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Best Monitor to Use as Second Screen: Top Picks 2024
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Best Monitor to Use as Second Screen: Top Picks 2024

· · 11 min read · Buying Guides

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Table of Contents

Quick Picks: Best Second Monitor Options

  • Dell S2721DS — Best overall for most users with excellent 27" QHD display and USB-C connectivity
  • ASUS VA24EHE — Best budget pick delivering solid 24" 1080p performance under $100
  • LG 27UP550-W — Best for Mac users with 4K resolution and reliable USB-C power delivery
  • Samsung M7 Smart Monitor — Best standalone option with built-in apps and wireless connectivity
  • AOC 24G2 — Best for gaming setups needing a secondary display with 144Hz refresh rate

Finding the best monitor to use as second screen doesn’t require breaking the bank or matching your primary display exactly. The key is choosing a monitor that complements your workflow while offering the connectivity and features that matter most for your specific setup.

How We Evaluated These Monitors

Our testing focused on three critical factors: connectivity options (especially USB-C and multiple ports), display quality at typical viewing distances for secondary screens, and value proposition. We prioritized monitors that integrate seamlessly into existing setups without requiring additional adapters or causing desk clutter.

Dell S2721DS — Best Overall Second Monitor

Key Specs:

  • 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS display
  • USB-C with 65W power delivery
  • Built-in USB hub with 4 ports
  • Height-adjustable stand with pivot
  • 75Hz refresh rate

The Dell S2721DS strikes the perfect balance between features and price for most dual-monitor setups. Its 27-inch QHD resolution provides excellent screen real estate for productivity tasks like email, Slack, or reference documents while you work on your primary screen.

What sets this monitor apart is its comprehensive connectivity. The USB-C port delivers 65W of power — enough to charge most laptops while transmitting video and data through a single cable. The built-in 4-port USB hub eliminates the need for separate desk accessories, keeping your workspace clean.

The IPS panel delivers consistent colors across wide viewing angles, crucial when positioning this as a side monitor. While 75Hz won’t wow gamers, it’s perfectly adequate for typical second-screen tasks and reduces eye strain during long work sessions.

ASUS VA24EHE — Best Budget Second Monitor

Key Specs:

  • 24-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display
  • HDMI and VGA connectivity
  • Flicker-free technology with blue light filter
  • Ultra-slim 7mm profile
  • VESA mount compatible

Don’t let the budget price fool you — the ASUS VA24EHE delivers surprisingly good performance for under $100. This 24-inch monitor provides crisp 1080p visuals that work excellently for secondary tasks like monitoring social media, chat applications, or keeping reference materials visible.

The IPS panel maintains decent color accuracy and viewing angles, though you’ll notice the difference compared to premium displays. For typical second-screen use cases like email or document review, these compromises are barely noticeable.

ASUS includes their Eye Care technology, which reduces flicker and filters blue light — features typically found on more expensive monitors. The thin bezels and lightweight design make it easy to position alongside your main display without dominating your desk space.

LG 27UP550-W — Best Second Monitor for Mac Users

Key Specs:

  • 27-inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS display
  • USB-C with 60W power delivery
  • HDR10 support
  • DCI-P3 95% color gamut coverage
  • Height and tilt adjustable stand

Mac users will appreciate how seamlessly the LG 27UP550-W integrates with Apple’s ecosystem. The 4K resolution matches the pixel density expectations of Mac users accustomed to Retina displays, while USB-C connectivity eliminates adapter hassles.

This monitor’s 60W power delivery charges MacBook Air models and most 13-inch MacBook Pros through the same cable carrying video signal. The high color accuracy (95% DCI-P3) makes it suitable for creative professionals who need consistent colors across both displays.

The 27-inch 4K resolution provides exceptional detail for tasks like photo editing, code review, or detailed spreadsheet work. Text remains razor-sharp even at smaller sizes, reducing eye strain during extended use. HDR10 support adds visual pop to compatible content, though this is more of a bonus than a primary consideration for most second-screen setups.

