A Comprehensive Review of the Visual System for Flight Simulation

An in-home flight simulator can deliver an unmatched experience to a multitude of customers. However, no matter the customer or purpose, the overall experience of the simulator can often be boiled down to one decision. The monitor. 

To truly immerse yourself in the virtual skies, choosing the right monitor is essential. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the key considerations when selecting a monitor for flight simulation, highlight some of the top computer monitors used for flight simulation, and discuss certain factors to keep in mind before purchasing. 

Considerations When Choosing A Monitor

When choosing a monitor to best fit your needs, there are some critical aspects to consider. Continue reading as we dive into what those are. 

Single/Multi-Monitor Preference

Flight simulation can be enjoyed on either a single monitor or a multi-monitor setup. While a single monitor offers simplicity and affordability, you may find yourself using your mouse to move your view out over your left or right wing. 

A multi-monitor setup enhances the sense of immersion but often comes at a steeper price. Consider your preference and budget when deciding between these options.

Size and Resolution

The size of your monitor will be an important factor in your experience. However, the more important number is the resolution of the monitor. The resolution describes the visual dimensions of a display and affects the visual quality and clarity of your flight simulator graphics.

This will change depending on the size, curvature, or need for your monitor. The table below gives an idea of the size/resolution relationship that strikes a balance between performance and visual fidelity or realism. 

Size of Monitor

Recommended Resolution

65” TV	4K (3840 X 2160)
49” Curved	(5120 X 1440)
24”	(1920 X 1080)

Note* We often reduce the resolution used on the 65” TV’s from 4k to 2k. This reduces the load on the PC without negatively affecting the visual experience in the sim. 

Refresh Rate

The refresh rate determines how smoothly the visuals on your monitor are updated. The important difference to note when optimizing flight simulation is that a higher refresh rate won’t always correlate to a smoother image. This is due to the FPS (frames per second) that the simulator can run at. 

Nothing is worse than stuttering graphics, so it is ultimately better to have lower resolution and possibly lower detail settings in the sim in order to achieve a higher frame rate. 

Essentially, just because your monitor may have a refresh rate of 144Hz or 240Hz, if your simulator is running at 65 FPS then you’re not gaining anything by spending more on a monitor with a higher refresh rate. A good rule of thumb is to be above 60 Hz. 

Response Time

Response time refers to how quickly a pixel can change from one color to another. A lower response time helps minimize motion blur and ghosting, ensuring sharp and crisp visuals during fast-paced flight maneuvres. Aim for a response time of 5ms or lower for optimal performance.

Panel Type

The panel type of your monitor plays a crucial role in color accuracy and viewing angles. 

TN (Twisted Nematic) are your normal panels. They excel in making the screen look smooth even during fast maneuvers. However, they can lack color accuracy or wide viewing angles.

IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels offer vibrant colors and wide viewing angles but usually have slightly slower response times compared to TN panels. 

When it comes to panel type it's important to choose what’s more important to you. Are you after a smoother visual display, or would you rather have more realistic colors and wider viewing angles? 

Best Computer Monitors For A Flight Simulator

Monitor 1: SAMSUNG Odyssey CRG Series 49-Inch Dual QHD

• This ultra wide monitor is widely regarded as the best computer monitor for a flight simulator. 
• Size: 49 inches
• Display Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels
• Refresh Rate: up to 120 Hz, 60Hz setting as well
• Aspect Ratio: 32:9
• Response Time: 4 ms
• Panel Type: VA
• Price: $900

Pros: 

• Immersive ultra wide display with a 32:9 aspect ratio.
• USB-C hub connectivity allows for easy connection of peripherals.

Cons: 

• Limited ergonomics due to monitor size
• Limited vertical field of view 

Monitor 2: ASUS ROG Strix XG32VQ

• A gaming monitor with features that enhance flight simulation visuals and performance.
• Size: 32 inches
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9
• Display Resolution: 2560 x 1440
• Refresh/Frame Rate: 144 Hz
• Response Time: 4 ms
• Panel Type: VA
• Price: Approximately $700

Pros: 

• A high refresh rate of 144 Hz provides smooth and fluid motion during flights.
• A fast response time of 4 ms minimizes motion blur and ghosting.

Cons: 

• Smaller screen size compared to other options, which may limit immersion.
• VA panel may have slightly lower color accuracy and viewing angles compared to an IPS panel.

Monitor 3: Sceptre Curved 49” Ultra wide Dual QHD

• Size: 49 inches
• Aspect Ratio: 32:9
• Display Resolution: 5120 x 1440
• Refresh/Frame Rate: 120Hz on DP 1 & 2, 60Hz on HDMi 1 & 2
• Response Time: 4 ms
• Panel Type: VA
• Price: Approximately $750

Pros: 

• Curved ultra wide display enhances immersion and provides a wide field of view.
• A high refresh rate of 120 Hz and fast response time of 4 ms offer smooth and responsive gameplay.

Cons: 

• Higher price point compared to some alternatives.

Note: Prices mentioned are approximate and may vary based on location and availability.

Factors to Keep in Mind Before Purchasing

Before buying a flight simulator monitor, consider these additional factors:

1. Compatibility: Different monitors may have different requirements for connectivity and supported resolutions. Check if the monitor supports the required display outputs (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort) and if it matches the capabilities of your graphics card.

2. G-Sync and FreeSync: Look for G-Sync for NVIDIA cards or FreeSync for AMD cards to take advantage of adaptive sync and reduce screen tearing.

3. HDR: Consider HDR support for more vibrant and realistic visuals.

4. Built-in Speakers: This can provide convenient audio output without the need for separate speakers, enhancing the overall immersive experience.