Remember squinting at a tiny screen for hours? Maybe you’ve tried using your big TV for computer work and found the text blurry or the lag annoying. In today’s digital world, our screens work hard for us, from gaming marathons to video editing sessions. But when your computer monitor feels too small, the TV in the living room starts looking like a tempting giant upgrade.
Choosing a TV to use as a computer monitor sounds simple, right? Just plug it in! However, it’s not always that easy. You might worry about strange colors, slow response times that ruin your games, or text that’s hard to read all day long. Finding the sweet spot between a huge, vibrant display and a practical workspace can feel like a puzzle.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most when pairing a TV with your PC or console. You will learn how to spot the best sizes, check for the right connections, and avoid common pitfalls so you get a fantastic dual-purpose screen. Keep reading to turn your living room TV into the ultimate command center!
Top Tv As Monitor Recommendations
- Discover all your favorite streaming apps lined up in one place. Browse and watch content directly from your monitor with ease.
- Tune into various free channels, including Samsung TV Plus channels, to watch news, sports, movies, kids’ shows and more — all on your Smart Monitor. With new content added continuously, there’s always more to explore.
- Access the ultimate gaming realm. In the Samsung Gaming Hub, you can play the biggest games from top streaming partners, with no PC or console needed. Discover new games or replay old favorites all in one place
- Immerse yourself in the scene with true-to-life audio. Adaptive Sound uses audio scenic intelligence to analyze scenes in real-time and optimize the sound based on content type.
- Effortlessly stream your content on the big screen. Easily connect and enjoy content from your mobile — videos, photos and documents — on your Smart Monitor.
- Discover all your favorite streaming apps lined up in one place. Browse and watch content directly from your monitor with ease.
- Tune into various free channels, including Samsung TV Plus channels, to watch news, sports, movies, kids’ shows and more — all on your Smart Monitor. With new content added continuously, there’s always more to explore.
- Access the ultimate gaming realm. In the Samsung Gaming Hub, you can play the biggest games from top streaming partners, with no PC or console needed. Discover new games or replay old favorites all in one place
- Immerse yourself in the scene with true-to-life audio. Adaptive Sound uses audio scenic intelligence to analyze scenes in real-time and optimize the sound based on content type.
- Effortlessly stream your content on the big screen. Easily connect and enjoy content from your mobile — videos, photos and documents — on your Smart Monitor.
- INSTANT ACCESS TO YOUR FAVORITE STREAMING CONTENT: Stream content directly from your monitor, or tune into Samsung TV Plus to get live channels and on-demand content.¹
- OPTIMALLY TAILORED VISUALS WITH AI: Experience optimal picture quality adjusted to your needs.² AI Picture Optimizer adapts the visuals to help you work on documents with comfort, get fully immersed in games with deep and rich blacks.
- SIMPLE CONTROL FOR YOUR SMART HOME: See your smart home devices in a 3D Map View and manage them with ease.³ You can also check the energy usage and cost by device, and save money by putting them in energy-saving modes.
- YOUR PRIVACY. SECURED ON SAMSUNG MONITORS: Keep your monitor data safe and confidential with Samsung Knox.⁴ Its robust, multi-layered security and tightly controlled access also enhance the security of your IoT connections made through your Smart Monitor.
- ENJOY YOUR CONTENT IN VIVID DETAIL: Watch your content come to life with incredible clarity.⁵ 4K UHD resolution enhances even fine details in images and videos, making worlds feel more vibrant and realistic.
- Work Smart, Play Smart on a 21:9 Smart Screen - LG Smart Monitor is designed for multitasking while you work, play and watch. Connect the 34” 21:9 curved display to a laptop, desktop or gaming console to immerse yourself in your work or games. Or, with the monitor’s built-in LG webOS, you can watch your favorite shows from your favorite streaming apps
- Your Favorite Streaming Services - Thanks to webOS23, find your favorites fast with built-in access to Netflix, Prime Video, the Apple TV app, Disney+, HBO Max and instant access to over 300+ free LG Channels with everything from comedy to movies to sports.
- 34" Ultra Wide 21:9 Panoramic Cinema - This 34" ultra wide QHD (3440x1440) with a 21:9 aspect ratio offers a 34% wider view than a 16:9 display. And the monitor's sweeping 1800R curve envelops you as if you were at the movies.
- Bold Color On A 34" Screen - Immerse yourself in a world of brilliant color from HDR10 that helps enhance picture quality and up to 99% sRGB color gamut expression to make games visually pop.
- Home Office Ready - From webOS, access cloud PC services such as Microsoft 365 and Google applications all without a PC.
