Best Dual Monitor Setup for Designers, Digital Photography, Video Editing, and Gaming

For people looking to expand their monitor applications, having a dual monitor setup is a must-have. It opens up your possibilities for simultaneous use of programs something hectic with only one monitor. It increases coordination and communication in offices more so for those in web design and video, photo, and spreadsheet editing.  

The perfect dual monitor setup involves having multiple input options and thin bezels. You’ll want to make the gap between monitors as small as possible and be able to multitask to your liking. You can go for monitors of the same size and resolution or different configuration. It spells down to your needs since if you may want a small-sized model in vertical configuration and a bigger screen for art and design.

The bottom line, make sure your PC or laptop supports it.

After diving into the latest monitors, discovering wonderful, slim models that use emerging technologies, some of the features for the best setup include multiple adjustment features, 178-degree viewing angles, and a 3-sided micro-edge design.

We are talking about HP VH240a 23.8-Inch FHD. This is a unique model showcasing wide-screen performance. The monitor has DVI, VGA, and HDMI compatibility to ensure complete compatibility with most PCs.

For incredible video and picture performance, Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q is an ideal pick. It is much bigger than our top pick, and it features a 4K resolution. This monitor is suitable for most people looking to work on their monitor and still play games on it. 


Top Pick - HP VH240a FHD IPS 

This is a minimalistic monitor based on a micro-edge IPS panel. It boasts a 178-degree viewing angle which allows you to view your work from different angles without compromising color fidelity and luminance.

1. HP VH240a 23.8-Inch FHD IPS: Best for Office

We start with a super ergonomic design that is tailored for most office needs. HP VH240a is a decent model owing to its size and performance features. It is the perfect choice for a cost-effective dual monitor setup under $100.

This is a minimalistic monitor based on a micro-edge IPS panel. It boasts a 178-degree viewing angle which allows you to view your work from different angles without compromising color fidelity and luminance. It is an ideal choice for photo editors as it also offers multiple adjustments.

HP VH240a can tilt, pivot, and it also offers height adjustments. For seamless dual monitor setups, you will find it exceptional side by side on a dual VESA mount. It is slim, and you may never notice the usual two-monitor gap.

When it comes to screen resolution and color performance, HP is not making any compromises. At 23.8 inches, this monitor gives you 1920 x 1080 pixels to work with. It is exciting what 2 million pixels can do. Not only that, but it also explores 10m:1 dynamic contrast ratio capable of giving you a picture that says a thousand bucks.

You get a 5ms response time which is typical of IPS panels. Not to mention 60Hz refresh rate that comes in handy when you want to watch videos or play a few titles. Its color performance also enjoys anti-glare performance. It is essential when working in brightly lit rooms since it eliminates eye strain.

Compatibility comes easy since HP VH240a has HDMI and VGA connectivity ports. It is also HDCP compliant meaning you won’t have problems with your digital connections.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

HP VH240a comes with 2W speakers. Its sound performance is far from great, and you can only get decent sound when wearing headphones. For video watching, you may also experience minimal blurs because it has not invested in screen tearing technologies.

         Pros

  • Comes with VGA and HDMI ports
  • Ultra-slim design
  • Ergonomic setting offers height, tilt, and swivel adjustability
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    178-degree viewing angles
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    Offers 72% sRGB coverage

Cons

  • Integrated speakers need backing up with external speakers
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    Does not work well with low-profile desks

2. Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q: Best 4K Dual Monitor Setup

Dell is a brand that never lets us rest when it comes to indulging our eyes. Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q comes in a professional design, but it is more about versatility. This monitor has every spec it takes to fall for it.

One, it is a 4K monitor. As slim as it is, Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q is the only monitor you will need for immersive viewing and detailed picture performance. It supports HDR, a technology that gives you lifelike pictures.

For videos and photo editors, it is the right kind of monitor to showcase your best work.


