If you work primarily from a laptop every day, you know the struggles of having a limited amount of room to get any work done. That is why, many creative professionals use an external monitor for more screen space. The most popular type of monitor connects via a USB-C port which provides a second or larger primary screen and powers your laptop.
With their growing popularity, it’s beyond time for creatives to pay attention to this ever-increasing trend, and with our list of the Best USB Type-C monitors for graphic designers we hope to give you a better idea for your next monitor.
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If you’re ready, let’s look at some tips for buying a USB-C monitor to make things easier.
The Best USB-C Monitors for Graphic Designers
- LG 27UD88-W 27-inch 4K USB-C Monitor — Best USB-C monitor overall (Editor’s Choice)
- Dell U3818DW UltraSharp 38-inch Curved USB-C Monitor — Best high-end USB type C monitor
- LG 29UM69G — Best affordable USB-C monitor for gamers
- Acer H277HU 27-inch USB-C monitor — Best Budget USB-C monitor
- LG 34UM69G-B 34-inch UltraWide USB-C monitor — Super wide USB-C monitor
- BenQ PD2710QC 27-inch designer USB-C monitor — Best USB-C display monitor for home office
- Asus ProArt PA32UC USB-C monitor — USB-C monitor for professionals
- LG 27MD5KA 27-inch UltraFine 5K USB-C Monitor — Best monitor for MacBook Pro
- Acer XR382CQK 38-inch Curved USB-C Monitor — Large USB-C monitor
- HP Envy 27-inch 4K USB-C monitor — High quality USB-C monitor
- BenQ SW321C PhotoVue — 2nd best USB-C monitor
- Dell U2720Q — Best 4K USB-C monitor
- MSI PS341WU — Ultra wide USB-C monitor
Also see the best USB-C mouse and the best monitor calibrators.
What is the best USB-C Monitor?
LG 27UD88-W 27-inch is the best USB-C monitor. Check out the table to see a comparison of the other best USB-C monitors and choose what fits your needs the best.
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How to buy a USB-C monitor
Now that you’ve decided to buy a USB-C monitor, having so many options can make choosing stressful. To help narrow your choices, we’ve thought of some tips to make your decision a bit easier.
Adios budget
If you’re shopping around for a USB-C monitor for creative work and are looking for a cheap option, then may the Force be with you. If you’re looking for an affordable option that is relative in price to other USB-C monitors, you have some options. Just be ready for a little bit of sticker shock as you’ll likely need to spend between $300 and $500 just for a base model while higher-end models can easily reach four figures.
Meets Your Needs
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When you buy anything, you typically make sure that it solves an issue you have or meets a need. This is no different when it comes to choosing a USB-C monitor. The last thing you want to do is buy a monitor with a one-size-fits-all approach. As we said before, these monitors can be a bit pricey, so getting one that is optimized to help you achieve the desired results is important.
Don’t Get Hung up on Ports
Like many other monitor options, the ports that a USB-C monitor comes with can be a deciding factor for some people. But don’t dismiss a monitor that comes with a smaller number of ports because you can simply use a USB-C dock to connect your devices. By not focusing on the number or types of ports, you could open yourself up to a much better monitor.
