Used monitor buying checklist
What to check in the listing and on arrival when buying a used monitor.
Before you bid
Read the full listing. Find the exact model number and check its native resolution, refresh rate and inputs on the maker's spec page.
- Exact model number in the listing
- Photos of the screen switched on
- Stand, power supply and cable included?
- Seller feedback above 98%
- Returns accepted
When it arrives
Test it within the return window. Run it at native resolution for at least an hour, because some faults only show once the panel warms up.
- Full-screen white, black, red, green and blue tests
- Every input port works
- No flicker at different brightness levels
- Buttons and on-screen menu respond
Cables for this
Used monitors may arrive without the right cable. Common fixes:
- HDMI laptop to DisplayPort-only monitor
- Active, USB-powered HDMI to DisplayPort adapter. For example: Club 3D HDMI 2.1 to DisplayPort 1.4 Active Adapter Cable - 4K 120Hz 8K 30Hz Converter for PC Laptop Gaming Console to Monitor - USB Powered Male to Female Display Adapter CAC-1335, or Cable Matters HDMI to DisplayPort Adapter, HDMI 2.0 to DP 1.2, 4K@60Hz.
All cable fixes · Arms, light bars and other extras. Product links go to Amazon. We don't earn anything from them.