Making the wrong purchasing decision can impact both the comfort of learning and the school’s budget. That’s why it’s essential to take the time to make the right choice. Below are key factors to consider when selecting monitors for an educational environment.

Monitor Size

School desks should be able to accommodate 24” screens. This size allows students to work efficiently with two windows open simultaneously—one for learning and another for creating. It also enables teachers to observe student work without needing to crouch down and invade their space.

Panel Technology

IPS panels are generally easier on the eyes compared to VA or TN panels, making them a good choice for extended use. While IPS panels are sometimes considered slower for gaming due to their refresh rate, this is not always a major drawback in an educational setting. If budget constraints exist, VA panels can be a cost-effective compromise.

Rear Mounting

Unless you are setting up an esports lab, rear-mounted computers such as IBM’s TinyPCs or Chromeboxes are highly recommended. These setups keep workstations tidy, reduce fan noise, reduce heat output and minimise distractions for students. For this reason, make sure that monitors have a VESA mount that matches your devices (usually 100mm or 80mm).

Ergonomics

For maximum comfort, monitors should be tiltable. Additionally, chairs should be adjustable and provide adequate support for extended sitting periods. Swivel chairs from GLS, for example, come with a 10-year warranty and offer great durability.

Resolution

To future-proof your investment, opt for a minimum resolution of Full HD (FHD). Higher resolutions, such as UHD, can be considered for advanced applications.

Startup Time

Don’t overlook the start-up time! Newer monitors can take several seconds to turn on, which can be confusing for students and teachers. Ideally, the monitor should show signs of life within two seconds to minimise downtime.

Interface

At a minimum, FHD monitors should have an HDMI interface. For better future-proofing, consider models with UHD resolution and a DisplayPort interface to support higher resolutions.

Power Supply

I’ve found that monitors with an integrated power supply (using a kettle lead) tend to last longer than those with external power bricks. This might be coincidence. But that aside, those that are powered with a kettle lead does away with bulky power bricks. However, over time, the cable can become loose from the monitor, so periodic checks may be necessary.

Webcam

While not essential, built-in webcams can be useful for projects involving machine learning or gesture recognition. However, consider the potential for misuse by students before making a decision.

Warranty

A quality monitor should come with a minimum two-year warranty, though three years is preferable. If the monitor properly enters standby mode when not in use, it should last for many years.

Built-in Speakers

Many monitors come with built-in speakers, which can be unnecessary and disruptive in a classroom setting. Fortunately, most monitors allow volume control adjustments, making this feature manageable rather than a dealbreaker.

Lockable Control Panel

To prevent students from tampering with monitor settings, look for models that offer a way to lock the control buttons. Just be sure to remember how to unlock them if adjustments are needed later!

Synchronisation Technology

If monitors will be used for esports, ensure they support synchronisation technology compatible with your chosen graphics card to provide smooth gameplay.

Final Tip: Test Before Buying in Bulk

If you’re unsure about a model, purchase and trial a single unit before committing to a large order. This helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures the monitor meets your school’s needs.

And as a final note, if you’re buying a projector too then make sure that it has a pause button!

Worth considering

There are lots of monitors to choose from. At time of writing, here are a couple of monitors worth checking out:

ASUS VZ24EHF Full HD 24” IPS LCD Monitor – Approx. £69. (Amazon)

PHILIPS V-line 241V8LAB Full HD 24″ LCD Monitor – Approx. £79

Summary:

Essential

Size: 24”

Technology: IPS

Rear mount support: VESA 100mm

Ergonomics: Tiltable

Resolution FHD

Interface: HDMI

Startup: On in less than 2 seconds

Target price: £70-£90

Preferable

Webcam: Yes

Power: Kettle lead with internal PSU

Warranty: Minimum 2 years

Included: HDMI cable

Desirable

Resolution: UHD

Interface: Display port interface