Samsung M7 Smart Monitor — Best Standalone Second Monitor

Key Specs:

  • 32-inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) VA display
  • Built-in Samsung Tizen OS with apps
  • Wireless DeX support for Samsung devices
  • USB-C with 65W power delivery
  • Remote control included

The Samsung M7 Smart Monitor redefines what a second monitor can do by functioning independently of your main computer. Built-in apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Microsoft 365 let you stream content or access cloud documents without using your primary system’s resources.

Samsung’s Tizen OS feels responsive and includes all major streaming platforms. This makes the M7 perfect for users who want to keep entertainment or monitoring tasks separate from their main workflow. The wireless DeX feature lets Samsung phone users project their mobile desktop wirelessly.

At 32 inches, this monitor provides massive screen real estate for multiple windows or applications. The VA panel delivers deep blacks and strong contrast, though viewing angles aren’t as wide as IPS alternatives. The included remote control reinforces its standalone nature, though you can still use it as a traditional second monitor when needed.

AOC 24G2 — Best Gaming-Focused Second Monitor

Key Specs:

  • 24-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display
  • 144Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time
  • AMD FreeSync Premium support
  • Multiple connectivity options (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA)
  • Height-adjustable gaming stand

Gamers often need secondary displays for monitoring chat, streaming software, or game guides while playing. The AOC 24G2 serves this role perfectly while offering enough performance to handle occasional gaming when your main monitor is occupied.

The 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time exceed what most second monitors offer, making this viable for competitive gaming scenarios. AMD FreeSync Premium eliminates tearing when gaming, while the IPS panel maintains good colors for productivity tasks.

AOC’s design choices show clear gaming focus — the red accents and aggressive styling might not suit all setups, but gamers will appreciate the aesthetic consistency. The height-adjustable stand helps position the display at the perfect angle for quick glances during gameplay without disrupting your primary view.

ASUS ProArt PA248QV — Best for Creative Professionals

Key Specs:

  • 24.1-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS display
  • 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709 color accuracy
  • Built-in USB hub with 4 ports
  • Calman Verified color calibration
  • Portrait mode capability with pivot stand

Creative professionals need color accuracy that matches across displays, making the ASUS ProArt PA248QV ideal for designers, photographers, and video editors. The factory calibration delivers Delta E < 2 color accuracy out of the box, eliminating guesswork about color consistency.

The 16:10 aspect ratio provides extra vertical space compared to standard 16:9 monitors — valuable for timelines, toolboxes, or reference panels. This extra height proves especially useful when used in portrait orientation for viewing long documents or code.

ASUS includes comprehensive connectivity with DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI inputs plus a 4-port USB 3.0 hub. The build quality feels professional throughout, from the robust stand mechanisms to the anti-glare coating that reduces reflections under studio lighting.

HP E24 G5 — Best for Business Environments

Key Specs:

  • 24-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display
  • USB-C with 65W power delivery
  • Integrated privacy screen option
  • EPEAT Gold and ENERGY STAR certified
  • 3-year warranty with advanced exchange

Business users prioritize reliability, security, and support — areas where the HP E24 G5 excels. The optional integrated privacy screen prevents visual hacking in open offices, while enterprise-grade build quality ensures consistent performance across corporate deployments.

HP’s advanced exchange warranty minimizes downtime if issues arise. The monitor ships with comprehensive management software for IT departments handling multiple units. Energy efficiency certifications help companies meet sustainability goals while reducing power costs.

The 65W USB-C power delivery supports most business laptops through a single cable connection. Cable management features and the professional aesthetic fit well in corporate environments where appearance matters. While not flashy, this monitor delivers exactly what business users need most.