- Packed in a Box:Store and organize mounting accessories in one place. Not only does this box keep screws, washers, and spacers neatly categorized, it also ensures that they are protected, dust-free, and ready to use
- Pre-Divided and Labeled:This TV wall mount hardware kit is pre-divided and labeled, and each screw is clearly labeled with its name and size, and the washers and spacers are separated for your convenience in selection and use
- Wide Application:Our universal TV mount screws are suitable for most TV brands. Whether you need to install or replace, this screw is perfect for TV accessories
- Durable & Strong:Constructed from high-quality materials, these screws and accessories are designed to provide a secure and long-lasting mounting solution for your television or monitor
- All in One Pack:Pack contains a variety of M4, M5, M6, M8 screws, washers and spacers for mounting virtually all TV's up to 80". In case of missing pieces or other problems, we have professionals ready to help. Please buy with confidence
- SLEEK & COMPACT: Our 14" Inch Widescreen LED HDTV was designed specifically for small and compact areas in mind. Small dorm room? In a car? RV Camping? Tight Kitchen Space? No problem! Our Small compact TV can be taken anywhere without any hassle or worry about space!
- LOADED FEATURES: Don't settle for less! HDMI, USB inputs for external audio/video playback, Dual AV inputs for use with DVD players or Game Systems, Headphone Jack, Built in Speaker, Full Band Digital TV Tuner, FM Radio, RCA Adapter, Remote Control, Built in Stand, even comes with a car charger!
- BUILT IN BATTERY: We had power outages and deserted camping in mind! Our TV has a built in rechargeable battery that can last 4 Hours + of play time so you don't miss any important news or your favorite game when your on the go! Included is a 12 volt AV power charging cord so you can recharge your TV.
- MAJOR COMPATIBILITLY : FM Radio, AVI, MOV, MPEG 1, MPEG 2, MPEG 3, MPEG4, XVID, AVC, MP4, H.264, HEVC(H.265), FLV, MKV, MP3, JPEG, WMV, HDMI, RMVB, AVI, MKY, 3GP, Audio interface, Video In, Audio-R, Audio-L interface, USB, HDMI, ATSC, NTSC, VGA, AC/DC.
- ENDLESS CONNECTIVITY: Computer monitors, security cameras, Apple TV, Amazon Firestick, Roku, Slingbox, Chromecast, DVD players and of course gaming consoles! You can even connect to the computer host as the display that can allow you to use your TV as a computer monitor!
- TV Mount Compatibility - The swivel TV wall mount is compatible with most LED LCD flat or curved 13″-43″ TVs/Monitors up to 44 lbs with VESA mounting patterns 75x75 to 200x200mm. The single TV mount for 24 30 32 39 40 42 43 Inch can be installed on single wood studs, concrete, or brick walls, perfectly compatible with SAMSUNG, SONY, LG, VIZIO, TCL, ELEMENT, SCEPTRE, HISENSE and other TV brands. Please confirm your screen size and TV/monitor VESA before ordering.
- Full Motion for Optimal Viewing - Our articulating arm small tv mount tilts +9°/-11° for anti-glaring, max swivels 90° display left or right according to your seats position (note: max. swivel angle depends on screen size) and rotates 360° for landscape and portrait orientation. It extends 14.59" and retracts back to 2.7" to save space. Makes your viewing or working feel more enjoyable!
- Universal Monitor Wall Mount - ideal for large computer monitors, especially monitors sizes 13, 17, 19, 21, 24, 27, 32, 34, 35 inch ultrawide monitors with VESA patterns from 75x75mm to 200x200mm. Use it as a full motion monitor wall mount to clear up desktop space and for ergonomic computer screen installation to improve your posture.
- Easy Installation - step-by-step instructions and all the necessary hardware is provided, single stud installation simplifies the placement of the TV/monitor on the wall. Removable TV plate designed for single-person installation which helps you to install this full motion TV wall mount without any hassle.
- Friendly After-sales Service - our corner tv wall mount 40 inch is constructed from high quality steel materials, we are so confident in the construction, strength and durability of this wall bracket that we are provide 5-year friendly customer service. Please feel free to contact us anytime, rain or shine:-)
- Wide Compatibility: The WALI Full Motion TV Wall Mount for most 13 to 32 inches flat panel screen display up to 33lbs, with Mounting Holes 75x75mm to 100x100mm. Detail: 75x75mm(3”x3”),100x100mm(4”x4”).
- Flexible Positioning for Optimal Comfort: Our articulating monitor wall mount features ±15° tilt, 180° swivel, and 360° rotation, providing enhanced viewing flexibility. Easily adjust the screen to your ideal position for a comfortable and ergonomic viewing experience.
- Wall-Mounted for More Space: This VESA Wall Mount allows your TV to extend 15 inches from the wall and retract to just 2 inches, providing a space-saving solution that keeps your living room or office neat and clutter-free.
- Effortless Installation: Designed for easy installation, our monitor wall mount features a 5.9"×1.6" wall plate that securely attaches to wood studs, brick, or concrete walls (Note: Drywall alone is not supported).
- Package Includes: 1 x WALI Articulating Wall Mount, 1 x Mounting Hardware Kit, 1 x User Manual, experienced and friendly US based customer support available to assist 7 days a week.
