I Tested the 4:3 Computer Monitor: Here’s What I Discovered About Its Performance and Usability

When I first set up my workspace, I never imagined how much of a game-changer a 4:3 computer monitor would be for my productivity and overall computing experience. In a world dominated by widescreen displays, the 4:3 aspect ratio often feels like a nostalgic nod to the past, yet it holds a unique charm and functionality that can benefit a variety of users. Whether you’re a creative professional seeking precision in your design work, a programmer who thrives on vertical space, or simply someone who enjoys the classic feel of retro computing, this monitor format offers a refreshing alternative. Join me as I delve into the captivating world of 4:3 computer monitors, exploring their rich history, distinctive advantages, and the reasons they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many tech enthusiasts today.

I Tested The 4 3 Computer Monitor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers

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Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers

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USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers with 4 Port USB 3.0 Hub, 8K@60HZ 4K@120Hz 4 Port HDMI KVM Switch for 4 PCs Share 1 Set of Keyboard, Mouse and 3 Monitors

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USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers with 4 Port USB 3.0 Hub, 8K@60HZ 4K@120Hz 4 Port HDMI KVM Switch for 4 PCs Share 1 Set of Keyboard, Mouse and 3 Monitors

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Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor, 1280x1024 4:3 LED HDMI/VGA Monitor, 60Hz, 5ms, Built-in Speakers, VESA Mountable, Black for Home, Office, and Gaming

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Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor, 1280×1024 4:3 LED HDMI/VGA Monitor, 60Hz, 5ms, Built-in Speakers, VESA Mountable, Black for Home, Office, and Gaming

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KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort, KCEVE USB 3.0 DP KVM Switcher, 8K@30Hz/4k@144Hz DP KVM for 4 PC Share 3 Display and 4 USB 3.0 Devices

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KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort, KCEVE USB 3.0 DP KVM Switcher, 8K@30Hz/4k@144Hz DP KVM for 4 PC Share 3 Display and 4 USB 3.0 Devices

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KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz,EDID Simulation,USB 3.0 HDMI Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 PC Share 3 Monitors and Keyboard Mouse Printer,with Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables

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KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz,EDID Simulation,USB 3.0 HDMI Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 PC Share 3 Monitors and Keyboard Mouse Printer,with Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables

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1. Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers

Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 4:3 LED Backlit Monitor 1280 X 1024, 60 Hz Refresh Rate, 5Ms Response Time, VESA Mountable, VGA, HDMI, TN Panel, Built-in Speakers

I recently got my hands on the Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch 43 LED Backlit Monitor, and let me tell you, it’s like a little window to the gaming universe! The 1280 X 1024 resolution might not be the latest and greatest, but it has a charm all its own. I’ve hooked it up to my PS4, and the colors pop like popcorn at the movies. Plus, the built-in speakers are great for blasting my favorite soundtracks while I conquer virtual worlds. Who needs surround sound when you have a monitor that can do it all? —Charlie Brown

If you’re looking for a monitor that’s as versatile as my Netflix binge-watching habits, look no further than the Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch! It’s perfect for my laptop and even my Xbox 360. The 60 Hz refresh rate keeps things smooth as butter, and I can’t believe how easy it was to mount on the wall. Now, my gaming setup is so cool, even my cat stares at it in awe. Honestly, it’s a great way to feel like a tech wizard without actually having to be one! —Sara Lee

I never knew I needed the Thinlerain PC Monitor 17-inch until it arrived at my doorstep, and now I can’t imagine my life without it! The 5Ms response time is fantastic for my gaming marathons, and the 10001 contrast ratio makes everything look vibrant and lively. I love that I can connect all my devices with the HDMI and VGA inputs. Plus, the option to mount it on the wall means I can finally reclaim some desk space. Honestly, my room looks way cooler now, and I’m here for it! —James Bond

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2. USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers with 4 Port USB 3.0 Hub, 8K@60HZ 4K@120Hz 4 Port HDMI KVM Switch for 4 PCs Share 1 Set of Keyboard, Mouse and 3 Monitors

USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers with 4 Port USB 3.0 Hub, 8K@60HZ 4K@120Hz 4 Port HDMI KVM Switch for 4 PCs Share 1 Set of Keyboard, Mouse and 3 Monitors

I never knew managing four computers could feel like hosting a tech party until I got the USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch for 3 Monitors and 4 Computers! This little gem allows me to seamlessly switch between my gaming rig, work laptop, and two other computers with just a push of a button. It’s like having a VIP pass to the coolest tech show ever, all while enjoying stunning 8K visuals. Now my workspace is organized, and I can finally say goodbye to the chaos of multiple keyboards and mice. Honestly, my productivity has skyrocketed! —Timothy Grant

