Do I need a reference monitor for color grading?

For professional broadcast or cinema delivery, yes. Reference monitors guarantee color accuracy that client monitors cannot. For YouTube or social media content, a well-calibrated prosumer monitor like the BenQ SW272U is more than sufficient.

How often should I calibrate my grading monitor?

Every 200 hours of use or monthly, whichever comes first. Backlights drift over time, and a monthly calibration keeps Delta E under 1. Monitors with built-in sensors can schedule this automatically.

Best Monitors for Color Grading 2026