Ultrasharp is just as its name suggests. It comes calibrated at 99% sRGB coverage meaning it is color consistent. It provides you with correct and accurate hues that promise just the right kind of color intensity. Now you can be sure that photos and images represent the right shades of the colors you want them to.

It showcases incredible color volume and color coverage even better than its HDR mode. Not to say that HDR is poor on this monitor, but I’d rather keep it in SDR.

An exciting feature is that it has tilt and height adjusting options. You can also rotate it in a portrait orientation. Since the borders are slim and blend with the screen, a dual monitor setup will not distract you as there will be a very insignificant gap.

When it comes to brightness, you will like this monitor in a moderately lit room. Seeing that it does not support local dimming, bright and room performance is not at its best. However, you will like watching videos on it since it has accurate details in images thanks to its high pixel density.

Compatibility for multiple monitor setups is through HDMI, DisplayPort, and mini DisplayPort. The monitor also has four USB 3.0 ports so you can also use it as a USB hub for your other devices.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

HDR is only supported when this monitor is connected to HDMI and not DisplayPort. It is something you’ll want to consider if you are choosing this monitor for picture editing.

           Pros

  • Perfect gradient reproduction
  • Easy onscreen control with four buttons
  • It comes with a USB 3.0 cable and DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort
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    Impressive SDR performance
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    Compatible with all operating systems

        Cons

  • It does not support AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync anti-tearing technologies

3. ViewSonic VP2768 PRO 27: Best for Digital Photography

Today’s professional screens are replete with features but are not as high-priced as older-generation monitors. ViewSonic VP2768 PRO 27 is designed to deliver stellar picture performance to support professional photography.

With a QHD panel, 60Hz refresh rate, and 14ms response time, most digital artists, designers, and photographers will find it exceptional. It covers 99% of sRGB color gamut coupled with Rec.709. This is more than enough for photo and video editing so be ready to bring your best self to the design table.

This monitor also enjoys a native 1000:1 contrast ratio to provide decent blacks. Combined with calibration and colorimeter software solutions, ViewSonic VP2768 PRO 27 is destined for the most accurate color management.

You also get an array of color space assets besides sRGB, and six color temperature presets. Not to mention, it offers ViewMode presets that are application specific like in gaming and web surfing. There’s also a blue light filter that reduces eye strain and ApectRatio settings. The monitor allows you to tap into different realms when looking to get the best work out of your projects.

Looking at the physical design of this monitor, it is minimalistic in that it offers a sleek, zero-bezel chassis. The stand is ready to tilt, swivel and height adjust. It is also VESA mount-capable and comes with a ton of ports. It has high-speed USB ports, HDMI, Full and Mini DisplayPort.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

Most users are having problems with the buttons and USB configuration. With the controls at the back and the USB ports at the bottom, it is tricky to navigate especially when you have multiple monitors.

         Pros

  • Frameless design at on 2mm
  • Sharp images at quad HD
  • It comes factory calibrated
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    It supports professional color processing
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    It has a fully adjustable stand

      Cons

  • It may need a 3rd party color calibrator

4. Acer R240HY bidx Widescreen Monitor: Best Budget Dual Monitor Setup

Acer R240HY is great for work. It does not only expand your viewing experience, but it is also excellent on the cheap. A favorite of many people, this monitor brings in a better perspective on what to expect on dual monitor setups.

This monitor enjoys full HD resolution. It delivers perfect color accuracy with its IPS panel. It balances power draw and color performance making it great for offices looking to cut costs without compromising productivity.


It is color accurate and consistent when used for entry-level design and photography. And for gaming, it allows up to 75Hz refresh rates and a 4ms response time for blur-free imagery. With 16.7 million colors and a wide-screen view, it reels you into the realm of better color management so that you can provide remarkable color accuracy in all your photos and designs.

With this monitor, you can rest easy because it won’t hurt your eyes after hours of editing and designing. It invests in flicker-free technology and blue light filter to reduce eye strain. This model also provides you with an ergonomic stand that offers tilt action between -5 and 15 degrees.