13 Best USB-C Monitors for Graphic Designers & Creatives
1. LG 27UD88-W 27-inch 4K USB-C Monitor (Editor’s Choice)
The best USB-C monitor overall (balance of price and performance)
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27 inches | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 2 | Display ports: 1
With 4K resolution and FreeSync anti-tearing processing, the 27-inch monitor from LG was designed with games in mind but that doesn’t mean that it won’t work for any creative work you need to do. While it’s not the newest monitor out there, that just means, the price is much more affordable and makes it a great choice for any creative.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Delivers a sharp UHD picture | ➖ Color accuracy is slightly off |
| ➕ Include AMD’s FreeSync anti-tearing technology | ➖ It does not have built-in speakers |
| ➕ It has a USB-C port |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS Monitor; Response Time: 5ms GTG; Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- SRGB over 99%; On-Screen Control with Screen Split 2.0
- Color Calibration Pro; No Built In Speakers
- USB 3.0 Quick ChargeUSB Type C; Brightness (cd/m2) : 350 cd/m2; Contrast Ratio : 5M:1
- OS Compatibility Windows 8
2. Dell U3818DW UltraSharp 38-inch Curved USB-C Monitor
A high-end monitor for those who expect the best
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 38 inches | Resolution: 3840 x 1600 | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | HDMI inputs: 2 | Display ports: 1
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Designed with a 38-inch InfinityEdge screen, the curved Dell USB-C monitor is an impressive piece of technology. With a wide display, you can work with many multiple windows simultaneously, which makes it a great option for graphic designers. And with an impressive sRGB color gamut, once your work is done, you can start fighting off zombies.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Color accuracy is great | ➖ PIP and PBP support is poor |
| ➕ USB-C support |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Get an immersive experience and enjoy incredible visuals on this 38 inches WQHD+ curved screen with infinity edge
- Complete your work projects and enjoy home entertainment with vivid visuals, accurate color and sharp details.
- Connect up to six compatible RF devices or Bluetooth 4.0
- You can display and edit content from two different PCs with a single KVM feature (keyboard, video and mouse). Power consumption (operational) - 56W (typical) / 250W (maximum). Power consumption stand...
- A single cable solution with a USB type C connectivity transmits power, audio and video signals between a laptop and monitor. Change the video resolution to the correct aspect ratio
3. LG 29UM69G
The best affordable USB-C monitor for gamers
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 29 Inches | Resolution: 2560 x 1080 | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | HDMI inputs: 1 | Display ports: 1
LG 29UM69G is a budget-friendly gamer’s paradise but can easily also serve the purposes of a graphic designer. The USB-C monitor is perfect for all your home, office, and editing work plus high-end gaming. It has an ultrawide display (2560 x 1080 resolution) with an uncommon 21:9 aspect ratio, which offers a wide working area. If you ever wondered why people use two monitors, this monitor is your answer as you can have two operations/apps side-by-side. The AMD FreeSync and 75Hz support further gives bonuses to gamers, while the wide display is great for graphic artists.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Excellent value for money | ➖ Color accuracy is mediocre |
| ➕ Premium gaming features |
Latest Price on Amazon:
4. Acer H277HU 27-inch USB-C monitor
The best reasonably priced USB-C monitor
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27 inches | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 1 | Display ports: 1
Suppose you’re looking for a monitor that is a great combination for consuming content as well as some gaming every once in a while. In that case, the H277HU from Acer may not have the best specifications for video editing or graphic design. Still it could be a great option for someone with a home office or small business who might be willing to spend a little more on a high-quality monitor.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Excellent gray-scale performance | ➖ Slightly skewed reds |
| ➕ Rich color accuracy | ➖ Limited tilt |
| ➕ Zero-bezel design | ➖ Bad button arrangement for OSD |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 27" IPS WQHD Widescreen with 2560 x 1440 resolution; Refresh Rate : 60 Hz
- Response Time: 4ms
- Pixel Pitch: 0.2331mm
- Signal Inputs: 1 x HDMI (v2.0) & 1 x Display Port
- 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C port. Brightness 350 nit
5. LG 34UM69G-B 34-inch UltraWide USB-C monitor
The best affordable ultrawide USB-C monitor
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 34 inches | Resolution: 2560×1080 | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | HDMI inputs: 1 | Display ports: 1
