Have you ever thought of using a vertical monitor setup? If you haven't, you are not alone in that regard. After all, the norm is to use a horizontal landscape type setup instead. To its credit, this is the best way to achieve certain tasks.
However, you would be surprised to know how much a sideways monitor can revolutionize things for you. Obviously, it's not always going to apply to every situation. That's the kind of detail that the information below is meant to help you clear up.
So, it starts by introducing you to the concept of a vertical monitor setup, after which you get an overview of why you may need one and when you don't need one. Finally, you may be wondering how to make a monitor vertical. There is a brief guide on how to do that too.
Once all of that is completed, you get a few quality-of-life tidbits that are meant to help you get even more comfortable with this kind of configuration. The final piece of the puzzle is the Autonomous employee purchase program that you are encouraged to take advantage of.
For reference, the typical layout of a monitor is horizontal. If you've ever used a word processor such as Microsoft Office Word, then you have probably seen portrait and landscape orientations.
Using letter size paper (8.5 inches x 11 inches) as a reference, when the document is organized such that the short sides of the page are at the top and bottom, and the long sides of the page are at the left and right, this is a portrait orientation. You can think of this as being vertical.
A horizontal or landscape orientation would see the short sides of the page at the left and right and the long sides of the page at the top and bottom. This kind of layout is what monitors use by default.
Square-shaped monitors are a thing of the distant past, which means that yours is likely a rectangle in a horizontal orientation. Going vertical would see you rotate the monitor by 90 degrees. This alone isn't enough to make your sideways monitor vertical, as now you likely start seeing everything sideways.
You must then adjust the display setting on the computer to get the information on the monitor to display in alignment with its physical position.
There is no objective statement to say that everyone needs a vertical monitor. Based on what you do, you may find that it is way more of a hindrance than it is helpful. The point of all of this is to introduce the concept to you, after which you can evaluate its utility in your workspace and implement it based on your perception.
If you find yourself in a position where the information that you're using on a screen would be more convenient if arranged in a way that allows you to see more vertically, then this is the setup for you.
Just in case that sounds a bit cumbersome, you can use programmers as an example. This is the largest group of persons that use vertical monitors. The more code that can be displayed without having to scroll up or down, the better. Therefore, you find that a vertical dual monitor setup works well for this group.
Maybe you fall under another group of persons with a use case that is better suited by being able to see more vertically instead of horizontally.
Essentially, whenever data is better displayed horizontally, your vertical monitor setup is not going to be ideal. For example, you may find that you benefit more from using the window snap feature that Microsoft Windows offers, where you get to have one window occupying the left half of a screen and another occupying the right.
Alternatively, you may spend most of your time in a browser with multiple tabs that you want to be able to always see.
Note that in almost any existing portrait setup, you find that a sideways monitor is used as a second screen. In other words, what you usually see is a horizontal and vertical monitor setup, instead of a purely vertical setup.
Therefore, another case in which a sideways monitor may not be ideal is when you only have a single screen. Using your primary screen vertically can be a bit of an annoyance.
When setting up a vertical monitor configuration, you may encounter some troubleshooting issues and common challenges. Here are a few potential problems and ways to address them:
Sometimes, the vertical monitor may not display the appropriate resolution or scaling, resulting in blurry text or incorrectly sized elements. Adjust the display settings in your computer's operating system to ensure the correct resolution and scaling for the vertical monitor.
Certain applications may not be optimized for vertical orientation, leading to layout issues or difficulty in viewing content. Look for application settings or plugins that can accommodate vertical screen setups, or consider using window management tools to resize and rearrange windows to fit the vertical display.
If you are using a vertical monitor alongside a horizontal one, you might encounter challenges in aligning windows and content between the two screens due to different aspect ratios. Experiment with window management tools or adjust the placement and sizing of windows manually to achieve a more seamless transition between screens.
A vertical monitor setup can sometimes strain your neck or eyes if the monitor is not properly positioned or if you spend long periods viewing content on it. Ensure the monitor is positioned at eye level and adjust the height and tilt for optimal ergonomics. Take regular breaks and practice proper posture to minimize strain.
Some applications or software may not fully support or adapt well to a vertical monitor configuration. In such cases, consider alternative applications or explore workarounds like rotating the display temporarily for specific tasks.
If you are using multiple monitors, including a vertical one, ensure that your graphics card supports the desired resolution and refresh rates for all connected displays. In some cases, you may need to update your graphics card drivers or consider upgrading your hardware if the current setup exceeds your graphics card's capabilities.
