You Should Be Buying Used Monitors

Computer monitors boast impressive longevity, outlasting many other PC components. Unlike components with moving parts like hard drives or fans, monitors, particularly VA and IPS types, have a simple design with no moving parts, resulting in extended lifespan. Normal use avoids the extreme heating and cooling cycles that stress other components.

##### TN vs. IPS vs. VA: Choosing the Right Panel

Panel type is the most crucial decision when purchasing a monitor. This section compares TN, VA, and IPS technologies to help you choose the best option for your needs.

PostsMy personal experience confirms this durability. Of the ten monitors I've owned since 2008, only one failed, and that was due to physical damage (being dropped). Older CCFL-backlit LCDs were more susceptible to damage, but modern LED backlights are much more resilient.

Display technology evolves slowly, except for major shifts like the CRT to LCD transition. This means a used monitor will likely remain usable for years.

The persistence of 1080p resolution exemplifies this stability. Steam Hardware Surveys show 1080p as the dominant resolution for over a decade, highlighting the longevity of display standards.

##### 1080p, 1440p, and 4K: Resolution Differences

The market offers a wide array of monitors. This section helps you understand the differences between 1080p, 1440p, and 4K resolutions.

PostsRefresh rate also demonstrates stability. 60Hz has been the standard for nearly 30 years. While higher refresh rates are becoming more common, 60Hz remains prevalent. Even today, 60 FPS is a common gaming benchmark.

An older 1080p, 60Hz monitor might not fully utilize modern GPUs, but it can serve as a secondary or tertiary monitor for multitasking, offering significant cost savings.

Moreover, you can often find newer monitors at affordable prices if you're patient.

Finding and Buying Used Monitors

Facebook Marketplace is a great starting point for used monitors. However, be wary of scams—they are prevalent.

##### Avoiding Facebook Marketplace Scams

Facebook Marketplace offers convenient buying and selling, but be aware of common scams.

PostsI recommend buying used monitors only if they are at least 30% below the retail price and in excellent condition. Before purchasing, carefully check these key areas:

Inspect the Corners

Monitor corners are vulnerable to damage. Check for cracks, scratches, or bending. If damage is present, insist on seeing the monitor working before buying.

Examine the Ports

Inspect the ports for misalignment or damage. A misaligned port often indicates forceful cable removal and potential malfunction. Use a flashlight to check for broken or bent contacts.

Assess the Screen

Look for dents, cracks, bubbles, or wrinkles—all signs of significant damage. Scratches are a matter of personal preference, depending on intended use.

Persistence is key. Good deals are available, but require patience. A friend recently found two excellent 1440p 144Hz monitors for $75 each, but it took three weeks of searching.

The above is the detailed content of You Should Be Buying Used Monitors. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!