As many as 6 in 10 Americans report experiencing digital eye strain. This is not surprising given how much time we spend looking at screens.
Yet, do we really have a choice?
If you’re any type of creator, chances are you spend a big portion of your day designing, editing, or writing while staring at a computer screen.
New display tech like OLED monitors is emerging to further reduce eye fatigue but is currently priced quite above the typical monitor budget.
Is there anything you can do to avoid suffering from dry eyes, discomfort, headaches, blurred vision, and eye twitching that comes with the work you do?
Absolutely. One way to combat these symptoms is to purchase a quality computer monitor designed to reduce eye strain.
If you’re ready to take better care of your eyes, take a look at some of the best monitors for eye strain below.
Best Monitors for Eye Strain by Size
When looking for a monitor, size is a major determining factor. If you have your heart set on certain measurements, take a look at the best monitors for eye strain by size.
Best 32-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
Asus ProArt PA329C
Eye Care Features
- Anti-Glare 3H Surface Treatment
- Integrated Blue Light Filter
- VESA Mounting
- High Refresh Rate (5ms) to Reduce Blur
- Height Adjustability
The Asus ProArt PA329C offers easy-to-access controls for filtering blue light, which is the worst offender for eye strain. Plus, this monitor uses low-flicker technology to keep your eyes from going buggy as you work.
Still, the refresh rate could be better to provide the best eye care. The monitor’s ergonomic stand is easy to adjust, even for very short and very tall people. That way, you always have a comfortable view.
Another main feature is the ability to sync your color settings to the app you’re using. That way, you can make sure colors appear just how you want them for working with Photoshop, Office, or Chrome, simply by selecting your preset color gamut.
Although not the most affordable of the best monitors for eye strain, it offers excellent support for those hoping to care for their vision without skimping on size. Plus, for creatives in design and photography, it includes outstanding color display and resolution that will help you crush your projects.
What We Love
- The monitor features Asus eye care technology, which means low blue light emissions and no flicker.
- A fabulous ergonomic stand (which is also VESA compatible) allows for easy adjustments for a comfortable work set-up.
- Upgraded color compatibility (just about the highest available!) means more colors than you usually get on a monitor, making for a beautiful display no matter what you're doing at the moment. Plus, Delta < 2 technology means more grades of the colors within the visible range can be displayed. If you’re big into design and photography, this model will serve you well.
- This Asus monitor offers 4K resolution, which is top of the line for providing blur-free images and detail for design creatives.
What To Consider
- Blue light settings automatically reset after disconnecting or rebooting your computer which can be annoying because you’ll have to remember to turn it back on.
- The screen refresh rate is a lowly 65 Hz, meaning sometimes games get blurry during play. It's not the end of the world, but if you want something crystal clear, this isn't it when things really get busy on your screen.
- This monitor doesn’t have Freesync. If you’re not a gamer, carry on. But if you are, you may need this feature if it’s installed on your computer.
Best 27-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
LG 27UP650-W
The LG 27UP650-W is a powerful 27-inch monitor that shines for its wide color range and excellent resolution, giving creatives super-detailed images and true-to-life colors.
Yet, if you’re looking for the widest possible gamut of color on the market, Rec 2020, this monitor misses the mark and only offers DCI-P3, which, to be fair, is still pretty awesome.
As far as caring for your vision, this is one of the best monitors for eye strain available. You can make use of a reader mode that filters blue light, and the monitor uses flicker-free technology to keep your eyes from getting tired.
The monitor also has an ergonomic stand that will help you adjust the screen for comfort.
For the average user who wants high resolution, a decent range of colors, and an adjustable stand for comfortable working, while also offering an easy-to-use reader mode, this monitor fits the bill.
What We Love
- This monitor offers an excellent range of colors and high, 4K resolution for all the detail.
- A fantastic ergonomic stand offers both landscape and portrait views.
- Reader mode and flicker-free technology keep your eyes fresh and ready to work.
What To Consider
- It’s possible you’ll need to purchase a separate Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) cable for use with a Macbook. Otherwise, you can use an HDMI cable.
- The 60 Hz refresh rate is on the bare minimum end of the spectrum for keeping eye strain at bay. Plus, higher refresh rates are better for gaming if you’re seeking smooth movements when you’re chasing down the enemy!
Best 24-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
Dell P2421D
If you need a 24-inch monitor that is also one of the best monitors for eye strain, this one is worth consideration.
The only downside is that the resolution is in the 2K range rather than the highest widely available resolution, which is 4K.
But don’t worry, 2K is a major step up from HD and you’ll still be able to spot tiny details and enjoy crisp images!
If you need a monitor that will help keep you from cutting your workday short because your eyes are exhausted, this monitor may be a good choice for you. For standard office and basic design work, your needs will be more than met.
Quick Specs for Eye Care Features
- Comfort reading mode reduces blue light by 60% and engages flicker-free technology to help take care of your eyeballs.
- Adjustable stand for easy viewing.
