Using two monitors in your setup offers many benefits for multitasking. Some brands and retailers sell two-in-one monitor bundles, but those are usually cheap displays that aren't special. So, if your budget allows for it, getting two units of a better model is the best way to go. While you can choose any size you prefer, 24- and 27-inch screens are commonly used in a dual setup, as larger displays can occupy too much space. Other factors impact the screen's performance in a multi-display setup, like its viewing angle and ergonomics, which help if you don't view the monitor from directly in front.

Before buying anything, you'll want to think about how to set up dual monitors. Most modern computers don't have issues outputting two signals at once. It's easiest if your computer or laptop has two video outputs or if you have a dock with multiple video outputs. That said, if your PC only has one output and you don't have an adapter, then one of the monitors you purchase needs to support daisy chaining to a secondary screen.

We've bought and tested over 380 monitors, and below are our recommendations for the best secondary monitor. See our recommendations for the best USB-C monitors and the best vertical monitors. However, if you think a dual monitor setup isn't right for you, it may be worth looking for the best ultrawide monitors instead.