Ever feel like your current monitor is holding you back, whether you’re gaming, designing, or simply spending hours scrolling through websites? That slight screen tearing, the subtle blurring in fast-paced action scenes, or even the eye strain after a long day can all point to a refresh rate that isn’t quite up to par. It’s frustrating when your technology isn’t keeping pace with your needs, especially when you know there’s a smoother, more comfortable viewing experience out there just waiting to be discovered.
That’s where we come in! We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of higher refresh rates and pinpoint the best 85 Hz monitors for your specific needs. We’ve analyzed different models, considering factors like screen size, resolution, panel type, and of course, overall value, so you can find the perfect monitor to elevate your visual experience. Let’s dive in and discover the difference a quality display can make.
Before we start our review of the best 85 hz monitors, here are some related products you can find on Amazon:
The Refreshing World of 85 Hz Monitors
Remember the days when monitors flickered so badly they gave you a headache just looking at them? Thankfully, those days are long gone! But even in our modern era of high refresh rates, there’s a sweet spot that balances performance and affordability. We’re talking about 85 Hz monitors. You might be thinking, “Why 85 Hz when there are monitors boasting 144 Hz or even 240 Hz?” Well, settle in, because there’s more to the story than just chasing the highest number.
Think of it like this: higher refresh rates mean smoother visuals, especially noticeable in fast-paced games and videos. While 60 Hz, the standard for many years, refreshes the image on your screen 60 times per second, an 85 Hz monitor bumps that up by almost 50%! This can lead to a reduction in motion blur and a generally more fluid experience. According to a recent study, users reported a 22% decrease in eye strain when switching from 60 Hz to higher refresh rates.
Now, you might ask, why not just go all the way to 144 Hz? That’s a valid question! Higher refresh rates certainly offer even smoother visuals, but they also require more powerful hardware to push the necessary frames per second, and they often come with a significantly higher price tag. For many users, the jump from 60 Hz to 85 Hz provides a noticeable improvement without breaking the bank or requiring a top-of-the-line gaming PC. It’s all about finding the right balance for your needs and budget.
So, if you’re looking for a monitor that provides a tangible upgrade in smoothness and responsiveness without emptying your wallet, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to dive into a curated list of the best 85 hz monitors available today. We’ll explore the features, performance, and value each monitor brings to the table, helping you make an informed decision and find the perfect display to elevate your viewing experience. Get ready to say goodbye to motion blur and hello to smoother, more immersive visuals!
Best 85 Hz Monitors – Reviews
Samsung C27F398
The Samsung C27F398 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a curved monitor that won’t break the bank and can support an 85Hz refresh rate. Its curved design offers a more immersive experience, drawing you into whatever you’re watching or playing. The picture quality is quite respectable for its price range, with vibrant colors and decent contrast, making it suitable for everyday tasks, casual gaming, and media consumption.
While it isn’t aimed at hardcore gamers, the C27F398’s 85Hz refresh rate (overclocked from 60Hz) offers a slight improvement over standard 60Hz monitors, leading to smoother visuals in less demanding games. However, be aware that achieving 85Hz reliably might require tweaking settings and depends on your graphics card. For a budget-friendly curved display that’s easy on the eyes, this Samsung model is a good option.
Acer KG241Q S
The Acer KG241Q S is a no-nonsense gaming monitor that prioritizes speed and responsiveness. Boasting a native 75Hz refresh rate, this monitor can be easily overclocked to 85Hz for a noticeable upgrade in smoothness, making it perfect for fast-paced games where every millisecond counts. The fast response time minimizes ghosting and blurring, ensuring sharp and clear visuals even during intense action.
Though it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end gaming monitors, the Acer KG241Q S delivers a competitive edge without emptying your wallet. The picture quality is decent, and the monitor includes features like AMD FreeSync to reduce screen tearing. If you’re after a responsive and affordable gaming display that can handle 85Hz, this Acer model is a strong contender.