Remember that troubleshooting will vary depending on your specific hardware, operating system, and applications. It's always a good idea to consult the documentation and support resources for your specific equipment and software when encountering challenges with your vertical monitor setup.
With multiple monitors and potentially different cable connections, cable management can become a challenge. Organize and secure the cables using cable clips, ties, or cable management solutions to maintain a tidy workspace and prevent accidental disconnections.
Your vertical monitor setup is going to require you to carry out two tasks. One is physical, while the other is going to be executed from your desktop.
The physical element is the actual rotation of the screen. You would think that it would be a standard process, but things can differ a bit based on the manufacturer of your monitor. Nevertheless, it's typically very intuitive to pull it off.
See if you can rotate the sideways monitor as is. If that's not allowed, you may find that there is a locking mechanism on the back of the monitor that you must release before you are allowed to turn it. Of course, this means that once you have gotten it into your desired position, you must reapply the locking mechanism.
If you are using a monitor arm, then you can easily rotate the monitor from the holding mechanism. In any case, you're going for a 90-degree rotation, which means the long sides of the sideways monitor should now be on the left and right, giving it a vertical position.
With the physical side of things out of the way, you now notice that everything appears sideways, and that's because you have not told the computer to display your data vertically on the screen.
To do so, you want to right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select “Display Settings.” Here, you see various configuration options including your resolution, multiple screen display style, etc. You are looking for the orientation area, which should be set to landscape by default. What you need to do is change it to portrait.
Note that there are also “Landscape (flipped)” and “Portrait (flipped)” options. Since there are four sides of the screen, any of them could be used as the top for display purposes. For example, in your standard landscape orientation, the objective top of the screen is being used.
However, you could flip the screen 180 degrees, meaning it would be in landscape orientation again, but the bottom of the screen would technically become the top for display. To flip the image accordingly, you would use “Landscape (flipped).
The same applies to the portrait orientation. One short side requires you to select “Portrait,” and if the other is at the top, then you want to select “Portrait (flipped).”
If you are using a Mac, head to “System Preferences” from the Apple menu, select “Displays,” hit the “Rotation” pop-up menu and choose “90 degrees” from the dropdown.
Here are some vertical monitor setup styles and ideas that you might find interesting:
One of the simplest vertical monitor setups is to use a single monitor in portrait mode. This means rotating a standard monitor 90 degrees so that the screen is taller than it is wide. This can be ideal for tasks that require a lot of scrolling, such as reading long documents or coding.
Instead of placing monitors side by side, you can stack them vertically, with one monitor on top of the other. This setup can be helpful for tasks that require comparison, such as coding or referencing multiple documents, as you can easily switch between the top and bottom monitors.
Another idea for a vertical monitor setup is to use one monitor in portrait mode for focused tasks, such as coding or reading, and another monitor in landscape mode for general use, such as browsing the internet or watching videos. This way, you can have the best of both worlds - a dedicated vertical screen for specific tasks and a traditional landscape screen for everyday use.
Curved monitors are becoming increasingly popular for their immersive viewing experience, and you can also use them in a vertical orientation. A curved vertical monitor setup can provide a unique and stylish look to your workspace, while also offering a comfortable viewing angle that follows the natural curve of your eyes.
If you're looking for a unique and personalized vertical monitor setup, you can consider customizing your own monitor mounts. You can find adjustable monitor mounts that allow you to position your monitors in various configurations, such as a vertical stack, a curved arc, or an angled setup, to suit your specific needs and aesthetics.
Remember to consider ergonomics and your own personal preferences when setting up a vertical monitor setup. Make sure the monitors are positioned at a comfortable height, and that you can easily view the content without straining your neck or eyes. Experiment with different configurations and find the one that works best for your workflow and style. Happy monitor setup designing!
As indicated before, even if a vertical monitor setup is conducive to your use case, you never want to use your only monitor this way. So, what you want is a vertical dual monitor setup where your secondary screen is being used vertically.
To this end, you can return to the same “Display Settings” area that you would use to find the orientation configuration option. While there, you are going to see your dual screen options as well. You want to select the one that says “Extend,” as it allows you to use the two screens for different things.
The other options don't allow this as one of them duplicates the same information across both screens and the other two shut off one screen completely.
The triple monitor setup is a derivative of the double monitor option. Some people need even more screen real estate, and there is nothing wrong with this. Again, it's the “Extend” option that you want to use here.
You're going to see a few virtual displays in the “Display Settings” area that represent your physical screens. You can drag them around. The point is to ensure that the displays there are in the same order as your screens are laid out. This is going to govern the direction your mouse pointer goes to transition from one screen to the next.
