Three-dimensional (3D) monitors are computer monitors that have 3D technology, enabling users to see contents on the screen with more depth. Compared to 3D TVs, there is very little difference between the two. Just like other 3D devices, 3D monitors can be passive or active, and they can send out a visual signal or not. Not everything on 3D monitors will be in 3D; some images and websites will only be available in two dimensions (2D), but these monitors usually work well with this. These monitors most often are used with games and movies, but basic use also may be enhanced.
When comparing 3D monitors and TVs, most people will find very little difference between the two. Aside from the monitors working with computers, there are not many things that separate the two. One difference is size, because 3D TVs normally are larger, and TVs typically have an easier time converting 2D broadcasts into 3D.
There are two types of 3D technologies that can be used with 3D monitors: passive and active. Passive monitors may have a covering on the screens, or glasses may be needed, but the monitors themselves do not send out a signal telling the glasses how to properly view the image. Active monitors send out a signal and specifically are used with glasses that receive and work with the signal to ensure the 3D image is correct. While active technology normally is better for the 3D effect, monitors with passive 3D usually are cheaper and do not need heavy battery-powered glasses.
Many websites and applications used on a computer are not made in 3D and are unable to be converted to 3D. This means most 3D monitors are equipped to handle this and still produce higher-quality 2D images. Most of these monitors are in high definition (HD), so the 2D images should look better than on other monitors, and there should be no problems viewing 2D elements. Some monitors also enable the user to switch between 2D and 3D views, just in case there are any issues with this conversion.
Reading 3D text may not be the most exciting thing, so 3D monitors are not really meant for common browsing. Instead, the technology best suits multimedia and gaming, which most users favor. At the same time, this can enhance normal uses and applications, such as improving design software interfaces, enabling users to read and view websites with extra depth and by adding extra ways of organizing and viewing files.