If you are considering purchasing a brand new gaming monitor, you may have one question on your mind. What is the best aspect ratio for gaming? Don’t worry. We are here to help.
Key Takeaways_
- The two primary aspect ratios for gaming are 21:9 and 16:9.
- 16:9 is the most common aspect ratio, as it has been used for decades.
- Ultrawide 21:9 displays are great for increased immersion and for offering up more screen real estate.
What is an Aspect Ratio?
Optimizing Your Gaming Setup
To optimize your gaming experience, understand the components and settings that impact performance. Full-array local dimming enhances picture quality by providing deeper blacks and brighter whites. If you use multiple monitors, learn how to lock your mouse on one screen to avoid accidental clicks. Knowing the differences between gaming and regular monitors will help you make an informed purchase. Lastly, follow our guide on setting up your gaming monitor to ensure an optimal setup.
Before you can suss out the best aspect ratio for you and your gaming setup, it can be particularly helpful to understand what aspect ratio is in the first place. The aspect ratio of a display is the ratio of its width to its height. It is usually expressed as two numbers separated by a colon.
What Aspect Ratios Are There to Choose From?
Throughout the 20th century, 4:3 was the most common aspect ratio in films, television screens, and even computer monitors. That all changed when widescreen HDTVs entered the market. Nowadays, the 4:3 aspect ratio is primarily used for artistic and stylistic purposes.
When it comes to modern gaming monitors, you have two aspect ratios to choose from. For decades, the main aspect ratio used in computer and console games was 16:9, though recently, monitors have begun adopting the 21:9 ultrawide format.
insider tip
The aspect ratio of a display is the ratio of its width to its height. It is usually expressed as two numbers separated by a colon.
What is the Best Aspect Ratio for Gaming?
There is no absolute correct aspect ratio for gaming, as user preferences constantly shift, as do computer and console games. There are some benefits to each of the most common monitor aspect ratios. The best aspect ratio will also give you the best benefits of dual monitor gaming.
Benefits of 16:9 Aspect Ratios
Here are some of the key advantages of choosing a computer monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
Tried-and-True Technology
Monitors have been using a 16:9 aspect ratio to display computer games for decades now. In other words, the technology has been run through its paces (and then some.) Most games will reliably integrate with this aspect ratio, and you are very unlikely to ever run into any resolution issues. Remember that using the best monitor settings for gaming can also help you get a smoother image as you play. You can also typically swap between TV and gaming without any need to adjust the aspect ratio, as most television programs can also easily be displayed in 16:9.
insider tip
For decades, the main aspect ratio used in computer and console games was 16:9, though recently, monitors have begun adopting the 21:9 ultrawide format. Remember that.
Versatility
If you do, perchance, run into a game that was designed to be played in a different aspect ratio, a monitor running a 16:9 aspect ratio will likely be able to ape the effect. 16:9 is a highly versatile aspect ratio that can decently display content that was made in other aspect ratios, such as 4:3 and 21:9. You may encounter some empty space on your screen when you do this, but there should be no other obvious issues.
warning
Incorrect mounting can affect your comfort, so follow the correct steps to mount your monitor. Your choice of connection also impacts gaming; understand the differences between HDMI and DVI to avoid issues. Additionally, familiarize yourself with what VGA is to understand another common connection type and its implications for your setup. Remember, the monitor you use can affect your gaming performance, so choose wisely and set it up correctly. For a comprehensive comparison of different display options, explore our guide on monitor vs. TV to make an informed decision that best suits your gaming and viewing needs.
Benefits of 21:9 Aspect Ratio
The ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio comes with its own share of key benefits.
Broader Field of View
Ultrawide monitors with a 21:9 aspect ratio offer a broader field of view than standard 16:9 monitors. This can increase immersion and increase accuracy as you play competitive computer games. Some ultrawide monitors are even curved, offering even more immersion during gameplay or while watching your favorite Hollywood blockbusters. However, be aware that some competitive games will limit the aspect ratio to 16:9 to ensure that no players have an unfair advantage.
STAT: 4K is undergoing a much faster adoption rate than that of 1440p, with a 50%+ US market share expected by the end of the decade. (source)
More Screen Real Estate
Enhancing Your Gaming Experience
If you want to use your monitor as a TV, our comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps. Additionally, connecting your gaming PC properly is essential, so be sure to follow our detailed instructions on how to connect your gaming PC to a monitor. Lastly, fine-tuning your monitor settings can make a big difference. Learn how to adjust your monitor sharpness for gaming to ensure the best possible visual experience.
Ultrawide 21:9 monitors offer more screen real estate, which can be used however you see fit. You can use the whole screen to play a game for immersion, or you can get creative and go with a screen-in-screen setup. These setups will allow you to have a game going at the same time as a web browser is open or another piece of software is being used. 21:9 monitors offer the advantages of a multi-screen setup without all of the frustration of setting it up.
More Ports and Add-ons
The added screen real estate with a 21:9 display also means more room on the back and the sides for ports and related added features. Modern ultrawide monitors typically include a whole lot of useful ports, integrated speakers, and more.
