The best 21-inch monitor is suitable for work, movies and has high frame rates for gaming. We share the speed, resolution, and price of the top-performing computer screens on the market. Don’t worry, Apple users; all the monitors can be adapted to work with Mac products.
Our article is aimed at professionals who count on a computer monitor – or two – to produce great work. This list is ideal for someone looking for a quick comparison between a variety of computer monitor reviews.
Table of Contents
- TLDR
- Best 21-inch Touch Screen Monitor Reviews
- Best 21-inch Gaming Monitor
- Best HDMI Monitor – Top Pixel Density Screens
- Best Computer Monitor with Speakers
- Best Graphics Monitor – True Colours
- Best Computer Monitors: 21-inch Review
- Best 21-inch Monitor Mount Accessories
- Buyers Guide for the Best 21 Inch Computer Monitors
- Final Thoughts on Top 21-Inch Monitors
TLDR
Best 21-inch Touch Screen Monitor Reviews
Our pick of the best touch screen monitors is the ASUS VT229H. It features 10 point touch capacity suitable for a virtual keyboard or multi-touch use. The IPS panel delivers a clear image with vivid colors. Narrow bezels make this monitor ideal for a multi-screen setup.
The stand does not offer height adjustment but can be tilted from 5° to 20°. By removing the stand, the monitor is compatible with a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount. It boasts flicker-free technology with a refresh rate of 75 Hertz and a response rate of 5 ms. The Asus VT229H is competitively priced for the touch functionality and has two 1.5w speakers built-in.
The following computer monitors all feature a touch screen and are our top choice for this category:
Best 21-inch Gaming Monitor
The Acer Nitro VG220Q is our top pick for the best 21-inch gaming monitor. The IPS panel delivers a sharp image with vivid colors. It boasts AMD FreeSync technology to eliminate stuttering and tearing in the image.
The 75 Hertz refresh rate and minimum response rate of 1ms make this monitor suitable for first-person shooter games. The narrow bezel is ideal for a multi-screen setup and is compatible with a 100mm x 100mm Vesa mount.
The following monitor’s feature frame refresh rates of 75 Hertz and are our top choice for this category:
Best HDMI Monitor – Top Pixel Density Screens
The HP P224 is our pick for the best HDMI monitor. The twisted nematic panel (TN) delivers crisp images, vivid colors, and excellent contrast. It has a 1920×1080 screen resolution and boasts 102ppi, making it one of the best monitors for movies.
Due to the TN panel, the HP P224 has a narrower viewing angle of 160°. It has a wide color gamut suitable for photo and video editing. It is suitable for a work environment and is compatible with a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount.
The following high-resolution monitors feature 102ppi and are our top choice for this category:
Best Computer Monitor with Speakers
The Acer B227Q Bmiprx is our pick for the best 21-inch computer monitor with speakers. It delivers sharp images with vivid colors. The IPS panel displays video at a 75-hertz refresh rate and delivers a 4 ms response time. It has two built-in 2W speakers delivering stereo sound.
The monitor is versatile and can be mounted in a vertical orientation. The supplied stand can be adjusted in height, pivoted by 90° to the right, and tilted 5° forward or 25° backward.
The following monitors feature stereo speakers and are our top choice for this category:
Best Graphics Monitor – True Colours
What type of led monitor provides the most accurate color for video editing workstations? We picked the Dell Professional P2219 as the best graphics monitor for true colors. Dell produces monitors, as well as printers, and calibrates colors for accurate reproduction on screen and in print.
The IPS panel delivers a clear and colorful image with a 60 Hz refresh rate and 5 ms response time. The stand offers a wide range of adjustments, while the VESA mount provides a flexible orientation to suit your workspace.
Considering the frame refresh rate, resolution, and price, here is a comparison table to help you decide which 21-inch monitor suits you! We review each product in more detail below.
| Name | Image | Best for | $-$$$ | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS VT229H |  | Touch Functionality | $$ | Click to Buy |
| Hannspree HT225HPB |  | Touch Functionality | $$$ | Click to Buy |
| Acer UT220HQL |  | Touch Functionality | $$$ | Click to Buy |
| Acer Nitro VG220Q |  | Gaming | $ | Click to Buy |
| Asus VA229HR |  | Gaming | $ | Click to Buy |
| Acer SB220Q bi |  | Gaming | $ | Click to Buy |
| HP P224 |  | Pixel Density | $ | Click to Buy |
| HP 22f |  | Pixel Density | $ | Click to Buy |
| LG 22MK430H-B |  | Pixel Density | $ | Click to Buy |
| ASUS VE228H |  | Built-in Speaker | $ | Click to Buy |
| AG Neovo CD-2201 |  | Built-in Speaker | $ | Click to Buy |
| Acer B227Q bmiprx |  | Built-in Speaker | $$ | Click to Buy |
| Dell P Series P2219H |  | True Colors | $ | Click to Buy |
| Acer R221Q |  | True Colors | $ | Click to Buy |
Best Computer Monitors: 21-inch Review
A 21-inch monitor is ideal for small workspaces and is considerably more affordable than larger monitors. Creating graphics with your computer? Consider reading our best computer monitors for graphic design.
