Panel types: IPS, VA, TN and OLED

In short: The panel is the screen surface of the monitor. The technology determines colours, contrast, viewing angles and response time.

In more detail: IPS has the best colours and viewing angles. VA has the highest contrast (deeper black) but is slower. TN is fastest and cheapest, with weaker colours and viewing angles. OLED lights per pixel: perfect black, very fast response, but burn-in risk.

In Depth

• Photo editing and office: IPS.
• Films in a dark room: VA or OLED.
• Competitive games: high refresh rate and fast response (IPS with 144 to 360 Hz, OLED).
• Refresh rate: 60 Hz is enough in the office, 120 to 240 Hz makes motion smoother.
• Response time: Manufacturer figures (1 ms) apply to ideal cases. Independent tests are more informative.
• Resolution and size: Sharpness (pixels per inch) depends on both: 27 inches at 1440p or 4K is a good standard.

See also: HDR and monitor brightness, Monitor