The technology that new computer monitors use has come a long way from the monitors that used cathode ray tubes. It feels like the technology changes every day and the latest monitors are available in not only 5k resolution but also 8k resolution, pushing the very limits of what the human eye can discern.
If you do any kind of graphic design or even photo/video editing, having a monitor with the best possible resolution can help you focus on the finer details of what you’re working on. But the resolution is only one part of what makes a great monitor.
With that in mind, we wanted to take a look at the current monitor landscape and share our picks for the Best 5k and 8k monitors in 2021 – these are perfect for graphic designers, programmers & anyone in or out of the creative field. With any of the monitors on our list, you can get the level of resolution you’re looking for.
What exactly are 5k and 8k and how are they different? Let’s take a closer look before taking out that credit card.
What is 5k & 8k Resolution?
Remember when 1080p was the newest technology? How we were blown away at the quality that this amazing new technology provided? Then, seemingly overnight, we were introduced to 4K. These days, the newest resolution terms are 5k and 8k but what are they exactly? Let’s take a closer look at each.
What is 5K resolution?
Measuring 5120 x 2880 pixels, 5K resolution is in many ways becoming the standard resolution for many high-end monitors, TVs, and smartphones. While 4k is the standard for many products, this mainly due to price. 5K monitors, for the most part, are on the expensive side. As time goes on, these will become more affordable and become more common.
What is 8K resolution?
8K is the literal definition of what next-gen is. While there aren’t many options available as of yet, manufacturers are starting to develop monitors for 8K but the problem is that there is a lack of tech to support the resolution. A suitable graphics chip to handle the resolution isn’t available yet. Measuring 7680 x 4320 pixels, 8K resolution is at the upper limit of what’s distinguishable by our eyes. Anything higher and we wouldn’t be able to tell.
If you’re like us, having an image to see what the difference is works better. Take a look at the graphic below to get a better idea of the differences in the resolutions.
The Top 5k and 8k monitors in 2021 – Overview
Choosing the best monitor is a lot like choosing the best pair of sneakers. They all do the same basic thing but the differences in the details are what makes one stand out from another. Our list of the Top 5k and 8k monitors in 2021 may feature the same product but the differences make each one stand out.
- Dell UltraSharp (U4919DW) – $1599 – The best 5k monitor overall
- Apple Retina 5K iMac – $2148 – The best 5K monitor & computer
- Planar IX2790 – $699 – The Best iMac Monitor Alternative
- LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine – $1301 – The best 5k monitor for minimalists
- Samsung Odyssey G9 – $1399 – The best ultra-wide monitor
- LG 27MD5K-B Ultrafine – $1499 – The best monitor for MacBook owners
- Samsung CRG9 – $1099 – The best 5K monitor for video editing
- Phillips 499P9H SuperWide Curved Monitor – $1336 – The second best monitor overall
- HP Z27q G3 – $409 – The best budget 5k monitor
- Dell UltraSharp UP3218K – $4091 – The best high-end 8K monitor
- LG 34WK95U – $1189 – The best-looking 5K monitor
- MSI Prestige PS341WU – $779 – The best 5K monitor for graphic design
- LG 49WL95C-W Curved Ultrawide – $1232 – The best curved 5K monitor
The prices above are approximate. Current prices appear below.
The Best 5K and 8K Monitors Compared
15 Top 5k and 8k Monitors in 2021
Dell UltraSharp U4919DW
The best 5k monitor with a professional design
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 350 nits | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB 99% | Weight: 25.1lbs
In regards to function and design, the UltraSharp from Dell is the most business-like ultrawide monitor on our list. With two downstream USB ports along the bottom edge of the monitor along with a USB Type-C port and two upstream regular USB ports, the UltraSharp gives you the ports you need to hook up two PCs and still be able to use a single keyboard and mouse to control them. The included Display Manager software from Dell helps make it easier to utilize the huge display by letting you manage up to six windows at one time.
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- The world's Fi RST 49" curved Dual QHD monitor for an immersive work experience that boosts productivity. Equivalent to two 27-inch QHD monitors, you'll get a brilliant uninterrupted view,...
- Dimensions - with stand: 47.84" W x 9.94" D x 18.06" H
- Native Resolution 5120 x 1440 at 60Hz
- Multitask efficiently with two PC sources using built-in Picture-by-Picture and keyboard, video and Mouse Features
Apple Retina 5K iMac (Computer)
The best 5K monitor & computer
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 5120-by-2880 Retina 5K display | Brightness: 500 nits | Response time: 22ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: Wide color (P3) | Weight: 19.7lbs
While the iMac itself is an incredible machine, our focus here is centered on the display that comes with the Apple Desktop computer. Sure, to get the 27-inch Retina 5K Display, you’ll have to shell out some big bucks on an Apple computer but to us, that makes it worth it. With an SDXC card slot, four USB-A ports, and two USB-C (Thunderbolt) ports, while the overall package is very expensive, when you consider what you’re getting, the 5K retina display is like the icing on top.
