Introduction
As a graphic designer in 2024, choosing the right monitor is crucial for visual accuracy and efficiency in my workflow. With 4K and 5K monitors becoming more affordable, I need to decide if the jump to 5K is worth it over a 4K display. In this in-depth article, I will compare 4K vs 5K monitors for graphic design based on resolution, size, pixel density, color accuracy, connectivity, and price to determine the best option for my needs.
Resolution
4K Resolution
4K monitors have a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This provides 8.3 megapixels of display resolution, which is 4 times more than a regular 1080p monitor. The high resolution allows me to view my graphic design projects with significant detail and resolution.
4K resolution enables me to view my work at 100% scale with room for toolbars and menus. This avoids pixelation while editing fine details like vector paths and textures. The high pixel density also creates sharper text and UI elements.
However, 4K may not be enough workspace for complex projects with multiple assets, panels, and timelines. The limited resolution can mean more scrolling and zooming during my workflow.
5K Resolution
5K displays average 5120 x 2880 pixels for 14.7 megapixels of resolution. This is 1.8 times more resolution than a 4K monitor. The extra screen real estate gives me ample workspace to avoid distractions from excessive scrolling and zooming.
With 5K, I can comfortably view full-page designs at 100% scale while having panels, guides, and toolbars on screen. The resolution effectively future-proofs my monitor investment for handling higher resolution projects.
For maximum resolution, detail, and future-proofing, 5K displays are better suited for graphic design.
Size
4K Monitor Sizes
4K monitors are available from 27 to 43 inches. The most popular sizes are:
-
27-inch – Ideal for single monitor setups due to compact footprint. Lacks screen real estate compared to larger sizes.
-
32-inch – A good balance between screen space and desk footprint. Well-suited for single or dual monitor setups.
-
40-43 inches – Provides expansive screen real estate comparable to multi-monitor setups. Requires deep desk space.
For my use case, a 32-inch 4K monitor provides sufficient resolution in a compact form factor well-suited for my desk.
5K Monitor Sizes
Due to the high resolution, 5K monitors need to be larger for comfortable viewing:
-
27-inch – Provides higher PPI than 4K but texts and UI can be uncomfortably small.
-
32-inch – A popular choice but still smaller than ideal for 5K resolution.
-
40-43 inches – Currently the sweet spot for comfortable 5K use with proper UI scaling.
Ideally, a 40-inch or larger 5K monitor can properly take advantage of the high resolution. But limited options are available above 32 inches currently.
For resolution usability, bigger 5K sizes have an advantage over 32-inch or smaller 4K displays.
Pixel Density
4K Pixel Density
With a 3840 x 2160 resolution, 32-inch 4K monitors have a pixel density of 138 PPI. This results in sharp details, text, and graphics. Scaling settings in macOS allow tuning the UI and text size for comfortable use.
27-inch 4K displays have a higher 163 PPI for added sharpness but UI elements may be too small without scaling. For my purposes, the 32-inch 4K pixel density is perfectly adequate.
5K Pixel Density
32-inch 5K monitors have a 218 PPI pixel density, significantly higher than 4K. This makes images, text, and graphics extremely crisp. But the higher density necessitates UI scaling for comfortable use.
Larger 40-43 inch 5K monitors lower the PPI to around 110-120. This makes them usable with less scaling required. The pixel density is comparable to 32-inch 4K while providing much more workspace.
The 40-43 inch models offer a good balance of high PPI and usable resolution at 5K sizes.
Color Accuracy
Accurate color reproduction is vital for graphic design. Both 4K and 5K monitors are now available with advanced panels and profiling for print production quality color.
4K Color Accuracy
Monitors like the Dell UltraSharp 32 4K PremierColor can cover 100% of AdobeRGB, Rec. 709, and sRGB color spaces. With built-in calibration tools and 14-bit 3D LUT, they match pro displays like the Apple Pro Display XDR.
4K monitors aimed at gaming and entertainment provide around 100% sRGB coverage. While less color accurate than professional models, they meet basic color needs at an affordable price point.
5K Color Accuracy
For 5K models, the 27-inch LG UltraFine 5K provides 99% coverage of Adobe RGB and DCI-P3 color spaces. The Apple Pro Display XDR brings extreme color accuracy with 1600 nits sustained brightness and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio.
More affordable options like the Dell UltraSharp 40 can cover 100% of sRGB, Rec. 709 and 85% of AdobeRGB. This is adequate for most 2D graphic work.
With comparable color accuracy options, 4K and 5K monitors can both match stringent color reproduction needs.
Connectivity
Modern monitors offer a range of video inputs and hub functionalities. Connectivity is vital for a seamless workflow.
4K Connectivity
4K monitors usually include:
-
HDMI 2.0 – Supports 4K 60Hz input from PCs and devices.
-
DisplayPort 1.2 – Enables 4K 60Hz and high refresh rates up to 120Hz.
-
USB Hub – Convenient USB ports for peripherals and device charging.
-
Thunderbolt 3 – For daisy chaining and high-speed data transfers.
I can connect my MacBook conveniently over Thunderbolt or use the monitor’s USB hub to reduce cable clutter. Overall, current 4K monitors provide all the essential connectivity I need.
5K Connectivity
Connectivity on 5K monitors:
-
Thunderbolt 3 – Necessary for transmitting 5K signal from computers.
-
USB-C with 94W Power Delivery – Single cable docking and charging for laptops.
-
USB Hub – Usually 2-4 ports available for peripherals.
5K resolution requires advanced connectivity like Thunderbolt 3 which adds cost. But the single cable convenience and hub capabilities streamline my workflow.
For connectivity, 5K monitors gain advantage thanks to Thunderbolt 3 support.
Pricing
Price is a major factor as 5K monitors command a premium over comparable 4K models.
4K Monitor Pricing
32-inch 4K monitors range between $300 to $800 based on features. Models like the LG 32UN500 with HDR10 and 95% sRGB coverage cost around $350. High-color accuracy monitors like the BenQ PD3220U are available under $800.
For my needs, there are capable 32-inch 4K options under $500 like the Dell U3219Q or LG 32UL950-W. This matches my budget while providing good size, resolution, and color reproduction.
5K Monitor Pricing
Most 5K monitors still cost over $1,000. The 27-inch LG UltraFine 5K is the most affordable near the $1300 mark. Popular models like the LG 34WK95U-W and Dell U4021QW are $1,200+ and $2,000+ respectively. High-end reference monitors like the Pro Display XDR start around $5,000.
For a comparable 32-inch size, I will be paying at least 2-3 times more compared to a good 4K monitor. The premium pricing makes 5K monitors hard to justify for now.
4K monitors provide the best value with capable models available below $500.
Verdict
For my budget and needs as a graphic designer, I believe 32-inch 4K monitors currently offer the ideal combination of resolution, size, features, and price. Models like the LG 32UL950-W or BenQ PD3220U offer good color accuracy with USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity at an affordable price point.
The ample resolution enables detailed artwork viewing while the 32-inch size balances pixel density and usable workspace. More expensive 5K models provide marginal improvements in resolution and workspace over 4K for my usage. As 5K monitor pricing becomes more affordable, the additional benefits may be worthwhile for future upgrades. But for now, 4K monitors are the best fit as my primary display for graphic design in 2024.