Typically, people using three monitors put their primary screen in the middle. Therefore, as you're doing your dragging around, you want to put screen one in the center.
If you are not using a desktop, then your primary screen is likely going to be bound to your laptop. In this case, you're going to be using a laptop with monitor setup. Simply plug the monitor into the laptop or its docking station, and it becomes a second screen, which you can adjust as directed above.
Note that once the laptop can accommodate it, you can even go up to a triple screen setup using two monitors and the said laptop.
The talk of pixel requirements is sometimes thrown around by computer enthusiasts. However, casual users need not worry too much about this. Even in the days of 1366x768 being the definitive display resolution, this was sufficient to look crisp to human eyes.
Today, just about any 1080p (1920x1080) display is sufficient. Therefore, if you are going to be going all the way up to 1440p (2560x1440) like the Pixio monitors offer, then you have even more enhanced display quality than you need.
These were briefly mentioned before, but you should not underestimate the sheer value and convenience of implementing monitor arms in your workspace. Typically, monitors are shipped with a stand that you put them on.
You can recapture the desktop real estate used for the stands while positioning your monitors more conveniently by using monitor arms that suspend them in the air.
Not only does this allow you to physically alternate between portrait and landscape orientations at will, but you now get to freely adjust the height and spacing of your monitors more than you ever could before.
Product Suggestions
Productivity and comfort go hand-in-hand when it comes to working. Incorporating a vertical monitor display is one way to enhance your productivity and create a more efficient setup. Vertical monitors are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to display more content vertically, making them ideal for coding, writing, and browsing lengthy documents.
This article will explore the top 5 best vertical monitor displays for an ergonomic setup in 2023. We will also give you a detailed guide on all the relevant factors you should consider while buying a vertical gaming monitor.
The Dell P2414H is a versatile vertical side monitor with a high-quality viewing experience. Thanks to its IPS panel, it offers precise colors and a wide viewing angle. You can quickly turn the monitor vertically, simplifying switching between the landscape and portrait modes. Thanks to its amazing portability and stylish appearance, it's great for many uses.
Pros
Cons
Crisp and vibrant displayLimited resolution compared to higher-end modelsWide viewing anglesAverage refresh rate for gaming enthusiastsEasy rotation between landscape and portrait modesThe LG 28" SDQHD DualUp Monitor is a feature-packed vertical monitor with a stunning 4K resolution. It offers excellent color accuracy and sharp image quality. The USB Type-C connectivity allows for convenient single-cable connection and power delivery to compatible devices. This product stands out because of its outstanding ergonomic design, making this portrait-mode monitor a must-have if you are a gamer, programmer, or office employee.
Pros
Cons
High-resolution display for crisp visualsLimited adjustability optionsUSB Type-C connectivity for easy device integrationRelatively higher price pointThe DualUp feature enables split-screen multitaskingDurable and solid buildThe next product on our list is the LG 32UN880-B, a premium vertical monitor that combines an ergonomic design with stunning visuals. Its UHD 4K IPS display ensures exceptional color accuracy and detail. The monitor features an Ergo stand that offers a wide range of adjustments, including height, tilt, swivel, and pivot. Its amazing borderless design gives you an immersive user experience without irritating bezels. All in all, it’s one of the perfect vertical monitors you can buy.
Pros
Cons
Ultra-high-definition display for immersive visualsHigher price pointErgonomic stand with versatile adjustmentsLimited gaming-oriented featuresUSB-C connectivity for enhanced versatilityThe LG 27UN880-B Ultrafine Monitor is a compact yet powerful vertical display. It offers a UHD resolution for sharp and detailed visuals. The monitor has a versatile stand for height, tilt, and pivot adjustments, ensuring optimal comfort and viewing angles. In short, it is the perfect side monitor if you are looking for an option that is low on price and has a spot-on display and color accuracy.
Pros
Cons
Compact sizeLimited screen real estateAdjustable stand for ergonomic customizationNot great for multitaskingUSB-C connectivityOutstanding color accuracyLED display technologyLast but definitely not the least, we have BenQ PD2700U. This vertical monitor is a professional-grade vertical monitor specifically designed for color-critical work. It offers accurate color reproduction and excellent image quality. The monitor's slim bezels provide a seamless multi-monitor setup for enhanced productivity. This monitor is a great investment because of its display quality and additional options such as night mode, eye care, etc.
Pros
Cons
Excellent color accuracyBulky in sizeSlim bezelsSlightly higher priceAdjustable stand for ergonomic flexibility4K displayNight-mode option availableWhen purchasing a vertical monitor for your ergonomic setup, there are several factors to consider:
Determine the ideal screen size and resolution based on your workspace and usage requirements. Larger screens with higher resolutions offer an immersive experience and sharper visuals. This is extremely important for users purchasing a vertical gaming monitor. Streamers often require a vertical monitor with spot-on resolution and screen size.
