A 32-inch monitor hits the sweet spot for many users, providing an immersive experience for gaming and creative work, while not being overbearing on a desk. With many compelling options on the market, choosing the right 32-inch monitor can be tricky. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a 32-inch monitor and provide specific recommendations across various budgets and use cases.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing a 32-inch monitor, here are some key specifications and features to evaluate:
Resolution: Most 32-inch monitors today are 2560 x 1440 (1440p QHD), which offers sharp image quality while being easier to drive than 4K for gaming. A 32-inch 4K monitor is also a great choice if you have sufficient graphics processing power.
Refresh Rate: For gaming and movies, a refresh rate of 144Hz+ is recommended for smooth visuals. Office/productivity use cases only require 60Hz.
Response Time: Aim for 1-5ms response time. The lower the better to reduce motion blur in games and video.
Adaptive Sync: AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync match the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card output to minimize screen tearing. Important for gaming.
Curve: Curved 32-inch monitors (1800R is common) help provide more immersive experiences but also cost more. Good to have for gaming/movies but flat panels work fine for everyday use.
Ports: Look for modern inputs like DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0. Having multiple ports allows flexibility connecting multiple devices.
Mount: If placing on a monitor arm, ensure the mount is VESA compatible.
Considering these factors and your primary use case will help narrow down options. Now let’s look at some top monitors across various budgets and needs.
Overall Best 32-Inch Monitor: LG 32GN650
Outstanding performance, features, and value
The LG 32GN650 delivers stellar all around performance and features at an excellent price point:
- Sharp 1440p resolution and 165Hz refresh rate powered by IPS technology
- Smooth 1ms response time with FreeSync Premium for tear-free gaming
- Full array of ports including 2 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort, plus audio out
- Adjustable stand providing tilt, pivot, height, and swivel functionality
- VESA mount compatible for arm or wall mounting
In real-world testing, the 32GN650 impresses with fantastic color accuracy, extremely fluid gaming, and great versatility supported by the stand adjustments and connectivity options. The simple but attractive design also fits well in any environment.
For those seeking a complete high-performance 32-inch monitor package without breaking the bank, the LG 32GN650 is undoubtedly the top choice. It meets the needs of both gamers and creative professionals admirably.
View Latest Price of LG 32GN650 on Amazon
Best 32-Inch 4K Gaming Monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQ
Superior visuals and performance for gaming
The ASUS TUF Gaming VG32VQ is specially designed for gaming with these standout specs and features:
- Sharp 4K resolution with 155Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time
- FreeSync Premium technology for buttery smooth tear-free visuals that fully unlock the 155Hz
- Extreme Low Motion Blur mode which strobes the backlight to achieve 1ms scanning for ultra clear motion
- Multiple connectivity options including 2 HDMI 2.0 and 1 DisplayPort 1.2
- Ergonomic stand with tilt, swivel pivot, and 130mm height adjustment
Reviewers and buyers consistently praise the VG32VQ for its vibrant colors, silky smooth animation, and great 4K clarity. It’s also validated as G-Sync compatible for Nvidia graphics card owners. The aggressive gamer-inspired styling may not be for everyone. However, when it comes to sheer gaming performance, the ASUS TUF 32-inch 4K monitor is extremely tough to beat.
View Latest Price of ASUS TUF VG32VQ on Amazon
Best Budget 32-Inch Monitor: Samsung M7 Smart Monitor
Terrific value with built-in streaming and productivity features
In addition to great picture quality, the uniquely versatile Samsung M7 Smart Monitor includes:
- Built-in streaming with Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and WiFi allowing media viewing without a PC needed
- Remote access and control features to connect to your PC or mobile device from the monitor
- Productivity and entertainment apps accessible directly through the intuitive smart hub interface
- 32-inch 4K panel with HDR10 support and 60Hz refresh rate
- Minimalist slim design with height/tilt adjustable stand
For the budget-focused buyer, it doesn’t get better than the Samsung M7 32-inch monitor. You get a crystal clear 4K screen and a built-in media hub allowing movies, TV, and more without any external devices attached. It also serves well for office needs with the remote access features. Just plug in a keyboard and mouse to get right to work.
Considering everything it brings to the table, the Samsung Smart Monitor provides tremendous value, especially for buyers focused more on entertainment and streaming over high fps gaming.
View Latest Price of Samsung M7 Smart Monitor on Amazon
Best 32-Inch Monitor for Creative Work: BenQ PD3220U
Specialized features and remarkable color performance for design applications
What sets the BenQ PD3220 apart for creative professionals:
- Extensive color spaces covered including 100% sRGB, Rec. 709, and 96% DCI-P3 for accurate color reproduction
- Height adjustable shading hood to block ambient light and improve perceived contrast
- Preset color modes specifically calibrated for CAD/CAM, animation, photography, and video
- OSD controller with quick menu access to settings perfect for creative flows
- Hotkey Puck offering shortcut buttons to switch inputs sources and more while creating
In testing, reviewers confirm the remarkable color performance with Delta E scores that would satisfy even imaging professionals with exacting standards. The extensive connectivity and adjustment options also give flexibility to connect and tune the PD3220U perfectly for any system.
Without a doubt, the feature set and gorgeous factory calibration makes the BenQ PD3220U the ideal 32-inch monitor choice for photographers, video editors, animators, and other creatives.
View Latest Price of BenQ PD3220U on Amazon
Tips for Optimizing Your 32-Inch Monitor
To gain the best experience from your new high-performance 32-inch monitor, keep these tips in mind:
Perform calibration using the OSD settings to dial in brightness/contrast and color to your liking. Many monitors also support hardware calibration tools.
Enable adaptive sync if available to prevent screen tearing in games or video. AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync sync the monitor refresh rate to the graphics card.
Set the proper resolution in Windows display settings. For 4K monitors ensure resolution scaling is adjusted for text visibility.
Tweak in-game video settings to unlock high frame rates that can leverage your monitor’s capabilities. V-Sync should be disabled if using adaptive sync.
Don‘t forget audio — a good pair of desktop speakers or headphones will complete the experience.
Finding the Best 32-Inch Monitor: Our Methodology
All monitors featured above have been thoroughly researched and evaluated based on real-world performance and reviews from both experts and consumers. We cover multiple categories to fit all needs and budgets but only recommend options delivering a great user experience for their designed purpose with long-term reliability expected from major manufacturers like ASUS, Samsung, LG, BenQ and others. If readers have questions about selecting a 32-inch monitor for their needs, please contact us. We hope this guide has been helpful to your buying decision!