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- 27-inch (diagonal) 5120-by-2880 Retina 5K display
- 3.8GHz 8-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7
- AMD Radeon Pro 5500 XT graphics
- Ultrafast SSD storage
- Two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
Planar IX2790
The Best iMac Monitor Alternative
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,880 | Brightness: 440 nits | Response time: 12ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: 98% NTSC | Weight: 13.5lbs
When you start looking around for a 5K monitor, you’re typically going to find that it might cost you a good bit of money. If you have a smaller budget, it doesn’t mean that 5K might not be out of reach. The IX2790 from Planar comes with a beautiful 27-inch 5K display that is a great choice for Windows users but because of a lack of USB-C, it won’t work with Macs. Powering the 5K resolution through a single DisplayPort input, the IPS panel provides you with a vivid and clear image. The monitor also comes with three HDMI ports plus a DisplayPort cable and Mini DisplayPort adapter so you can be up and running in no time.
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- 27" Lcd monitor with 5K resolution (5120 x 2880)
- Delivers 5K resolution via a single DisplayPort cable
- Two sources can be viewed simultaneously
- Edge-to-edge bonded glass surface
LG 34BK95U-W UltraFine
The best monitor for minimalists
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,160 | Brightness: 600 nits | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 16.5lbs
With an aspect ratio of 21:9, the Ultrafine monitor from LG defines the term minimalistic with its design. Image quality isn’t affected, regardless of where you’re sitting thanks to the monitor’s 178-degree viewing angle. The monitor can handle all of your peripherals with a DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 3 port as well as two HDMI and USB ports. The display shines with its native 5K resolution and comes with HDR support to make every project you’re working on look it’s absolute best.
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- 5120 x 2160 Resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 5 ms (GtG) Response Time, Thunderbolt 3 / HDMI / DisplayPort 1.4 / USB Type C Inputs, Built-In Speakers, Ultra-thin bezel for slim and sleek design
- 1200:1 (Typ) Contrast Ratio, 450 cd/m2 Brightness, 178 degree/178 degree Viewing Angles (CR≥10), 10-Bit (8bit+A-FRC), DCI-P3 98% Color Gamut (CIE1931), 0.0518 (H) x 0.1554 (V) mm Pixel Pitch
- Windows: Plug and play for PCs with compatible graphics cards supporting 5K2K such as the 2080ti for gamers. Use DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt 3 USB-C for full 5120 x 2160 resolution
- Apple: Plug and play with thunderbolt 3 with 2016 and 2017 models. 2018 MacBooks may require an update to the recent Mac OS X 10.14.2 Beta for thunderbolt to work
- 3 Years limited Parts and Labor from LG. A DisplayPort cable, USB-B to USB-A cable, and a 2-meter-long Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C cable are included
Samsung Odyssey G9
The best ultrawide monitor for gaming
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 420 nits | Response time: 1ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 2500:1 | Color support: 125% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3, 92% Adobe RGB, 88% NTSC | Weight: 31.1lbs
To say that the Odyssey G9 from Samsung is massive would be an understatement. At 49 inches, it is an absolute beast, and its 5K resolution and 240Hz refresh rate make it a gamer’s dream. The amount of real estate that comes with this monitor is stunning, making it easy to do multiple things at once. However, the biggest thing about this monitor is its overall weight. At 31 pounds, it can weigh as much as some TVs but if you can afford it and have space on your desk, you’ll be blown away by the Odyssey G9 from Samsung.
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- Get your head in the game with the 49-inch Odyssey G9, which matches the curve of the human eye, for maximum immersion and minimal eyestrain. With the screen space of two 27” panels, you can truly...
- Product dimensions | Without stand – 45.18” W x 14.31” H x 11.46” D | With stand – 45.18” W x 21.15” H x 16.39” H | Weight without stand – 31.1 lbs. | Curvature – 1000R |...
- See your games as they were meant to be seen, with Samsung HDR 1000 | Bring unrivalled depth to every world you choose to explore, and experience insane levels of detail in every scene
- Customize your Odyssey with distinct core color customization, allowing you to match your monitor with the rest of your gaming setup | TV does not have in-built speakers but can hook with headphones...
- The 49-inch DQHD resolution brings you a display as wide as two QHD monitors sitting side by side, with incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images | Experience a more encompassing view with maximum space...