Look for a height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments monitor. Ergonomic customization is essential for achieving a comfortable viewing position. This makes sure that you get an adequate level of comfort while using your display without having to sacrifice it.
Consider the connectivity options, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C. Ensure that the monitor supports the necessary ports for your devices. Most of the options we have discussed have multiple connectivity options making it compatible with most systems.
If you work with color-critical tasks such as graphic design or photo editing, prioritize monitors with accurate color reproduction and a wide color gamut. Moreover, color accuracy is also crucial when it comes to gaming. Colors must be on point to get an immersive experience while playing games.
Set a budget and consider the features that are most important to you. Compare different products within your anticipated price range to find the best value for your investment. Remember that the most expensive model is not always the best quality. Ensure you look for a device that offers optimal value for your money. Make an informed decision after reading our reviews and buying guide.
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Therefore, it's kind of a catchall convenient offering that allows the furnishing of whatever workspaces employees are using. Additionally, when the program is used, all items selected are offered at reduced prices.
As you can see, there is quite a lot of utility that you can get out of implementing a vertical monitor setup in your workspace. Not only do you now understand what the concept is, but you know when it applies and when it doesn't. Furthermore, if you are interested in configuring a vertical monitor, you now know how to do so.
Vertical monitors, also known as portrait monitors, have become increasingly popular for boosting productivity. With a vertical display orientation, these monitors allow you to view more lines of text, code, or webpages without excessive scrolling.
If you spend hours reading documents, writing code, or browsing long webpages, a vertical monitor can enhance your workflow. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to select the right one. We've researched the latest vertical monitors to help you find one that meets your needs and budget.
Top 10 Best Vertical Monitors
1. Dell UltraSharp 27 4K USB-C Monitor - U2723QE
Dell UltraSharp 27 - U2723QE
The Dell UltraSharp 27 4K USB-C Monitor provides a gorgeous 4K UHD display, perfect for vertical alignment. With a 3840 x 2160 resolution on a 27” screen, you get meticulous detail when reading documents or viewing data-intensive programs.
This IPS panel monitor delivers precise colors across a wide viewing angle. The virtually borderless design creates a seamless multi-display setup for your workspace. Connectivity is a breeze with the USB-C port that transmits video, audio, and data and can charge your laptop up to 90W.
2. LG UltraGear 27” IPS Gaming Monitor - 27GL83A-B
LG UltraGear 27” - 27GL83A-B
Gamers will appreciate the super-fast 1ms response time on this LG UltraGear gaming monitor. The 27-inch QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution gives you ample screen real estate when pivoted vertically.
LG's IPS display provides vivid colors and great viewing angles. With AMD FreeSync Premium technology, gameplay is incredibly smooth without tearing or stuttering. The height, tilt, and pivot adjustable stand lets you customize your viewing experience.
3. Asus TUF Gaming 24.5” 1080P Gaming Monitor - VG248QG
Asus TUF Gaming 24.5” - VG248QG
The Asus VG248QG is a budget-friendly vertical monitor optimized for gaming. It boasts a rapid 0.5ms response time and 165Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth performance.
Built-in GameFast Input Technology minimizes input lag for real-time responsiveness. Play comfortably for hours with ASUS Eye Care Technology. While only 24.5 inches, the full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution keeps images looking crisp when rotated vertically.
4. BenQ 27” QHD IPS Monitor for Professional Use - PD2700U
BenQ 27” - PD2700U
Engineers, designers, and other creative pros will benefit from the BenQ PD2700U's QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution. The 27-inch IPS panel provides 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 color spaces for color accuracy.
This monitor is Technicolor Color Certified with presets for animation, darkroom, CAD/CAM, and more. The fully adjustable stand, including pivot, tilt, swivel, and height adjustments, allows you to work comfortably in vertical alignment. Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports offer blazing 40Gbps transfer speeds.
5. Samsung 24” 1080P Monitor for Business - SE450
Samsung 24” - SE450
The Samsung SE450 is designed for business productivity with a mid-size 24-inch screen. The 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution keeps text clear and images defined when rotated vertically.
Samsung's proprietary Eco Saving Plus technology reduces energy use without affecting visual performance. The height adjustable stand lets you customize your viewing position. With VGA and HDMI ports, the SE450 works seamlessly with both desktops and laptops.
