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Ultrawide versus multiple monitor setup is a bit like the Mac versus windows 10 debate. You’re never going to change anyone else’s view because it’s all very personal. Nevertheless, if you’re new to the 6 monitor setup world and you don’t have an opinion yet then have a look at the differences as detailed below.
What’s the Difference between Ultrawide and a 6 Monitor Setup?
- Screen specification
- Curved versus straight
- Cost
Screen
The first obvious difference between an ultrawide screen and a multiple monitor setup is the size of the screen you use. Ultrawide tends to mean anything from 25 to 35 inches across. On the other hand, computer monitor screens tend to be around 20 inches wide although they can go up to 25 and beyond.
The other key difference is the aspect ratio. Ultrawide screens use a 21:9 aspect ratio and traditional monitors tend to be around 16:9. Clearly, the resolution is another key difference with ultrawide display monitors available either with 2560 x 1080 or 3440 x 1440 pixels.
Curved versus Straight
You might assume that gamers especially would prefer a curved screen rather than a 6 monitor setup. This is partly because of the higher resolution. However, you also get a much more immersive experience with a curved screen because of how it goes round into your peripheral vision. Having said that, it really depends on the type of video games played.
Competitive gaming relies on fast screen updates however ultrawide monitors tend to have a slightly slower response time. As you might expect, they are also much heavier for the GPU power that your graphics card is working with.
Cost
Naturally, ultrawide screens are more expensive. Therefore, if you already have a monitor setup then you might simply want to buy another one. Although, the costs start becoming more comparable when you start dealing with two, three, or even 6 monitors.
Comparing Ultrawide to a 6 Monitor Setup
- No Letterboxing
- Settings and window management
- No extended display needed (consistent)
- No bezel gap
- Graphics Card and GPU power (radeon)
- Meet your needs
Aspect Ratio
As briefly mentioned, the aspect ratio is different on ultrawide screens. You can therefore expect no letterboxing and a better viewing experience when watching films. Letterboxing is the term given to those black bars you sometimes see around a film, especially the old ones. Essentially, the film has been resized to avoid distortions. On the other hand, you’re less likely to see the bars on your 6 monitors because you can adjust size accordingly.
Settings and Window Management
You’ll have to adjust the settings you want to use, regardless of whether you prefer Mac or Windows 10. A key difference is how you lay out all the windows on each display if you have a 6 monitor setup. On the flip side, you might prefer being able to do all this across one ultrawide screen without added apps to support window management.
Display
One of the things you have to do when setting up multiple monitors is to extend your displays so that you have consistency across your 6 monitor setup. However, you won’t have to do this on an ultrawide screen. In fact, you’ll avoid having to set up the brightness and any other display settings two, three, or even 6 times if you opt for multiple monitors.
Bezel Gap
Something that all 6 monitor enthusiasts have to live with is what’s called a Bezel Gap. This is the gap between the last pixel on your screen and the edge of the actual device you’re using. Nothing can actually be done about this no matter how thin the gap. However, it bothers some people who therefore prefer to stay away from a multi-monitor layout.
Graphics Cards
You’ll need a graphics card regardless of what option you choose. Many computers, including desktop and laptop, offer an integrated graphics card. Alternatively, you can boost your computer by buying an external graphics card. Either way, this is an integral part of your system that allows your ultrawide or multiple screens to update its graphics rapidly and effectively. The GPU power also supports your computer by taking the graphics work away from the RAM, therefore, making things more efficient.
Meet your Needs
The most important thing for you to do before you make any decision is to understand your needs. What are you using your 6 monitor setup for? Is it for gaming or trading or simply for your professional needs? Perhaps you also want to use it for a home cinema? Regardless of what you decide, you’ll need to think if you want an immersive experience or if you prefer to use designated screens to separate out your work?
Final Thoughts on an Ultrawide Screen versus a 6 Monitor Setup
Is there an overall winner? Perhaps the ultrawide screen is slightly easier to use however don’t underestimate the power of a 6 monitor setup. This is especially true if you are looking at very different screens such as coding on one side and news information on the other. Also, an ultrawide screen requires more intense graphics cards and a power supply. At the end of the day, it’s your decision and only you can answer the question as to what’s right for you.
