Connected My Laptop to the TV for Telework — Bought an External Monitor
I tried connecting my laptop to the TV for telework, but the TV’s low resolution made text blur and the setup was unusable. I decided to buy an external monitor. After researching, I learned that the usable resolution depends not only on the monitor but also on the graphics adapter and the connection method. To avoid a situation where “I bought a 4K monitor but can’t use it at 4K,” check the items below before you buy a monitor.
Monitor
You cannot exceed a monitor’s maximum resolution. Different monitors also support different maximum refresh rates. For desk work, 60 Hz is sufficient.
Graphics adapter
The maximum external output resolution depends on your PC’s graphics adapter. For example, the Intel HD Graphics 620 lists the following in the official specifications:
Maximum resolution (HDMI 1.4) 4096×2304@24Hz Maximum resolution (DP) 4096×2304@60Hz
It supports up to 4096×2304, but the frame rate differs by connection type. If you want to use the full 4096×2304, HDMI is limited to 24 Hz while DisplayPort (DP) can reach 60 Hz. Check the maximum resolution your PC’s graphics adapter supports.
Connection method (ports)
The resolution and refresh rate you can use depend on the port you connect with. VGA (D‑sub) has a maximum of 2048×1536, so a 4K monitor connected by VGA cannot show 4K. HDMI 1.4 and DisplayPort support resolutions beyond 4K, but available refresh rates differ by standard and cable version. Choose the connection method that matches the resolution and refresh rate you need.
Monitor I purchased
For telework I chose a QHD Wide 1440p (2560×1440) monitor to balance workspace area and legibility. The model is Dell S2721DS (Amazon). I connect via HDMI.
Note: I bought this monitor in 2021 for ¥28,800, but as of November 2025 a successor model, Dell S2725DS‑A, is available for about ¥22,800. Prices have fallen.
Dell 27″ QHD comparison
| Model | Resolution / Panel | Main inputs | Key point |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① S2721DS | 2560×1440 / IPS | HDMI×2; DisplayPort×1 | Older model |
| ② S2725DS‑A | 2560×1440 / IPS | HDMI×2; DisplayPort×1 | Practical successor to ① |
| ③ S2725DC | 2560×1440 / IPS | USB‑C (Alt Mode); HDMI×2; DP×1 | Includes USB‑C |
If you prioritize cost, choose ② S2725DS‑A. If you prefer single‑cable operation via USB‑C, choose ③ S2725DC, but be sure your PC supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB‑C.