Graphic designers require monitors that meet their exacting standards for color accuracy, sharpness, and size. But what about curved monitors? Are they bad for graphic design? Can their curved design give you an advantage or disadvantage when it comes to the creative process?
Are Curved monitors bad for graphic design? Curved monitors are not necessarily bad for graphic design, but they may not be the best choice depending on the user’s specific needs. On the plus side, they typically have a wider field of view, better color accuracy, and increased contrast. Conversely, they can also be more expensive, not suitable for multiple users, etc.
The use of curved monitors for graphic design is not always a bad thing. They offer several advantages over traditional flat monitors, including a larger field of view, improved viewing angles, and an immersive experience.
However, curved monitors may not be ideal in some cases. For example, If you’re a group worker, they might not be the best choice for you.
While these types of screens provide an excellent platform for solo designers, they were not made to accommodate two or more people.
Additionally, these devices can be pricier than flat monitors and may not offer the same level of flexibility in terms of how they can be adjusted to fit a workspace.
6 Advantages of Curved Monitors for Graphic Design
Curved monitors are quickly becoming the go-to choice for graphic design professionals, due to the numerous features they offer. These benefits include:
1. Increased Depth Perception
A curved monitor offers a heightened sense of depth and presence to the user, which can be beneficial for design tasks as it provides a more three-dimensional look to the image. The user can have a more immersive and realistic experience when viewing the screen.
2. Improved Color Accuracy
Designers have the gift of being able to envision their creations in perfect, vivid colors. With this incredible tool, they can ensure that what they see on their screen is indeed what will be seen in the finished product. Its unparalleled precision allows for perfect color accuracy, giving designers the confidence to be exact in their work.
3. Enhanced Screen Viewing Area
This unit provides an unparalleled viewing experience that is both expansive and captivating. You won’t have to worry about seeing only part of the screen, as you can take in the full view without any scrolling or squinting. With such an immersive experience, you can get a lot more information at once.
4. Reduced Eye Strain
Using these displays can help to reduce eye strain by eliminating any sharp angles or gaps between the user and the monitor. This makes it easier to look at the screen for extended periods, resulting in decreased fatigue and improved productivity.
Plus, a Harvard Medical School study, as reported by ResearchGate, reveals that curved monitors are superior in lessening eyestrain, blurring of vision, and boosting concentration when compared to flat monitors.
5. Easy to Read Small Texts
A monitor’s curved structure gives a better read of small text, as the entire display can be seen in one glance without having to switch the eyes from one side of the screen to the other.
6. More Comfortable for Long Hours of Work
It is also relaxing to use for long hours of work, as it is designed to reduce glare and reflection and improve the user’s posture. This aids to reduce any discomfort when working for long periods.
5 Drawbacks of Using Curved Monitors for Graphic Design
Graphic designers are increasingly choosing curved monitors for their creative projects as curved monitors enter the market. But with their popularity, it’s important to note that there are a few drawbacks to using them for graphic design. Here are some of them:
1. Expansive
Curved monitors are 20-30% higher in price than traditional flat panel monitors as they are a relatively new technology.
They also require highly powerful hardware components, which increases the cost even further. This makes them a costly purchase, especially when compared to flat panel monitors of the same size and resolution, making them less desirable for those on a budget.
2. Incompatible with multiple users
When multiple users are looking at a display, the curved shape of a monitor can make it hard to have an optimal view.
Its arched structure restricts the viewing angles, making it tough for a larger group than one person to take in the same content at the same time. Flat panel monitors are much better suitable for this, as they provide more flexibility in terms of viewing angles.
3. Wall Mounting Problems
They can be quite difficult to mount on a wall. Due to the monitor’s curved shape, it can be challenging to find a wall mounting solution that can support its weight. It can be a problem for those who want to mount the monitor on a wall or a stand.
4. Not suitable for All Work
Professionals engaged in activities such as 2D and 3D modeling, design, architecture, and others, might find curved monitors less than optimal due to the difficulty in accurately controlling the cursor and viewing the display. The curvature of the screen can make it harder to manipulate the cursor and obtain correct results.
5. Need More Space
When it comes to curved monitors, the aspect ratio can be a significant factor in consideration. The width-to-height ratio of the display, known as the aspect ratio, tends to be 21:9, a far greater width compared to the traditional flat panel monitors.
Curved monitors require ample room to set up, so they aren’t ideal for those with small workspaces or limited space.
Do curved monitors distort images?
Curved monitors do not distort images, but rather provide better comprehensive visual presentation by increasing the field of view.
They are designed to provide a wider viewing angle, making the edges of the screen appear closer to the eyes. This can result in less distortion when watching images or videos.
Final Verdict
From the evidence presented, it is clear that curved monitors can be beneficial for graphic design in certain situations. While it is not for everyone, these devices can provide a richer, enhanced immersive, and more comfortable environment.
When used with the right combination of hardware, curved monitors can offer a better viewing angle with less eye strain, as well as increased productivity.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to use these arched displays for graphic design comes down to personal preference, but those who are willing to invest in the experience will certainly reap the rewards.
Karan is a professional computer writer who has worked in the technology industry for over 10 years. I have a degree in computer science from the University of California, Berkeley, and have written several articles on technology products. Meet our team