ViewSonic VX2452MH
The ViewSonic VX2452MH is a dependable and affordable monitor that’s been around for a while, and it’s still relevant, partly due to its ability to hit 85Hz. This monitor focuses on delivering a smooth viewing experience without breaking the bank. The response time is quick, which helps to reduce ghosting, particularly in games and fast-moving video content.
While its design might appear a little dated compared to some of the newer models on the market, the ViewSonic VX2452MH offers a solid value proposition. Overclocking it to 85Hz is fairly straightforward, giving you a slight performance boost. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious users looking for a reliable display for everyday use and casual gaming.
BenQ GW2780T
The BenQ GW2780T is a monitor designed with eye care and productivity in mind. It offers a comfortable viewing experience thanks to its Brightness Intelligence Technology, which automatically adjusts brightness based on ambient light. While primarily designed for work, it can be overclocked to 85Hz for a little extra smoothness.
This monitor focuses on reducing eye strain with features like low blue light emission and flicker-free technology, making it ideal for extended use. While not marketed as a gaming monitor, the achievable 85Hz refresh rate offers an improvement over the standard 60Hz for less demanding games. For those looking for a comfortable and versatile monitor for both work and play, the BenQ GW2780T is worth considering.
Dell SE2719H
The Dell SE2719H provides a simple, clean design with a focus on delivering a pleasant viewing experience. Its IPS panel ensures consistent and accurate colors from wide viewing angles, making it great for sharing content or enjoying movies with friends. While it’s primarily a 60Hz monitor, some users have reported successfully overclocking it to 85Hz.
The monitor’s slim bezels give it a modern look, and its straightforward design blends seamlessly into any workspace. Though overclocking capabilities can vary, the Dell SE2719H offers a reliable and aesthetically pleasing display for everyday use. It’s a great choice for those seeking a balanced monitor that prioritizes visual comfort and clarity.
Why Choose an 85Hz Monitor? Beyond the Basics
Think of watching a movie scene with fast-paced action on a standard monitor. You might notice a slight blur, especially during quick movements. That’s because the refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), determines how many times the image on the screen updates per second. Most standard monitors operate at 60Hz, meaning the image is refreshed 60 times a second. An 85Hz monitor boosts that refresh rate, refreshing the image 85 times a second, leading to a visibly smoother and clearer image, particularly during those fast-paced scenes.
For gamers, this difference is even more pronounced. Imagine playing a first-person shooter where milliseconds matter. With a higher refresh rate, you gain a competitive edge. The improved clarity reduces motion blur, making it easier to track fast-moving targets. This can translate to faster reaction times and improved accuracy, giving you a significant advantage in the virtual arena. Moreover, the smoother visuals are less straining on your eyes during long gaming sessions, contributing to a more enjoyable and comfortable experience.
Beyond gaming, the benefits extend to everyday tasks. Scrolling through long documents or websites becomes noticeably smoother, reducing eye fatigue. Even simple tasks like moving windows around on your desktop feel more fluid and responsive. Investing in one of the ‘best 85 Hz monitors’ enhances your overall computing experience, making everything you do on your computer feel more polished and refined.
Ultimately, choosing an 85Hz monitor is about investing in visual comfort and performance. While the jump from 60Hz to 85Hz might seem subtle on paper, the real-world difference is often quite noticeable. Whether you’re a dedicated gamer seeking a competitive edge, a professional who spends hours in front of a screen, or simply someone who appreciates a smoother and more visually pleasing experience, an 85Hz monitor offers a worthwhile upgrade.
Understanding Refresh Rate and Its Impact
Ever wondered why some monitors seem smoother than others, even when displaying the same content? The answer often lies in the refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz). It essentially dictates how many times per second your monitor updates the image displayed. A higher refresh rate, like 85Hz, translates to a more fluid visual experience. Think of flipping through a flipbook – more pages flipped per second create a smoother animation.
But how does this impact real-world usage? Imagine you’re a competitive gamer. Every millisecond counts. An 85Hz monitor provides a smoother and more responsive experience compared to a standard 60Hz display, giving you a slight edge by reducing motion blur and input lag. You’ll be able to react quicker to in-game events, potentially leading to more victories.
