When purchasing an entry-level photo editing monitor, as an experienced photo editor, you need to pay attention to the following key points and parameters to ensure that you choose a monitor that meets your needs:
1. Panel Type:
- IPS Panel: This is the best choice for professional editing monitors due to its excellent color accuracy and performance. It provides richer detail and smoother color transitions.
- OLED Panel: While it offers top-tier display quality, it is prone to burn-in after prolonged use and is more expensive. Weigh your budget and needs when considering this option.
2. Color Gamut Coverage:
- Color Gamut: One of the most critical indicators of an editing monitor. At a minimum, it should cover 99% of the sRGB color gamut. For more professional needs, choose a monitor that covers the Adobe RGB or DCI-P3 color gamut.
- Note that the maximum color gamut coverage is 100%. Anything beyond this number could be misleading.
3. Color Depth:
- Color Depth: Refers to the depth of color. 8-bit is the minimum standard, but more professional monitors typically use 10-bit color depth for smoother color transitions.
4. Color Accuracy:
- Color Accuracy (△E): The lower the △E value, the better. For photo editing monitors, a △E ≤ 3 is acceptable, while a △E ≤ 2 indicates an excellent choice.
5. Resolution and Size:
- Resolution: It is recommended to start with a 2K monitor. For Apple users, a 4K resolution is preferable for a better display experience.
- Size: Choose based on personal preference and budget. Generally, 24-inch and 27-inch monitors are comfortable for single-screen use. If you need a dual-screen setup, 27 inches is a good option.