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Stefan Cargoski
Inspiring
April 27, 2024
Answered

Using TV monitor instead of PC monitor for AE

  • April 27, 2024
  • 4 replies
  • 1220 views

Hi community.

 

Today my post is about comminity members who use a TV monitor instead of PC monitor.  Im considering getting a TV monitor because they seem more afordable, and I need large screen to mount to my wall. 

 

Is there any problems using AE with TV monitor? (I dont game at all), I just do simple graphics, use PS, AI, and AE for most of my projects. 

 

Thank you.

 

Correct answer magisce_3353

Advantages of Using a TV Monitor

  1. Larger Screen Size:

    • TVs generally provide bigger screens for less cost compared to high-end monitors.
    • Wall-mounting options are easy to implement for ergonomic setups.

  2. Affordability:

    • Budget-friendly options are available for those looking for large displays without breaking the bank.

  3. Multifunctional Use:

    • Can double as an entertainment device when not in use for work. download magis tv free from 

Potential Issues with Using a TV for AE and Design Work

  1. Color Accuracy:

    • TVs are not typically factory-calibrated for color accuracy like professional monitors.
    • For precise work in AE, PS, or AI, a lack of color accuracy can result in inconsistent outputs.

    Solution:

    • Use a color calibration tool (e.g., X-Rite i1Display or Datacolor Spyder) to improve color accuracy.

  2. Input Lag:

    • TVs may have higher input lag compared to PC monitors, which can make timeline scrubbing in AE or precision tasks in PS/AI feel sluggish.
    • Solution: Enable "Game Mode" on the TV to reduce input lag.

  3. Refresh Rate and Resolution:

    • Some TVs cap refresh rates at 60Hz and may not handle certain resolutions well, especially ultra-wide setups.
    • Solution: Verify that the TV supports your desired resolution and refresh rate.

  4. Pixel Density:

    • TVs have a lower pixel density (PPI) compared to monitors, which can make text and small UI elements in design software appear less sharp.
    • Solution: Increase scaling in your operating system to enhance readability.

  5. Viewing Distance:

    • TVs are designed for viewing from a distance, so sitting too close may result in discomfort or difficulty focusing.
    • Solution: Ensure proper positioning and viewing distance (at least 3–4 feet away for a 40–50" TV).

  6. Connection Ports:

    • TVs primarily use HDMI, which may limit refresh rate or resolution depending on your PC's output.
    • Solution: Use HDMI 2.1 (if available) or ensure your graphics card supports the TV's capabilities.

Recommendations

  • TV Features to Look For:

    • 4K resolution or higher for sharp visuals.
    • IPS or OLED panel for better color reproduction and viewing angles.
    • Low input lag and high refresh rate.
    • Support for color profiles (HDR10 or Dolby Vision can help).

  • Alternative Option:

    • Consider ultrawide or budget-friendly professional monitors. They might cost more than TVs but are optimized for design work.

4 replies

M
magis_2236
Participant
February 14, 2025

Using a TV as a monitor for Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, and Illustrator can be a budget-friendly option if you need a large screen for creative work. However, there are some key factors to consider before making the switch.

Pros of Using a TV Monitor for AE, PS & AI:

✅ Affordable Large Screen – TVs are generally cheaper than large PC monitors, making them a great choice for budget-conscious designers.
✅ Wall-Mountable Setup – Since you want to mount it on your wall, a TV can provide a convenient, space-saving solution.
✅ Good Color & Contrast (with High-End TVs) – Some 4K TVs with high color accuracy (like OLED or QLED) can provide a decent experience for editing.
✅ Multiple Connectivity Options – Most modern TVs have HDMI ports, making them easy to connect to your PC.

Cons & Potential Issues with Using a TV for AE & Design Work:

❌ Higher Input Lag – TVs often have more input lag than monitors, making UI interactions slightly slower.
❌ Refresh Rate & Response Time – Most TVs have a 60Hz refresh rate, which is fine for basic work but not ideal for high-frame-rate animations.
❌ Scaling & Text Clarity – TVs are designed for distant viewing, so text and UI elements may not appear as sharp.
❌ Color Accuracy – Many TVs oversaturate colors, affecting design accuracy. Look for TVs with a "PC mode" or "Game mode" that disables post-processing.
❌ Limited Ergonomics – If you work close to the screen, a TV’s size and positioning might cause neck strain compared to an adjustable monitor.