Comparison Table

Monitor Size Resolution Refresh Rate USB-C Power Price Range
Dell S2721DS 27" 2560x1440 75Hz 65W $250-300
ASUS VA24EHE 24" 1920x1080 75Hz No $80-100
LG 27UP550-W 27" 3840x2160 60Hz 60W $300-350
Samsung M7 32" 3840x2160 60Hz 65W $400-500
AOC 24G2 24" 1920x1080 144Hz No $120-150
ASUS ProArt PA248QV 24.1" 1920x1200 75Hz No $200-250
HP E24 G5 24" 1920x1080 60Hz 65W $200-250

What to Look for in a Second Monitor

Size and Resolution Balance

Your second monitor doesn’t need to match your primary display exactly. Many users find 24-27 inches ideal for secondary tasks, providing enough space without overwhelming your desk. 1080p resolution works perfectly fine for most second-screen activities like email, chat, or reference documents, while 1440p offers extra detail for productivity tasks.

Consider your viewing distance — second monitors often sit further to the side, where ultra-high resolutions become less noticeable. Save money on resolution and invest in features that improve daily usability instead.

Connectivity Options

USB-C connectivity with power delivery eliminates cable clutter by charging your laptop while transmitting video through a single connection. Look for at least 60W power delivery if you use a MacBook or similar ultrabook, though 65W provides more headroom for power-hungry devices.

Built-in USB hubs add valuable connectivity without requiring separate desk accessories. Multiple video inputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) provide flexibility for different devices and future upgrades.

Stand Adjustability and Ergonomics

Second monitors often require different positioning than primary displays. Height adjustment helps align screens properly, while pivot capability allows portrait orientation for documents or code. Tilt adjustment becomes crucial when positioning monitors at angles for quick reference.

VESA mount compatibility future-proofs your setup if you later decide to use monitor arms. Even if you don’t plan to mount immediately, having the option prevents compatibility headaches later.

Panel Technology Considerations

IPS panels maintain better color accuracy and viewing angles — important when positioning monitors to the side. TN panels cost less but suffer from poor viewing angles that become problematic in dual-monitor setups. VA panels offer good contrast but may show color shifts when viewed from angles.

For most users, IPS provides the best balance of color accuracy, viewing angles, and price. Only consider TN panels if budget constraints are severe, and VA panels work well for entertainment-focused second monitors.

Budget vs. Feature Trade-offs

Determine which features matter most for your specific workflow. Heavy laptop users should prioritize USB-C with power delivery, while desktop users can save money with traditional connections. Content creators need color accuracy, while casual users can focus on size and connectivity.

Remember that second monitors typically last 5-7 years — spending slightly more upfront often provides better long-term value through improved build quality and features that remain relevant longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should my second monitor match my primary display exactly?

No, your monitors don’t need to match perfectly. Many users prefer different sizes or resolutions optimized for secondary tasks. Focus on complementary features rather than identical specifications — a smaller, budget-friendly second monitor often works better than an expensive duplicate of your main display.

Can I use a TV as a second monitor?

While possible, TVs generally make poor second monitors due to input lag, poor text rendering, and excessive size for desk use. Modern monitors offer better pixel density, lower latency, and ergonomic stands designed for close viewing distances.

How do I set up dual monitors with different resolutions?

Both Windows and macOS handle mixed resolutions automatically. You can adjust relative positioning and scaling in display settings to compensate for size differences. The key is positioning monitors so mouse movement feels natural between screens despite resolution differences.

Is 4K worth it for a second monitor?

4K provides exceptional detail but isn’t necessary for typical second-screen tasks like email or chat applications. Consider 4K if you frequently reference detailed images, work with high-resolution content, or want to match a 4K primary display. For most users, 1440p offers the best balance of clarity and performance.

What’s the ideal distance between dual monitors?

Position monitors so their edges nearly touch or maintain a small gap of 1-2 inches. Larger gaps create dead zones where you might lose your cursor, while overlapping monitors waste desk space. Angle monitors slightly inward to create a comfortable viewing arc.

Can I mix different brands of monitors?

Absolutely. Focus on compatible features like similar brightness levels and color temperatures rather than matching brands. Most differences between quality monitors become negligible once you adjust settings appropriately. Different brands can actually provide feature diversity that benefits your specific workflow.

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