The 10 Best 21 Inch Monitors
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in November of 2018. A 21-inch monitor makes a perfect addition to a general-use PC, and will ensure you are left with plenty of free real estate on your desk. Given their relatively small size these days, they won't impact your budget too heavily. We've gathered the newest, most refined, and most reliable models, as well as some of the highest-quality options that have been around for a few years. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Samsung SR350
2. Dell P2219H
3. Viotek GFV22CB
Editor's Notes
September 03, 2020:
Displays at this size aren't typically packed with as many high-end features as those even slightly larger, but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of worthwhile options. In fact, one of the best-performing models is the Viotek GFV22CB, which is a little surprising given its relatively unknown manufacturer. It's actually one of the very rare ones that offers 144-hertz variable refresh rate, which you might appreciate even if you're not an avid gamer. On the other hand, the Dell P2219H comes from one of the best-known companies out there, and though it doesn't have as high of a refresh rate, it looks better than many options with similar specifications. Another major player has recently offered the Samsung SR350, which is yet another strong contender from a company normally known for its high-end displays.
One of the strong points of the category, overall, is the affordability of many of these. The Acer SB220Q and BenQ GW2283 are two such examples, as is the Philips E9QDSB, which boasts an impressive 4-year warranty. Not only does the warranty last a long time, the manufacturer will also replace defective units quickly, even before the old one is returned, which can be a lifesaver for business users. Another interesting choice for certain commercial applications, in addition to some more specialized or accessible home systems, is the Planar Helium PCT2235, which, despite being a bit older than the rest, boasts an interesting and highly functional stand as well as 10-point touch and capability with gesture compatibility.
All in all, 21-inch monitors aren't extremely popular, but they are somewhat commonly used as secondary PC displays. If you're looking for a primary screen with plenty of real estate, there are quite a few of those available.
November 12, 2018:
As you might anticipate, there aren't a whole ton of new displays at this size. Nonetheless, there are some recent releases that fit the bill, like the Acer and Asus options. The Planar is one of just two readily available touchscreens — ViewSonic makes the other, but it's just not put together too well. Many of these, like the HPs and Acers, make excellent VESA-mounted secondary monitors. And if you're using one of these to play games, at least you'll be know you won't need a bleeding-edge, high-powered rig to run the display.
4. Acer SB220Q
5. Planar Helium PCT2235
6. BenQ GW2283
7. ViewSonic VS2210
8. Philips E9QDSB
9. LG MK430H
10. Acer Nitro VG220Q
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.