Best TVs for Adobe After Effects & Graphic Design Work

If you decide to go with a TV, consider one with low input lag, good color accuracy, and proper scaling. Some great options include:
🔹 LG C2 or C3 OLED – Excellent color accuracy and low input lag.
🔹 Samsung QN90B – Great brightness and contrast for detailed work.
🔹 Sony Bravia XR A80K – High-quality display with great motion handling.

Final Verdict

Yes, you can use a TV monitor for Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, and Illustrator, but it’s essential to choose a model that minimizes input lag and color inaccuracy. If precise color work is crucial, a professional calibrated PC monitor is still the best choice.

By the way, if you're looking for a reliable streaming app Download MagisTV APK.

Hope this helps! 👍

M
magisce_3353Correct answer
Participant
December 29, 2024

Advantages of Using a TV Monitor

  1. Larger Screen Size:

    • TVs generally provide bigger screens for less cost compared to high-end monitors.
    • Wall-mounting options are easy to implement for ergonomic setups.

  2. Affordability:

    • Budget-friendly options are available for those looking for large displays without breaking the bank.

  3. Multifunctional Use:

    • Can double as an entertainment device when not in use for work. download magis tv free from 

Potential Issues with Using a TV for AE and Design Work

  1. Color Accuracy:

    • TVs are not typically factory-calibrated for color accuracy like professional monitors.
    • For precise work in AE, PS, or AI, a lack of color accuracy can result in inconsistent outputs.

    Solution:

    • Use a color calibration tool (e.g., X-Rite i1Display or Datacolor Spyder) to improve color accuracy.

  2. Input Lag:

    • TVs may have higher input lag compared to PC monitors, which can make timeline scrubbing in AE or precision tasks in PS/AI feel sluggish.
    • Solution: Enable "Game Mode" on the TV to reduce input lag.

  3. Refresh Rate and Resolution:

    • Some TVs cap refresh rates at 60Hz and may not handle certain resolutions well, especially ultra-wide setups.
    • Solution: Verify that the TV supports your desired resolution and refresh rate.

  4. Pixel Density:

    • TVs have a lower pixel density (PPI) compared to monitors, which can make text and small UI elements in design software appear less sharp.
    • Solution: Increase scaling in your operating system to enhance readability.

  5. Viewing Distance:

    • TVs are designed for viewing from a distance, so sitting too close may result in discomfort or difficulty focusing.
    • Solution: Ensure proper positioning and viewing distance (at least 3–4 feet away for a 40–50" TV).

  6. Connection Ports:

    • TVs primarily use HDMI, which may limit refresh rate or resolution depending on your PC's output.
    • Solution: Use HDMI 2.1 (if available) or ensure your graphics card supports the TV's capabilities.

Recommendations

  • TV Features to Look For:

    • 4K resolution or higher for sharp visuals.
    • IPS or OLED panel for better color reproduction and viewing angles.
    • Low input lag and high refresh rate.
    • Support for color profiles (HDR10 or Dolby Vision can help).

  • Alternative Option:

    • Consider ultrawide or budget-friendly professional monitors. They might cost more than TVs but are optimized for design work.
M
magisce_3353
Participant
February 4, 2025

A 4K screen is a 4K screen, whether it's a dedicated monitor or a TV. However, TVs often have firmware limitations, making adjustments like color management and high-DPI scaling less accessible. You may need to navigate complex TV menus to configure settings for computer use. Additionally, your PC might recognize the MagisTV as a media device, restricting resolution and display modes. That said, this isn’t specific to AE—either the screen works properly or it doesn’t, as the software itself remains unaffected.

D
Dustin36
Participant
April 27, 2024

You can totally use a TV for AE! Bigger screen for less $$ Just check color accuracy and disable motion smoothing features.

    Mylenium
    Mylenium
    Legend
    April 27, 2024

    I would assume that a 4k screen is just a 4k screen, regardless of whether it's built into a dedicated compouter screen or a "TV". Of course there could be issues. TVs tend to have most stuff hard set into their firmware for convenience, so tweaking things like color management, high-DPI font scaling and so on may not be very accessible. You could end up digging through endless menus on the TV side to configure some option relevant for computer use. Similarly, your computer might restrict available resolutions and screen modes because the screen hooks up as a "media device" and not a screen. None of this bears any specific relevance to AE, though. Either it works generally or it doesn't. The program doesn't care.

     

    Mylenium

      S
      Stefan CargoskiAuthor
      Inspiring
      April 29, 2024

      So I assume it's better to get a 4k PC monitor, pay more money which has a good large display, and adjust the resolution to 1080 res? Any most likely the fonts will adjust on the settings, and the colour management will be compatible.

       

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