From the design alone, the LG Ultrawide monitor has gaming written all over it. However, FreeSync technology and Dynamic Action sync are also great for anyone working in a creative field. Furthermore, with three customizable modes, the monitor from LG can be a great option for someone looking for a USB-C monitor without spending big bucks.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Wide viewing angles | ➖ Low pixel density |
| ➕ Quick response time | ➖ Design lacks swivel option |
| ➕ Good color accuracy |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 34" Widescreen Full HD IPS Display. Resolution-2560x1080
- 21:9 Aspect Ratio and Refresh Rate:75Hz
- 1ms Motion Blur Reduction
- AMD Free Sync
- Height Adjustable Stand
6. BenQ PD2710QC 27-inch designer USB-C monitor
The best monitor for a second screen in a home office
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27 inches | Resolution: 2560×1440 | Aspect ratio: | HDMI inputs: 1 | Display ports: 2
While the USB-C monitor from BenQ may not be on the list of other high-end displays, it certainly holds its own when it comes to features, especially at an affordable price point. It is equipped with IPS to help ensure that the images look great from every angle, and have sharp colors from its sRGB color gamut.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Plenty of I/O ports (1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort 1.2 (MST), 1 Ethernet, 4 USB 3.0 Type-A, 1 USB 3.1 Type-C) | ➖ No OSD controller |
| ➕ Solid color and grayscale performance | ➖ No color settings |
| ➕ Out-of-box accuracy |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 100% sRGB and Rec.709 color space with IPS technology: brilliant colors and wide viewing angle. OS Compatibility- Windows 7,Windows 8,Windows 8.1Windows 10
- 2560x1440 QHD resolution: enjoy greater image Detail (109 ppi) and crystal clear pictures
- USB Type-C docking Station: charge your Device, transfer data, transmit Audio and video, and connect to the internet, all through one USB TYpe-C cable
- Darkroom, CAD/cam and animation Display modes: revolutionary modes bring out the details of intricate designs into view
- Eye-care technology: Low Blue light and flicker-free technology reduce eye discomfort.Brightness:350 cd/㎡
7. Asus ProArt PA32UC USB-C monitor
A professional USB-C monitor with a price to match
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 32 inches | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 4 | Display ports: 1
Without a doubt, the ProArt monitor from Asus is the most expensive option on our list, but that’s on a whole different level. With 4K resolution and HDR imaging capabilities, this monitor comes wrapped in a USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 package, everything a creative designer could want. So, if you are working in any area from editing film to doing graphic design, you owe it to yourself to buy this monitor, if you can get past the price.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Contrast ratio of 100 million to one | ➖ Input lag is poor |
| ➕ Supports Gamma values of 2.6, 2.4, 2.2, 2.0, and 1.8 | |
| ➕ Has anti-glare surface on the screen |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 32-Inch 4K HDR (3840 x 2160) Professional display with Thunderbolt 3 x2, DisplayPort 1.2, USB 3.0 x2, HDMI 2.0B x3 inputs and 3W stereo speakers
- True 10-bit color depth and quantum-dot technology provides 99% DCI-P3, 99.5% Adobe RGB, and 100% sRGB, 89% rec. 2020 color space for exceptional Color fidelity
- Asus SMART HDR technology supports multiple HDR formats including HDR-10, Dolby Vision, and HLG
- Asus Eye Care technology with certified low Blue light and flicker-free technology paired with ergonomic tilt, swivel, pivot and height adjustment stand
- Thunderbolt 3 USB-C supports data transfers at up to 40 Gaps, and Power delivery provides up to 60W of power to external devices
8. LG 27MD5KA 27-inch UltraFine 5K USB-C Monitor
The best USB-C Monitor for MacBook Pro
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27 inches | Resolution: 5120 x 2880 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 0 | Display ports: 0
Apple has endorsed the Ultrafine monitor from LG as the preferred option for a MacBook Pro and it’s no surprise why. This monitor is impressive with a 5K resolution and an IPS display and a P3 color gamut. In addition, Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C ports make it perfectly suited for a Mac, which easily puts it at the top of any Apple fan’s wishlist.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Color accuracy is great | ➖ Not good for Windows |
| ➕ Easy to connect | ➖ Can’t stream or watch HDR content |
| ➕ Thunderbolt 3 available | |
| ➕ Ridiculously sharp and looks amazing (Glossy IPS panel, 5120×2880 resolution) |
Latest Price on Amazon:
9. Acer XR382CQK 38-inch Curved USB-C Monitor
A monitor that’s as beautiful as it is large
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 37.5 inches | Resolution: 3840 x 1600 | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | HDMI inputs: 2 | Display ports: 1
Acer XR382CQK monitor gives you accurate colors and very good gaming performance. It has a very large screen and a lot of extensive features. It is important to note though that this screen can be quite expensive.
