Whether we’re talking televisions, computer monitors, or portable devices, one thing that remains common is our love for large screens! Larger screens allow you to enjoy big-screen entertainment, or to really crack on with your work at your desk. The only problem is that bigger screens tend to have equally large price tags.
If you’re looking to upgrade your computer monitor, to escape the bounds of your current minuscule display, then you might wonder what options you have available. After all, larger computer monitors can cost a pretty penny! Can you use that large TV that’s sitting in your living room instead?
We had our Reliant tech experts do a little bit of investigating. To find out if you can use your TV as a computer monitor. Would it work? And would it pose any real issues? Keep reading down below to get some answers!
Can You Use A TV As A Computer Monitor?
You absolutely can use a TV as a stand-in for a computer monitor. The question, however, is whether or not you should! Using a TV in place of a computer monitor is a simple solution if you just need a simple display. For example, if you plan to do simple desk work, then a TV might be an adequate solution. However, if you are planning on activities that are a little more visually demanding, such as gaming, then a TV may not be the best display option.
It’s totally possible to use a TV as a computer monitor. Just use an HDMI cable to connect the two. However, if you plan on using your computer for gaming, you would be better off with a dedicated monitor.
It’s easy to use a TV as a replacement for a computer monitor. This is because most modern computers allow you to connect to displays via HDMI. Computers also have all kinds of other visual output ports, which you can use to connect to different kinds of displays.
However, as we mentioned, using a TV in place of a dedicated computer monitor is not best for everyone. To find out if it’s right for you, let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages!
What Are The Advantages Of Using A TV As A Computer Monitor?
Cost Effective
If you’re reading this article now, it’s likely because you already have a large TV, and you plan to use it as a replacement computer monitor. In terms of saving money, this is a very sound idea. Most computers are fully compatible with HDMI, or other input methods, so you can easily hook your computer right up to the TV.
Larger TVs are also often much cheaper than some of the biggest computer monitors. This means you can achieve a view that takes up your peripheral vision, without having to pay too much!
Great For Simple Use
If you need a simple temporary display to quickly interface with your computer, then a spare TV will more than suffice. Modern TVs have great resolutions, so you can still carry on with simple tasks without issue!
If you plan to use your computer for content streaming, then using a TV as a monitor is a great solution. After all, streaming is right at home on a TV!
What Are The Disadvantages Of Using A TV As A Computer Monitor?
More Input Lag
Unfortunately, TVs generally tend to have much higher levels of input lag than dedicated computer monitors. Input lag refers to the amount of time it takes for your screen to display rendered images. So, for instance, if you were to click a computer link with your mouse, it would take a few milliseconds for your computer to register that interaction. It would then send a signal to the display to render the result of that interaction. In this case by opening the link!
If there are higher rates of input lag, it takes longer for the connected display to show the correct response. This is detrimental for gaming, as gamers require incredibly low input lag to feel totally in control.
Lower Refresh Rates
If you are an avid PC gamer, you should absolutely avoid using a TV as a replacement for a monitor. PC games can now display at incredibly high frame rates that outshine console games. Unfortunately, most TVs do not offer refresh rates fast enough to display these high frame rates.
The highest refresh rates found on most TVs tend to be around 144Hz. If you want to game at 240 frames per second, then you will want a dedicated computer monitor that can keep up!
Uncomfortable To Use
TVs are generally designed to be viewed from a distance. This allows you to take in the full image while enjoying films or TV shows. Computer users, on the other hand, tend to sit a little bit closer. As such, computer monitors are usually sized accordingly, so that you can take in the full image. If your TV is too big for your desk, you’ll have to keep moving around uncomfortably just to see anything on it!
If you sit too close to a TV, you’ll also be able to make out individual pixels. This ruins higher-resolution images!
Finally, there’s also the fact that TVs often have much larger physical footprints than computer monitors. This means a TV could take up too much of your desk space. Making work totally impractical!
Why Buy A Computer Monitor Instead Of A TV?
We would generally recommend using a TV as a computer monitor only if it is your last resort. A dedicated computer monitor is fantastic for ensuring comfort throughout the working day. You can grab one that is the perfect size for your desk, and you can count on it not to make your eyes strain!
TV screens are designed to be viewed from a distance and to display highly specific content. This means that they aren’t completely suited to the task of displaying computer content.
You should also buy a computer monitor if you are a PC gamer. Computer monitors are able to deliver much higher refresh rates. This gives you an extra sense of control and also allows you to play games at immense frame rates!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use A TV As A Computer Monitor?
A TV can absolutely stand in for a computer monitor. However, it should only really be used as a temporary solution. TVs are designed for displaying films, shows, and videos. As such, they often have lower refresh rates and higher input lag. Computer monitors, on the other hand, are designed to be incredibly responsive and quick. Thus, your computer experience will be much better with a dedicated monitor.