Asus VT229H
The Asus VT229H touch screen is a reliable monitor with a full HD display. Experience smooth images with the 75-hertz refresh rate from an IPS panel. The 1920 x 1080 display resolution makes it favorable for watching movies and working with video.
It supports 10-point touch, which helps make typing on a virtual keyboard or using multi-touch a comfortable experience.
- It helps prevent eye-fatigue with flicker-free backlighting and blue-light filtering
- Maximum screen brightness of 250 cd/m²
- 2 x 1.5W speakers offering stereo sound
- Released in 2018
Hannspree HT225 HPB
The Hannspree HT225 HPB is a versatile 21-inch monitor offering multi-touch functionality. The IPS panel produces great images and boasts 300 cd/m² of brightness. The monitor has a fold-out stand and can support vertical orientation if mounted. It has two built-in speakers.
It does, however, require additional software to work with Mac products.
- Compatible with Windows, certain Android, and Linux
- Mac requires additional software
- Requires capacitive touch capable stylus
- Released in 2016
Acer UT220HQL
The Acer UT220HQL is older than the other touch screen models in our list. It does well to compete with the more modern monitors by producing crisp image quality.
The two-point touch is responsive and is managed through a USB. Optical imaging touch technology picks up any object touching the screen.
- Includes an HDMI and VGA cable
- 0 – 80 tilt
- Released in 2014
Acer Nitro VG220Q
The Acer Nitro VG 220Q produces a crisp image with fast response rates. It has 2 HDMI ports and 1 VGA. The IPS panel matches the frame rate of the connected graphics card to deliver the best quality image. It is a VESA mount compatible monitor with a 100mm x 100mm configuration.
- 2 x 2 Watt speakers
- AMD Radeon Freesync Technology
- Released in 2019
Asus VA229HR
The Asus VA229HR delivers a crisp image and delivers dark blacks and bright whites. The fast refresh rate and 5 ms response rate are competitive with more expensive monitors. The stand can tilt from 5° forward to 20° backward but does not offer height adjustments. It is able to be used with a 100mm x 100mm VESA wall mount.
- Asus smart contrast ratio of 80 000 000:1
- Includes HDMI and VGA cable
- Released in 2019
Acer SB220Q bi
The Acer SB220Q is a stylish monitor with a high resolution. It boasts an incredible 100 000 000:1 contrast ratio. The rapid response time of 4ms with a 75 Hertz refresh rate makes it suitable for gaming. Active sync helps prevent tearing in the image by matching the screen’s refresh rate with the graphics card.
- Adaptive sync is only supported by AMD GPUs
- 1 HDMI port and 1 VGA port
- Released in 2020
HP P224
The HP P224 monitor delivers great image quality with vivid colors. This VA panel is 1920×1080 with 102ppi, making it suitable for photo or video editing. It has a stylish and sleek appearance with narrow bezels making it suitable for a multi-screen setup.
- Includes a DisplayPort and HDMI cable
- 100mm x 100mm VESA mount compatible
- Security Slot
- Released in 2019
HP 22F
The HP 22f is a stylish monitor and provides a high-quality image from the full HD display. It exhibits vivid colors, and the 1920 x 1080 screen resolution makes it suitable for photo and video editing. The high refresh rate of 75 Hertz makes it a suitable platform for gaming.
- 72% NTSC color
- Released in 2018
LG 22MK430H-B
The LG 22MK430H-B is a high-performing monitor with great functionality. It offers a 178° viewing angle with a 75 Hertz refresh rate. The stand offers adjustment in height, tilt, and side to side.
The monitor offers an affordable option for image and video with a D-Sub and HDMI cable.
- FreeSync requires AMD GPUs
- Released in 2018
Asus VE228H
The Asus VE228H delivers a well-rounded package with full HD resolution. The TN panel produces bright colors and high contrast images. The stand supports tilting, vertical orientation, and 5 inches of height adjustment. The monitor has a built-in camera and features two 1W speakers.
- 100mm x 100mm VESA mount capability
- Released in 2013
AG Neovo CD2201
The AG Neovo CD2201 delivers excellent image quality with a full HD display. The VA panel is capable of 60 Hertz refresh rates and 5 ms response times. The stand tilts up to 32°; however, it offers no height adjustment. It is compatible with DMC-01 & WMA-01 mounts from AG.
- Two 1.6W speakers built-in
- Released in 2020
Acer B227Q Bmiprx
The Acer B227Q Bmiprx is a stylish monitor delivering great features. The IPS panel has 72% NTSC color with 102ppi, making it suitable for photo and video work.
The narrow bezel is suitable for a multi-screen setup and is VESA mount compatible. The stand can be tilted and swiveled. The monitor has two 2W speakers built-in, offering stereo sound.
