PC monitors: How we test PC monitors

Don't be fooled by the single overall rating for picture quality. We test 27 different elements for this single score ranging from how well the monitor shows black and white, to the clarity with which it displays moving images, to whether it's consistently bright across the entire screen.

As well as taking technical measurements, we ask a panel of experts to provide an assessment of the overall quality of the picture when viewing video, playing games and looking at static images.

Usability

While it may seem that all monitors are going to be pretty much the same, when it comes to how easy they are to use, there are plenty of little niggles that can get annoying. We rate how easy the monitor is to set up and attach to its stand. The buttons that are used to adjust the settings are assessed, too. We look at how well they're labelled, where they are located and how easy they are to identify and push.

We find out how easy it is to adjust the angle of the monitor and assess how robust it is and whether there are any sharp edges and weak parts. We also measure the amount of power each monitor uses when on, off and in standby.