TV vs. Monitor [Detailed Comparison of TV & Monitor]

We think the screen is the most important thing, whether you are using a computer or a television. And a TV and a monitor are screens that help display whatever function you tell the machine to do.

Although both these are display screens, they have distinct features. At the same time, televisions are electronic devices streaming video content. And monitors are hardware devices of the computer. So it reveals videos or illustrations which are generated by the computer. 

Many of us must have wondered sometimes which one of these is better. We can say that you definitely do, which is why you are here. Hence, this article aims to bring you our take on TV vs Monitor. So if you want to know about it, keep on reading.

TV vs Monitor

When it comes to choosing the right display for your entertainment needs, there is no easy answer. Both TVs and Monitors have their own unique advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when making a decision.

Picture Quality

In terms of picture quality, both TVs and monitors offer excellent visuals and clarity. However, TVs usually have larger screens than monitors, which provide a better viewing experience since they can fill up more of the viewer’s field of vision. Additionally, TVs often have higher resolution than monitors, so they can display sharper images with more detail.

Sound Quality

In terms of sound quality, TVs typically offer better audio performance than monitors due to their larger speakers and the ability to use external devices like sound bars or subwoofers. On the other hand, monitors tend to have weaker speakers and may not be able to produce as rich of a sound as TVs can.

Price

When it comes to price, monitors often cost less than TVs due to their smaller size and fewer features. However, some higher-end monitors can be quite expensive and may not be worth the cost if you don’t need all the features they offer. On the other hand, TVs tend to offer a wider range of features and can be quite pricey depending on the size and model.

Further in this article, we will let you know the different features of each TV and Monitor. 

TV

Television or TV, as we have already mentioned, is an electronic device. So these devices work through signals. When broadcasting signals are emitted from various sources, they reach the TV. And then, these signals are converted into audiovisuals by the TV.

The giving and receiving system can be through cable TVs, broadcasting, or satellite-dish systems.

So basically, the television is a monitor with an antenna, frequency tuner, and speakers. The TVs always come with a remote to adjust the volume, change channels, etc. 

Using Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitors was common in the old days. So these were also used for TVs. But recently, there has been a rise in the newer Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors. Along with that have emerged newer models like LED, OLED, etc. So the TV industry has also shifted to this resulting in fresher models.

Features of TV

Here are some features of the television described:

• First, we must look at the size aspect of the television. So a television comes in different sizes. If you want a large TV with a movie theatre-like experience, go for the bigger sizes. As these give you a wider-angle view with excellent picture quality. And it is also perfect for a big family.
  But if you live in a small house, there are also smaller and cheaper options for you.

• Usually, televisions possess a lower resolution when compared to monitors. And this happens because of the gigantic size of the TVs. Usually, a good 4K resolution TV comes in the size of 42” or more. Hence, you are bound to experience a decrease in resolution.
• Then there is the case of the refresh rates. Most TVs have a lower refresh rate, i.e., the number of times an image refreshes in a second. A basic flat-screen TV can go up to 120Hz maximum.
• Because the chief aim of television is to provide us with video content, it has great picture quality. 
• Televisions also have great viewing angles. As the very aim of it is to provide us with videos to watch, this trait is a must. Usually, TVs have viewing angles of 160 degrees to provide an excellent view.
• Also, TVs have a significant feature of connectivity. Better models of TV come with HDMI, USB, and VGA ports, coaxial cables, and ports for antennas.

Monitors

Next, we must discuss the monitors. Monitors, as we said, are hardware devices of the computer. And these help us in showing illustrations and videos from the video card on the computer. These monitors work with other computer devices to show us the desired result. Also, one of the principal aims of the monitors is to give color-accurate clear pictures. 

Features of Monitor

These are some features of the monitor:

• First, we know that the monitor usually comes in a not very large size. And buy one which fits your desk. Also, it would help if you used other computer devices simultaneously while you used a monitor. So you do not work at a long distance. And this makes smaller monitors suitable. If you are a gamer, you might opt for bigger ones because of a more realistic and immersive experience. 
• The resolution of the monitor is pretty good. And there are many options for you to choose from in this section. Say you want a 4K resolution monitor; you have this option at even 27 inches. So imagine the amazing picture quality you will have.
• Then we must discuss the refresh rates of the monitor. Usually, the monitors have great refresh rates. For example, you are a gamer. And you will need a monitor with a good refresh rate for a smooth gaming experience. A good monitor can go up to 250Hz.
• Monitors also come with great image quality. As they have higher resolution, we get to experience it. Also, the curved designs of monitors nowadays have improved them more. As slight image distortions, we faced with the flat screens are no longer an issue.
• Connectivity is also good in the monitors. And when they don’t have many ports, we can use adaptors and bridges.
• Nowadays, many monitors come with the added feature of touch screens. So you do not need a mouse or a touchpad to use. And you can directly touch the screen to perform the required functions.

Which is better, the TV or the Monitor?

We have now explored the different features of both of them. And here is a short comparison between the two under some parameters:

• Price – Before we buy anything, we always decide on a budget. And here, too, we shall consider this. So bigger TVs cost a lot, but you can also get a good TV under a tight budget. At the same time, good monitors will cost you much more than a TV.
• Size – When you compare both of them regarding their sizes, you see TVs are bigger. With the amount you pay for a 27-inch 4K monitor, you can buy a 50-inch TV. So yes, TVs take the lead here.
• Resolution – Monitors provide you with a much higher resolution when compared to TVs. So if the resolution is a deciding factor for you, you must prefer the monitors.
• Refresh rates (Image lagging) – As already mentioned, monitors have greater refresh rates than a TV. And this results in lesser image lagging in monitors. 

FAQs

Q – Can I use a TV as a monitor?

A – Nowadays, it is very much possible to use your TV as a monitor. The newer Smart TVs have features that can wirelessly let you use them as a monitor. But the older TVs can also be turned to monitors. However, you might need VGA and HDMI adapters. You should follow specific instructions for this.

Q – Is there a disadvantage to using a Tv as a monitor?

A – There are disadvantages to using a TV as a monitor. One of them is the decreased image quality. And also, as the input lag is higher in the TVs, you will get slower.

Q – Are expensive monitors worth it?

A – The answer to this game is subjective. For example, if you are a gamer, cheaper TN panels will work great for you. But an expensive IPS panel will be the best when you are a professional and are into editing, designing, etc.

Q – Should I buy a TV or a monitor for my PS5?

A – A PS5, unlike other gaming consoles, has definite requirements. It needs greater resolution, like 1080p, high refresh rates, and low input lag (response time). So if you use it with a Tv, you cannot have a very smooth gaming experience. As monitors have low response times and high refresh rates, they are great to play in.

Q – Is it better to play Xbox on TV or monitor?

A – The monitors have higher refresh rates and low response times. Good monitors can go up to 165Hz and more with a response time as low as 1 ms. On the other hand, TVs have low refresh rates and more response time. So to have a smooth gaming experience, go for monitors.

Read More: Best Monitors for Color Accuracy

Conclusion

We have finally reached the end of the discussion. And we hope this article helps you out in choosing your favorite. Both the TV and monitors have qualities particular to their own. So it would help if you chose what suits your needs.