There are three picture presets named Action, Racing, and Sports that can be optimized for gaming. The picture settings include Brightness, Contrast, Sharpness, BlackBoost, and Blue light to reduce eyestrain.
With a massive 38-inch curved display, the XR382CQK is an amazing piece of technology. It is equipped with AMD’s FreeSync technology which alone makes it a great monitor. The addition of an ergonomic stand that allows for the tilt, swivel, and height to be adjusted makes it even better than some static monitors. With such a large screen, Acer also includes eye-protection features such as an anti-flicker mechanism and a blue light filter to reduce eye fatigue and help you get your project done.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ The 38-inch IPS panel delivers crisp, accurate colors | ➖ Color calibration out-of-the-box is not great |
| ➕ Great grayscale performance | ➖ Contrast ratio not coming close to 1000:1 |
| ➕ FreeSync technology included |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 37.5" UltraWide QHD (3840 x 1600) Curved Widescreen with AMD FreeSync Display
- Refresh Rate: 75Hz - Using Display Port
- Response Time: 5ms
- Pixel Pitch: 0.229mm
- Signal Inputs: 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C Port, 1 x Display Port, 1 x Display Port Out, 1 x HDMI 2.0 & 1 x MHL 2.1
10. HP Envy 27-inch 4K USB-C monitor
A high-quality monitor with a beautiful design
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27 inches | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 2 | Display ports: 1
As one of the more affordable options on our list, the HP Envy presents a stunning 4K image and an overall design loaded with sleek aesthetics with its micro-thin bezels. While the color accuracy could be a little better overall, the image detail and rich colors are presented beautifully. In addition, if you’re looking for a USB-C monitor with wide viewing angles that is affordable, look no further.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Sharp UHD picture | ➖ Skewed greens |
| ➕ AMD FreeSync-enabled | ➖ Lacks USB 3.0 ports |
| ➕ Good grayscale performance |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 1 HDMI 1.4; 1 HDMI 2.0; 1 DisplayPort 1.2 with versatile USB-C connectivity
11. BenQ SW321C PhotoVue
The 2nd best USB-C monitor
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 32-Inches | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Refresh rate: 60Hz
BenQ SW321C is a masterpiece, having been voted Best Professional Photo Monitor for 2020 by the Technical Image Press Association. It’s especially great for creatives and editors looking to get their work done smoothly and accurately. The huge 32-inch 4K display gives you advanced detailing of the image with an inch-perfect color accuracy. The USB-C connectivity means that your work from laptop and tablets can be quickly viewed on the big screen for a better editing experience. There is a built-in SD card reader as well, making it a really useful option for photographers.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Enhanced brightness and color regularity | ➖ Ports are hard to reach |
| ➕ Hardware calibration is available with 16-bit LUT precision | ➖ ‘Paper Color Sync’ needs refining |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 32 INCH 16:9 4K MONITOR: Exceptional clarity and fine details with IPS technology
- AQCOLOR: 99% Adobe RGB coverage, 95% Display P3, uniformity technology, factory calibrated for accurate color performance, Delta E ≤ 2
- HARDWARE CALIBRATION: Tune and maintain optimal color performance with Palette Master Element software
- HDR10: Increase the dynamic range between black and white for more realism; HDR10 and HLG support
- PHOTO EDITING MONITOR: Paper Color Sync and A.R.T. reflectionless panel enable photo print previews close to printed copies
12. Dell U2720Q
The best 4K USB-C monitor
USB-C: Yes | Screen size: 27-Inches | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | HDMI inputs: 1 | Refresh rate: 60Hz
Dell U2720Q is another great budget-friendly 4K option when considered with other monitors offering similar specs. From the detailing and quality of the pixels to exquisite features and much more, you are guaranteed to have a delightful and eye-soothing viewing experience with this USB-C monitor. The 27-inch display is wide and extremely sharp. You might feel the 350 nits brightness as average but it delivers amazing uniformity. So, whether you are looking for casual or office or creative work, this is a great pick.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Sharp resolution (4k) | ➖ Mediocre brightness |
