An introductory guide to 4K displays

4K displays, or UHD (Ultra High Definition) displays have a 3840 x 2160p resolution. They’re the first one to adapt the horizontal pixel count instead of the standard vertical pixel count (like 1080p is 1920 x 1080p). As screens get bigger and bigger, the need for higher resolutions become more apparent as pixel density, or the number of pixels per inch (PPI) decreases as the screen size increases. This results in blocky, and pixelated content being displayed by the monitor.

Image from ScientiaMobile

Upping the resolution also reduces the need for antialiasing. By using more pixels, the jaggies or the staircase-like diagonal edges on objects in the screen. It also allows for more detail since you can add more elements to the image.

Image from RocketFiles

I generally don’t recommend 4K displays for gaming. The amount of GPU horsepower required, plus the price tag on the displays themselves is rarely worth the additional viewing experience. You also wouldn’t be able to take advantage of high refresh rates, which for gaming, is better. But don’t let me dictate what you want to do. Playing in 4K is a visual treat if you get to experience it (and have the hardware to run it). If you need the screen real estate or pixel-perfect accuracy, then 4K displays are definitely for you.

Author’s Note: Screen real estate is the amount of space available on your screen. Since most objects on the screen are tied to pixels instead of inches or centimeters, getting more pixels gives you more screen real estate

If you’re a trader that needs multiple charts open or a visual creative that requires accuracy, or maybe even just a casual streamer who enjoys watching high-resolution videos, then you might want to look into getting yourself a 4K display.

High resolutions also come with a high price tag – with some being around the PHP 16,000USD 273INR 23,114EUR 260CNY 1,986 mark to well over PHP 100,000USD 1,704INR 144,460EUR 1,623CNY 12,410 for the higher-end models. If you’re looking for an entry-level 4K display, then a good choice would be the Samsung LU28E590D which is currently selling anywhere between PHP 15,890USD 271INR 22,955EUR 258CNY 1,972 (cash price on PCHUB) to PHP 19,500USD 332INR 28,170EUR 316CNY 2,420 on Lazada. It’s a 28-inch display with the standard, 3820 x 2160 resolution at the 16:9 aspect ratio, has a static contrast ratio of 1,000:1, and a response time of 1ms. It uses a TN panel so don’t expect a wide viewing angle, but color reproduction is okay. It has VESA mount support and has 2 HDMI inputs, one display port input, and a headphone jack.

If you want more guides, informational articles, and buyer’s guides about monitors, then let us know in the comments below.

One Comment

Paul says:

5 years ago

Might want to add that if you’re attaching a 4k display to a desktop, a discrete video card is required for 60 fps.
Most integrated graphics on HDMI would only get you 24 to 30 fps on a 4k display.
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