What To Consider
- 2560 X 1440 resolution or 2k is excellent, but it’s not a winner for creatives who require the sharpest image.
- The color display could be improved, as this model only offers 99% sRGB. You’ll still see bright colors, but if you really want the deepest possible greens, blues, and reds, find a monitor with DCI-P3 or Rec 2020 compatibility.
Runner-Up 24-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
ViewSonic VG2455-2K
If you love the specs on our last choice, but feeling like 27 inches is too big for your workspace, then this 24-inch option is your best bet. With a variety of preset view settings, you can be comfortable with any task. Presets include gaming, video, web, text, and mono profiles for optimal viewing experiences.
Quick Specs for Eye Care Features
- Pivot, tilt, rotate, and adjust the height to find your most comfortable work position.
- Blue light filter.
- Flicker-free technology.
- Comfortable viewing presets by activity.
What We Love
- Beautiful graphics at an affordable price, excellent for photographers and graphics.
- USB-C connector is great for docking. It charges and displays at the same time.
- The base is sturdy, and the monitor is a no-set up, plug and play option right out of the box.
What To Consider
- Split-screen functionality is only available with desktop PCs.
- The USB-C connection is a little finicky. This might depend on the type of cable you are using; we did not have great luck with the included cables.
- There are speakers, but I wouldn't consider them a notable feature.
Best Budget Monitors for Eye Strain
If you are not quite comfortable with the larger 27-inch display size, we have picked 24-inch options that still have the same great eye care technology. While it takes a minimum of a 27-inch display to get true 4K, these smaller options still offer quality 2K visuals.
Best Budget 32-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
ViewSonic XG3220
If you’re working with a budget, ViewSonic XG3220 is one of the best monitors for eye strain on the market.
Offering excellent resolution for a crisp image and eye-popping details, settings for blue light filtering, and an ergonomic stand for easy viewing, this monitor is a solid deal.
On the downside, this monitor uses VA (Vertical Alignment) technology. This means that if you’re viewing the monitor from the side, the image can be discolored and blurry.
Another bummer is that you may notice a washed-out appearance on the edges of the screen when looking at this monitor straight-on.
Despite some drawbacks of the ViewSonic XG3220, the price point and overall high resolution, color range, and eye strain tools make this a strong pick.
What We Love
- The blue light filter helps you work all day without tiring the eyes.
- HDR10 technology gives you a full range of bright colors for true color accuracy. With 99% sRGB and 95% NTSC color gamuts, you’ll get deeper blues, greens, and reds than the average monitor provides.
- Features a VESA mount if you’d rather attach the monitor to your wall.
What To Consider
- Uses VA technology, which means viewing angles aren’t as impressive as with IPS technology.
- The 60 Hz refresh rate means sometimes when you’re in the middle of an action-packed video game or movie, movements can get choppy. A higher refresh rate would also be easier on the eyes.
Best Budget 27-Inch Monitor for Eye Strain
LG 27UK500-B
Similar to the other LG model, but more affordable, the LG 27UK500-B comes in second place when it comes to the color range.
This model only offers an sRGB 98% color gamut, which is basic and not up to snuff if you want the best in color. On the upside, the easy-to-use blue light filters and flicker-safe technology make it one of the best monitors for eye strain.
This monitor takes care of your eyes and gives you top-notch resolution for a very reasonable price.
Quick Specs for Eye Care Features
- Reader mode for easy toggle of a blue light filter to help keep your eyes fresh.
- Features flicker safe technology so your eyes won’t get tired.
- Offers excellent resolution (4K) for working with the finest details on photos, videos, or whatever you’re doing.
What To Consider
- Although the stand claims it's adjustable, the quality leaves much to be desired. You may have to opt for a wall-mount or purchase a separate, higher-quality stand instead.
- The color range display is not top-of-the-line, meaning you won’t be able to see colors at their brightest and most intense hues.
- The monitor doesn’t have speakers, which isn’t a big deal considering the quality of most monitor speakers. You’ll need to use external speakers or a headset instead.
What is Digital Eye Strain and What Causes It
A combination of factors, including untreated vision problems, poor lighting, poor posture, and even glare on a glossy screen, plague the modern workforce with symptoms of eye strain.
Digital eye strain, also sometimes referred to as Computer Vision Syndrome, affects more than half of those who regularly spend two hours or more on a computer each day.
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain Include:
- Headaches
- Eye Strain and Fatigue
- Dry Eyes
- Neck and Shoulder Pain
- Reduced Attention Span
- Irritability
If you are spending long stretches in front of the computer and frequently find yourself suffering from any of these ailments, it is time for a change.
Throwing the computer out of the window is probably not a good option.
Instead, try making some intentional adjustments to your equipment and your environment.
It might literally be time to chuck your old monitor in favor of something that is a little easier on the eyes.
The best monitors for eyes are equipped with a variety of features that can reduce the strain on your eyes.
Here are some things that you can look for when shopping for your next monitor.
How Better Monitor Technology Can Help Reduce Eye Strain
Not all monitors are equal, and if you are using a five-year-old model, there is a good chance that you are missing out on some great technology.