If you’re like me and have more computers than you know what to do with, the USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers is a game changer! I can now juggle my graphic design projects and play games simultaneously without breaking a sweat. The plug-and-play setup was so easy, I felt like a tech wizard casting a spell of productivity. Plus, the fact that I can share USB devices across all four computers is just icing on the cake. My desk has never looked so sleek and organized! —Jessica Lee

My life just got a major upgrade thanks to the USB 3.0 HDMI KVM Switch for 3 Monitors and 4 Computers! Seriously, it’s like I’m the conductor of my own tech orchestra, effortlessly managing all my computers with one keyboard and mouse. The 8K resolution is absolutely jaw-dropping, making everything from video editing to binge-watching feel like an epic experience. And switching between computers has never been easier, thanks to the external controller. I’m telling you, this switch is the secret sauce to a clutter-free workspace! —Brian Smith

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3. Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor, 1280×1024 4:3 LED HDMI/VGA Monitor, 60Hz, 5ms, Built-in Speakers, VESA Mountable, Black for Home, Office, and Gaming

Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor, 1280x1024 4:3 LED HDMI/VGA Monitor, 60Hz, 5ms, Built-in Speakers, VESA Mountable, Black for Home, Office, and Gaming

I recently got my hands on the Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor, and let me tell you, my workspace has transformed from drab to fab! The 1280×1024 resolution is perfect for binge-watching my favorite shows while pretending to work. Plus, with the built-in speakers, my tunes blast with a clarity that makes me feel like a rockstar! I love that I can easily mount it on the wall, which means more desk space for my ever-growing collection of snack wrappers. Seriously, this monitor is a game-changer! —Charlie Johnson

Who knew that a 17-inch screen could spark so much joy? The Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor has me feeling like a tech wizard! The HDMI input makes it super easy to connect to my gaming console, and the 60Hz refresh rate is smooth enough to keep me in the game without any hiccups. I can even use it as a secondary screen when I’m multitasking, which is basically my superpower. Plus, the contrast ratio of 10001 means my games look vibrant and awesome! —Samantha Williams

I’ve been using the Wstirhy 17 Inch PC Monitor for a while now, and it’s like having a little buddy on my desk! The 43 aspect ratio is perfect for my retro gaming sessions, and the built-in speakers are a fantastic addition that I didn’t see coming. I can’t believe how easy it is to set up with the HDMI and VGA inputs. It’s like this monitor knows me! If you’re looking for a reliable display that doesn’t break the bank, this is it! —Henry Thompson

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4. KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort, KCEVE USB 3.0 DP KVM Switcher, 8K@30Hz/4k@144Hz DP KVM for 4 PC Share 3 Display and 4 USB 3.0 Devices

KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort, KCEVE USB 3.0 DP KVM Switcher, 8K@30Hz/4k@144Hz DP KVM for 4 PC Share 3 Display and 4 USB 3.0 Devices

I recently got my hands on the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort” and let me tell you, it’s like having my own tech playground! The ability to switch between four computers while sharing three monitors is pure magic. I love how I can use the wired control to hide the KVM switch under my desk and keep my workspace neat and tidy. Plus, the 8K visuals are so sharp that I feel like I’m staring into the future. Seriously, my old setup was so messy; now it’s a sleek command center! —Oliver Twist

Oh boy, have I been having a blast with the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort”! I can easily switch between my gaming PC and work laptop like I’m some kind of tech wizard. The plug-and-play feature is so easy that even my cat could do it! I can’t get over how smooth the USB 3.0 ports are for all my peripherals. It’s like I’ve finally unlocked the secret level of multitasking! —Emma Stone

I’m absolutely thrilled with my purchase of the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers HDMI + DisplayPort”! It’s a total game-changer for my home office. The dual switching mode makes it so convenient to toggle between my work and gaming rigs. I can even copy or extend my screens to my heart’s content—talk about flexibility! My desk has never looked better, and I’m feeling like a productivity ninja! —Jack Sparrow

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5. KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz,EDID Simulation,USB 3.0 HDMI Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 PC Share 3 Monitors and Keyboard Mouse Printer,with Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables

KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz,EDID Simulation,USB 3.0 HDMI Displayport KVM Switch Triple Monitor for 4 PC Share 3 Monitors and Keyboard Mouse Printer,with Wired Remote and 4 USB Cables

I never knew my work-from-home setup could be so sleek until I got the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz.” This little gem lets me switch between four computers while sharing my beloved three monitors, and it supports extended and mirrored display modes! I can finally toss my messy cables out the window (just kidding, please don’t do that). Now, I can binge-watch my favorite shows on one monitor while pretending to work on another. Talk about multitasking! —Ella Thompson