- Includes a DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA and audio cable
- The monitor features a Kensington lock slot
- Released 2018
Dell Professional P2219
The Dell professional P2219 is a high-performing monitor for an affordable price making it our top pick for a 21-inch monitor. The IPS panel delivers clear images with great colors.
It displays 72% NTSC colors with 102ppi, making it ideal for use in a work environment. The monitor can be swiveled, tilted, and the height can be adjusted. It is VESA mount compatible and is suited to a 100mm x 100mm mount.
- It features 2 USB 2,0 , 2 USB 3.0 , HDMI , Displayport, D-Sub
- Includes a D-sub, Displayport, and USB 3.0 upstream cable
- It has a security lock slot
- Released in 2018
Acer R221Q Bid
The Acer R221Q Bid monitor delivers great image quality and vivid colors. The IPS panel performs best with a fast refresh rate of 75 Hertz and a 4ms response time.
The narrow bezel makes it suitable for a multi-screen setup. It is not VESA mount compatible, and the height cannot be adjusted.
- Includes a VGA cable, but performs best with a DVI or HDMI cable
- Released in 2020
Best 21-inch Monitor Mount Accessories
Whether you choose the best touch screen, gaming, or work 21-inch monitor, you will likely need accessories to get the best results. Mounting your screen can reduce eye fatigue by increasing the distance to your screen. We have listed the most popular types of mounts and a cable to assist with older computers’ capabilities.
You can remove the stand if your desktop monitor supports either a 100mm or 75mm VESA mount to increase your workspace. The VESA wall mounts are suitable for a home office as they require screwing into a wall or sturdy surface. The desk mounts are ideal for a workspace or office and usually clamp to the end of your table.
Vivo Full Motion Wall mount
The Vivo Full-Motion wall mount offers a sturdy yet versatile solution to a desktop monitor. It offers 13.7” of movement from the mounted wall, while allowing the screen to be tilted 15° forward and 15° backward. Once mounted, the monitor can be rotated into a vertical position.
It is easy to install and supports a 100mm x 100mm VESA mount. It is recommended to screw the mount into a sturdy surface made of brick, cement, or wood.
Click to Check PriceMountUp Single Monitor Desk Mount
The Mount Up Single Monitor Desk Mount offers 90° tilt both forward and backward. It supports vertical orientations and can be set at any height along the 15.5” pole. Mounting to a desk using a C-clamp, it is suitable for use at an office desk up to 3.15” thick.
It is compatible with the 75mm x 75mm and the 100mm x 100mm VESA standard mounts. It has cable clips along the steel tube, offering a neat cable management solution.
Click to Check PriceAvacon Displayport to HDMI Gold-Plated Cable
The Avacon Displayport to HDMI cable allows you to transmit high-definition audio and video from your computer to your monitor. The gold-plated chord, bare copper conductors, and latches provide reliable connectivity.
If you have an HDMI port on both your computer and monitor, then this cable is not required. When purchasing a more modern 21-inch monitor than your computer, you might need a DisplayPort to HDMI cable to connect the two.
DisplayPort has been used on computers since 2006 and replaced the VGA and DVI ports.
Click to Check PriceBuyers Guide for the Best 21 Inch Computer Monitors
Before you take the leap and buy your monitor, there are a number of factors that you should take into consideration. Here are the important factors to consider when buying a 21-inch monitor.
Type of Panel (TN, VA, or IPS)
There are three major LCD panels used in modern monitors:
- TN – Twisted Nematic panels deliver the fastest response rates but have a reduced viewing angle of 160°.
- VA – Vertical Alignment panels offer the best contrast and produce vivid color. However, these panels typically have the longest response times.
- IPS – In-Plane Switching panels are modern and produce impressive color while offering up to 180° wide viewing angles.
Screen Refresh Rate
Measured in Hertz (Hz), a monitor’s screen refresh rate is the number of times it refreshes the display in a single second. Screens producing above 30 Hertz will appear natural to the human eye during action scenes in movies or games. Modern monitors match the graphics cards refresh rate to ensure a flicker-less image is displayed.
Response Time
A monitor’s response time is how long it takes for a pixel to change from one color to another. This is typically done by recording the time it takes for a black pixel to turn white and then black again. A monitor with a lower response time is less likely to have blurring or ‘ghosting’ issues. A low response time is crucial for fast-paced or shooter games.
Resolution & Pixel Density
Looking for a retina display monitor for your pc? Retina display is typically a screen with 144ppi and is mostly found in larger, 4k monitors.
All of the recommended monitors we have recommended are 1920 x 1080 screen resolution and have a pixel density of 102ppi.
If you would to learn more about pixel density, watch this short video:
Final Thoughts on Top 21-Inch Monitors
Whether you are looking to upgrade to a 21” monitor or hoping to create a multi-screen work setup, it is important to consider your requirements. Choosing the best 21-inch monitor will depend on the functionality and performance best suited to your needs.
Make sure you use our buyer’s guide to get a sense of what functionality and performance to look out for. Our aim is to give you the information you need to compare the best 21-inch monitors and help you to make an informed decision.
If you enjoyed this review, read our recommendations for the best pen display tablets.