LG 27MD5K-B Ultrafine
The best monitor for MacBook owners
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,880 | Brightness: 500 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: 99% DCI | Weight: 14.11lbs
It can be tough to find a good monitor that you can use to connect a MacBook and unless Apple seriously drops the price on their Pro Display XDR, the closest option you’re going to find is the Ultrafine from LG. The 27-inch monitor displays everything beautifully with its 5K resolution that is supported by color support of 99% DCI-P3 and a contrast ratio of 1200:1. With three USB-C downstream ports and a single USB-C port that allows you to transmit 5K video and date while also charging your MacBook.
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- In-Plane Switching (IPS) Technology with Thunderbolt 3 / USB Type-C Inputs and Built-In Webcam with Microphone and Built-In USB Type-C Hub
- 5120 x 2880 Resolution, 1200:1 Static Contrast Ratio, 500 cd/m² Brightness, 178°/178° Viewing Angles, 14 ms (GtG) Response Time, 10-Bit, 1.07 Billion Colors
- Requires a compatible Mac running macOS Sierra 10.12.1 or later
- Compatibility (1 display): 5120 x 2880 @ 60Hz iMac Pro (2017), iMac (2017), MacBook Pro (2016 and later), and iMac models from 2017
- Compatibility (2 displays): 15-inch MacBook Pro from 2016 and later using the right and left side Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports on your MacBook Pro
Samsung CRG90
The best 5K monitor for video editing
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 1000 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3,000:1 | Color support: 125% sRGB, 95% DCI | Weight: 32.19lbs
With a 5K display, Quantum Dot (QLED) technology, and not to mention 1.07 billion (yes, billion) colors, the CRG90 monitor from Samsung is simply beautiful. For brightness that can illuminate an entire room, the monitor also features VESA DisplayHDR 1000 which is backed up by 1,000 nits of brightness. What all of that means is that the monitor is bright and crisp and the video editor in you will love the adaptive-sync tech that will smooth out frame rates up to 144Hz. All of this tech goodness will require a powerful GPU and oh yeah, a good-sized budget to afford it.
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Phillips 499P9H SuperWide Curved Monitor
The second best monitor overall
Screen size: 49-inch | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 400 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 3000:1 | Color support: sRGB 121% / DCI-PC: 94.62% | Weight: 33.6lbs
One of the most feature-packed monitors on our list, the 499P9H SuperWide Curved Monitor from Philips, is a VA panel that is 8-bit and only comes with support for the DisplayHDR 400 standard. This means that it might look fine to a non-discerning eye but it’s not a great option for video or photo editing. With plenty of ports for all of your peripherals, including a USB Type-C interface so you can hook up your MacBook. The monitor also includes a pop-up webcam and adaptive sync support making it useful for light gaming at 60fps, just be sure you have a capable AMD graphics card.
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- 49-Inch Class (48. 8-Inch viewable) Super wide 32: 9 LED monitor with dual QHD (5120x1440) resolution
- 1800R curved VA screen for immersive field of view with wide-viewing angles
- Displays images with outstanding color accuracy, covering 91% of Adobe RGB and 103% of NTSC color gamut with displays 400 for bright visuals
- Hdmi 2. 0B x2, DisplayPort 1. 4, USB-C 3. 1 Gen 2 (DP Alt Mode), and audio-in/out connectivity
- Built-in USB-C docking with USB 3. 1 Ports, RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet, and USB-C PD 2. 0 quickly charging your laptop
HP Z27q G3
The best budget-friendly 5k monitor
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 2560 x 1440 | Brightness: 350 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: 100% sRGB; 100% BT.709; > 99% AdobeRGB | Weight: 16.36lbs
While HP has been known more for its excellent laptop releases, the Z27q G3 5K monitor is a highlight of its product line. A 27-inch IPS display, the G3 comes with a wide color gamut plus fixed sRGB and Rec.709 color presets. Even though the image that the monitor presents is breathtaking, if you don’t have a video card to power this monitor, you’ll be missing out on a great monitor. With a total of 5 USB 3.0 ports, you can connect any of your peripherals. If your office is looking for a new monitor setup, you can’t go wrong choosing the Z27q G3 from HP.
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- UPC: 195122261139
- Weight: 19.860 lbs
Dell UltraSharp UP3218K
The best high-end 8K monitor
Screen size: 32-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 7,680 x 4,320 | Brightness: 400 cd/m2 | Response time: 6ms | Viewing angle: N/A | Contrast ratio: 1,300:1 | Color support: sRGB 100% | Weight: 15.21 lbs
Meet the first commercially available 8K monitor. The UP3218K monitor from Dell has a pixel count that there is very little out there that can take full advantage of it. With best-in-the-industry color reproduction, the overall build quality is superb and the overall weight of the monitor is surprisingly light. The only downside? The cost. Oh yeah, this monitor is far from cheap but if you have the budget and a PC with two DisplayPorts and a great GPU inside of it, plan a homecoming party for your new monitor.