| ➕ Great color accuracy | |
| ➕ Good connections and power |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Create an efficient workspace with the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 27 inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) LED Backlit LCD IPS USB-C Monitor (7GZ651)
- Sleek design - 27 inch diagonal 4K UHD IPS screen with vibrant 3840 x 2160 resolution and thin profile that supports virtually seamless multi-display setups
- Exceptional visuals - see consistent, vibrant colors across a wide viewing angle enabled by In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology
- Experience simple, convenient connectivity - work with your most frequently-used devices with DisplayPort, HDMI, USB ports, and Audio Line out
- Display Features: Tilt, Swivel, Pivot, Vesa Mount Compatible, Anti-glare, USB Hub, LED Backlights, In Plane Switching, Security Lock Slot, Energy Star Certified, 99% sRGB color gamut
13. MSI PS341WU
The best ultra wide USB-C monitor
USB–C: Yes | Screen size: 34-Inches | Resolution: 5120 x 2160 | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | HDMI inputs: 2 | Refresh rate: 60Hz
MSI PS341WU is an ultra-wide USB-C monitor that comes with a massive 34-inch 5K display and 21:9 aspect ratio. In other words, you are sure to get the feel of two monitors combined in one. With HDR 600 support and 450 nits of brightness, the viewing and editing experience will be superb. The monitor also offers complete ergonomic adjustments for better viewing angles and to work for a long time. It is also equipped with three USB 3.2 ports, making it flexible for quick connectivity.
| Pros | Cons |
| ➕ Great color accuracy | ➖ Plasticky build |
| ➕ Excellent resolution |
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 34-Inch ultra-wide Professional wuhd (5120 x 2160/ 21: 9) designed for creators & multitasking
- Nano-ips panel for a truly premium quality picture
- 98% of DCI-P3 color gamut with a pre-calibrated in factory for the most excellent color accuracy
- 34” ultra-wide wuhd Display for truly expressive details
- Built-in picture-in-picture (PIP) and Picture-by-Picture (PBP) help to check the content from multiple sources simultaneously and switch between them easily
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a USB-C monitor?
After connecting your USB-C monitor with the device, you can use inter-device compatibility to transfer files, view images, edit high-resolution videos and do much more at fast speeds via a single-cable solution.
How do you connect the USB-C monitor to HDMI?
To connect your USB-C monitor to HDMI, you need to buy a compatible Type-C to HDMI adapter designed specifically for this purpose. You can stream audio and video from your computer at high speeds and with the best quality using the adapter.
Is a USB-C monitor worth it?
Yes, USB Type-C monitors are worth it. They come in handy when you are a creator and work a lot on your laptop. USB-C monitors provide you with a second or larger primary screen to work on, and you're always assured of high image quality.
Why are USB-C monitors so expensive?
The USB Type-C monitors are expensive because they are high-tech products and can replace HDMI found in most monitors. The Type-C connection has many advantages, such as high transfer speeds, better image quality, smaller connections, etc., making it a more expensive pick in the market.
What is the best USB-C monitor for gaming?
LG 29UM69G is the best Type-C gaming monitor. The ultrawide monitor makes it easier for gamers to process the graphics during play. The AMD FreeSync and a 75Hz refresh rate also improve the gaming experience by reducing lag.
Do USB-C monitors come with a webcam and speakers?
Yes, there are USB-C monitors that come with a built-in webcam and speakers for a better and more complete computing experience.
The Best USB-C Monitors for Graphic Designers
Choosing the best USB-C monitor for your work can be difficult. The best USB-C monitor not only provides a great monitor that can power your laptop but can also display your work with amazing resolution and color. We hope that our list of the Best USB-C monitors for graphic designers has given you a better idea of how these monitors can help you every day.
Do you have a USB-C monitor that you feel is the best thing on the planet? Let us know in the comments below!
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