6. Dell Ultrasharp 27” QHD IPS Monitor - U2719DX
Dell Ultrasharp 27” - U2719DX
This Dell Ultrasharp monitor provides stunning QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution on a 27” screen. The IPS panel produces vivid colors and wide viewing angles in either landscape or portrait orientation. With extensive connectivity options including USB-C and DisplayPort, it works with virtually any device.
7. Dell 27” 4K UHD IPS USB-C Monitor - U2720Q
Dell 27” - U2720Q
For crystal clear visuals, the Dell U2720Q delivers 4K 3840 x 2160 resolution on a sharp 27-inch IPS display. The ultra-thin infinity edge bezels make for a seamless dual or triple monitor setup. This monitor also features a USB-C port for transferring video, audio, and data as well as power delivery up to 90W.
8. LG 27” 4K UHD IPS Monitor - 27UK850-W
LG 27” - 27UK850-W
With stunning 4K UHD resolution and HDR 10 support, the 27-inch LG 27UK850-W provides incredible color depth and detail. The IPS display allows you to view the screen clearly from all angles, whether in landscape or portrait alignment. AMD FreeSync technology minimizes stuttering and screen tearing.
9. HP 23.8” 1080P IPS Monitor - VH240a
HP 23.8” - VH240a
For those seeking an affordable vertical display, the HP VH240a only costs around $204. The 24-inch frameless IPS monitor produces sharp 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution rotated vertically or horizontally. With over 2 million pixels, you get quality visuals for document editing, web browsing, and more.
10. ASUS ProArt 27” 1440P IPS Monitor - PA278QV
ASUS ProArt 27 - PA278QV
Creative professionals will appreciate the superior 100% sRGB and Rec. 709 color accuracy of the ASUS ProArt PA278QV. The WQHD 2560 x 1440 resolution keeps images clear when pivoted vertically on the ergonomic stand. Calman Verified and factory pre-calibrated, this monitor delivers true-to-life colors.
Buying Guide for Vertical Monitors
When shopping for the best vertical monitor, there are several factors to keep in mind based on your intended use, desk space, and budget.
Display Size and Resolution
Vertical monitors are commonly available in sizes ranging from 24 to 34 inches. Consider your desk space and viewing distance to select the right size monitor. 24–27 inches is ideal for most home office setups.
Look for a monitor with at least 1920 x 1080 FHD resolution for reasonably clear images and text when rotated vertically. For sharper details, opt for QHD 2560 x 1440 or 4K UHD 3840 x 2160 if your budget allows.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), determines how many times per second the monitor refreshes the image. Most office-style vertical monitors have a 60Hz refresh rate, sufficient for general tasks.
For gaming or video applications, look for a vertical monitor with at least 144Hz refresh rate for a smoother picture.
Panel Type
Vertical monitors use one of three panel types:
IPS or VA panels are ideal for vertical alignment to maintain image quality when viewed from various angles.
Connectivity
Look for a vertical monitor with a variety of input ports compatible with your device connections:
A monitor with multiple ports gives you flexibility. USB-C and DisplayPort enable the fastest speeds.
Ergonomics
An articulating stand that provides height, pivot, tilt, and swivel adjustments allows you to customize the vertical monitor viewing angle for ergonomic comfort.
VESA mount capability allows you to use third-party monitor arms for even greater flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a vertical monitor?
A vertical monitor is a display that is rotated 90 degrees into portrait orientation. The screen is taller than it is wide.
What are the benefits of using a vertical monitor?
Vertical monitors allow you to see more lines of text, code, webpages, photos, etc without excessive scrolling. This boosts productivity for tasks like coding, writing, and editing documents.
What should I look for when buying a vertical monitor?
Consider the screen size, resolution, refresh rate, panel type, ergonomic adjustments, and connectivity options. Make sure the monitor stand can pivot into portrait alignment.
Can I use a regular monitor in portrait mode?
Yes, as long as the monitor has an adjustable stand that allows you to rotate it vertically into portrait orientation. Most monitors are capable of this.
What is the best size for a vertical monitor?
24–27 inches is recommended for most vertical monitor setups. Ultrawide monitors larger than 27 inches allow you to view even more content at once before needing to scroll.
Conclusion
Adding one of the best vertical monitors we've featured here is an excellent way to boost your productivity. Dual monitor setups work great with one horizontal and one vertical display. Carefully consider the screen size, resolution, ergonomics, and other factors we've covered when selecting a vertical monitor tailored to your needs.
Vertical displays enhance workflows for office work, creative tasks, coding, and more. Any of these high performing monitors can help you work more comfortably and efficiently.