We’ve all seen pictures from our favorite gaming streamers’ setup showcasing multiple monitors. But, does a dual monitor setup make sense for your needs?
Sleek dual monitor gaming setup showcasing narrow bezel monitors.
Have you ever considered using dual monitors? For avid gamers, the idea sounds awesome but can seem intimidating. However, the practice of a dual monitor setup for gaming can be more practical than it might appear at first glance.
Setting up a second monitor is a reasonably basic and straightforward process. It will, however, fundamentally alter how you use your computer. Thus, when it comes to switching to a second display, there are numerous variables to consider.
In this article, you will learn about the pros and cons of a dual monitor setup. But first, it is important to learn the things that you should consider before running dual monitors.
Things to Consider Before Running Dual Monitors
Before going to the store and spending money on a new screen, bear the following in mind:
Screen Size
Although some people do not mind having monitors of different sizes, for a more balanced experience, it is best to purchase two monitors of the same size. If you already have a monitor, you should think about the size of an additional display. Most gamers have little trouble managing two screens with different resolutions or even refresh rates. However, for optimal performance, two different screens must be properly oriented.
Bezels Width
Another consideration when purchasing a monitor is the thickness of the frame. Dual or multiple monitor setups get used primarily with ultra-narrow bezel monitors such as the ASUS TUF Gaming Monitor or the Alienware 240Hz Gaming Monitor. When two monitors with slim bezels are put side by side, the viewing experience gets enhanced with no distractions. Even if you already have a monitor with standard bezels, a narrow bezel monitor can improve your viewing experience.
Computer Connectivity
It is also smart to double-check whether your computer, specifically your graphics card, can support two monitors. It is impossible to use dual monitors without an additional graphics card if your graphic card only has one video connector. You can also get a USB to dual HDMI adapter if your graphic card only has one video connector. However, this issue is uncommon because most modern computers have at least two video ports connecting dual monitors.
Mounts and Adjustments
Depending on your purpose and application, you may require additional monitor attachments such as a stand, mount, or arm. You should also think about whether you will need a rotation feature and how you will attach it. However, in this scenario, make sure your monitors support VESA mounting. If your monitors do not support VESA mounting, you can buy a VESA Mount Adapter Kit.
Pros of Using Dual Monitors
If you're considering putting up dual monitors, here are reasons why you should do it:
Time-Saving
Dual monitors will be of no value to some people, but they will be essential for some professions. If you are a designer, for example, and you have a lot of different applications open. Essentially, it will be more convenient to open some of them on one screen while others get displayed on the second. Moreover, it also makes it feasible for gamers to multitask while playing their favorite video games.
Increases Productivity
From one perspective, the assertion that using a dual monitor increases productivity might be self-evident. However, from another perspective, there may be reasons to believe that someone who works on two monitor displays simultaneously is more likely to get distracted and lose focus. To finally draw the line, here are figures and facts from various research as data do not lie.
A study conducted on this topic revealed that using two screens increases productivity. According to another study, utilizing two monitor displays improves annual profit by some thousand dollars. Furthermore, in sectors like testing and electronic engineering, where screen size is critical, employing dual monitors from 20 to 24 inches resulted in a 20%d reduction in errors. As a gamer, you probably do not care about the potential productivity increases from running a dual monitor setup. However, these facts directly translate to your gaming efficiency whether you’re grinding RPGs or trying to improve your FPS skills.
Overall, having a dual monitor arrangement will improve the pace at which you can do activities. When considering how long it takes to switch between applications, it looks insignificant. However, throughout your assignment, it significantly adds up.
Convenience
It is worth noting that, first and foremost, connecting a second monitor is simple, and you will be able to set it to your preferences without difficulty. Everything else becomes much easier after that. Two monitors, for example, will be useful if you want to compare anything or exhibit some things in an overall plan and on a larger scale at the same time.
A Whole New Joyful Experience
Working on two displays is a lot more fun than working on one. It is difficult to believe that it will relieve any anxiety or confusion, but in time, it just will. Your productivity and computer's usability will both improve dramatically. Simply doing so will reduce your stress levels while working on a computer.
Not to mention that you can play your favorite games or watch your favorite shows while working. Surely you have worked on a project that was both boring and tedious at some point in your life. Consider how convenient it would have been to be able to do that while playing your favorite games or watching your favorite show or movie. However, remain careful not to become sidetracked while doing so.
People typically think of gaming as a pleasurable experience; people do not play games to elevate their stress levels; the contrary is true. You would now be able to view videos, movies, or shows while playing games. This option will significantly improve your overall satisfaction and experience. Depending on the games you play, this could be the perfect complement.
Two monitors will also improve your experience if you take video games more seriously. While playing the game, for example, you can keep a tab open with strategies or instructions. This advancement will, once again, boost your game satisfaction, making it significantly more pleasant.
Cons of Using Dual Monitors
Using dual monitors is not without its disadvantages. With that, here are some reasons why dual monitors are bad, making it a smarter choice to stick with a single monitor display.
Distracting
From one perspective, having a game, for example, open on a second monitor, is a fantastic idea because it allows you to better focus on another display and get a job done. On the other hand, one can always wander on the second screen, which might harm productivity. However, it is mostly dependent on the character and discipline of the individual.
Stress on the Video Card
Another disadvantage is that video cards do not have infinite resources. That means a video card's resources double when you use two screens. Or, to put it another way, its power will be split between two monitors. It is not a problem if you have a decent and powerful card, but it can be a problem if you do not.
You should also keep in mind that not all video cards allow you to connect two monitor displays simultaneously. Thus, it is always a smart idea to consider before going for a dual monitor display.
Requires Significant Space
Another issue is a lack of available room or space. It is not difficult to place one monitor on the table. On the other hand, adding an extra screen can be a big pain, especially if your space is small. Modern monitors, of course, do not require as much room as older monitors, but they may still be an issue.
Pricey
It should come as no surprise that you will need to invest money in a second monitor. It is not a problem if you are positive that you will utilize it; but, some people are unsure. Furthermore, decent displays are still rather costly. So it would be a waste of money to spend money on a monitor and then not utilize it. Thus, before making such a decision, make doubly sure that you need and will use it.
Conclusion
As you can see, having dual monitor displays has its advantages and disadvantages. Of course, there are more advantages to it, but first, let us clarify a few points. Aside from the technical aspect, it is ultimately important to consider its utility.
If you have the funds and a work that necessitates a second screen, dual monitors are a fantastic choice. In another way, if you buy the second monitor just to watch movies on it and surf the Internet on another screen, it may be a questionable decision. However, if you want something that will spark joy within you, go for it.
Ultimately, the utility of dual monitors does not equate to its use in money-making aspects such as work or part-time jobs. Sometimes, it is enough that it makes you happy. After all, that is the goal, right?