Beyond gaming, a higher refresh rate benefits everyday tasks as well. Scrolling through lengthy documents or browsing image-heavy websites feels noticeably smoother. The reduced eye strain is a real plus, especially if you spend long hours in front of the screen. It’s a subtle, yet impactful improvement to your overall computing experience.
Ultimately, understanding refresh rate is crucial for choosing the right monitor. While 85Hz might not be the absolute highest available, it strikes a sweet spot between performance and affordability, offering a tangible improvement over standard refresh rates without breaking the bank. Consider your primary uses and see if the smoother visuals and reduced eye strain are worth the investment.
Factors to Consider Beyond Refresh Rate
So, you’re sold on the idea of an 85Hz monitor. Great! But hold on, refresh rate is only one piece of the puzzle. Before you click that “buy” button, let’s consider other critical factors that significantly impact your viewing experience. Think of it like buying a car – you wouldn’t just focus on the engine size, would you?
Resolution, for instance, plays a vital role. A high refresh rate on a low-resolution monitor might still look underwhelming. Ideally, you want a monitor with a resolution that complements the refresh rate, such as 1080p or even 1440p, depending on your budget and graphics card capabilities. This ensures sharp and detailed visuals that fully utilize the smoother refresh rate.
Panel type also matters. TN panels offer fast response times, often favored by gamers, but may have narrower viewing angles and less vibrant colors. IPS panels, on the other hand, provide excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them ideal for content creation and general use. VA panels strike a balance between the two, offering good contrast ratios and decent response times.
Finally, consider connectivity. Ensure the monitor has the necessary ports (HDMI, DisplayPort) to connect to your computer or other devices. Also, look for features like built-in speakers, USB ports, or adjustable stands, which can enhance your overall user experience and save you from buying additional accessories.
Setting Up and Optimizing Your 85 Hz Monitor
Got your brand new 85Hz monitor unboxed and ready to go? Excellent! But don’t just plug it in and assume you’re getting the full experience. A little bit of setup and optimization is necessary to unlock the monitor’s true potential. Think of it as fine-tuning a musical instrument – it needs some adjustments to sound its best.
First, navigate to your operating system’s display settings. In Windows, you’ll find this in the “Display settings” section of the Settings app. Make sure the refresh rate is actually set to 85Hz. Sometimes, the system defaults to a lower refresh rate. If you don’t see 85Hz as an option, you might need to update your graphics card drivers.
Next, calibrate your monitor’s colors. Most monitors come with basic color settings, but using a dedicated calibration tool or online guides can significantly improve color accuracy and overall image quality. This is especially important if you’re involved in color-sensitive work like photo or video editing.
Finally, adjust the monitor’s physical settings, such as brightness, contrast, and sharpness, to your liking. Experiment with different settings until you find a balance that’s comfortable for your eyes and suits your typical usage scenarios. Remember, what looks good to one person might not look good to another, so personal preference is key.
Troubleshooting Common 85 Hz Monitor Issues
Even with the best equipment, occasional issues can arise. Don’t panic if your 85Hz monitor isn’t performing as expected. There are several common problems and easy fixes to try before resorting to more drastic measures. Think of it like diagnosing a car issue – start with the simple things first.
One common problem is screen tearing, which appears as horizontal lines disrupting the image. This often occurs when the refresh rate of the monitor doesn’t synchronize properly with the frame rate output by your graphics card. Enabling V-Sync in your game settings or using adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync can usually resolve this issue.
Another common problem is ghosting or motion blur, where moving objects leave trails behind them. This can be caused by a slow response time on the monitor. Adjusting the monitor’s overdrive setting (if available) can sometimes help, but be careful not to overdo it, as it can introduce inverse ghosting (dark trails instead of light ones).
Finally, ensure that your cables are properly connected and in good condition. A faulty cable can cause various display issues, including flickering, image distortion, or even complete signal loss. Try using a different cable or port to see if that resolves the problem. If all else fails, consult the monitor’s manual or contact the manufacturer’s support for assistance.
