Display

Updated: 01/18/2023 by Computer Hope
Computer monitor

Alternatively known as a desktop display, a display or display device describes the device used to view video, images, or text. Any information shown on a display is sometimes called a soft copy. The picture shows a flat-panel display and the most common display used with computers today.

Tip

When used as a noun, the term "display" is synonymous with a computer "monitor" and "screen."

Tip

When a display connects to a laptop, smartphone, tablet, or another device with its own display, it functions as a secondary display. A secondary display is also called an external display or external monitor.

Tip

A remote desktop display or remote display is a display of the desktop shown over a remote connection. For example, remotely connecting to your mom's computer to see what she is viewing while helping her with a computer problem.

Examples of computer display devices

Anything capable of connecting to a computer and displaying its output is considered an output device. Below is a listing of the most commonly used display devices.

How do I adjust my display settings?

Microsoft Windows users can adjust their display settings through the Display settings.

4K resolution, 8K resolution, Display settings, Monitor, Screen, Video terms