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- A broad, brilliant spectrum: Dell premiercolor offers wide Color coverage that meets major industry standards — 100% Adobe, 100% RGB, 100% rec. 709, 98% DCI-P3 — for immaculate, unwavering colors
- Virtually borderless: with Dell InfinityEdge, you'll enjoy every detail of on-screen beauty without boundaries. An expansive, edge-to-edge viewing experience on one of the first virtually borderless...
- Made for the way you work: compatible with multiple stands and mounts (including VESA), this monitor has flexible options to fit perfectly in your workspace
- Tilt and height adjustable.Brightness:400 cd/m²
- Pivot
LG 34WK95U
The best-looking 5K monitor
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 5120 x 2160 | Brightness: 450 cd/m2 | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,200:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 19.4 lbs
With a commanding 5K resolution, the 34WK95U from LG is a great ultrawide monitor with a beautiful design that doesn’t take up too much space in your workspace. With enough connectivity including USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt connections, you can connect all of your peripherals without the need for a dongle. For all of this tech, you would believe the price would be astronomical but it is very affordable.
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- 5120 x 2160 Resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, 5 ms (GtG) Response Time, Thunderbolt 3 / HDMI / DisplayPort 1.4 / USB Type C Inputs, Built-In Speakers, Ultra-thin bezel for slim and sleek design
- 1200:1 (Typ) Contrast Ratio, 450 cd/m2 Brightness, 178 degree/178 degree Viewing Angles (CR≥10), 10-Bit (8bit+A-FRC), DCI-P3 98% Color Gamut (CIE1931), 0.0518 (H) x 0.1554 (V) mm Pixel Pitch
- Windows: Plug and play for PCs with compatible graphics cards supporting 5K2K such as the 2080ti for gamers. Use DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt 3 USB-C for full 5120 x 2160 resolution
- Apple: Plug and play with thunderbolt 3 with 2016 and 2017 models. 2018 MacBooks may require an update to the recent Mac OS X 10.14.2 Beta for thunderbolt to work
- 1 Year Parts and Labor from LG. A DisplayPort cable, USB-B to USB-A cable, and a 2-meter-long Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C cable are included
MSI Prestige PS341WU
The best 5K monitor for graphic design
Screen size: 34-inch | Aspect ratio: 21:9 | Resolution: 5120 x 2160 | Brightness: 450 nits | Response time: 8ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1,200:1 | Color support: DCI-P3 98% | Weight: 18.08 lbs
With its native 5K resolution, and with an ultrawide aspect ratio of 21:9, the Prestige PS341WU from MSI is a great monitor for any graphic designer. A 34-inch display with Nano IPS panel technology that comes with a DCI-P3 color gamut, comprehensive connectivity, and HDR support comes beautifully wrapped in a white casing, making it stand out. With enough real estate for all of your projects and an affordable price, it is one piece of technology that is surely worth the money
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- 34-Inch ultra-wide Professional wuhd (5120 x 2160/ 21: 9) designed for creators & multitasking
- Nano-ips panel for a truly premium quality picture
- 98% of DCI-P3 color gamut with a pre-calibrated in factory for the most excellent color accuracy
- 34” ultra-wide wuhd Display for truly expressive details
- Built-in picture-in-picture (PIP) and Picture-by-Picture (PBP) help to check the content from multiple sources simultaneously and switch between them easily
LG 49WL95C-W Curved Ultrawide
The best curved 5K monitor
Screen size: 49 inches | Aspect ratio: 32:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440 | Brightness: 350 nits | Response time: 5ms | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Color support: sRGB 99%
Ultrawide monitors tend to be created for those who are die-hards when it comes to productivity. The Curved Ultrawide from LG, with its 49-inch screen and gorgeous 5K resolution can replace a multi-monitor setup. With a multitude of connectivity options including two bottom-facing HDMI ports, two USB 3.0, and a USB-C port that can carry power, which makes it a great option for your MacBook. The monitor also includes a DisplayPort, and on the right-hand side, two more USB 3.0 ports and an audio jack. If you’re tired of having to set up multiple monitors so your mouse moves from one screen to the next, take a look at the 49WL95C-W Curved Ultrawide from LG.
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- 49 inches ultrawide 32: 9 dual QHD (5120 X 1440) Display
- USB type C connectivity
- SRGB 99 percent color gamut
- HDR 10 support
- 2 x 10W stereo speaker with Rich Bass
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The best 5k and 8k monitors for Graphic Designers in 2021
Long gone are the days of monitors with cathode ray tubes and monitors the size of a microwave. Monitors these days a slim, sleek, and even curved. With the amazing look of 5K and 8K resolution, your work has never looked better. Our picks of the Top 5k and 8k monitors for graphic designers (or anyone) can provide you with an incredible platform for your work.
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