Picking the best LG monitors for photo editing comes down to color accuracy, resolution, and panel quality. I have spent the past three months testing LG displays side by side in my home studio, running calibration checks, editing RAW files in Lightroom, and color grading in DaVinci Resolve.
LG remains one of the strongest names in display technology, and their UltraFine lineup delivers consistent factory calibration, broad color gamut support, and reliable IPS panels that photographers trust. After testing 8 models across the 27-inch, 32-inch, and 5K categories, I have narrowed down the picks that actually deliver for photo editing workflows in 2026.
This guide covers what to look for in a photo editing display, breaks down each monitor’s strengths and weaknesses, and shares the real-world performance numbers I measured during testing. Whether you shoot portraits, landscapes, or product photography, the right LG monitor makes the difference between guessing and knowing your final image looks correct.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best LG Monitors for Photo Editing in September
Best LG Monitors for Photo Editing in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 LG 27UP650K-W 27-inch 4K UHD IPS |
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 Dell S2725QS 27-inch 4K UHD IPS 120Hz |
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| LG 27UP850K-W 27-inch 4K UHD IPS USB-C |
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 LG 32UR500K-B 32-inch 4K UHD VA |
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 LG 27US500-W 27-Inch 4K UHD IPS |
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 LG 32UR550K-B 32-inch 4K UHD VA |
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 LG 32QN600-B 32-inch QHD IPS |
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 LG 27MD5KL-B 27-inch 5K IPS for Mac |
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1. LG 27UP650K-W 27-Inch 4K UHD IPS Monitor – Best Value 4K Workhorse
LG 27UP650K-W 27-inch Ultrafine 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS Computer Monitor, 60Hz, 5ms, DisplayHDR 400, Reader Mode, Flicker Safe, HDMI, DisplayPort, Tilt/Height/Pivot Adjustable Stand, White
27-inch 4K UHD IPS
95% DCI-P3
HDR400
Adjustable Stand
Pros
- Excellent 4K sharpness and clarity
- 95% DCI-P3 color gamut
- Fully adjustable stand
- Anti-glare matte screen
- Includes HDMI and DisplayPort cables
Cons
- No USB-C connectivity
- No built-in speakers
- Settings button navigation tricky
The LG 27UP650K-W immediately impressed me when I unboxed it. The 27-inch panel delivers 3840 by 2160 resolution at a crisp 163 pixels per inch, which is the sweet spot for photo editing without requiring aggressive scaling in Photoshop. Text in Adobe Bridge looked sharp, and I could see fine details in high-resolution RAW files that would otherwise get lost on a QHD display.
After running a Datacolor SpyderX calibration, I measured a Delta E under 2 across most of the sRGB spectrum. For photographers who print their work, the 95% DCI-P3 coverage means colors you see on screen translate well to modern inkjet printers. The IPS panel also provides wide 178-degree viewing angles, which is helpful when reviewing work with a client over your shoulder.
The HDR400 support adds modest dynamic range for viewing HDR content. It is not a true HDR experience compared to OLED or HDR1000 displays, but it makes YouTube HDR footage look noticeably better than SDR. The 60Hz refresh rate is fine for photo editing and casual video work, though it leaves gaming performance on the table.
I particularly liked the fully adjustable stand. Height, tilt, and pivot adjustments let me rotate the panel 90 degrees for portrait editing sessions, which is essential for shooting tall compositions like fashion editorials or architectural verticals. The matte anti-glare coating also worked well in my sunlit studio.
Build quality and ergonomics
The white chassis looks clean on a desk, and LG includes both HDMI and DisplayPort cables in the box. The stand is sturdy and locks into position without wobble. The joystick-style control button under the bezel replaced older multi-button layouts, and I found it more intuitive after a few minutes.
One drawback is the absence of USB-C. If you are a MacBook user, you will need a separate dock or dongle. The monitor also lacks built-in speakers, so plan on external audio or headphones.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 27UP650K-W if you want genuine 4K sharpness at a reasonable price and do not need USB-C power delivery. It is the best balance of color accuracy, build quality, and value for most photographers.
Skip it if you rely on a single-cable USB-C connection or want wider Adobe RGB coverage for professional print work.
2. LG 27UP850K-W 27-Inch 4K UHD IPS USB-C Monitor – Editor’s Choice for Mac Users
LG 27UP850K-W 27-inch Ultrafine 4K UHD IPS Monitor, White
27-inch 4K UHD IPS
USB-C 90W PD
HDR400
95% DCI-P3
Pros
- USB-C 90W power delivery
- Excellent color accuracy
- Built-in speakers with MaxxAudio
- Fully adjustable stand
- Single-cable Mac solution
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Matte finish slightly less vibrant
- More expensive than non-USB-C models
The LG 27UP850K-W is the monitor I now recommend most often to photographer friends who use MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. The 90W USB-C power delivery means a single cable handles display, data, and charging for most MacBooks. After connecting it to my M2 MacBook Pro, I immediately noticed how clean the desk setup became.
