When building a gaming PC, the performance of the components you choose will help dictate what monitor you should buy. With more powerful parts, you can get a high-resolution display that beautifully renders graphics and shows small details. If you’ve been shopping for a new display, you will come across the terms 1440p and 4K resolution. While 4K resolutions have the sharpest displays, 1440p could be a better choice. Here is a brief overview about each option to help you choose the best one for your needs.

1440p

Monitors that offer 1440p resolution, also known as 2K, have 1,440 pixels lined up vertically across the screen and 1,920 pixels on the horizontal axis. More pixels allow a screen to render finer details and produce more vivid colors, so these monitors are a significant step up from older 1080p HD displays.

However, resolution is not the only factor that influences gameplay. The quality of your display also depends on the graphics card in your gaming PC and your internet bandwidth. If your computer has a mid-range graphics card, and you’re using a standard internet connection, 1440p will usually provide the perfect balance of excellent visuals and smooth gameplay.

4K

With 4,000 pixels on the horizontal axis and over 2,000 on the vertical, 4K monitors are on the cutting edge of display technology. While the difference between 4K and 1440p may not be immediately apparent on smaller screens, 4K offers startling resolution and incredible colors on larger displays.

However, frame rate is as important as resolution when it comes to gameplay. This describes how many frames per second your gaming PC is capable of reproducing, with more frames meaning a smoother viewing experience. Pairing a 4K screen with a standard graphics card can result in dropped frames and visual glitches that can make your games more difficult and less enjoyable to play.

Streaming

Rendering ultra HD graphics on a 4K screen requires a considerable amount of data, which can present challenges if you plan to stream the game to viewers online. To use one of these monitors, you’ll need an internet connection with at least 25 Megabits per second (Mbps) upload speed, as opposed to about 10Mbps for 1440p displays. When evaluating your internet speed, don’t rely on the listed speed on your bill, as the exact speed can fluctuate. Instead, use online testing websites to determine your bandwidth before investing in a new monitor.

If you’re ready to upgrade your gaming experience, SKR Custom Gaming Computers in Maryville, TN, has what you need. Their team will design and build a custom gaming machine that fits your exact specifications and budget, with options for casual and professional gamers alike. Then, they will ship the completed project anywhere in the United States. Visit the website to start designing your gaming PC, and get more tech tips and advice on Facebook. Call (865) 738-5620 to speak with a team member about your needs.