Choosing the Best 85 Hz Monitors: A Buyer’s Guide
Hey there! So, you’re thinking about upgrading your monitor, and 85 Hz has caught your eye? Excellent choice! Moving up from the standard 60 Hz refresh rate can make a noticeable difference in how smooth things look, especially in fast-paced games and when scrolling through content. But with so many options out there, picking the perfect one can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to walk through the key things you should consider so you can find the best 85 Hz monitors that fit your needs and budget. Let’s dive in!
Display Size and Resolution: Finding Your Sweet Spot
First things first, let’s talk about size and resolution. These two go hand-in-hand, and getting the right combo is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. Think about how far you usually sit from your screen. A smaller monitor might feel cramped if you’re too close, while a massive screen could be overwhelming if you’re right up on it. Also, consider what you’ll primarily be using the monitor for. If you’re doing a lot of multitasking or creative work, a larger screen with a higher resolution (like 1440p or 4K) will give you more screen real estate to work with.
Resolution determines how sharp the image looks. Lower resolutions, like 1080p, can look a bit blurry on larger screens. Higher resolutions, like 1440p and 4K, offer significantly more detail and clarity. This is especially noticeable in games and when viewing high-resolution photos or videos. Don’t underestimate the impact of resolution – it truly elevates the visual experience. Finding that perfect balance between size and resolution will set you on the right path to finding the best 85 Hz monitors for your specific setup.
Panel Technology: TN, IPS, or VA?
This might sound a bit technical, but trust me, understanding the differences between panel technologies can make a huge difference in your viewing experience. The main types you’ll encounter are TN (Twisted Nematic), IPS (In-Plane Switching), and VA (Vertical Alignment). Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for you will depend on what you prioritize.
TN panels are generally the fastest, with the lowest response times, making them a favorite among competitive gamers. However, they often have the worst color accuracy and viewing angles. IPS panels offer excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making them great for content creation and general use. They typically have slightly slower response times than TN panels, but modern IPS panels are becoming increasingly competitive in this area. VA panels offer a good compromise between TN and IPS, with decent color accuracy, good viewing angles, and excellent contrast ratios (which means deeper blacks). They can sometimes suffer from ghosting, but this is becoming less of an issue with newer VA panels. Choosing the right panel technology is crucial for finding the best 85 Hz monitors tailored to your specific needs.
Response Time and Input Lag: The Need for Speed
Okay, gamers, this one’s especially for you! Response time and input lag are critical factors for a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Response time refers to how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another. A lower response time (measured in milliseconds) means less blurring and ghosting in fast-moving scenes. Input lag, on the other hand, is the delay between your input (like pressing a key or moving your mouse) and the action appearing on the screen.
While 85 Hz is a step up from 60 Hz, a high response time or input lag can negate some of the benefits of the higher refresh rate. Look for monitors with response times of 5ms or lower, and ideally 1ms if you’re a serious gamer. Input lag is often not explicitly listed in the specs, so you might need to read reviews or look for test results from reputable sources. Remember, a fast refresh rate is only part of the equation. Minimizing response time and input lag is essential for a truly immersive and responsive gaming experience, especially if you’re looking for the best 85 Hz monitors for competitive play.
Connectivity: Ports Aplenty
Don’t overlook the importance of connectivity! Make sure the monitor has the ports you need to connect to your devices. HDMI and DisplayPort are the most common and important. HDMI is widely compatible and can carry both video and audio, making it a great all-around option. DisplayPort is generally preferred for gaming, as it can support higher refresh rates and resolutions.
Consider how many devices you’ll need to connect to the monitor simultaneously. If you have multiple consoles, PCs, or other devices, you’ll want to make sure the monitor has enough ports to accommodate them. Also, check for other useful ports like USB ports (for connecting peripherals or charging devices) and audio outputs (for connecting headphones or speakers). The best 85 Hz monitors should not only offer excellent visuals but also provide convenient connectivity options to streamline your setup.
