Top 8 Best Monitors for CAD in 2023 – Reviews – 27″, 4K (3840×2160) Options

If you are operating CAD applications, you need specific kind of monitor that helps improve the cad workflow. Ordinary gaming or standard office monitors are not the best bet for cad applications.

For cad applications there are a number of monitor configurations to choose from, depending on personal taste. Some of the popular ones are:

1. A large 24-27" single monitor. Solidworks do recommend the BenQ 27-32" monitors.
2. A dual monitor setup for more screen space. For example 27"+27" or 24"+24"
3. An ultrawide monitor 2560x1080 / 34" / 21:9 for more space.

Since cad/cam is professional work you will often find yourself interacting with and managing multiple application windows. In which case its better to have an extra monitor or extra screen space to move the other windows aside while you work on the main cad app like solidworks or revit.

Higher resolutions will allow you to get a finer and clearer view of smaller parts in the cad model, however they come at a cost of increased graphical computation. So if you choose a 4k monitor, you will need to pair it with a more powerful gpu as well.

CAD/CAM applications can in general work good enough with 1080p resolution, but if the monitor is large you might want to be able to see the finer details in the models which would require higher resolution. In such cases 1440p or 2160p would be a good choice.

Problems of 4K Resolution

However, at 4K resolutions there are known issues with a lot of applications including Revit, where the user-interface is not able to scale properly, garbling up the display. These problems have been discussed on the forums over here and here.

The primary cause behind such problems is inconsistent dpi scaling across different applications and how microsoft windows handles it.

Other applications like Autodesk Autocad do not really stress much on the specifications of the display monitor, and anything with a resolution of 1080p and capable graphics card is deemed fit enough.

Best Option

Overall the 27" size with a resolution 2560x1440 can be considered a sweet spot. It's the perfect size and resolution for working at a desk. Grab a 3440x1440 ultrawide if you have less desk space, as it is smaller in size overall.

Dual Monitor Setup: Those who want more screen space will prefer a dual or triple monitor setup. First of all a dual monitor setup has a gap in the center if placed symetrically which a lot of users dislike. Whereas a triple monitor setup has 3 cables that need to be connected to the cpu or laptop what it is.

More displays increase the effective pixel count and resolution thereby requiring more graphics processing power. So you also need to invest in a decent dedicated graphics card that can handle this. An RTX 3060 has 3x display ports and can handle resolution upto 7680x4320 which is equivalent of 3x 2560x1400. So for a triple monitor setup this might be the perfect combination is you are ready to spend some good money.

At the current state of market, a dual setup fo 27" 2560x1440 monitors will cost more than a single ultrawide 3440x1440 monitor. However the 27" dual setup will offer signficantly more screen space, slightly better pixel density (108.79 ppi). making it an overall better choice.

If you are short in desk space, then a single ultra-wide is a better option.

Other Technologies:

HDR, OLED, Curved display are certain features that do not matter for cad/cam at all. HDR is for videography and video editing whereas curved display has its own separate audience. If you are looking to save some bucks on your next cad/cam monitor, better look for something that skips these features. Ultrawide monitors are available in flat profiles and would be cheaper than their curved counterparts, which are more useful for gamers and coders.

Freesync/Gsync are another bunch of un-necessary technology for cad/cam applications. Syncing is critical in games where the frames need to display in the right sequence and time without any tear or stutter. CAD/CAM applications do not suffer any such problems neither require any such technological solutions.

Our Top Picks for Best CAD Monitors

Here is our selection of the best monitors for CAD along with their specifications and features. Most of them have a display size of 27" or above and some of them have a resolution of 4K (3840x2160), which is best suitable for CAD work.

1. BenQ PD2700Q 27 inch 1440p IPS Monitor

The BenQ PD2700Q is one of our favorite monitors for running CAD programs for several reasons. It offers a varied selection of image presets and uses in-plane-switching (IPS) technology.

