Today, any student will answer the question, what is 16 to 9. But with the formats 21 to 9 or the old 4 to 3, some may have problems with associations. So to begin with, we’ll deal with the types and sizes of devices.
Monitors of past generations were exclusively “square” and the maximum that they were capable of was a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels with an aspect ratio of 4 to 3. Later 16 by 10 models with a resolution of 1600 by 1024 pixels began to appear. The current standard is considered a ratio of 16 to 9 or 1920 by 1080 pixels (Full HD).
But there are also wide monitor formats that stand out from the crowd and are intended for a narrow circle of consumers. We are talking about devices with an aspect ratio of 21 to 9 and with a basic resolution of 2560 by 1080 pixels. Of course, the widest monitors are able to surprise and cause a wild delight with a sense of presence and a more complete picture, but the minuses, and for some critical ones, also have a place to be.
The first models appeared thanks to the efforts of engineers and designers of the Philips brand almost ten years ago. Then the trend was picked up by other eminent manufacturers - Samsung, Acer and LG. Wide monitors are no longer a gimmick, but still remain exotic.
Features of using the format 21 to 9
As obvious pluses, you can note the viewing of the original movie exploration. That is, all the films that are shown on large screens today will be on a wide monitor without black porridge above and below. As a result, you get a full-fledged picture using all the useful space. Alas, this is impossible on 16 to 9 formats without losing part of the frame.
In addition, wide monitors have proved to be excellent in a professional environment where the peripheral space on the sides can be used with much greater efficiency than on conventional devices. Many typesetters and advanced programmers prefer a ratio of 21 to 9.
In games, a wide monitor gives a noticeably greater effect of presence, a more voluminous picture, as well as advantages in dynamic action games, races and strategies. But the format has 21 to 9 and its drawbacks, which just do not allow us to call it popular.
Cons format 21 to 9
Firstly, these are the same games. If the application is designed for an aspect ratio of 16 to 9, then your 29-inch monitor turns into a regular device with a diagonal of 24 ”. AAA projects, of course, support non-standard wide monitors for the computer, but other products, alas, are developed for a more familiar layout.
Secondly, these are old films designed specifically for the 16 to 9 format, where you have to stretch the image horizontally with special software like PowerDVD with intelligent resolution adjustment. At the same time, valuable valuable personnel will be lost.
Well and thirdly, this is the cost of the devices. Wide monitors come with a minimum screen size of 29 inches, while the size of other standard devices starts with a size of 17 ”. A large diagonal has never been cheap even with a mediocre matrix.
Next, we consider specific models of monitors in an aspect ratio of 21 to 9. For a more visual picture, the list will be presented in the form of a rating. All of the models described below can be found in computer both online and offline stores, so there should be no problems with "touch".
The rating of the best widescreen monitors is as follows:
- Samsung CF791.
- Philips Brilliance BDM3490UC.
- AOC U3477PQU.
- Iiyama XUB3490WQSU.
Consider the participants in more detail.
Iiyama XUB3490WQSU
This is a relatively inexpensive monitor, he is a Japanese brand. The 34-inch model supports a resolution of 3440 by 1440 pixels and has excellent viewing angles with a natural picture. The latter is provided by a sensible IPS matrix with a 60 Hz sweep.
Among the obvious advantages, one can note the excellent color gamut of the modern sRGB standard - about 99%. Also, the model boasts a low response time - only 5 ms. Built-in tools greatly expand the functionality of the device, especially on the Windows 10 Series platform.
As a fly in the ointment here is the need to calibrate the monitor. For the guru of this matter, the factory settings hurt the eyes, because the sRGB color gamut can range from 80 to 90%. In all other respects, this is a wonderful model with a lot of flattering reviews from users.
Estimated cost of the monitor is about 42,000 rubles.
AOC U3477PQU
This is a widescreen and pretty nice monitor from a well-known Chinese manufacturer. The AN-IPS matrix supports a 60 Hz sweep and operates at a resolution of 3440 by 1440 pixels, which is enough for 34 inches.
The monitor boasts good color gamut - 97% according to the sRGB standard, as well as uniform illumination. The matrix was distinguished by a large margin of brightness and contrast plus a minimum response for IPS technology.
Users do not notice any critical flaws in the monitor, but some complain about the flimsy leg. On 24-inch models, she showed herself very well, but at 34 ”, when she accidentally hits the table, the monitor sways like a Hawaiian doll.
The estimated price of the model is about 42,000 rubles.
Philips Brilliance BDM3490UC
This is truly a diamond among other representatives of the segment. The sensible 60 Hz IPS-matrix with a resolution of 3440 by 1440 pixels gives an excellent picture with a maximum color gamut of 98.7% according to the sRGB standard.
The curved screen allows you to completely immerse yourself in what is happening on the monitor and achieve unprecedented gaming results. The model has been repeatedly recognized by eminent magazines as an ideal option for advanced consoles and gaming PCs.
Monitor features
The matrix received an excellent supply of brightness and contrast, and the local interface boasts an abundance of functionality and useful tools. The latter allows you to use the monitor not only for gaming, but also for professional needs.
Users do not note any critical flaws in the model, and all customer complaints are directed only to value. But it justifies itself with an almost perfect quality component and an exceptional picture. It’s not necessary to find fault with the price tag. Estimated cost of the monitor is about 55,000 rubles.
Samsung CF791
The Samsung CF791 wide monitor is perhaps the best this segment has to offer. The extremely high-quality QLED matrix (100 Hz) of the 34-inch model quietly copes with a resolution of 3440 by 1440 pixels and produces a juicy picture with a crystal clear display.
A good half of experts consider Samsung's proprietary technologies in the field of monitors to be a role model. Plus, the model has a curved type of matrix that is built on quantum dots. Judging by the feedback from users, the model simply has no shortcomings.
The only thing domestic consumers complain about is the high price. But here you need to understand that quality alone cannot simply be cheap, you have to give a lot of money for it.
Estimated price of the model is about 58,000 rubles.