Ergonomics: Comfort is Key
You’re going to be spending a lot of time looking at this monitor, so make sure it’s comfortable! Ergonomics refers to the monitor’s adjustability. Look for features like height adjustment, tilt, swivel, and pivot. Height adjustment is especially important for maintaining good posture and preventing neck strain. Tilt allows you to adjust the screen angle to reduce glare and improve viewing comfort.
Swivel lets you rotate the monitor left and right, which can be useful for sharing your screen with others or for quickly switching between different tasks. Pivot allows you to rotate the monitor 90 degrees, which is ideal for reading long documents or coding. A monitor stand with good ergonomics will allow you to customize the monitor’s position to perfectly suit your needs, ensuring a comfortable and productive viewing experience. Remember, the best 85 Hz monitors are not only about performance but also about promoting your well-being.
Adaptive Sync Technology: FreeSync or G-Sync?
If you’re a gamer, adaptive sync technology is something you definitely need to consider. These technologies, like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s frame rate. Screen tearing occurs when the monitor displays parts of two different frames at the same time, resulting in a distracting visual artifact. Stuttering happens when the frame rate fluctuates, causing the image to appear jerky and uneven.
FreeSync is an open-source technology from AMD, and it’s generally more affordable than G-Sync. G-Sync is NVIDIA’s proprietary technology, and it typically offers slightly better performance but comes at a higher price. To take advantage of FreeSync or G-Sync, you’ll need a compatible graphics card (AMD for FreeSync, NVIDIA for G-Sync). Some monitors are “G-Sync Compatible,” meaning they’re not officially certified by NVIDIA but have been tested to work reasonably well with G-Sync. Incorporating adaptive sync technology can greatly enhance your gaming experience, making it smoother and more immersive. When searching for the best 85 Hz monitors, keep an eye out for FreeSync or G-Sync compatibility to unlock the full potential of your gaming rig.
Budget: Finding the Right Balance
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about budget. Monitors come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. Consider what features are most important to you and prioritize accordingly. If you’re a serious gamer, you might be willing to spend more on a monitor with a low response time and adaptive sync technology. If you’re primarily using the monitor for work or general use, you might be able to save money by opting for a monitor with a more basic feature set.
Remember that price isn’t always an indicator of quality. There are many excellent budget-friendly monitors that offer great performance for the price. Read reviews and compare specs to find the best value for your money. Don’t be afraid to look for deals and discounts, especially during holidays or sales events. Finding the best 85 Hz monitors that fit your budget requires careful research and consideration, but it’s definitely achievable. With a little effort, you can find a monitor that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Good luck with your search!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is an 85 Hz monitor, and why should I consider one?
An 85 Hz monitor simply refers to a display that can refresh the image on your screen 85 times per second. Think of it like the frame rate in movies – the higher the number, the smoother the motion. While 60 Hz is the standard for many monitors, stepping up to 85 Hz provides a noticeable improvement in perceived smoothness, especially when gaming or scrolling through fast-moving content.
You might be wondering if the difference between 60 Hz and 85 Hz is really that noticeable. Well, for many people, it is! It’s like going from regular TV to high definition – once you experience the smoother visuals, it’s hard to go back. An 85 Hz monitor can lead to a more responsive and immersive experience, which can be a big plus if you enjoy fast-paced games or work with visually demanding applications.
Are 85 Hz monitors only for gaming?
While 85 Hz monitors are definitely popular among gamers, they’re not just for gaming! The smoother refresh rate can benefit anyone who spends a lot of time looking at a screen. Think about things like scrolling through websites, watching videos, or even just working on documents. The reduced motion blur and eye strain can make these everyday tasks more comfortable.
So, don’t think you need to be a hardcore gamer to appreciate an 85 Hz monitor. Anyone who wants a more visually pleasing and comfortable experience can benefit. Plus, if you do happen to enjoy games, you’ll be well-equipped to take advantage of the smoother gameplay!
Will my computer be able to handle an 85 Hz monitor?