Features

• 27-inch display with 2560 x 1440 pixels
• Aspect ratio of 16:9 with a maximum brightness of 350 cd/m2
• Refresh rate 60 Hz
• Color gamut 100% sRGB and 100% Rec.709
• Compatible with Mac, Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10
• Connectivity: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, mini DisplayPort and USB 2.0

Review

Quad high definition (QHD) resolution is one feature that makes the PD2700Q particularly suited for operating computer-aided-design software. Specified as 2560 x 1440 pixels, this allows you to enjoy color-accurate and sharp pictures.

And thanks to the IPS panel, you’re able to view these images from reasonable viewing angles without the font and icon sizes being shrunk excessively. To be more specific, its viewing angle stands at 178° in both vertical and horizontal planes. Also important to point out is that this monitor’s aspect ratio is 16:9. While this is not as big as 21:9, it still gives you enough room to view a large portion of the design you’re creating.

What’s more, this monitor supports 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 color gamuts. This means that colors are shown identically on different devices. Essentially, if you wanted to print or view a CAD design from an external source, you wouldn’t have to worry about any disparity in image color.

Another thing we like about BenQ PD2700Q is that it has preset modes including one for CAD applications. The CAD/CAM mode delivers higher imager contrast on 3D lines; hence, making it easier to distinguish details in sophisticated object wireframes.

2. Philips 276E8VJSB 27" 4K Ultra HD Monitor

If you want razor-sharp picture quality, a 4K resolution monitor like Philips 276E8VJSB is a superb choice. Interestingly, this monitor is fairly-priced and it’s backed by a 4-year advance replacement warranty.

Features

• 27-inch display with 4K ultra-high definition (UHD) resolution
• Refresh rate 60 Hz and 5 ms response time
• IPS panel with aspect ratio 16:9
• Maximum brightness 350 cd/m²
• Connectivity includes DisplayPort 1.2, 2 HDMI 2.0
• Supports screen tilt adjustment: range -5/+20°
• Includes 4-year replacement warranty

Review

The key highlight of the 276E8VJSB is that it offers 4K resolution. This means that you’ll be able to view images with excellent detail and clarity, which is crucial when you’re designing and drafting parts and structures using CAD.

The monitor’s capability to display images in 10-bit color depth is another feature you’ll love. What this means is that it can display up to 1.07 billion color combinations, making it superior to an 8-bit panel which has a much smaller color palette (16.7 million colors).

Furthermore, the 276E8VJSB uses IPS technology, providing ultra-wide viewing angles. Like BenQ PD2700Q, this one delivers an optimal viewing angle of 178 degrees (both vertically and horizontally) without compromising on color accuracy or consistency.

Philips MultiView technology is another feature that will come in handy for CAD users. This is designed to display content on side-by-side screens, meaning you can view twice as much of your drawing at any one time. You could even use one portion of the screen to display your design work and the other to display commands and text screens.

3. BenQ BL2420PT 24 inch QHD 1440p IPS Monitor

Not everyone has enough space on their CAD workstations to put up a 32-inch monitor. If you’re limited on space, the small-sized 24-inch BL2420 by BenQ is just what you need.

Features

• 24-inch IPS monitor with QHD resolution
• Preset picture modes including CAD/CAM mode
• Height-adjustable stand
• Compatible with Mac and Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10
• Aspect ratio 16: 9 and maximum brightness 300 cd/m2
• Color gamut 100% sRGB/ Rec.709 and 8-bit color support
• Inputs include DisplayPort 1.2, VGA DVI-D and HDMI 1.4
• 5 ms response time and 60 Hz refresh rate

Review

Despite being just 24 inches in size, this monitor offers an array of features that will benefit CAD users. First off, it has QHD/ 2K resolution, which is simply 2560x1440 pixels. For its size, this is a pretty decent resolution and it delivers fairly sharp images with clear details.

Also, this monitor comes equipped with IPS technology. Factor in the 100% coverage of sRGB and Rec.709 color spectrums, and you have a monitor that allows you to view color-accurate images from any angle. Plus, you can always adjust the screen’s position to create a more ergonomic setup. Tilt it up or down, swivel to the left or right, pivot by 90° or adjust its height.

