The Case for Dual Monitors: Adding More Displays

Adding more monitors has a huge impact on work efficiency. While it is great to have more workspace when you set up monitors, I find it particularly stressful to work on just a laptop when I am away from my desk and don't have extra monitors. I feel like I want to carry monitors under both arms. I recommend this not only to engineers but to everyone who does computer work.

What is a dual monitor setup?

This is an environment where multiple monitors are connected to a single PC. Using two monitors is called a dual monitor setup, and three or more is often called a multi-monitor setup. (See the image above.) It significantly improves the efficiency and comfort of PC work, offering various benefits. I have pasted the benefits of multi-monitor setups provided by Gemini below.

There are studies suggesting that work efficiency can increase by up to 1.5 times, and I feel that effect in my daily work. I also highly recommend using a monitor arm when you set this up. Because the monitors are suspended, you gain more desk space, and the ability to adjust the height helps improve your posture.

Points to note include that if the sizes or resolutions are not uniform, it can actually be tiring, and some people may find it harder to concentrate with multiple screens. However, the return on investment for improving work efficiency is excellent. (You can easily get two monitors and an arm for around 40,000 yen.)

I recommend at least two 24-inch monitors, or preferably three 27-inch monitors.
Two 24-inch monitors, or preferably three 27-inch monitors (I'll say it again.)

It seems that skilled professionals often choose better tools as their skills improve (sometimes even paying out of their own pockets). However, I get the impression that many offices where administrative work is done do not necessarily provide the best environments. If you are a business owner concerned about improving operational efficiency, I recommend trying this out first.

~Below is Gemini's response regarding the benefits of dual monitors~

1. Improved work efficiency

• Multiple windows can be displayed simultaneously:

  • You can perform multiple tasks at once, such as writing a report while referencing materials, or searching for information in a browser while writing code.

  • This saves the trouble of switching windows and makes the workflow smoother. Example: During programming, you can edit code on one monitor and check the execution results on the other.

• Securing a large workspace:

  • Ideal for tasks that require a large work area, such as image editing, video editing, CAD, and programming.

  • By displaying tool palettes or timelines on a separate monitor, you can keep the main monitor's workspace clear. Example: In video editing software, you can preview the video on one monitor and perform editing work on the other.

2. Streamlining information gathering and comparison

• Compare multiple pieces of information side-by-side:

  • It is convenient for displaying websites or documents side-by-side for comparison and review.

  • It is useful for comparing product prices, gathering information for travel, or checking references while writing a thesis.

  • For example, you can compare multiple products on an e-commerce site or check references while writing a paper.

• Streamlining presentations:

  • You can display your presentation slides on one monitor and your presenter notes or schedule on the other.

  • Even in online meetings, you can share materials while keeping an eye on your own camera feed.

3. Improving comfort

• Ensuring a wider field of view:

  • A wider field of view helps reduce eye strain and shoulder stiffness, allowing you to work comfortably on your computer for long periods.

  • Looking down at a laptop screen often leads to poor posture and tech neck, but using an external monitor allows you to maintain a posture that puts less strain on your body.

• Customizing your workspace:

• Because you can freely adjust the placement and angle of the monitors, you can create a workspace that suits you, and by introducing a vertical monitor, it is also possible to display websites or code in a long vertical format.