A TV is for console gamers, and a gaming monitor is for PC enthusiasts. That was the sentiment and a traditional division back in the days. Today, however, this dividing line is not so clear anymore. Modern TVs have advanced features borrowed from high-end gaming monitors and often have better picture quality and options. Of course, monitors are still a viable choice, especially for the esports niche, but let’s break down this dilemma.
In short, yes, you can use a TV instead of an expensive gaming monitor. New TVs have a high refresh rate, fast response time, huge resolution and HDR support. The only caveat is an even higher refresh rate on gaming monitors that will benefit FPS, Battle Royal and other competitive gaming.
Gaming on Android TV
Gamers that like casual games can rely on most gaming screens. Android TV is probably the best system for casual gamers who like playing mobile games on their phones and TV. According to Google, Android TV is unprecedented and is growing expeditiously, having 80% more users in 2020 than in previous years. Since those games don’t have to be app-based, you can play them in an Internet browser. Those are usually HTML5 based games, the most common examples here being online casinos. Playing one of their online slots real money games on a giant TV screen provides a much better overview than mobile experiences. Although you won’t profit from lower input lag and high refresh rates, but rather just bigger screen size, things change a bit if you play AAA titles. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of TV and expensive monitors for gaming.
Why Are Today’s TVs Great for Gaming?
Most TVs are now 4K, which translates into getting a high-resolution screen even in entry class. Along with the UHD 3840 x 2160 pixel native res, the size of the average TV is now 55′, and 65′ is also not uncommon as a popular choice for users. The sheer size accompanied by a faithful display makes for an excellent foundation for games.
But TVs are slow. Some are, but nowadays, you can find relatively affordable OLED TVs on the market. They have a significantly faster screen with a sub-1ms grey-to-grey pixel response. For comparison, LCD panels can get to 5ms. With the quick response time, most new OLED models have a 120 Hz refresh rate lower than gaming monitors but still significant. In 2021, numerous TVs will come with HDMI 2.1, which is capable of high bandwidth to push 4K and over 60Hz signal through. OLED is perfect for playing PS5 titles in HDR and full, rich visuals like Demon Souls remake, or PC version of Cyberpunk 2077.
What About Monitors?
Would you put a giant 55′ screen on your gaming desk? It could be over the top, and the OLED models mentioned above are expensive. On the other hand, an entry or a midrange gaming monitor is significantly cheaper than a TV. Also, only a few graphic cards can push modern games in full detail to 4K resolution and above 60 FPS. So for most gamers, a 1440p gaming monitor with 27″ or 32″ will be the best choice.
The most significant advantage of gaming monitors is the high refresh rate which can go from 144 Hz to even 360 Hz response time. Of course, this won’t be the deciding factor in console gaming, strategy games, and adventures. However, a high refresh rate can distinguish between a win and respawn time if you’re playing CS: GO or another competitive esports title.
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