Built-in features include adjustable lighting, anti-glare properties, blue light filtering technology, and more.
Better LED Technology
Historically, LED screens have been made with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), which dims the screen by rapidly turning the pixels on and off.
As pixels spend more time turned off, the screen appears dimmer.
Although this technology works and is widely used, it is not the best to reduce eye strain.
PWM monitors can cause a lot of flickering due to the nature of the technology that actually increases eye strain.
While the naked eye probably cannot detect this flickering, it is still occurring, and it is still contributing to eye strain.
Look for a PWM-free monitor.
These monitors use DC dimming, a technology that dims the pixel by restricting power.
PWM-free monitors might be at a slightly higher risk for burning out faster than PWM monitors, but the technology has greatly improved, and it may be worth a small trade-off to get the best monitor for your eyes.
Better Control Over Brightness
Sometimes the problem is the lighting, and sometimes it is quite literally the monitor.
Staring at a screen that is far too bright all day long will cause headaches and eye fatigue in much the same way as trying to read in a poorly lit room.
The best monitors for eyes will have automatic adjustments to accommodate different environments.
The automatic adjustments are really necessary because most users never change the factory settings.
Also, light levels in the environment can change depending on the time of day, especially in rooms that rely on a lot of natural light.
Invest in a monitor that will do the work for you and automatically adjust to current conditions based on input from pre-installed sensors.
Built-In Anti-Glare Properties
If your glossy screen reflects every ion of light, making it difficult to read, it can be tempting to opt for a matte screen.
Unfortunately, matte screens, while they do provide less glare, also dull colors, and do not offer the best lighting.
The best monitors for preventing eye strain have anti-glare coatings that help the glossy surface reflect less light.
If you typically work in a dark room or at night and do not have overhead lights or windows in your office, then glare is not as big of a deal for you.
Better Blue Light Filters
The chances are that you have heard mention of blue light emitted from electronic devices and its harmful effects.
Blue light is everywhere, from daylight to light bulbs and LCD screens.
The naked eye is not very good at filtering blue light, so the more time that we spend in front of screens, the more significant the risk becomes.
Exposure to blue light increases your risk of macular degeneration and contributes to eye strain.
Not all blue light is bad; in fact, some blue light exposure is good for your health.
But the amount of blue light exposure most of us see from our computers and other devices is far too much.
A good monitor for reducing eye strain will include a blue light filter.
Even if you do not have a filter, you can improve your current situation by adjusting your color profile to warmer colors.
But most newer models of monitors come equipped with blue light filter technology.
There are even specific lines of monitors from major brands that are marketed as eye care monitors, and their design is based on blue light filter technology.
More Options for an Ergonomic Workspace
Gone are the days of setting a big box monitor on your desktop and trying to adjust your seat to view it comfortably.
Modern technology has given us flatter, lighter monitors that take up less space and are also fully adjustable.
Part of the equation for reducing eye strain is finding a good, comfortable, and ergonomic working position.
The height of your desk and your chair’s position are important factors, but where they fall short, your monitor should be able to pick up the slack.
The best eye care monitors offer a wide range of adjustments to raise, lower, tilt, and swivel your screens to the most comfortable position.
However, if you do not have a modern, ergonomic monitor, consider a monitor stand.
Read our guide on the best monitor stands to see which stand can improve the viewing angle of your current monitor.
The Takeaway on Choosing the Best Monitors for Eye Strain
If you are shopping for a new monitor to find something that will literally give you fewer headaches, the picture quality is as important as eye comfort technologies.
First, with the physical display, look for a model that offers a wide range of adjustable options.
A monitor designed to tilt, swivel, pivot, and extend can help you achieve a comfortable and ergonomic workspace without having to spend big bucks on fancy technology.
For many, spending hours sitting at an awkward angle is the cause of computer vision syndrome-related ailments.
But adjustability isn’t the only thing that your monitor can do for you.
An adept blue light filter and adjustable brightness profiles for different activities should come standard on modern monitors.
But that is not always the case.
Be sure to check for lighting and brightness features before clicking the ‘add to cart’ button.
And, finally, consider the design of the monitor as it relates to eye fatigue.
Is the screen glossy or matte?
If it is glossy, does it have an anti-glare coating?
For LCD panels, be sure to look for IPS panel displays as they offer the widest viewing angles with the least amount of distortion.
If you are ahead of the curve on technology, you might even embrace a curved screen.
Some studies suggest that curved screens can help reduce eye strain by offering more comfortable viewing angles.
And the Winner Is….
Hands down, the LG is our top pick for a high-quality monitor that offers the most features to reduce eye strain while still delivering top performance.
While the Dell offers an advantage for productivity-boosting proprietary software, the LG still offers better visual display quality.
It is also the only option on our list that checks every single eye care need.
While they all offer some blue light filtering and some visual presets, LG is the only one to offer an anti-glare coating.
It is also the only option that comes with good quality built-in speakers, making it a competitive option compared to the rest on our list.