We also like that the BenQ BL2420PT offers a wide selection of ports. With DVI, VGA, HDMI 1.4 and DisplayPort inputs, you can easily connect other devices in case you want to transfer or store your CAD files. There are a headphone jack and an in-line jack for connecting the two 1-watt speakers.

4. BenQ PD3200U 32 inch, 4K UHD Monitor

For a CAD user, a bigger monitor is always better. A large monitor like the PD3200U allows you to see more image content at once. This, in turn, gives you a deeper insight into the present state of your design project.

Features

• 32-inch IPS panel with 3840 x 2160 pixel resolution
• Maximum brightness 350 cd/m2 and aspect ratio 16:9
• Refresh rate 60 Hz and 4 ms response time
• Supports 100% sRGB/ Rec.709
• DualView technology with preset CAD/CAM mode
• Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) Switch function
• Connection options are: HDMI, USB 3.0, DisplayPort and mini DisplayPort

Review

The large 32-inch display of the BenQ PD3200U isn’t the only feature that makes it suitable for CAD. This monitor also boasts ultra-sharp image quality, thanks to its 4K resolution. Thus, you don’t have to squint at small texts, pictures, or minuscule icons.

Better yet, the monitor is designed to offer an ergonomic view of your content. Unlike most monitors that only have tilt adjustments, the stand of the PD3200U offers greater customization. You can tilt, adjust its height, or rotate it to portrait mode for a better viewing experience.

On the same note, this monitor is equipped with BenQ’s DualView technology. This feature helps you display two files side-by-side; hence, giving you a better view of how you’re progressing with the creation of your design. Also, you can display the two types of content in different preset modes- one can be in CAD mode and the other in Animation mode.

5. Dell U-Series 38" Screen LED-Lit Monitor (U3818DW)

Want to increase your productivity with a dual-monitor setup without having to purchase two different monitors? Consider investing in an ultra-wide monitor like the 38-inch U3818DW by Dell. Whether you’re creating a 3D or 2D model, a bigger screen gives you a larger surface area to work with.

Features

• 38-inch curved display with 21:9 aspect ratio
• Maximum display resolution is 3840 x 1600 pixels at 60 Hz
• Brightness 350 cd/m2 and 8-bit depth
• Color gamut 99% sRGB/ Rec.709, 78.1% for DCI-P3
• Response time 8 ms (in normal mode) and 5 ms (in fast mode)
• Height, tilt and swivel adjustments
• Connection options include 2 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, USB 3.0 hub

Review

One of the things that set this giant monitor apart is its curved display. The benefit of this is that it provides a more immersive viewing experience than if you were using a flat panel. If you use your monitor for long hours at a time, this feature is particularly handy as it minimizes glare and reflections.

Given that you’re investing in an ultra-wide monitor, it must provide a high resolution as well. Luckily, Dell U3818DW doesn’t disappoint with Wide Quad High Definition (WQHD). It’s not as good as that of 4K resolutions but it’s plenty enough to show your CAD images clearly.

Besides, the manufacturer more than makes up for the resolution by offering excellent color reproduction and viewing angles. With a 99% coverage of sRGB and Rec.709 spectrums and 78.1% of DCI-P3, this monitor displays images with optimal color accuracy.

6. Samsung 28-Inch UE570 UHD 4K Gaming Monitor

When purchasing a monitor to use for CAD, you want one that provides the sharpest images possible. This capability partly depends on its response time, which determines just how efficiently it can switch between colors. In that regard, the Samsung UE570, with an ultra-fast response time of 1 millisecond, is one of the best monitors for CAD applications.

Features

• 28-inch display with 4K resolution
• TN display technology with a maximum brightness of 370 cd/m2
• 1 billion color support
• Connectivity: 2 HDMI 2.0 and 1 DisplayPort
• 1 ms response time and refresh rate of 60 Hz
• Split-screen function
• Tilt adjustment range -2° to +15°

Review

At 28 inches, the Samsung UE570 is perfectly-sized for a CAD workstation. It’s not too big that it takes up too much space, neither is it too small that you struggle to see the content.

