How to choose a monitor filter

Monitor filters can boost productivity by helping to prevent eyestrain and the headaches associated with prolonged monitor use. Some monitor filters also provide privacy protection for your confidential information.

In this guide, we'll show you how to measure your monitor to select the proper size filter, and also familiarize you with some common terms that may come up while you are shopping for a monitor filter.

Measuring Your Monitor

Computer monitor screens are measured by the diagonal distance of the screen (the amount of space between two opposite corners). To select the proper monitor filter, consult the documentation that came with your monitor to determine its screen size, or simply take a tape measure and measure from one corner to the other. Don't be too concerned about getting the size right down to the millimeter; monitor sizes are standard and once you find out approximately how big your screen is, you should be able to choose from a list of filters that match it best.

Also keep in mind that there are both widescreen and standard monitors. Standard monitors are more like a square (though not perfectly square, the technical term is a 4:3 ratio), while widescreen monitors are much longer than they are tall (a 16:9 ratio, commonly). In addition to the dimensions of the screen, it is important to note whether or not the screen is standard or widescreen when shopping for a filter.

Common Terms Pertaining to Monitor Filter Selection

Privacy: Protects confidential information by making on-screen data visible only to the individuals directly in front of the monitor.

Blackout Technology: Darkens screen image from side view.

Blur Technology:  Distorts screen image from side view.

Magnification: Increases image and text size on your monitor screen.

Anti-Glare: Optical coating eliminates the glare and reflection from neaby light sources.

Anti-Radiation: Blocks a percentage of the electromagnetic ELF/VLF E-field radiation generated by computer monitors when properly grounded with grounding wire.

Anti-Static: Reduces static charge and dust build-up when properly grounded with grounding wire.