If reducing cables is your main aim a USB-C monitor can go a long way to doing that. And some of them can even charge your laptop while plugged in, too.
With a USB-C monitor, a single cable delivers audio, video and power to the display. That means that there is no need for an HDMI or DisplayPort connection for audio and video, with a separate USB cable to power the monitor’s USB ports. No need for an adapter or conversion cable to connect an HDMI or DisplayPort cable to your laptop. As laptops grow thinner, many have ditched the HDMI port altogether and offer only USB-C connections. Most notably, Apple’s MacBook Air and the 13-inch MacBook Pro lack HDMI ports. And a USB-C monitor pairs nicely with a USB-C laptop.
In terms of resolution, I recommend at least full HD (1,920×1,080 pixels) for a 24-inch display; Quad HD (2,560×1,440 pixels) for a 27-inch display and Ultra HD (3,840×2,160 pixels, or 4K) for anything 32 inches or larger. The other spec to keep an eye on is the maximum brightness rating, which you’ll see range from 250 to 500 nits. Lower-end monitors are usually rated at 250 or 300 nits, which will likely suffice for a dark den or basement. For a sun-drenched office, however, you’ll want something that’s rated for 350 nits or higher. For more on that, I direct your attention to CNET’s monitor buying guide.
Check out the best USB-C monitor deals we can find right now. The screen sizes range from 24 inches to a 34-inch ultrawide display. What you won’t find here are professional-grade monitors with wide color gamut or gaming displays with fast refresh rates. These are general-purpose monitors for home, office and home office use.
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This 32-inch 1440p AOC display, with a rating of 350 nits, should provide a panel that’s a bit brighter than the above BenQ. It supplies a DisplayPort connection and a pair of HDMI ports in addition to USB-C connectivity. It also has integrated speakers and a flexible stand with height, tilt and swivel adjustments. Though it usually goes for $310, you can grab it now for just $277.
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The Samsung M70B Series is an interesting option because it’s a smart monitor, which means it acts as a TV and a monitor and can let you get some productivity work done without the use of a computer. The Workplace mode lets you access Microsoft 365 on the monitor directly, so you can get work done without switching on a PC.
