Ultra-high resolution monitors gradually became not the distant future, but our reality. If you’re looking to upgrade your monitor to something more innovative, you can now choose between 5K and 8K resolution screens. Both options provide a significantly increased number of pixels, which improves image quality, color accuracy, and provides bigger screen real estate. In this review, we will look at the top models of 5k and 8k monitors and figure out who might need them.
TOP 5K and 8K Monitors of 2024
We have compiled for you a list of the best representatives of 5k and 8k monitors and described the characteristics of each so that you can compare the models and choose the most suitable one. This review presents monitors of different price categories and for different needs, from gaming and movie watching to professional animation and video editing.
The Best 5K and 8K Monitors
We assigned each monitor model a category in which it performs best.
Best 5k monitors:
- Apple Studio Display 27″ — Best Work-From-Home 5k 27-inch Monitor
- SAMSUNG Odyssey 49″ Monitor — Largest Monitor For Gaming
- SAMSUNG 49″ S95UA Super Ultrawide Dual QHD Monitor — The Most Immersive Ultrawide 5K Monitor
- Lenovo P40W-20 39.7″ ThinkVision Monitor — Best 5k2k Monitor for Programming and Coding
- LG 40WP95C-W 40” UltraWide Curved WUHD Monitor — Best 5K Monitor Overall
- LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34″ — Top 5K Monitor for Graphic Design
Comparison of specifications and prices of these models: Characteristics
| Characteristics | Apple Studio Display 27″ | SAMSUNG Odyssey 49″ | SAMSUNG 49″ S95UA Super Ultrawide Dual QHD | Lenovo P40W-20 39.7″ ThinkVision | LG 40WP95C-W 40” UltraWide Curved WUHD | LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34″ |
| Screen Size | 27 inches | 49 inches | 49 inches | 39.7 inches | 40 inches | 34 inches |
| Resolution | 5120 x 2880 | 5120 x 1440 | 5120 x 1440 | 5120 x 2160 | 5120 x 2160 | 5120 x 2160 |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 32:9 | 32:9 | 21:9 | 21:9 | 21:9 |
| Typical Brightness | 600 nits | 420 nits | 400 nits | 300 nits | 300 nits | 450 nits |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 240Hz | 120Hz | 75Hz | 72Hz | 60Hz |
| Price | from $1599 to $2199 | $1299 | $1099 | $1699 | $1799 | $1495 |
Best 8K monitors:
- SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED 8K QN900A Series 85″ — Superior Ultrawide 8K Monitor
- SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED QN900C Series 8K 75″ — Best Among 8K Monitors
- Dell UP3218K Ultra sharp 32″ — The Smallest 8K Monitor
Compare the characteristics of these monitors:
| Characteristics | SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED 8K QN900A Series 85″ | SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED QN900C Series 8K 75 | Dell UP3218K Ultra sharp 32″ |
| Screen Size | 85 inches | 75 inches | 32 inches |
| Resolution | 7680 x 4320 | 7680 x 4320 | 7680 x 4320 |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 | 16:9 | 16:9 |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Typical Brightness | 1500 nits | 1500 nits | 400 nits |
| Price | $7496 | $4799 | $4029 |
Best 5K Monitors
5K resolution displays (5120 x 2880 pixels) compared to 4K (3840 x 2160) provide a larger workspace for multitasking, show clearer images with accurate color reproduction, and reduce the need to constantly zoom in to see details. Many monitors with this resolution support high refresh rates and are suitable for tasks such as animation, video editing and gaming. 5K monitors from different manufacturers differ in other characteristics, so they are suitable for different tasks. Let’s take a closer look at the models that we have selected as the best among 5k monitors, and determine why they are better suited for certain needs.
Apple Studio Display 27″ — Work-From-Home 5k 27-inch Monitor
The Apple Studio Display 27″ is a perfect 5K monitor for accomplishing creative tasks at home. It is equipped with a fairly simple 12MP camera, which will be needed for online meetings, a six-dynamic system and a large set of connection ports, including Thunderbolt 3. The image is vivid and clear at the maximum 600 nits screen brightness. Apple also offers you to choose between height- and tilt-adjustable stands or a VESA mount, making it flexible for any work environment. The only inconvenience can be caused by the fixed refresh rate of 60Hz.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Immersive 5K Retina display | Fixed 60Hz refresh rate |
| Various connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C ports | |
| Support for one billion colors and P3 wide color |
SAMSUNG Odyssey 49″ Monitor — 5K Gaming Monitor
For dedicated gamers, the SAMSUNG Odyssey 49″ Monitor is one of the biggest computer monitors with unparalleled 5K QHD experience with its 1000R curved VA panel that reduces eye strain. The almost 50 inch monitor has a 240Hz refresh rate that provides smooth visuals for both gaming and working on graphics. Supporting G-Sync, HDR1000, QLED technology, and sRGB color space, it provides high color accuracy, essential for digital artists and video editors. However, mind that its high resolution and refresh rate require a powerful video card.