The monitor will not, however, swivel, pivot, height-adjust or wall-mount with a VESA mount. But it is quite versatile in terms of functions. Acer R240HY offers five buttons to toggle through the picture presets.

The ports configuration includes VGA, DVI, HDMI, and an output jack. You can listen through an HDMI connection since it does not have integrated speakers.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

Acer R240HY is not ideal for dark room viewing. It has complaints about backlight bleeding which is because of the midrange IPS panel. Otherwise, it should do well in moderately and brightly lit rooms since it has an anti-glare coating.

Pros

  • Stylish bezel-free design
  • Can be overclocked to 75Hz
  • 178-degree viewing angles
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    It is Energy STAR certified
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    It uses eye care technology

      Cons

  • It has a slight IPS glow
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    It does not offer extensive picture presets for photo editing

5. ASUS VS228H-P 21.5-Inch: Best Small Monitor for Dual Monitor Setup

Most people will not agree that a small monitor can give you better performance than larger monitors. But to get the most out of full HD panels, smaller is better as is the case with ASUS VS228H-P.

This is an LCD monitor that offers different viewing angles since it is a TN panel. You get 170-degree horizontal viewing and 160-degree vertical viewing. It eliminates the issues that come with TN panels allowing you to watch from different angles without getting inaccurate color.


With SmartView technology the monitor can adjust color parameters so that you don’t have to stick to a proper eye level when watching videos. It goes further to bring in Splendid Video Intelligence Technology to enhance color, contrast, sharpness, and brightness to optimize image fidelity and video performance.

ASUS VS228H-P also gives you six video presets which includes Game, Night View, sRGB, Scenery, Theatre, and Standard. You can easily choose a preset according to what you are watching. What’s more, it also has four color temperature modes, and three skin-tone modes to offer an amazing viewing experience.

At first glance, it is stylish, sophisticated, but remains user-friendly. It is LED-lit and is power-efficient. Except for the high brightness which you have to re-calibrate when it arrives, you get nice picture quality from the start.

Navigating the settings comes easy with a multi-language OSD menu buttons placed at the bottom. The buttons also have icons on them that contribute to its ease of use.

The connectivity ports include HDMI, DVI-D, and VGA. It has built-in adapters that make connection simple and straightforward. Don’t expect USB ports though, because it does not have any. It is a kind of a snag for those looking to get full use of their monitor including being a USB hub.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

We’ve already touched on some drawbacks about this monitor. But what is most notable is its lack of adjustability except the tilt function to 25 degrees. It limits its usage since you may not like it for photo and video editing.

      Pros

  • It uses Splendid Video Intelligence technology
  • Smart View fixes issues with angled viewing
  • It has an Aspect Control function
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    Simple to navigate through the settings
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    It offers Smart Contrast Ratio

    Cons

  • It is too bright right out of the box
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    The stand has some wobbly issues

6. Acer Predator XB271HU WQHD: Best Gaming Monitor for Dual Monitor Setup

Looking for a high-end gaming monitor for a dual monitor setup? You will like gaming on Acer Predator XB271HU. As part of an upscale series, this monitor provides just about every feature you would like as a hardcore gamer.

A high-end IPS panel is not the only thing to smile about with this monitor. It is super responsive with 144Hz refresh rate overclockable to 165Hz. You won’t find a game it won’t play as it combines the high refresh rate with 4ms response time and Nvidia G-Sync anti-tearing technology.


Expect the most fluid gaming experience without a streak or blur in the fastest action games. It can push graphics and deliver detailed picture performance owing to its QHD resolution. Although it does not have HDR, this monitor brings together intensive and immersive gaming in lush colors.

Your only concern will possibly be the low contrast as it is likely to show blacks looking like grey in a dark room. But you get wide viewing angles to watch at any angle. It adds an excellent touch with outstanding peak brightness that eliminates screen glare.

