For reading code, pixel density and comfort beat speed. A sharp screen at the right size lets you fit two files side by side without squinting.
Size and resolution
- 27-inch 4K (about 163 pixels per inch) is the sweet spot for text: crisp at 150% scaling, with plenty of room.
- 27-inch 1440p (QHD) is cheaper and easier to drive, and fine for code, but text is visibly less sharp.
- 5K at 27 inches matches macOS scaling exactly, which is why Mac users like it.
- Ultrawide and curved screens are great for timelines and games; for code, two files side by side on a flat 27-inch 4K often reads better.
Panel type
- IPS: accurate colour and wide viewing angles. The default choice for work.
- VA: deeper blacks and higher contrast, slower in dark scenes. Common on curved gaming screens.
- OLED: perfect blacks and fast response. Watch for burn-in with static toolbars and editors left on screen for hours.
Connectivity
- USB-C with power delivery means one cable for video, charging and USB. Check the wattage covers your laptop (65 W for most, 90–100 W for larger ones).
- A built-in hub or KVM lets one keyboard and mouse follow you between a work laptop and a personal computer.
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz is fine for work. 120 Hz and up makes scrolling smoother and matters for games.
Comfort
- A height-adjustable stand or VESA mount, so the top of the screen sits at or just below eye level.
- Colour accuracy (factory calibration, sRGB / DCI-P3 coverage) matters for design and photo work; for code it is a bonus.