Best Monitors to Buy for Security & CCTV Cameras (2025)

Monitors and TVs act as the main display for security camera feeds, offering clear views from one or multiple sources to enable real-time threat detection. This guide simplifies choosing the right display for your CCTV setup by covering essentials like size, resolution, and features.

Choices range from affordable compact screens for straightforward monitoring to high-end video walls for professional control rooms. Consider your setup, such as camera count, and input types to pick a display that fits your space, budget, and future upgrades.

Check the Recommended Monitors and Recommended TVs sections for top picks.

IPS Panels offer broad viewing angles and precise color accuracy, making them perfect for control rooms where multiple people review footage from various spots. They hold up well in different lighting and keep details sharp for detailed checks. Compared to OLED, IPS avoids burn-in entirely. However, their standard contrast ratios (around 1000:1) can lead to some glow in dark areas.

VA Panels excel in dim environments with deep blacks and strong contrast (often 3000:1 or higher), ideal for nighttime surveillance where shadows could conceal key details. They provide a budget-friendly option for bigger sizes. Still, limited viewing angles and moderate response times (4-8 ms) might cause smearing in quick-motion scenes.

OLED and QD-OLED Panels achieve perfect contrast and vivid colors for sharp, dynamic footage. Built-in safeguards like pixel shifting make them viable for mostly static security tasks. They run pricier and peak lower in bright rooms than Mini-LED displays. A slight burn-in chance lingers with prolonged static images set to max brightness, even with improved algorithms. For maximum durability, mix in varied content. While OLED displays offer exceptional image quality, they’re generally unnecessary for basic security monitoring and better reserved for hybrid or high-performance systems.

Mini-LED Backlit LCDs combine LCD value with superior brightness and zone dimming, fitting high-glare setups nicely. They sit between basic LCDs and premium OLEDs, supporting higher refresh rates for seamless live viewing.

Panel options differ in surveillance strengths. This table highlights popular types and their trade-offs:

Panel Type	Viewing Angles	Contrast Ratio	Response Time	Best For	Drawbacks
TN	Narrow	Low	Fast (<1ms)	Budget motion tracking	Poor colors, limited angles
VA	Moderate	High	Medium (4-8ms)	Low-light surveillance	Slower in fast motion, smearing, narrow angles
IPS	Wide	Moderate	Medium (5ms)	Color-accurate multi-view	Glow in darks, weaker blacks
OLED/QD-OLED	Wide	Infinite	Fast (<1ms)	Premium motion and depth	Costly, lower peak brightness, reflective without anti-glare coatings, slight burn-in risk

Selecting the proper size and resolution keeps feeds crisp, eases eye fatigue, and suits everything from personal desks to expansive command centers. While 4K can sharpen details, 1080p handles many everyday surveillance roles affordably.

Size links to viewing distance and the amount of feeds being displayed. For near viewing, 22 to 27-inch options work best. Larger 32-inch-plus screens suit distant or multi-feed views. Smaller sizes cram more feeds into cramped areas, while bigger ones reduce strain during long watches.

4K resolutions support split-screen multitasking without blurriness. A 27 to 32-inch 4K is best, though 1080p fits for simple systems.

Size	Ideal Distance	Max Feeds	Recommended Resolution
22-24 inch	1-2 ft	1-4	1080p-4K
27 inch	2-3 ft	4-9	4K
32+ inch	3-5 ft	9+	4K-5K

Combine screens for seamless video walls, or go with ultra-slim bezels (as low as 1.2 mm) for near-edge-free arrays. These shine in business environments, with built-in processing for 4K splits and RS-232 for remote management.

Larger 55- to 65-inch TVs also serve as monitors, often at better prices than pro displays, with HDMI 2.1 for low-delay connections.

Monitor Sizing

Monitor Size	Optimal Resolution
24 inch	1080p
27 inch	1440p / 4K
32 inch	4K
42+ inch	4K

Specs like refresh rate and response time ensure smooth feed playback, cutting blur for better decision-making. Standard 30 fps feeds pair well with 60 Hz screens, but higher rates help with lively content and reduce eye strain during extended monitoring.

60 Hz covers basic 30 fps inputs with decent fluidity for routine checks. 120 Hz or faster sharpens action like chases, assuming you have high-quality cameras.

Target under 5 ms for quick refreshes. Sub-1 ms panels like premium OLEDs provide virtually lag-free performance to spot threats more easily, especially in dynamic environments.

250-350 nits works indoors for clear visibility. 400-600 nits fights glare in brighter spaces. Matte finishes cut reflections in lit rooms, while glossy ones boost colors in controlled, shaded setups; choose based on your lighting conditions for optimal detail retention.

Reliable efficiency and build quality support round-the-clock operation, including low-power modes to extend longevity. Prioritize displays rated for 30,000+ hours of use, with features like auto-dimming for 24/7 setups.

LED-backlit units last 30,000-100,000 hours (3-11 years nonstop), aided by good cooling and ventilation. Newer OLEDs hit similar marks in varied use via pixel shifts and compensation tech. Static feeds still risk retention, so vary content and feeds regularly. For low-variety setups, LCD or IPS proves toughest, with minimal degradation over time.

Broad port support ensures seamless integration with your CCTV system. Key options include HDMI 2.1 and USB-C for modern DVRs and NVRs, BNC converters for old analog cams, daisy-chaining for multi-monitor arrays, and PoE (Power over Ethernet) to extend reach in networked environments.