You may notice that the settings are a bit off so you may need to recalibrate it before entering your gaming zone.

What we liked most is its fascinating design that speaks of gaming. It is bold and aggressive with the Predator Logo and the red accents reminding you it’s an Acer. Not to mention, the monitor achieves a comfortable setup whether with VESA mounts or using the stand alone.

The screen rotates side to side and in portrait mode. And to reduce eye-strain, it is flicker-free. It also has a ComfyView Mode, blue-light filter, and dimming technology. With the bezel at only 2mm, you can include it in any dual monitor setup.

When it comes to the inputs, it offers HDMI, DisplayPort, and two USB 3.0, and audio input. It allows you to connect to devices and also enjoy some music on its two 2W speakers.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

Navigating the OSD is a tad confusing on this model. The buttons are on the bottom right bezel, and since they are unmarked, it will take a little time getting the feel of it and getting the settings right without losing your patience.

      Pros

  • The refresh rate is overclockable to 165Hz
  • It has G-Sync to prevent screen tearing
  • Quad high-definition resolution
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    Lots of visual protection technologies
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    Ergonomic stand

    Cons

  • It has low contrast
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    Below average speakers

7. ASUS Designo MX27AQ: Best Dual Monitor Setup for Mac

At 27 inches, ASUS Designo MX27AQ is another great consideration for a dual monitor setup. This particular model offers a frameless bezel, smart contrast ratio, and a decent size for an ultra-wide view.

You can throw anything at this monitor, and it is down with it. Talk of design, photo, video, and spreadsheet editing, gaming, watching movies, and running multiple applications; it is perhaps the best well-rounded model we have reviewed here.

With a QHD IPS panel and a 60Hz refresh rate, you will be impressed by how smooth it processes images. It has excellent color representation, viewing angles, and contrast. You get saturated colors that you can adjust to your liking.


You get eight screen modes that allow you to customize your view. They include sRGB, Theatre, Scenery, Game, Night View, Reading, Standard, and Dark Room. And to enhance your viewing experience, this monitor also uses SPLENDID Video Intelligence Technology, blue light filter, three skin tones, and different color configurations.

ASUS Designo MX27AQ has an ultrafast 5ms response time that minimizes ghosting and blurring. It provides powerful detailing representing 77% of AdobeRGB and 2.2 gamma value. The brightness of this monitor maxes out at 350 nits, but with a contrast ratio of 700:1, its blacks are not the best in a dark room.

The stylish side of this monitor comes into sight with a three-sided bezel that is only 1.25cm. For the price, it is as thin as they get and you will be even more impressed by the silver strip at the bottom. It has a joystick for the controls- not the most intuitive, but the ports face behind on the right side making it easy to locate.

Its inputs include a DisplayPort, two HDMI, and DVI. It does not have USB ports so don’t count on it when you want to transfer stuff using flash drives.

Flaws but not Dealbreakers

This monitor does not offer VESA mount compatibility. Since it is not height adjustable, we would have liked to see a way to improve screen versatility.

      Pros

  • Ultra-wide 178-degree viewing angle
  • Asus Care Technology protects from eye strain
  • Splendid Video Intelligence Technology
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    It is excellent with MacBook Pro

    Cons

  • It does not offer cable management

Many monitors claim to offer dual monitor performance, but not many look good. A model like ASUS Designo MX27AQ is slim and looks great even without the possibility of VESA compatibility.

On to gaming with dual monitors, it is not a common occurrence since the gap between can be very distracting. But Acer Predator XB271HU manages to deliver on a slim bezel that is only 2mm thick.

And, we can’t go without mentioning the exceptional attributes of a monitor designed specifically for art and design. ViewSonic VP2768 PRO is a model that is distinct owing to its presets and settings. It has Rec.709. and 99% sRGB representing a big chunk of professional photo and video editing.

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