Outfit Your Office: Most Reliable Monitors Under $120

The display quality of a monitor is primarily influenced by its panel type, resolution, and refresh rate. VA panels, like those in the Sceptre E248W-19203R and Samsung CR500 Series, are known for their superior contrast ratios, offering deep blacks that enhance image depth, which is particularly beneficial for media consumption. On the other hand, IPS panels, found in the HP 24mh, Acer SB220Q bi, and BenQ GW2480, provide wider viewing angles and more accurate color reproduction, making them ideal for tasks that require color precision. When considering refresh rates, a 75Hz refresh rate, as seen in most models here, offers smoother motion than the standard 60Hz, reducing eye strain during prolonged use. These technical aspects are crucial for choosing a monitor that meets your specific visual and ergonomic needs.

Connectivity options and ergonomic features can significantly affect the usability of a monitor. The HP 24mh stands out with its fully ergonomic stand, allowing adjustments in height, tilt, swivel, and pivot, which is rare in this price range. In terms of connectivity, having multiple ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA, as seen in the BenQ GW2480, ensures compatibility with a variety of devices, from modern PCs to legacy systems. The Sceptre E248W-19203R and Samsung CR500 Series offer dual HDMI ports, which is convenient for users who frequently switch between devices. Ergonomically, most monitors in this list are limited to tilt adjustments, except for the HP 24mh, which offers comprehensive adjustability, enhancing comfort during extended use.

While audio is not the primary focus of most monitors, having built-in speakers can save desk space and reduce the need for external peripherals. The HP 24mh and BenQ GW2480 both include built-in speakers, though their audio quality is basic and may lack bass. For those who require higher audio fidelity, external speakers or headphones are recommended. Additional features such as the BenQ GW2480's Brightness Intelligence technology, which adjusts screen brightness based on ambient light, can enhance viewing comfort by reducing glare and eye strain. Similarly, adaptive sync technologies like AMD FreeSync, present in the Sceptre E248W-19203R and Acer SB220Q bi, help minimize screen tearing during casual gaming sessions.