| Pros | Cons |
| 240Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals | Requires a powerful graphics card |
| G-Sync and HDR1000 for color accuracy | |
| Immersive 1000R curved VA panel |
SAMSUNG 49″ S95UA Super Ultrawide Dual QHD Monitor — 5K Ultrawide Monitor
The SAMSUNG 49″ S95UA Super Ultrawide Dual QHD is an almost 50 inch monitor that provides huge working space for multitasking and vivid, realistic images with QLED technology. Featuring HDR support, it delivers impressive contrast and color accuracy. The 1800R curvature lowers eye strain, and the USB Type-C port offers 90W power delivery and data transfer. The S95UA is one of the largest computer monitors which is suitable for both professionals and gamers, as it can offer the best immersion in the visuals of the project or game.
| Pros | Cons |
| Reduces eye strain | Lack of stand height |
| QLED technology provides pure bright colors | Does not support daisy chaining of extra monitors |
| Dual QHD display for enhanced depth and detail |
Lenovo P40W-20 39.7″ ThinkVision Monitor — 5k2k Monitor for Programmers and Coders
If you often struggle to spot the smallest mistakes in your code, we recommend you to draw your attention to the Lenovo P40W-20 39.7” ThinkVision Monitor. With high resolution and a huge screen space, it’s perfect for multitasking. The True Split and Thunderbolt 4 cable allow you to use this device as a docking station, reducing mess and connecting multiple devices. Although it lacks built-in speakers and the 75 Hz refresh rate might cause choppy scrolling, setting it to 60 Hz can help. Despite minor drawbacks, this monitor is ideal for programmers and coders needing high resolution and extensive screen real estate.
| Pros | Cons |
| Works as a docking station | No built-in speakers |
| Big screen for multitasking | 75 Hz refresh rate may be overclocked |
LG 40WP95C-W 40” UltraWide Curved WUHD Monitor
The LG 40WP95C-W 40” UltraWide Curved WUHD 5K Monitor excels in both productivity and entertainment. It is a 40-inch curved screen monitor with Nano IPS display, supporting 98% DCI-P3 color gamut and HDR10, that provides vibrant and accurate colors. Its Thunderbolt 4 connectivity with 96W Power Delivery enhances functionality, allowing data transfer and charging over a single cable. The 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design and flexible stand provide improved ergonomics for any type of workspace. Its combination of features makes LG 40WP95C-W 40” an excellent choice for creative professionals in 2024.
| Pros | Cons |
| 3-Side Virtually Borderless Design with adjustable stand | HDMI limits to 30Hz at native resolution |
| Ultra wide resolution | |
| Thunderbolt 4 with 96W Power Delivery |
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34″ — 5K Monitor for Graphic Design
The LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine 34” Monitor offers life-like detail and a boost in productivity through its 5K2K UltraWide Nano IPS display. Covering 98% of the DCI-P3 color space ensures high color accuracy and excellent contrast, essential for graphic designers and digital artists. HDR support adds depth and clarity, making it ideal for tasks like architectural design. Thunderbolt 3 simplifies connectivity by allowing video, audio, and data transfers through a single cable, reducing desk clutter. Overall, the LG 5K UltraFine is a reasonable investment for graphic designers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Nano IPS display for high color accuracy | Issues with compatibility with Apple Silicon |
| Convenient data transfer with Thunderbolt 3 | |
| Broader contrast ratio with HDR support |
Best 8K Monitors
8K monitors are given a resolution of 7680 x 4320 pixels, which exceeds 4k by four times and is one and a half times more than 5K monitors. This high pixel density delivers impressive image clarity and detail, making 8r monitors a must-have for video and graphics professionals, as well as gamers seeking maximum visual immersion. 8K displays offer higher fidelity and wider screen real estate, allowing you to fit more windows and information at once. Already now on the market you can find models from companies such as Dell and Samsung, although their cost still remains higher than that of analogues with a lower resolution.
SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED 8K QN900A Series 85″ — Ultrawide 8K Monitor
The Samsung Class Neo QLED 8K QN900A Series 85” monitor with innovative quantum dot backlight technologies is probably the best 8k monitor gaming. It has a powerful Neo Quantum 8K processor that supports AI and 120Hz refresh rate that guarantee perfect rendering of fast-moving scenes and accurate display of detailed images. Object Tracking Sound Pro technology provides sound that follows objects on the screen, creating a complete immersion into games or projects. These advanced features make the Samsung Class Neo QLED 8K QN900A Series 85″ the best 8K gaming monitor that you can use both for your professional and entertainment needs.