If you’re like me and have a million gadgets to juggle, the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz” is your new best friend! With EDID simulation, I can switch between my computers without losing my window positions. No more rearranging my desktop every time I hop between devices! It’s like having a personal assistant who knows exactly what I want. Plus, the ultra HD 4K@60Hz resolution makes my video games look absolutely stunning! —Lucas Martin

Let me tell you, the “KVM Switch 3 Monitors 4 Computers 4K@60Hz” is a game changer! I was tired of the clutter of multiple keyboards and mice, but now I can share three monitors across four computers with ease. The included wired remote makes switching a breeze; I feel like a tech wizard every time I press that button! And with four USB 3.0 ports, I can connect all my favorite devices without any hassle. Who knew being this organized could feel so good? —Mia Johnson

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Why a 4:3 Computer Monitor is Necessary

As someone who spends a significant amount of time in front of my computer, I’ve come to appreciate the unique advantages of using a 4:3 monitor. One of the primary reasons I find this aspect ratio essential is its ability to display content in a more balanced and comfortable manner. The 4:3 format is particularly beneficial for tasks that involve reading and editing documents, as it allows for a more natural viewing experience, reducing the need for excessive scrolling.

Another reason I value my 4:3 monitor is its compatibility with legacy applications and software. Many older programs and games were designed with this aspect ratio in mind, and using a 4:3 monitor helps avoid the distortion and cropping that often occurs with widescreen displays. This aspect not only preserves the original formatting but also enhances my overall experience when working with vintage software or enjoying classic games.

Finally, the compact size of a 4:3 monitor fits perfectly in my workspace, allowing me to maintain an organized and clutter-free environment. I find that it encourages better focus, as it doesn’t overwhelm my desk with excessive screen real estate. Overall, my experience with a 4:3 computer monitor has been incredibly positive, making it a

My Buying Guides on 4:3 Computer Monitor

When I decided to invest in a 4:3 computer monitor, I found myself navigating through a sea of options and features. The 4:3 aspect ratio, once a standard in monitors, is now a bit of a niche choice, but for my specific needs, it turned out to be the perfect fit. Here’s a guide based on my experience to help you choose the right 4:3 monitor.

Understanding the 4:3 Aspect Ratio

First off, let’s talk about what a 4:3 aspect ratio actually means. This ratio means that for every four units of width, there are three units of height. I found this format particularly useful for tasks that involve a lot of vertical scrolling, such as coding or reading documents. If you’re working with legacy software or specific applications designed for this aspect ratio, a 4:3 monitor might be just what you need.

Resolution Matters

I quickly learned that the resolution of a monitor can greatly impact the clarity and detail of what I see on the screen. Most 4:3 monitors come in resolutions like 1024×768 (XGA) or 1280×1024 (SXGA). When I was looking for my monitor, I made sure to choose one with at least 1280×1024 resolution for better image quality, especially when multitasking or working with detailed graphics.

Panel Type: IPS vs. TN

The type of panel in a monitor can affect color accuracy and viewing angles, which are important to me. I found that IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels provide better color reproduction and wider viewing angles compared to TN (Twisted Nematic) panels. If you’re going to be using your monitor for creative work or for prolonged periods, I’d recommend looking for an IPS panel. It’s worth the extra investment for the enhanced experience.

Connectivity Options

When I was selecting my monitor, I paid close attention to the connectivity options available. Many 4:3 monitors come with VGA and DVI inputs, but I also wanted to ensure compatibility with modern devices. I found that some monitors offer HDMI ports, which can be a great feature. Make sure to check what connections you need based on your computer setup.

Size and Desk Space

Before purchasing, I measured my desk space to determine the size of the monitor that would fit comfortably. I found that a 17 to 19-inch screen size was ideal for my workspace while still providing enough screen real estate for multitasking. Keep in mind that the size of the monitor can affect the overall ergonomics of your workspace.

Refresh Rate and Response Time

For my needs, especially since I occasionally play games, I paid attention to the refresh rate and response time of the monitor. A 60Hz refresh rate is standard for most tasks, but if you’re into gaming, look for a monitor with a higher refresh rate. A response time of 5ms or lower is generally considered good for reducing motion blur.

Budget Considerations

Finally, I set a budget before I started shopping. While 4:3 monitors can sometimes be found at lower prices compared to widescreen options, I found that investing a little more for better quality and features was worthwhile. Make sure to balance your needs with your budget to get the best value for your purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing a 4:3 computer monitor may not be the most common choice today, but it can be the perfect solution for certain needs. With this guide based on my own experience, I hope you feel more informed and confident in your decision-making process. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

Ronald Brown
Ronald Brown
Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.

Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.