How to choose the right monitors for small and medium-sized businesses

Start with how people actually work

Someone answering emails and reviewing documents needs a different setup than someone building spreadsheets or leading video calls. Before comparing specs, look at what each role spends most of its screen time doing.

Screen size and resolution

A 23.8-inch Full HD monitor covers everyday tasks like email, browsers, and word processing without crowding a desk. A 27-inch QHD screen gives more room for spreadsheets, dashboards, and multiple documents. For roles that need even more workspace, 34-inch ultrawide and 49-inch SuperWide monitors can keep several applications visible across one continuous screen. Higher resolutions also provide more space for detailed content and multitasking.

Connectivity that keeps desks simple

Docking monitors with USB-C connection can carry video, data, and laptop charging over a single cable, when both the monitor and the connected laptop support the required USB-C functions. For a small business without a dedicated IT team, this can reduce the number of cables and adapters needed at each desk while also relieving employees from having to carry their chargers with them.

Video calls without extra hardware

Hybrid meetings are now routine. Monitors with a built-in webcam, microphone, and speakers can reduce the need for separate call equipment and help create a more consistent meeting setup across different desks. Some webcam-equipped monitors also support Windows Hello, allowing compatible Windows devices to use facial recognition for faster sign-in instead of a password.

Comfort for long workdays

Height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustment matter more as screen time adds up. Look for features such as SoftBlue technology and Flicker-Free technology where available, both of which support comfortable viewing through a full workday.

Energy use and lifespan

Energy-efficient displays and warranty coverage help keep the total cost of running a fleet of monitors down over several years, not just the upfront price.

Standardizing across roles

Where possible, choose a consistent product line across the business. This can simplify IT support, help control costs, and make it easier to manage compatible accessories and replacement parts.

A few starting points

• Philips 24B2U3301: a compact 23.8-inch Full HD monitor with USB-C docking, suited to everyday workstations.

• Philips 27B2U3601: a 27-inch QHD monitor with USB-C docking, suited to roles juggling multiple applications.

• Philips 34B2U3600C: a 34-inch curved ultrawide monitor for multitasking-heavy roles.

• Philips 49B2U5900CH: a 48.8-inch SuperWide monitor with a built-in webcam, suited to large-application work and video calls in one screen.

The right monitor depends on the role, not a single spec sheet. Matching screen size, connectivity, and comfort features to how someone actually works is the main variable that determines whether a setup helps or gets in the way.