Video editing has become one of the most prominent tasks nowadays, owing to the increasing demand for quality video content online. While it is one of the best ways to showcase your creativity, video editing also requires other constituents to get the most out of it, just like any other skill in the world. Undoubtedly having a creative imagination plays a key role here, but having a proper set of equipment is equally vital.
Out of all the essential components, like video editing software, your monitor arguably is one of the most important ones because that’s where you watch, edit, and present your videos. And if you are a professional film production house, there’s no way you can compromise on the quality of your equipment.
So the main question is – apart from your budget, what other factors should you consider when selecting a monitor for video editing? That’s exactly what we are going to discuss in this blog!
1. Screen Size
This one goes without saying, but the first and the most crucial factor to consider is your monitor’s screen size. You will find a diverse range of screen sizes for monitors to choose from in the market. Ideally, you should go for a monitor with a screen size big enough to provide a comfortable, extended viewing during those lengthy video editing sessions. If you wish to work on a larger screen and have the space to accommodate it as well, you can pick a monitor with a screen size ranging from 32” to whatever best suits your requirements.
However, if you want something smaller and portable, you can choose a screen size ranging from 19” to 32” according to your needs. You can also install multiple monitors of various sizes to perform specific activities, especially if you own a film production house.
2. Screen Resolution
After screen size, your monitor’s screen resolution is the next factor you should take into account for video editing. You will have a variety of screen resolution options to choose from in the market including Ultra HD, 4K, 1080p, 720p, and the list goes on. When it comes to video editing, you need a monitor with a higher resolution. You can pick a monitor with 4K or 1080p screen resolution, but it all comes down to your budget as 4K is a bit expensive.
In addition to this, you should also ensure your monitor’s supported video resolution as it directly impacts the data input resolution. While most production monitors support various input resolutions, when using formats on the higher or lower ends of the spectrum or less common frame rates, it’s vital to confirm compatibility.
3. Calibration
This is yet another vital factor that should be considered when purchasing a monitor for video editing purposes specifically. You will find various monitors in the market that come with calibration software or can be adjusted by installing a calibration LUT. Calibrating your monitor screen routinely is essential as it aligns your screen to a set standard, and helps maintain a consistent look in your video editing project. A calibration program with a tethered probe might be your best choice as it can be used with different monitor models. On the other hand, you can get a technician to carry out the first calibration and then get accustomed to the process.
4. Color Support
This one goes without saying – when it comes to video editing, a monitor that supports proper color depth is typically preferred over the others. The more the color depth is, the better the monitor. Some other factors associated with color support are Gamut, Saturation levels, Chroma subsampling, and intensity. Additionally, monitors that have HDR (High Dynamic Range) technology enhance the overall video production quality. However, if you are just a vlogger or a show host, simply trimming their video clips and perhaps adjusting white balance before uploading on a social networking platform, you may choose to go for a more affordable 8-bit color monitor.
5. Dual Monitor Setup
If you prefer working on multiple monitor screens at the same time to get the best results for your video editing projects, then make it a point to ensure that the monitor you are picking offers dual or multiple monitor setup options. Often, such a setup is used when you use one screen to see the video or display a full-size playback, and the other screen for video editing purposes like inserting special effects, color correcting, managing graphics, etc.
6. Connectivity
Connectivity is yet another crucial factor that you must look for when choosing a monitor for video editing. It refers to the range of connections your monitor provides. Some major monitor input ports comprise DisplayPort, USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt, SDI, and Optical variations. Taking this factor into account is necessary to ensure that the monitor you are selecting is compatible with the video output of your system or even other devices associated with video editing. Besides, these ports play a significant role in the data input and also while presenting the data through other devices. Select monitors offer ports for audio connection as well and let you split out embedded audio to external speakers.
Wrapping It Up
Videos are one of the most popular trends in the internet world today and they are here to stay. With more and more people consuming and craving video content online, brands are focusing on quality video production to engage their audience better. Due to this, video editing has become more important now than ever. Not just businesses, but individuals too are practising video editing at home for various professional and personal purposes, like creating YouTube videos or video edits for their social media page.
However, video editing isn’t a cakewalk. Just like any other skill, it also requires proper equipment and devices to make the process faster and smoother. While the monitor features are being updated constantly, just like any other digital device, these were the six basic factors that you should consider when selecting a monitor for video editing purposes.
