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The last thing you probably expected to add to your wish list was a monitor, however, they’ve soon become one of the most desirable and most-needed pieces of tech.
Thought your laptop screen was enough? Think again. Monitors aren’t just for gamers or graphic designers, they’ve become the ultimate work, play and binge-watching upgrade. From making hybrid working a bit less hunched-over, to giving movie nights a cinema-style boost, the right monitor can change your daily routine more than you think.
And with so many of us working from home (yes, still), it’s no surprise monitors are topping the wish list in 2026. So, whether you want a budget-friendly extra screen, a productivity powerhouse for work, or something that does a bit of everything, we’ve rounded up the very best monitors you can buy this year.
Best ultra-wide monitor
Samsung 34” ViewFinity S50GC WQHD Monitor
Want more space without balancing two monitors on your desk? This ultra-wide 34” display is like having a second screen built in. With sharp WQHD resolution, you can edit, stream and multitask with room to spare. Perfect for anyone who’s fed up with squinting at tiny split-screens.
Best budget monitors
We get it, you want the screen upgrade without the scary price tag. These budget picks give you crisp Full HD visuals and reliable performance, without making your wallet cry.
AOC 22B2H 21.5” FHD HDMI VGA Monitor
Simple, reliable and affordable. Plug it in via HDMI or VGA and you’re set for work, browsing or streaming in sharp Full HD.
22” FHD VA 100Hz HDMI Monitor
Smooth scrolling at 100Hz makes this budget monitor feel far more premium than its price suggests. Ideal for everyday use and casual streaming.
Best monitors for work
Time to retire the “temporary” kitchen-table setup? These work-friendly monitors help you focus, stay comfortable and maybe even impress your boss on video calls.
HP S5-524SF FHD Monitor
Clean design, sharp Full HD resolution and just the right size for spreadsheets and Zoom calls. A dependable workhorse that slots neatly into any desk space.
IPS FHD HDMI USB-C Monitor
Designed for modern working. Vibrant colour accuracy makes creative tasks a joy, while USB-C lets you connect (and charge) your laptop with a single cable. Goodbye, tangled wires.
Best all-rounder monitors
Work. Play. Stream. Repeat. These all-rounders do it all without breaking a sweat, or your budget.
ASUS VA24EHF Eye Care Gaming Monitor
With a 100Hz refresh rate and eye-care tech, this 23.8” ASUS monitor balances smooth gaming with comfortable all-day use. It’s as versatile as it is easy on the eyes.
Acer 23.8” SA242YG0BI ZeroFrame IPS 120Hz Monitor
Almost borderless, impressively quick. The 120Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time make it perfect for gaming marathons, while IPS technology keeps colours vivid for films and photos.
To wrap it up
Whether you want to save your neck (literally) while working from home, or turn Netflix nights into mini cinema screenings, there’s a monitor here for you. Just remember to measure your desk before you go big, no one wants a screen that takes up more space than the furniture.
Check out our full range of monitors here, or if gaming is your thing, take a look at our Best Gaming Monitors of 2026 guide.