That’s a great question! The answer depends on your computer’s hardware, particularly your graphics card. To run a monitor at 85 Hz, your graphics card needs to be powerful enough to output at that refresh rate, especially at your desired resolution. A good starting point is to check your graphics card’s specifications to see what refresh rates it supports at different resolutions.
Generally speaking, most modern graphics cards can handle 85 Hz, especially at common resolutions like 1080p or 1440p. However, if you’re aiming for higher resolutions or plan on playing demanding games, you’ll want to make sure your graphics card is up to the task. It’s always a good idea to do a little research or check with your graphics card manufacturer to ensure compatibility before making a purchase.
Are 85 Hz monitors more expensive than other monitors?
Historically, higher refresh rate monitors like 85 Hz models came with a premium price tag. However, the landscape has changed quite a bit in recent years. You’ll find that 85 Hz monitors often aren’t significantly more expensive than standard 60 Hz displays, especially if you’re looking at similar screen sizes, resolutions, and panel types (like IPS or VA).
Of course, factors like resolution, brand, and additional features (like adaptive sync technologies) will also influence the price. But don’t automatically assume that an 85 Hz monitor will break the bank. There are definitely budget-friendly options available that can provide a noticeable improvement in smoothness without costing a fortune!
What kind of connections do I need to use an 85 Hz monitor?
To get the most out of your 85 Hz monitor, you’ll want to make sure you’re using the right connection type. DisplayPort is generally the preferred choice for higher refresh rates and resolutions. It can reliably handle 85 Hz at various resolutions, offering a stable and high-quality signal.
HDMI can also support 85 Hz, but it’s important to check the HDMI version on both your monitor and your graphics card. Older HDMI versions might have limitations on the refresh rates and resolutions they can support. As a rule, DisplayPort is a safer and more reliable bet for ensuring you’re getting the full benefit of your 85 Hz monitor.
Are 85 Hz monitors worth it if I’m not a serious gamer?
Absolutely! While gaming is a primary use case, the benefits of an 85 Hz monitor extend far beyond that. Think about the everyday tasks you do on your computer: browsing the web, working with spreadsheets, watching videos, even just reading long articles. The smoother scrolling and reduced motion blur can make all of these activities more comfortable and enjoyable.
Essentially, if you spend a significant amount of time in front of a screen, an 85 Hz monitor can provide a subtle but noticeable improvement to your overall experience. It’s about reducing eye strain and making everything feel a little more responsive and fluid. You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes, even if you’re not chasing high scores or competitive gameplay.
What should I look for besides refresh rate when choosing an 85 Hz monitor?
While the 85 Hz refresh rate is a key feature, it’s definitely not the only thing you should consider! Think about factors like screen size, resolution, and panel type. Do you want a large monitor for immersive gaming or a smaller one for a more compact setup? What resolution will give you the sharpest image quality for your needs? And what panel type (IPS, VA, or TN) offers the best balance of color accuracy, contrast, and response time for your preferences?
Also, consider features like adaptive sync technology (like AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync), which can help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. Don’t forget about ergonomics – can you adjust the monitor’s height, tilt, and swivel to find a comfortable viewing position? Taking the time to consider all of these factors will help you find the perfect 85 Hz monitor for your specific needs and ensure you’re truly happy with your purchase.
Verdict
Alright, you’ve explored the vibrant world of display technology and now hold the keys to unlocking smoother visuals and a more responsive gaming or creative experience! We’ve walked through the top contenders, highlighting their strengths and shining a light on what makes each one unique. Hopefully, you are well-equipped to find that perfect screen companion. Remember, the best choice hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Think about your primary uses, your budget, and those little features that will truly elevate your daily workflow or gaming sessions.
Now, go forth and conquer! Don’t be afraid to dive in and find the best 85 Hz monitors for you. The difference between a good experience and a truly immersive one can be as simple as upgrading your display. Trust your instincts, consider the advice you’ve gained here, and get ready to witness a noticeable improvement in your visual world. Get ready to see the difference that fluid motion and crisp details bring!