bright
2. Samsung U28E590D 4K LED-Lit Monitor
The Samsung U28E590D is another game changer in the monitor industry, with 8 million pixels to produce 4K ultra-high definition display.
It comes with Picture-in-Picture (PIP) 2.0 technology, which allows you to open and operate two windows at the same time while maintaining original resolution.
Meanwhile, the AMD FreeSync has a 1ms response for smooth viewing of fast graphic motions and video games – perfect for taking a break!
This monitor also has an eye-saver mode that reduces blue light and flickers, making those long hours much more bearable. Its matte body and metallic rim create a sleek design.
While the T-stand provides a modern look, it’s flimsy and may cause the monitor to shake easily. Moreover, the viewing angle can be fatiguing if you’re working with lots of colors and text.
Pros
- 4K UHD display
- Multitask with PIP 2.0 technology
- AMD FreeSync for fast-motion videos and gaming
Cons
- Fatiguing viewing angle
- Thin and flimsy stand
3. Philips 276E8VJSB 4K IPS Monitor
Among one of the best monitor for architects is the Philips 276E8VJSB. It’s already equipped with all the newest monitor technology like 4K resolution, flicker-free and 10-bit colors, so your work will be displayed with maximum quality.
It has MultiView ability to work with multiple devices side-by-side. Additionally, this Philips monitor has new ultra-narrow borders for maximum viewing size and less distraction.
The best thing about this model is that it comes with a 4 year replacement warranty. It does have a downside when used for gaming purposes as the panel may exhibit visible ghosting.
There is also currently no stands compatible for the monitor, unless you customize your own. Other than that, it’s a pretty solid monitor for architects!
Pros
- MultiView technology
- UltraNarrow border for optimized viewing
- 4 year replacement warranty
Cons
- Ghosting when used for gaming
- No compatible monitor stand
4. ASUS PA329Q ProArt Monitor
The next monitor on this list that’s suitable for your architectural work is the ASUS PA329Q. It has the ProArt Calibration Technology for ultimate color accuracy tuning and uniformity, so that the display will remain consistent whenever you calibrate brightness and colors.
The Picture in Picture and Picture by Picture feature for multitasking and opening multiple windows are compatible even for 4K contents.
In addition to the eye-care protection, this monitor has an IPS display technology to prevent inconsistent color shifts even from extreme viewing angles.
It’s an all-round high quality monitor, but many customers have complained of receiving faulty products. This poor quality control is a shame for such a popular company, especially if it sacrifices pixels and the display quality.
Pros
- ProArt Calibration Technology
- 4K UHD Picture in Picture and Picture by Picture
- IPS display with multiple viewing angles
Cons
- Poor quality control
- Your monitor may have defective pixels
5. BenQ PD3200U 4K UHD Monitor
The BenQ PD3200U is also a 4K UHD monitor that can cater to your architectural work. Similar to the other BenQ model, this one is equipped with CAD/ CAM, animation and darkroom mode to make your workflow more efficient.
It even comes with a HotKey Puck so you can seamlessly switch between modes and adjust brightness or contrast with a simple click.
One advantage of this monitor is its ergonomic design that has been optimized for the workplace. You can control the height, pivot, swivel, tilt and stroke of the monitor to suit your eye level and sitting position.
The smart screen orientation means you can use it in portrait mode. Its KVM switch lets you use two PC systems using just one keyboard and mouse too.
One major problem that customers have encountered is random flickering that may suddenly start, and this means you’ll have to contact customer service.
Pros
- HotKey Puck to switch modes and adjust brightness
- Ergonomic design
- KVM switch
Con
- Flicker issue may arise
6. LG 27UK850-W IPS Monitor
This LG 27UK850-W model is yet another amazing monitor with ultra-high definition 4K display and accurate colors viewable from any angle. It’s also widely adjustable and has a very ergonomic design to make your work more comfortable.
The ultra-thin bezel offers a sleek, seamless design, while prioritizing a distraction less viewing experience. The thin design makes your workstation look clean and modern, but that means it’s quite flimsy and can shake easily.
Although LG mostly distributes excellent products, you may get faulty ones. Some customers complain about backlight bleed in the monitors.
Pros
- USB type-C
- Virtually borderless display
- Adjustable display
Cons
- Massive backlight bleed
- Flimsy build
7. Dell UltraSharp U2715H LED-Lit Monitor
The Dell UltraSharp U2715H is a tough contender in the monitor market and it’s one you should consider as the best monitor for architects. It has a world-class display and impeccable performance.
You can adjust the monitor and swivel it up to 90 degree to suit your preferred viewing angle and position. It’s designed to be environmentally-friendly with PVC, arsenic and mercury-free material, plus an auto sleep mode.
This model is known to have a relatively fragile design and is sensitive to water exposure, even if it’s only a splash. Some customers also claim that it produces heavy backlight bleed.
Pros
- Ultimate world-class performance
- Pivots up to 90 degree
- Environmentally-conscious design
Cons
- Fragile monitor
- May have backlight bleed
8. ViewSonic VP2768 PRO Monitor
Another equally great monitor is the ViewSonic VP2768 PRO, which is designed to display vibrant accurate colors specifically for designers.
