How to use 4K TV as a computer screen

If you are planning to buy a QHD or 4K computer monitor, you should also consider 4K TV. Although computer monitors and TV screens are built for different purposes, they still have the same features. And many people are advised to buy 4K TVs for personal computers rather than 4K computer screens. There are some considerations when using a large TV instead of a screen designed specifically for use with computers in addition to the benefits it offers. This article will explain why buying a 4K TV instead of a computer screen and how to set it up.

1. How to know if your mini PC supports 4K?

Why should I use a 4K TV?

Almost all new TVs are now 4K TVs

In the past few features, most TVs over 40 inches are 4K TVs. And with normal TV size, you will probably get more pixels.

TV is a giant screen

Using a big screen is often preferable but to buy a 30 inch screen will cost a sizable amount. On the other hand, rare 4K TVs have one that is smaller than 40 inches, usually 50, 55 inches.

Also, with the big screen you will easily see smaller details. That means you can split user interface elements (UI elements) and still be able to read the text comfortably.

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Imagine how many tabs you can use on the screen like this

Most 4K TVs are compatible with HDR

Most new 4K TVs have HDR compatibility. HDR gives more color than typical screens, as well as more color tones between the darkest and brightest parts of an image. Therefore, many HDR screens may be brighter and darker than regular screens.

TV comes with speakers

Almost all TVs come with speakers even if they're not really good. With computer monitors, you often have to buy external speakers.

Of course, you may already own a 4K TV, so why spend more on computer screens? As long as the TV is in an easy-to-use computer location, you not only save cash but also save some space in the apartment to use for other things.

Disadvantages when using a TV instead of a computer screen

Of course, computer monitors have their own functions, so there are some cases where many users want to use a computer screen rather than a TV screen.

When the TV screen is too big

While size is an attractive point of view, the screen is too big to cause its disadvantages when not suitable for close use. So you should sit away from the screen a bit. Also, you can use it like a multi-screen setup.

4K TV set location

The large size of the TV also makes it difficult to move. Installing a TV on the wall is an easy way to drag the distance between the eyes and the screen.

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Computer monitors are suitable for higher speed games

One of the biggest differences between TV and computer monitors is the input delay. Computer monitors are used with direct input devices such as mice and keyboards. The input signal only has problems on the TV when playing games.

Fortunately, most TVs come with a game mode and / or computer mode to reduce input latency. However, even the best TVs are just the average computer screen when playing games.

How to set 4K TV to a computer screen

Before start

TV connection is quite similar to computer monitor connection. First you need an HDMI cable. Almost all TVs use HDMI for 4K input. On the other hand, computer monitors can use different types of inputs such as HDMI, DisplayPort, MiniDisplayPort and more recently USB-C.

When the laptop is getting smaller and the HDMI port is no longer appropriate, you will need a special adapter or cable. For example, older Surface and MacBook computers use Mini DisplayPort, in which case you need a cable or adapter to convert DisplayPort to HDMI. For new MacBooks and many other personal computers, you need a cable or adapter to convert USB-C to HDMI.

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It is important that computers and TVs support 4K with 60Hz frequency via HDMI. For DisplayPort to HDMI, make sure the adapter supports 4K resolution at 60Hz. While there are many adapters that convert MiniDisplayPort to HDMI using 60Hz, 1080p resolution, many are limited to using only 30HZ in 4K resolution.

For USB-C, just make sure that the safety lock is compatible with the laptop. If possible, take the same manufacturer.

How to set up

Once you've got the right device, you need to configure your TV and PC.

On TV, make sure the screen is optimized to reduce input delay. Usually just turning on PC mode or gaming mode is enough. Search online and / or in the TV user guide to learn how to enable these features. Make sure there are no problems happening. For example, some TVs have less input delay if you use certain HDMI ports or turn off HDR.

Also remember that the usual settings are applied to a single input source. Make sure that all change settings apply to the intended use.

In addition, you need to disable " Dynamic contrast " mode. When using PC mode, " Dynamic contrast " is turned off by default but you should check to make sure it is turned off.

When plugging the drive into a power source, the computer will usually install correctly so you just need to use it. However, if the screen is blurred or unusual, check if everything is configured correctly on the computer. Follow these steps for Windows 10 to run the Creator update.

Step 1: Right click on the desktop and select Display Settings .

Step 2: Make sure the resolution is set to 4K (3840 x 2160).

Step 3: If you feel the screen dim, click Display Adapter Properties at the bottom of the window.

Step 4: New window will open. Navigate to the Monitor tab and then select 60Hz as the new screen color frequency fresh. If there is no 60Hz setting, it is possible that the adapter or computer does not support it.

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That's it, enjoy your huge 4K screen.

See also: What is 4K projector?