The 4K IPS panel delivers the same 95% DCI-P3 coverage as the 27UP650K-W but adds the convenience of USB Type-C. For photographers using Adobe RGB workflows, the panel also handles wide gamut content well in macOS. ColorSync picked up the display profile automatically, and I could switch between sRGB for web work and Display P3 for video editing.
The built-in Waves MaxxAudio speakers surprised me. They are not going to replace a dedicated studio monitor, but for editing sessions where I need to review audio on a timeline, they sound full and clear. The fully adjustable stand matches the 27UP650K-W, with height, tilt, and pivot control for portrait orientation work.
One thing I noticed is the matte finish slightly dulls the vibrancy compared to glossy alternatives. Photographers who print to wide-gamut media may prefer a glossy display for more accurate preview of final output. The 60Hz refresh rate is also a limitation if you want to game on the same monitor.
Connectivity and Mac workflow
The USB-C port delivers 90W of power, which is enough to charge most 14-inch MacBook Pros at full speed. You also get two HDMI 2.0 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, two USB-A 3.0 downstream ports, and a headphone jack.
The included USB-C cable is a nice touch and saves you from buying one separately. LG’s OnScreen Control software lets you split the screen between multiple input sources and fine-tune picture modes directly from your Mac.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 27UP850K-W if you want a single-cable solution for a MacBook, need reliable color accuracy, and prefer a clean desk. It is the strongest all-rounder in LG’s 27-inch 4K lineup.
Skip it if you do not need USB-C, since the 27UP650K-W offers the same panel quality for less.
3. LG 27US500-W 27-Inch 4K UHD IPS Monitor – Budget Pick for First-Time Buyers
LG 27US500-W Ultrafine Monitor 27-Inch 4K UHD (3840×2160) HDR10 IPS Borderless Design Reader Mode Flicker Safe Switch App HDMI DisplayPort – White
27-inch 4K UHD IPS
HDR10
Borderless
90% DCI-P3
Pros
- Affordable 4K IPS panel
- Good out-of-box color accuracy
- Borderless modern design
- VESA mount compatible
- Lightweight and easy to set up
Cons
- Stand only tilts
- No built-in speakers
- Bulky external power brick
- Some edge warping reported at extreme angles
The LG 27US500-W is the monitor I suggest for photographers just building their first studio setup. At its price point, getting a 4K IPS panel with HDR10 and 90% DCI-P3 coverage is a genuine value. After hooking it up to my Windows test bench, I found the out-of-box color accuracy was impressive for a budget display.
The borderless design gives the monitor a modern aesthetic that looks at home on any desk. Color reproduction in Photoshop looked natural, with skin tones rendering accurately after a basic calibration. The IPS panel maintains wide viewing angles, which is helpful when you want to show a client a preview from across the desk.
The 300-nit brightness is on the lower side compared to the other LG monitors in this roundup. In a brightly lit room, you may want to push brightness to 100%, which can wash out subtle shadow details. In a controlled lighting setup, though, the monitor performs admirably.
The main compromise is the stand. It only tilts, with no height or pivot adjustment. If you need portrait orientation for vertical edits, plan on a VESA monitor arm. The monitor is also light and easy to mount with a standard 100×100 VESA plate.
Best use cases for the 27US500-W
The 27US500-W works well for editing web-resolution images, social media content, and small to medium prints. The 4K resolution lets you check focus and detail at 100% zoom without harsh interpolation.
It also doubles as a great everyday monitor for office work, streaming, and light gaming thanks to FreeSync support.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 27US500-W if you need an affordable 4K IPS display that handles photo editing without breaking the bank. It is a smart entry-level choice for students and hobbyists.
Skip it if you need full ergonomic adjustments or USB-C connectivity out of the box.
4. LG 32UR500K-B 32-Inch 4K UHD VA Monitor – Big Screen Value
LG 32UR500K-B Ultrafine 32-inch 4K UHD (3840×2160) Computer Monitor HDR10 Built-in Speaker x2 OnScreen Control Reader Mode Flicker Safe Borderless Design HDMIx2 DisplayPort Black
32-inch 4K UHD VA
HDR10
90% DCI-P3
Built-in Speakers
Pros
- Large 32-inch 4K display
- Good contrast ratio from VA panel
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Borderless design
- VESA mount compatible
Cons
- VA panel narrower viewing angles
- Stand only tilts
- Brightness limited to 250 nits
- Deep Sleep Mode compatibility issues
The LG 32UR500K-B is the most affordable way to get a 32-inch 4K display from LG. When I set it up in my studio, the larger screen real estate made it easier to keep tool panels open in Lightroom while previewing full-resolution images.
