Best vertical monitors 2023: Displays that go long

Nearly all monitors, and most of the content viewed on them, are meant for horizontal, or “landscape,” orientation. But if you want to use a monitor as a secondary display, or if you work with, say, portrait photos or video meant for smartphones, a vertical layout makes more sense. But a screen’s ability to rotate into a vertical orientation is just one feature among many, so it pays to know the best vertical monitors, as we identify here, so you’re sure to get an all-around solid performer.

To learn more about choosing a vertical monitor, scroll below our recommendations for a summary of important specs and features.

For even more monitor recommendations, check out our roundup of the best monitors across all categories.

What to look for in a vertical monitor

The most important trait in a vertical monitor is, of course, support for vertical use.

This is technically possible with any monitor that has a 100x100m VESA mount, as you can add a third-party monitor stand or arm that allows rotation for vertical use. However, an ideal vertical monitor will support this from the factory or, in less common cases, make the stand optional (so you can decide on your own).

Aspect ratio matters, but you don’t have much choice

A monitor’s aspect ratio has a big impact on its usefulness. A standard 16:9 monitor rotated for vertical use becomes a 9:16 monitor. That’s a somewhat awkward fit for a lot of content.

That’s why the LG DualUp 28Q780-B is the top pick. Its unusual 16:18 aspect ratio, which becomes a 18:16 aspect ratio in vertical use, is a far more versatile and practical choice. No other monitor on the market has this aspect ratio.

There are other options. A few monitors have a 16:10 aspect ratio, which becomes 10:16 in vertical use. This is less awkward than 9:16 but still not excellent. There’s also a handful of specialty monitors with a 3:2 or 5:4 aspect ratio. Unfortunately, these alternatives are rare and often lackluster in image quality when compared to more common widescreen monitors, which is why we can’t recommend them.

Image quality depends on your needs

Aspect ratio aside, the features that make for a good vertical monitor are no different from a monitor used in the standard, horizontal orientation.

4K resolution, or something close to it, is ideal, while 1440p is a good compromise for more affordable monitors. Also look for a monitor with a maximum brightness of at least 300 nits, as this will help overcome glare. Good color accuracy and a wide color gamut aren’t necessary for all people, but preferable, and all the vertical monitors we recommend score well in these areas.

USB-C is useful for vertical monitors

USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate mode is an alternative to HDMI and DisplayPort. It adds a DisplayPort video connection to the familiar USB-C port supported by many laptops and tablets (which is now mandated in Europe).

Unlike HDMI and DisplayPort, USB-C has the option to provide power through a standard called USB Power Delivery. This will charge a connected laptop, tablet, or other device. The LG and Dell monitors on this list support this feature, while the NZXT monitor does not.

Want to know more about how USB-C works on a monitor? Our guide to USB-C hub monitors has the details.

A monitor arm can be useful for vertical use

A desktop monitor stand is acceptable for vertical use if it supports rotation into vertical orientation, but a monitor arm is preferable.

An arm provides a wider range of movement in all directions. A vertical monitor will, in most cases, be used as a second display—and an arm makes aligning the first and second displays easier.

How we test monitors

PCWorld’s monitor guides are informed by hundreds of reviews from our team of staff and freelance experts. These guides combine tens of thousands of hours of testing and decades of combined expertise.

We test monitors using a SpyderXElite color calibration tool. This tool provides objective measurements of color accuracy, color gamut, color temperature, brightness, gamma, and contrast, among other metrics. Objective results help us compare dozens of monitors without bias to find the best in each category.