Monitors are an essential tool for effective work from home. They can improve workflow and boost productivity. With companies pivoting to remote work arrangements, it is critical for business continuity to provide employees with the best equipment that will help ensure their continued productivity.

Creating an environment optimized for telecommuting is more than just a laptop and an Internet connection at home. Those who are in the finance, design, programming, or engineering industries, need a good monitor to make teleworking work for them.

Now, Dell shares its top six tips for selecting the right monitor for remote work:

1. Screen Size and Resolution

Resolution and screen size go hand-in-hand. A larger monitor typically requires a higher resolution. More pixels in each square inch of the display means users will get sharper images. A 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440), 32-inch 4K (3840 x 2160) or 34-inch WQHD (3440 x 1440) displays are the recommended size and resolution with more than 100 pixels per inch.

Determining the right screen size and resolution is an important first step. Having more screen space has a direct correlation to increased productivity. The typical screen size for most office work is between 24 and 32 inches.

If bigger and wider screen space is a priority, it may be necessary to have more than one monitor, or one ultrawide curved monitor, which is commonly between 34 to 49 inches. Monitors with ultra-thin bezels are ideal for creating seamless multi-monitor configurations, resulting in less distraction.

Financial service workers, software developers, and data scientists typically benefit from one large screen space (43 to 49 inches) to view large amounts of data in their workspace. They often appreciate monitors that can connect and display content from multiple PCs.

2. Ergonomics and wellbeing

Remote work employees tend to work longer, so having the right equipment for wellbeing is crucial. In one research, 92% of workers believe ergonomically optimized monitors are critically important for improving their productivity.

Squinting at a screen or slouching over the monitor can lead to poor posture, back issues, and eye strain. To help with these issues, it is important to choose a versatile monitor with height and tilt adjustability to ensure correct posture and viewing alignment.

Like other electronic devices, monitors emit low blue light that can tire the eyes over extended periods of viewing time. Choose monitors with low blue light and flicker-free technology to minimize blue light emission and flickering images.

3. Connectivity

It is important to consider devices that will be connected to the monitor as well as check laptop ports for compatibility. Common ports on laptops today include HDMI, USB-C, and Thunderbolt 3.

Opt for a clean desk setup with a USB-C monitor. This can help reduce cable clutter. Plus, it allows users to charge their laptop and transfer data with a single cable.

In addition, other essential accessories will need multiple USB ports. Dell monitors typically provide four USB ports, making it possible to connect to more devices.

4. Energy efficiency

Like other home appliances, energy efficiency is important. Monitors that are certified for reduced energy consumption like Energy Star or EPEAT can save up to USD 52 in annual utility bills.

Advanced monitors may also offer features that reduce power consumption by putting the monitor to sleep after a period of inactivity.

5. Color

Professionals in the creative industry like photography and videography should consider color coverage, accuracy, and calibration when purchasing a monitor.

A monitor that is compatible with an external colorimeter or has one that is already built-in is best for quick and easy calibration. Choosing a monitor with DCI-P3 above 95% coverage with factory calibration will help with color-critical tasks.

6. Collaboration

Monitors that include a built-in camera, microphone, and speakers are growing in popularity with the increased frequency of video conferencing calls.

If you’re on video calls for the majority of the workday, look for a monitor that includes these collaborative features to ensure that participants can hear and see you clearly.

Have the right monitor for a successful remote work

With more organizations offering flexible working arrangements, selecting the right monitor at home is crucial from a productivity standpoint.

Users should consider future-proofing their monitor investments with larger screen sizes, higher resolutions, and better connectivity.

Investing in the right monitors for a more comfortable working environment at home will reap returns in the long run in terms of overall health and work productivity.