| Pros | Cons |
| 8K Resolution and AI Upscaling | Clipping in SDR and HDR because of brightness |
| Quantum Matrix Pro with Mini LEDs | Dull look compared to OLED displays |
| 100% Color Volume with Quantum Dot | |
| Dolby Atmos & Object Tracking Sound Pro |
SAMSUNG Class Neo QLED QN900C Series 8K 75″ — Best Overall 8K Monitor
The Samsung Class Neo QLED QN900C Series 8K 75” monitor is a real gem with its wide screen and unrivaled display quality. The image on it is bright and detailed thanks to Quantum HDR 64x technology and Mini LED backlighting. The 120Hz refresh rate and Neural Quantum 8K AI processor deliver exceptionally smooth gameplay and video viewing, as well as image fidelity. Despite being a pretty large monitor, it also features an ergonomic design with ultra-thin bezels and anti-glare coating. All this makes the Samsung Class Neo QLED QN900C Series 8K 75” one of the top 8K monitors on the market.
| Pros | Cons |
| Pantone validated | Built-in speakers could be better |
| Unparalleled 8K precision | No Dolby Vision |
| Anti-Glare screen with Ultra Viewing Angle | |
| Neural Quantum Processor 8 |
Dell UP3218K Ultra sharp 32″ — Best Smallest 8K Monitor
The Dell UP3218K UltraSharp 32” monitor is the perfect combination of compact size and 8K technology, delivering impressive clarity and detail on a 32-inch screen. The IPS panel supports 100% AdobeRGB, 100% sRGB and 98% DCI-P3, providing high color accuracy, required for professional graphics and video editing. It is comfortable to use in any lighting conditions due to the presence of anti-glare coating and 400 nits of brightness. Despite its size, this monitor is great for multitasking. To maximize screen real estate, learn how to split screen on Dell. Height, swivel and tilt adjustments, as well as a built-in USB 3.0 hub provide maximum ergonomics on the desktop. Dell 32″ compact size and superior picture quality make it the best small 8K computer monitor for professionals.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unparalleled 8K resolution | Image burn-in and pink afterglow |
| Various connectivity options | High price |
| High color accuracy |
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Selecting and Testing Best 5K and 8K Monitors
The standard operating procedure (SOP) is needed to test and choose the best monitor that will meet your expectations. Ultimately, those monitors are selected that provide the best combination of image quality, functionality and ease of use, making them preferred by professionals and hobbyists.
Selection Process
When choosing a 5K or 8K monitor model, it is important to follow a few key steps:
- Determine what you need the monitor for.
- Explore various monitor specifications.
- Read independent tests and reviews about picture quality of monitors.
- Pay attention to the ability to adjust height, tilt, swivel, ease of connection and the presence of the necessary ports.
- Study the user reviews to learn about the possible disadvantages and advantages of specific models.
- Consider value for money based on your budget constraints and additional monitor features.
By adhering to these instructions, you can make an optimal choice of the monitor that will best suit your needs and expectations.
Testing Process
Testing of monitors can be done in the store. You can also do it yourself:
- Install the monitor and connect it to the system. Make sure to use a quality HDMI, DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt cable to ensure maximum performance.
- Use specialized calibration software and hardware to adjust color, brightness, and contrast to factory settings and standards.
- Test color performance using reference samples such as the sRGB and AdobeRGB color palettes. Make sure your monitor displays all colors correctly and without casting.
- Use test images and high-resolution videos to evaluate image clarity and detail. Note the absence of digital artifacts and noise.
- Use dynamic tests to evaluate response time and refresh rate. Make sure your monitor displays moving objects smoothly without blurring or tearing.
- See if the monitor can be rotated and tilted conveniently. Check the ease of access to ports and controllers.
- Leave the monitor on for an extended period of time and monitor changes in image quality and device heating.
How to Choose the Perfect 5K or 8K Monitor?
To choose the perfect high-resolution monitor, consider the aspects that will be important during use.
Ergonomics
Look for models with ergonomic stands and VESA mounting options. The possibility to rotate the screen to vertical mode will also be a plus for multifunctional tasks.
Resolution
For professional use choose monitors with 8K resolution size for maximum detail and clarity. However, if your tasks don’t require such a high resolution, 5K monitors can suit you while being more affordable.
Connectivity
Make sure your monitor has all the necessary ports to keep all your devices connected. A USB-C port with power transfer support can be useful for charging laptops and other gadgets.
Color Accuracy
Look for models that support 100% AdobeRGB, 100% sRGB, and wide color spaces like DCI-P3 to get the highest color accuracy possible. Display calibration and availability of settings to fine-tune colors are also important aspects.
Refresh Rate and Response Time
For dynamic tasks such as gaming or animation, look for monitors with a refresh rate over 120Hz and low response time of 1-4ms. This will ensure smooth and fast response to actions, which is especially important in games and video editing.
Budget
8K monitors are usually significantly more expensive than their 5K counterparts, so keep that in mind. Determine your budget and compare price and functionality to make the most informed choice.