It’s one of the only monitors without a 4K resolution, yet it makes up in its other features, including an amazing screen uniformity that’s vital for editing images.
This model also has excellent connectivity; DisplayPort technology allows you to easily connect multiple devices and monitors. Moreover, the frameless design provides a seamless viewing experience with minimal distraction.
The only other downside is the potentiality of receiving faulty products, as many customers have complaint. But I think as long as you choose the correct retailer or seller, you should have no problem.
Pros
- Excellent connectivity
- Frameless design
Cons
- No 4K UHD display (only 2K)
- Poor quality control
9. Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q 4K IPS Monitor
Next on this list is the Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q. This monitor has a 4K ultra-high definition display that caters to a high contrast range, color depths and remarkable clarity.
This monitor also has a modern design thanks to its InfinityEdge borderless display, allowing a seamless viewing experience.
This Dell model has a wide variety of ports and holes in the back so that you can easily connect it to various devices and gadgets. One complaint that appears to be prevalent is the bleeding of random colors in the corners.
Pros
- 4K UHD resolution display
- InfinityEdge offers a borderless display
- Great connectivity options
Con
- Color bleeding in corners
10. LG 34WK650-W Ultrawide Monitor
Last but not least, the LG 34WK650-W is a well-loved monitor that’s currently popular. This one of the best ones in this list too.
Its ultrawide screen is 33% wider than the standard Full HD monitor display, so you can glance at your architectural design widely. The on-screen control allows you to adjust monitor settings like volume, brightness and screen split directly on the screen.
One of its unique features is actually the Reader Mode, which automatically adjusts the color temperature of your monitor to mimic that of paper. It’s equipped with flicker-free feature to protect your eye from fatiguing flickers.
However, setting up this monitor can prove to be tricky, especially if you use extended display. It also doesn’t always work well with laptops.
Pros
- Ultrawide screen
- Easy on-screen control
- Flicker-free and reader mode
Con
- Difficult setup
- Poor laptop compatibility
How to Choose a Monitor for Architectural Work
These are the most important factors that you should consider before buying a monitor for your architectural work.
1. Ergonomics
The best monitor for architects will be the one that has an ergonomic design. As an architect, you will be spending hours sitting on your desk and staring at your monitor.
Using a monitor that’s fully flexible to swivel and adjust its height can make all the difference for comfort and fatigue.
Having a monitor stand that allows you to pivot it 90 degrees is useful for working in portrait mode. You might also want to consider the placement of card readers, USB ports and other physical feature you’ll be using.
2. Color and Gray-Scale Accuracy
This depends how important the accuracy of colors is for you. Although when designing your architectural work, it’s probably best to see the same colors on screen as in reality.
Your monitor should therefore have at least a 10-bit look-up table (LUT) and support multiple color spaces.
3. Resolution
The next factor to consider is the display resolution. A lot of monitors now have 4K ultra-high definition, which is the highest resolution there currently is.
At the very least, you should get a Full HD resolution for your architectural needs. Of course, the price will be more expensive as the resolution is higher.
4. Screen Size
It’s important to choose the right screen size. Working with tiny details is easier with a larger screen, which also offers a larger workspace.
Don’t forget to consider how big or small your workspace is, because you don’t want a gigantic screen to take up your entire desk and leave no space for your other equipment.
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5. I/O Connections
This is particularly important for an architect, as you would probably need to connect your monitor to various other devices. Thus, having an excellent connectivity can come in handy.
Some essential I/O connections you would want include DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI, dual-link DVI ports and Thunderbolt ports.
If your monitor has an ultra-high definition display, you might need two HDMI ports on your graphic card, which also has to support MST. This will allow you to view at the optimal resolution with an efficient refresh rate.
6. Panels
Panels determine the monitor’s quality in displaying graphics, which is important for architects. You want to get either TN, VA, IPS or super IPS panels. These are the golden standard in monitors to ensure high performance.
7. Price
The price range for monitors can vary wildly, but it’s important to set a fixed budget before buying. What’s the maximum amount you’re willing to spend?
8. Warranty
Most monitors come with a warranty if you buy in the official store. It’s crucial to have at least a few years’ warranty and customer support that you can easily reach.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the monitor you should buy depends on your budget, priorities and personal preferences. Get the one with features that excite you the most!
We hope this guide and list of the best monitor for architects can help you determine which one is the right choice for you. Good luck.
FAQ
1) What is IPS panel technology?
IPS panel technology allows the display to show accurate colors and images from all viewing angles. Unlike many standard monitors, which display images with narrow viewing angles and washed-out colors, IPS displays show accurate color and crisp images from different angles.
2) What size monitor do architects use?
We recommend 24″ monitors for most architects because they’re the perfect size to design and view plans. Anything smaller than that may limit your designing potential, and anything larger becomes cumbersome and unnecessary.
3) Do architects need 4K monitors?
It is highly recommended that you purchase a 4K monitor if possible. You can view more content (like your design plans) on one screen, and the detail of the images will be significantly better than with a standard HD monitor.
4) Is a curved monitor good for AutoCAD?
It’s not recommended that you buy a curved monitor if you’re primarily designing with AutoCAD. Curved monitors can distort images and make it difficult to design accurately, but they may be ideal for designers who use additional programs with their CAD designs.