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Even though TVs and monitors essentially perform the same functions, their applications for gaming have historically differed. Most experts recommend opting for a specialized monitor if you’re an intense PC gamer, while casual console users can stick with a TV. Lately, however, the lines between the two have blurred. It’s still advisable to select a monitor that suits your specific needs, but a quality TV can come close to delivering similar performance.
Monitors have always held an advantage when it comes to performance and pricing. They offer faster refresh rates — with 120Hz being quite standard and high-end models exceeding 400Hz — making them superior for games that demand rapid reactions, like competitive shooters. Additionally, they are equipped with DisplayPort options that help minimize lag, whereas TVs generally feature just HDMI. For high-end TVs, this difference is less significant nowadays, as they typically include HDMI 2.1 ports that match competitive response times.
For televisions, the most notable benefit is their size, as a large 75-inch TV in a dedicated home theater setup provides an immersive experience that a monitor can’t match. This increased size also facilitates local multiplayer gaming with friends or family on the same screen. Today, many TVs even come with dedicated gaming modes and support refresh rates up to 120Hz.