Choosing Your Next Screen: A TV as a Monitor Buying Guide
Many people wonder if they can use a big, beautiful TV as a computer monitor. The answer is yes! Using a TV for your PC or gaming console can give you a huge screen for work or play. But not all TVs work well for this job. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a TV to use as a monitor, some features matter more than others. Think about what you will use the screen for most often.
Resolution Matters Most
- 4K (UHD): This is the standard today. It offers sharp, clear pictures, perfect for reading text and detailed work.
- 1080p (Full HD): This is fine for basic tasks or if you sit far away. But text might look slightly fuzzy up close.
Screen Size and Distance
Bigger isn’t always better for a desk setup. A 32-inch to 43-inch TV often works best if you sit close. If you want to sit back like in a living room, you can go bigger, like 55 inches.
Input Lag and Refresh Rate (For Gamers)
These two things make gaming smooth. Input lag is how long it takes for your mouse click to show up on screen. You want this number to be low—ideally under 20ms.
- Refresh Rate: Look for 60Hz minimum. If you play fast-paced games, aim for 120Hz. This keeps motion looking fluid.
Panel Type
LED/LCD TVs are common. Newer technologies like OLED offer perfect blacks, which looks amazing for movies and dark games. However, OLEDs can sometimes cost more.
Important Materials and Connections
The physical parts of the TV determine how well it connects to your computer.
Connections (Ports)
You need the right plugs. HDMI is the standard connector. Make sure the TV has enough HDMI ports for all your devices.
- HDMI 2.0 or 2.1: Newer versions support 4K resolution at higher speeds (like 120Hz). If you have a modern gaming PC or console, HDMI 2.1 is very important.
- DisplayPort: Some high-end TVs include this PC standard port, which is a big bonus.
Screen Finish
TV screens usually have a glossy finish. This makes colors pop, but it also shows reflections easily. If your room has bright windows, a matte finish (sometimes found on specific monitors) is better, though rare on large TVs.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a TV a great monitor, and what makes it terrible?
Improving Quality: Monitor Mode
Many modern TVs have a specific setting you must turn on. This is often called “PC Mode” or “Game Mode.” Activating this mode usually turns off extra picture processing (like motion smoothing). This processing looks nice for movies, but it adds input lag, which hurts computer use.
Reducing Quality: Overscan and Text Clarity
Some TVs try to “zoom in” slightly on the picture, cutting off the edges of your screen. This is called overscan. You must turn this off so you see every pixel clearly. Poor text rendering (blurry letters) is the biggest complaint when using a TV as a monitor. Check reviews specifically for how well the model handles tiny text at 4K resolution.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the screen changes what you prioritize.
Productivity and Work
For spreadsheets and writing, resolution is king. A 4K TV lets you fit many windows on the screen. Look for good color accuracy (sRGB coverage) so documents look correct. Low input lag is not a major concern here.
Media Consumption and Casual Gaming
If you watch lots of Netflix or play slower games, you will love the large size and vibrant colors of a TV. Look for strong HDR (High Dynamic Range) support for the best movie experience.
Competitive Gaming
If you play fast shooters, low input lag and high refresh rates (120Hz via HDMI 2.1) are essential. A TV that supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) will prevent screen tearing when gaming.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use any TV as a computer monitor?
A: Yes, you can plug most modern TVs into a computer using HDMI. However, the picture quality and responsiveness might not be as good as a dedicated monitor.
Q: What is the most important setting to change on a TV used as a monitor?
A: You should always turn on “Game Mode” or “PC Mode.” This reduces input lag significantly.
Q: Will text look blurry on a large TV?
A: If you choose a 4K resolution on a TV smaller than 43 inches, the text should look very sharp. On smaller TVs or lower resolutions, text can look fuzzy.
Q: Do I need a special cable?
A: Usually, a standard HDMI cable works fine. If your TV and PC both support 4K at 120Hz, you need a certified HDMI 2.1 cable.
Q: What is input lag, and why does it matter?
A: Input lag is the delay between when you move your mouse and when you see that movement on the screen. Gamers need low lag for fast reactions.
Q: Are TVs good for color accuracy for photo editing?
A: Mid-range TVs are often okay, but professional photo editors usually need a monitor specifically calibrated for color work. Check reviews for sRGB coverage scores.
Q: Is HDR on a TV better than on a monitor?
A: Many large TVs have excellent HDR performance because they are brighter and bigger than most standard monitors. This makes movies look fantastic.
Q: What is refresh rate, and what number should I look for?
A: Refresh rate is how many times the screen updates per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Look for at least 60Hz, but 120Hz is much smoother for gaming.
Q: Can I use the TV’s built-in speakers instead of computer speakers?
A: Yes, TVs have built-in speakers. However, dedicated computer speakers usually offer better sound quality than most thin TV speakers.
Q: Do I have to sit far away from a large TV monitor?
A: While you can sit further back, with 4K resolution, you can sit quite close (about 2-3 feet) to a 40-inch screen and still see everything clearly without straining your eyes.