But where this monitor shines is the 4K resolution. If your primary concern when purchasing a CAD monitor is resolution, this model’s 3840 x 2160 pixel is the best. Essentially, this translates to pictures that are bigger, better, and sharper.

The cherry on the cake is the monitor’s capability to support a billion shades of color. This means that not only are the pictures clearer but also vivid and realistic thanks to the improved color accuracy. This is a very welcome feature when you’re dealing with visual-intensive programs like CAD.

The only drawback is that the UE570 has a twisted nematic (TN) display. Now, although this does not offer the best viewing experience - as you’d expect from an IPS display- it’s decent enough for design work. Its horizontal and vertical viewing angles are rated at 170° and 160° respectively. As such, you’ll still be able to view your designs even when you’re observing from the side.

7. LG 29WK600-W 29" UltraWide 21:9 IPS Monitor

If you’re looking to invest in an ultra-wide monitor that will offer a seamless working experience, the LG 29WK600 is your best bet. The 21:9 aspect ratio means the screen doesn’t display the black bars at the top and bottom; hence providing more room to view your design.

Features

• 29-inch display with an aspect ratio of 21:9
• Full HD resolution and a maximum brightness of 300 cd/m2
• IPS display technology
• 99% coverage of sRGB color space
• Response time 5 ms and 75 Hz refresh rate
• Screen split function
• Tilt-adjustable
• Connectivity is through 2 HDMI 2.0 and 1 DisplayPort

Review

As we mentioned earlier, the picture quality is an integral factor to consider when buying a monitor for CAD. Fortunately, this monitor delivers high-quality images thanks to its Full HD resolution which is specified as 2560 x 1080 pixels.

The fact that it’s HDR 10 compatible is another factor that makes the LG 29WK600 suitable for CAD. High dynamic range (HDR) refers to the variation between the lightest and darkest tones in an image. Superior to a standard dynamic range (SDR) monitor, an HDR screen enables you to see images with more details and with a wider range of colors.

Like most of the monitors we’ve reviewed, this one also has an IPS display. Thus, you’ll have a pretty good view of your CAD designs. To improve your viewing experience further, you can adjust the stand’s tilt angle to 5° backward or 15° forward. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the screen split function that lets you display two sources of content simultaneously.

8. Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX 27-Inch IPS Monitor

Dell Ultrasharp U2719DX is a 27-inch monitor with a sturdy build, sharp resolution, and ergonomic viewing experience. This makes it ideal not just for CAD applications but also for everyday use.

Features

• 27-inch display with QHD resolution
• Razor-thin bezel display with 99% sRGB coverage
• 8-bit color depth with a maximum brightness of 350 cd/m2
• 5 ms response time and refresh rate 60 Hz
• Comes with a 3-year warranty
• In-plane-switching technology
• Inputs are 1 DisplayPort 1.4, 1 HDMI 1.4, 2 USB
• Height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments

Review

At first glance, you’ll notice the stylish, ultra-slim design of the U2719DX screen. Achieved using Dell’s InfinityEdge technology, the monitor eliminates typical menu control buttons and additional distractors which would otherwise be stuck on the frame. This way, you can focus better on your design work and enjoy a more interactive feel viewing the content.

The 2560 x 1440 pixel-resolution is another impressive feature of this monitor. It displays images in QHD, which is up to 1.77 times better than full HD resolution. Furthermore, the monitor provides 99% of the sRGB color spectrum. As such, images are displayed in vibrant and accurate colors; thus, helping you get the most out of your CAD software.

The Ultrasharp U2719DX uses an IPS display for a bright and evenly-lit performance. You can view your designs and other content from any angle, without any loss of brightness or color accuracy.

Besides, this monitor has one of the most customizable stands to enhance your viewing experience. You can pivot, swivel, tilt, or adjust your monitor’s height to achieve a more comfortable setup.

Wrap Up

If you’ll be embarking on any CAD design work, purchasing top-rated monitors such as the ones in our review is a fantastic investment. These displays offer better resolution, precise color accuracy, and can comfortably handle the demands of this software.