Can You Use a TV as a Computer Monitor? And How to Do It?

Many smart HD TVs today have excellent resolution of 2K and above along with a decent refresh rate of 60 Hz or more, and the lines between television and computer technology continue to blur. This fusion leads to many of us wondering “Can you use a TV as a computer monitor?” The answer is you can, but not all TV models can manage well as a monitor. 

In this guide, we delve into the essential features to consider when repurposing an HD TV for computer use, the step-by-step process of connecting your computer to a TV, and our top picks for the best TVs that double as fantastic computer monitors. Let’s get started!

Necessary Features of an HD TV When Used as a Computer Monitor

When contemplating whether a TV can be used as a computer monitor, several critical features must be considered to ensure a seamless and productive experience. While the idea of a larger screen is appealing, not all TVs are suited for the task. Below are essential features to evaluate before making your decision:

Pixel Density

Pixel density, measured in pixels per inch (PPI), is crucial for clarity and sharpness of the image. Computer monitors typically offer higher pixel density than TVs because they are viewed from a closer distance. For a TV to serve effectively as a computer monitor, look for a model with a high pixel density (2K or above). This is particularly important for tasks that require fine detail, such as graphic design or text editing. 

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate of a screen indicates how many times per second the image is updated and is measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate results in smoother motion on the screen, which is especially noticeable when playing video games or watching fast-paced videos. For a TV to be used as a computer monitor, a refresh rate of at least 60Hz is recommended, though higher rates like 120Hz or 144Hz are preferable for gaming and professional video editing.

Input Lag and Response Time

If you are playing games on your computer, then you should want as little input lag as possible. Think of it as the delay between moving the mouse or pressing a key and the result on the screen. Meanwhile, response time refers to the time it takes for the pixel to change. A lower response time helps reduce ghosting effects and motion blur for a smoother visual experience. For gaming or real-time applications, low input lag and fast response time are essential to avoid any perceptible delay or ghosting effects. When selecting a TV, aim for the lowest possible input lag and a response time under 5 milliseconds to ensure a responsive experience.

Color Accuracy and Calibration

Color accuracy is vital for tasks that demand color precision, such as photo and video editing. A TV that can be used as a computer monitor should support a wide color gamut and offer settings for color calibration. This ensures that the colors displayed are true to their original intention, providing a more accurate and immersive viewing experience.

How to Connect Your Computer to a TV

For those wondering “How can I use a TV as a computer monitor?”, here are the primary methods to connect your computer to a TV, both wirelessly and with cables:

Connect TV to Computer Wirelessly

Wireless connectivity offers convenience and reduces cable clutter. Here's how to connect your computer to a TV wirelessly:

• Wi-Fi-Enabled Smart TV Connection: Many smart TVs today come with a built-in Wi-Fi receiver that can connect to your home network. To connect your smart TV to your computer, first ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. On your computer, find the feature that allows wireless display (“Project” in Windows) and select your smart TV from the list of available devices.
• Streaming Devices and Dongles: If you have one of the streaming dongles such as Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick, you can use it to wirelessly connect your computer to your TV. These devices plug into your TV’s HDMI port and connect to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to cast or mirror your computer screen to the TV through specific apps or operating system features.
• AirPlay: For Mac users, AirPlay allows wireless streaming to Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TVs. Click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar, then choose your TV to start mirroring or extending your desktop.

Wired Connection between TV and Computer

For a stable connection with no latency, a wired connection is the way to go. Before going through the steps on connecting your TV and computer, it’s essential first to know what ports both devices share. Three of the most common ports that most computers and TVs share are HDMI, VGA, and DVI. If the two devices don’t share a common port, you can always use an adapter, which you can easily purchase online or on a gadget store.

HDMI is the simplest and most common method, as HDMI cables carry both audio and video signals. If your computer or TV is older, it might use DVI or VGA ports. These cables carry video signals only, so you’ll need a separate audio connection, typically via a 3.5mm audio cable. Here’s how to connect:

1. Connect your PC to your TV using the appropriate cable, be it HDMI, DVI, or VGA using their respective ports. 
2. Using the TV’s remote press the “Input” button and change the input of the TV to HDMI, VGA, or DVI. Some TV models can do this automatically once it detects the signal. 
3. Once the connection is established, go to your PC. On your desktop, right-click on a blank space and select “Display Settings.”
4. On the newly opened Window, click “Detect.”
5. If you are using multiple screens (your computer monitor plus the TV) you can assign which one is the primary and secondary screen. Click “Multiple displays” then, choose “Extend these displays” to make the TV an extended part of your desktop. You can also choose just one screen for display by selecting 1 or 2 depending on which number you assigned your TV. 
6. Click “Apply” to save the changes you’ve made. 

Best TV to Use as a Computer Monitor

When searching for a TV that can double as a computer monitor, our TCL S5400 FHD Smart TV stands out as an exemplary choice. This 40-inch TV ticks all the boxes of the features we discussed earlier, prefect for those looking to merge entertainment with productivity:

The TCL S5400 FHD Smart TV TV boasts a full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a clear and detailed viewing experience that is twice the clarity of standard HD TVs. The A+ grade full HD panel delivers vivid and engaging images. Additionally, the TV supports HDR10, which enhances the brightness, shadow detail, and color vibrancy for a superior visual experience. 

In terms of audio, the TCL S5400 is equipped with Dolby Audio technology, delivering a pure, deep, and impactful sound through its powerful speakers for a more immersive and surrounding experience. The TV also features integrated Chromecast, allowing users to easily cast content from their devices to the big screen. Furthermore, the Google TV platform provides access to a vast library of apps, shows, and movies, while the Google Kids mode ensures a safe viewing environment for children.

The TCL S5400 FHD Smart TV offers a compelling combination of visual and audio quality, smart features, and connectivity options, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-performance and versatile home entertainment solution.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the short answer to the inquiry: “Can you use a TV as a computer monitor?” is yes. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the critical features an HD TV must possess to serve as an effective computer monitor and provided detailed instructions for connecting your computer to a TV, whether wirelessly or through wired connections like HDMI ports. Embracing a TV as your computer monitor not only expands your visual workspace but also elevates your entertainment and gaming experiences to new heights.

FAQ

Is a TV better than a computer monitor?

It depends on the intended usage. Monitors offer higher pixel density and refresh rates, making them ideal for detailed work and precision tasks like graphic design and competitive gaming. TVs, on the other hand, are better suited for entertainment purposes such as watching movies and casual gaming in a living room setting, thanks to their larger screen sizes and integrated smart features.

Why won’t my PC display on my TV?

Several factors could be at play if your PC is not displaying on your TV. It could be that it wasn’t properly selected as the input source on your TV or the cables connecting the two ends are not securely plugged in. In some cases, you might also need to update the graphic drivers to ensure the specific settings are being used. 

What are the disadvantages of using a TV as a monitor?

Most Smart TVs are not designed to have fast response times which could be detrimental for gaming and professional graphic work. They also don’t have the same pixel density as PC monitors. Hence, the image display will likely lose sharpness and overall quality. When the resolution of the PC monitor and TV are incompatible, it can result in the edges of the screen being cut off in the TV output.