A multiple monitor setup can greatly improve your productivity when you use it to its full potential. This includes making better use of your desktop space, organizing windows more efficiently, and avoiding the trouble of alt-tabbing between applications when working on multiple projects simultaneously.
Multiple Monitors Productivity Research
Table of Contents
Research on the productivity effects of using multiple monitors is mixed. Some studies find that having multiple monitors increases productivity, while others find no significant difference. However, the studies that have found a productivity increase generally use larger screen setups (two or three monitors), while those that found no difference used smaller screen setups (one or two monitors).
This discrepancy may be due to the way different tasks are impacted by using multiple monitors. For tasks that benefit from more screen space, like coding or editing, using two or three monitors can be significantly more productive than using one monitor. However, for tasks that don’t require as much screen space, like reading emails or browsing the web, there is no significant difference between using one or multiple monitors.
Also Read: Monitor Buying Guide
Whether you’re looking to extend your desktop space or just need a new monitor, it’s important that before purchasing additional monitors one should determine whether their current computer can support more than one display. The way you plan to install the monitors is really important. You might think about using a dual monitor stand for the setup or a triple monitor stand for the ultimate experience and space optimization.
Here are some benefits that may convince you to start using two or three monitors for all your work.
Also Read: How to Play 4k Video on PC or Mac (Ultra HD)
Multiple Monitors Benefits
Greater Versatility – When you use two monitors, they can function as one large monitor (using something called ” spanning “). This allows you to spread your windows out across the screen, or put them side-by-side in dual-monitor configurations that are beneficial for certain tasks like coding and editing. In
In addition, three monitors can be used as a 45-degree monitor array that creates a panoramic view for full immersion in your work.
Enhanced productivity – you can have two or three monitors set up in a way so that when you are working on one task, all the information you need for it is within your field of vision. For example, if you’re writing a document and referencing an Excel spreadsheet, one monitor can have your word processor on it while another has your spreadsheet.
Better multitasking – Two screen monitors let you work on two projects at the same time and switch between them with ease. This is because it makes it much harder to focus your attention on one project, which would require you to tab over to another window every time you needed reference material from a different task. It also makes switching tasks easier if you do not want to alt-tab.
Easier organization – When you have multiple windows open, it can be difficult to organize them. With multiple monitors, you can easily put each window in a different monitor space so that it is easier to find and identify quickly.
Easier cutting and pasting – Rather than having to copy and paste each time you want to use the same block of text or image, you can simply select it once on one monitor and then paste it where you need it across all monitors.
Expanded screen size – Generally speaking, using multiple monitors increases your effective screen size because they act as one large display.
Image and video editing – Two screen monitors are more powerful than one, especially when editing videos or photos. You can use one monitor to have your tools and another to have a full view of the project you’re working on.
A more efficient workplace – Having multiple screens makes it easier for employees who have multiple duties and responsibilities, since they can have all of their important documents open at once on separate monitors rather than having to flip back and forth between documents.
Also Read: PC Gaming vs Console Gaming
Multiple Monitors offer a new gaming experience
When it comes to gaming, there are a few reasons why using multiple monitors can give you a new and improved experience.
First, you can have your game running on one monitor while you have maps or other relevant information open on another. This will keep you from having to alt-tab out of the game every time you need to reference something.
Second, if you’re using three gaming monitors, you can set them up in an array that creates a wraparound effect for an even more immersive gaming experience.
Finally, many games these days are designed to be used with multiple monitors, so playing them on a single monitor can feel constricting and limited.
If you’re looking to get the most out of your multiple monitor setup, it’s important to look for displays with low response times and quick refresh rates.
As you can see, there are many benefits to having multiple monitors. If you work on a computer regularly and would like to increase your productivity – or enjoy your gaming experience more – then purchasing a second display might be the answer.
Also Read: What is HDR Gaming
Multiple Monitors Drawbacks
Software limitations – Using multiple screens is a fairly new technology, so there is limited software support. This means that some older programs might not have the ability to use multiple screens, while others are only designed for one.
Overwhelming – If you’re new to multiple monitors, it can be a little overwhelming at first until you get the hang of it.
While it is not difficult to set up, having the ability to constantly open new windows and spread out your work can be distracting.
A slight decrease in performance – Although modern-day monitors are built with low response times to reduce lag, there will still be a slight decrease when using multiple screens.
Higher purchase cost – At the moment, adding another monitor will add to the cost of your purchase.
Also Read: Dual Monitor Setup
Is it worth having a multiple monitor setup?
Whether or not a multiple monitor setup is worth it depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you work on a computer regularly and feel like you could be more productive with more screen space, then it’s worth considering. Similarly, if you enjoy gaming and want to create a more immersive experience, then using multiple monitors is the way to go.
However, keep in mind that there can be some drawbacks to using multiple monitors, such as software limitations and the fact that it can be overwhelming for first-time users.
Also Read: Response Time vs Refresh Rate in Monitor