Align with your CCTV outputs for optimal compatibility. Older analog needs BNC-to-HDMI adapters, which might add minor lag; test for your setup. For staying current, grab HDMI 2.1 with 4K at 120 Hz and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate). Skip models without update support to avoid quick outdatedness in 2-3 years. Look for ongoing firmware and versatile ports to accommodate evolving tech.

• Mounting and Placement: Use VESA arms to position at eye level (15-20 degrees down) for comfort on long shifts. Avoid direct sun or vents to prevent heat buildup, which cuts life by 20-30%.
• Cabling Challenges: Secure HDMI or Ethernet runs against noise. Choose shielded for over 10 feet. Tighten connections to stop dropouts.
• Power and Ventilation: Surge protectors guard constant-use gear. Allow 2-4 inches behind for air flow. Poor cooling causes throttling and dimming.

The SV-L2D185-FBS provides clear visuals and reliable BNC connectivity, making it a dependable choice for everyday CCTV monitoring in compact spaces.

• 18.5" HD (1366x768) LED panel with 4K HDMI downscaling
• Inputs: HDMI, VGA, BNC, USB; VESA mountable
• Built for 24/7 continuous operation, ultra-thin design

With crisp picture quality and built-in speakers, the MT-G2D185 excels in 24/7 surveillance setups, offering versatile inputs for seamless multi-feed integration.

• 18.5" LED (1366x768 native) accepting downscaled 4K HDMI
• Inputs: HDMI, VGA, BNC (loop-through); built-in speakers
• VESA compatible, designed for non-stop surveillance use

The JX-18.5-Monitor stands out for its lightweight design and multiple input options, delivering flexible mounting solutions and solid performance for security applications.

• 19" LED (1366x768, 4:3 aspect) for precise feed alignment
• Inputs: HDMI, VGA, BNC, AV; built-in speakers
• Wall/desk mountable, lightweight for easy multi-device setups

This compact Jexiop monitor impresses with sharp FHD resolution and easy remote control, providing budget-friendly reliability for home security viewing.

• 16" FHD (1920x1080) panel with AV/HDMI/VGA/BNC/USB support
• Built-in speakers, wall-mountable with remote
• Reliable for 24/7 operation in budget-conscious environments

The ViewSonic VA2456A-MHD offers vibrant colors and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring clear and engaging displays for professional multi-camera feeds.

• 24" IPS (1920x1080) with 120Hz refresh for fluid motion
• Inputs: HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA; flicker-free, VESA mount
• Built-in speakers, ideal for clear multi-feed professional installs

Samsung's VHC-R Series delivers ultra-thin bezels and high 700-nit brightness, creating a seamless and vivid video wall perfect for continuous monitoring environments. Best for high-end systems.

• 55" Full HD (1920x1080) LED with 0.44mm bezels
• 700 nits brightness, multi-window support; HDMI/USB/Bluetooth
• Designed for 24/7 video wall operation, VESA compatible

The Sony Bravia 8 II captivates with exceptional brightness and vibrant colors, providing premium clarity and smart features ideal for detailed security command centers. While OLED displays offer exceptional image quality, they’re generally unnecessary for basic security monitoring and better reserved for hybrid or high-performance systems.

• 55"/65" 4K QD-OLED with 120Hz and XR AI processing
• Inputs: HDMI, USB; WiFi, Google TV, Dolby Vision HDR
• Voice control, excellent for multi-feed clarity and PS5 integration

This slim QLED TV shines with exceptional 4K picture quality and AI enhancements, making it a versatile option for bright-room security viewing and smart integration.

• 43" 4K QLED with Q4 AI Processor and Quantum Dot color
• Inputs: HDMI, USB; WiFi, Alexa built-in, HDR support
• AirSlim design, suitable for 24/7 monitoring in compact spaces

The S85F OLED impresses with infinite contrast and crisp details, offering an affordable yet brilliant solution for immersive multi-feed surveillance experiences. While OLED displays offer exceptional image quality, they’re generally unnecessary for basic security monitoring and better reserved for hybrid or high-performance systems.

• 55" 4K OLED with ultra-thin profile and Motion Xcelerator
• Inputs: HDMI; HDR support, Alexa built-in, smart TV features
• Infinite contrast for detailed feeds, reliable continuous use

Is 60 Hz sufficient for CCTV monitoring?
A 60 Hz monitor is suitable for standard 30 fps surveillance footage, especially in low-motion areas like offices or storage rooms. For high-activity zones such as parking lots or retail spaces, a refresh rate of 120 Hz or higher improves clarity and reduces motion blur. Gaming monitors often offer these features along with better color and response times, making them a smart upgrade for a small extra cost.

Should I choose a TV or a monitor for security feeds?
Monitors offer better precision and connectivity for desk setups, while TVs provide larger, more affordable screens ideal for casual viewing areas.

How do I connect legacy analog cameras?
Use BNC adapters or HDMI converters to bridge the analog signal to modern displays. Many screens support this through plug-and-play converters for seamless integration.

What is the optimal resolution for most setups?
1080p handles standard 30 fps feeds well and benefits from AI upscaling. Choose 4K for detailed or high-precision tasks.

Do OLED displays pose a burn-in risk for static feeds?
Somewhat. New pixel-shift tech handles mixed use well. Advances cut risks, but static speeds wear. Activate protections and vary feeds for longevity. Opt for LCD or IPS in full 24/7 static, or avoid setting the display to max brightness on an OLED.

What lifespan can I expect from LED and OLED displays?
LEDs run 30,000-100,000 hours; modern OLEDs match with care. Both deliver years of 24/7 use, boosted by content shifts to fight retention.