How long does a monitor typically last?

Monitors are designed to last anywhere between 10 to 40 years depending on several factors, including the manufacturer, underlying technology, usage behavior, and the environment it is used in. All monitors do wear out no matter the size; whether it is a 27” inch monitor or a 49” monitor, it will still wear out at some point.

In this article, we will discuss monitor durability to help you understand how long monitors last and how often they should be replaced. 

How often should you replace a monitor?

If your monitor doesn’t get faulty, you could easily use it for many years before replacing it with a new one. However, it is always best to replace your monitor every three to five years if you want to have a smooth user experience. There will often be a new exciting display technology at least every five years that could make your workflow smoother. You should also replace your monitor if you start seeing malfunctioning signs. 

Is it worth repairing a computer monitor?

Repairing a monitor is worth it if the cost of the faulty component is way below the price of a brand new or refurbished monitor. For instance, if your monitor has a power supply issue, it can be replaced at a cost that is way lower than the monitor price. However, some repairs like replacing the logic board or the monitor’s display may not be worth it. The prices of these components are usually significant when compared to the price of a brand new monitor. 

Do LCD screens wear out?

Yes, LCD screens do wear out, but this takes many years as we shared earlier. One of the components that wear out is the LED backlight. It will start dimming, which could reduce the overall brightness of your monitor. The power supply may also start to overheat as the monitor gets older. But like I said, this may happen after many years depending on how you use your monitor. 

Why do Monitors break?

Physical impact is usually the most common cause of breaking. When your monitor accidentally falls to the ground or is hit by a hard physical object, it will obviously break. The monitor could also break if it is constantly used in an environment that has high levels of vibration and heat such as a  factory. However, this is a rare cause of breaking. 

How long do LED monitors last?

LED monitors can last between 80,000 hours to 120,000 hours of active usage. This is equivalent to about 30 to 40 years if you use your monitor for an average of 8 to 12 hours each day. That means LED monitors are over two times more durable than LCD monitors. One of the main reasons these monitors last longer is because of their more energy-efficient components. They consume less energy and produce less heat, which often translates into longevity. 

How can I prolong the life of my monitor?

You can prolong the lifespan of your monitor by using it under the recommended conditions. You should often avoid using your monitors in extreme temperature environments. For instance, using a monitor in direct sunlight could significantly reduce its life span. The display settings of your monitor can also affect its durability. 

A common example is the display brightness. Your monitor will often consume more energy when it is at max brightness, which leads to more heat dissipation. Other usage behaviors such as overclocking your monitor could also affect its longevity. We recommend using the monitor in auto brightness if it is an option that your monitor supports.  

Final thoughts

Your monitor’s lifespan will usually depend on its design technology, usage behavior, and the environment it is being used from. Always take time to read the usage conditions that your monitor manufacturer recommends if you want to prolong your monitor’s lifespan. This information is usually on their websites or the user manuals that the monitor comes with.