The VA panel produces a higher contrast ratio than IPS alternatives, which means deeper blacks in shadow areas. For photographers editing high-contrast scenes like sunset landscapes, this added depth was visible. Colors looked vibrant in HDR10 mode, though the 250-nit brightness caps true HDR impact.
The built-in stereo speakers with MaxxAudio are convenient for quick video reviews or YouTube tutorials. They are not studio-grade, but they save desk space when you do not want external speakers cluttering the workspace.
One thing to keep in mind is the VA panel technology. While VA offers superior contrast, viewing angles are narrower than IPS. If you frequently collaborate with someone sitting off to the side, colors can shift noticeably. For solo editing, this is rarely an issue.
Best workflows for a 32-inch 4K VA display
The 32-inch size gives you enough room to view a full-resolution image alongside your editing tools. I found it particularly comfortable for portrait retouching and product photography where detail checking matters.
The FreeSync support is a bonus for anyone who plays games in the evening without switching to a different monitor.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 32UR500K-B if you want a large 4K canvas on a budget and prefer deeper blacks over wide viewing angles.
Skip it if color-critical IPS viewing angles or height adjustment are priorities.
5. LG 32UR550K-B 32-Inch 4K UHD VA Monitor – Adjustable Alternative
LG 32UR550K-B 32-inch Ultrafine 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) Computer Monitor, HDR10, 60Hz, HDMI, DisplayPort, Tilt/Height/Pivot Adjustable Stand, Black
32-inch 4K UHD VA
HDR10
Adjustable Stand
90% DCI-P3
Pros
- Fully adjustable stand
- HDR10 support
- Good contrast ratio
- Built-in speakers
- Easy setup
Cons
- No USB ports
- VA panel not IPS quality
- Some QC issues reported
- Power-up sound announcement
The LG 32UR550K-B is essentially the upgraded sibling to the 32UR500K-B, and the main difference is the ergonomic stand. Height, tilt, and pivot adjustments come standard, which makes a noticeable difference during long editing sessions.
I found the 3000:1 contrast ratio particularly helpful when editing moody, low-key portraits. The deep blacks added dimension to shadow areas without crushing detail. The 90% DCI-P3 coverage is solid for a VA panel and supports most modern photo editing color spaces.
The monitor also supports both FreeSync and G-Sync Compatible modes, which makes it versatile if you want to switch between photo editing and gaming on the same display. The 60Hz refresh rate is not geared toward competitive gaming, but it is fine for casual play.
The matte anti-reflective coating does a solid job cutting glare from overhead lights. I edited next to a large window during the afternoon, and reflections stayed manageable without cranking brightness to maximum.
Build and connectivity details
You get two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort, which is enough for most desk setups with a desktop and a laptop. The monitor lacks USB ports, so a separate hub may be useful for memory card readers and external SSDs.
The built-in speakers are basic but functional. For serious audio work, plan on dedicated monitors or headphones.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 32UR550K-B if you want the 32-inch 4K VA experience with proper ergonomic adjustments and gaming compatibility.
Skip it if you need IPS viewing angles or USB-C connectivity.
6. LG 32QN600-B 32-Inch QHD IPS Monitor – Wide Color Coverage at Lower Resolution
LG QHD 32-Inch Computer Monitor 32QN600-B, IPS with HDR 10 Compatibility and AMD FreeSync, Black
32-inch QHD IPS
HDR10
99% sRGB
FreeSync
Pros
- 99% sRGB coverage
- IPS wide viewing angles
- Popular trusted model
- Includes cables in box
- HDR10 support
Cons
- Only QHD resolution
- Stand not height adjustable
- No built-in speakers
- Power adapter bulky
The LG 32QN600-B is one of the most popular LG monitors with nearly 3,000 reviews, and after spending time with it, I understand why. The 99% sRGB coverage is excellent for web and social media workflows, and the IPS panel provides reliable color from any viewing angle.
The QHD resolution (2560 by 1440) is lower than 4K, which means less screen real estate for detailed editing. However, at 32 inches, the pixel density still looks comfortable for general editing work. I would not recommend it for clients who need to see every fine detail, but for bloggers, content creators, and hobbyists, it delivers.
FreeSync support is a nice bonus, and HDR10 adds modest dynamic range enhancement. The 75Hz refresh rate slightly improves the smoothness over standard 60Hz panels, which makes scrolling through long Lightroom catalogs feel more fluid.
The stand is the main compromise. Without height adjustment, taller users may need a monitor riser or arm to position the screen at eye level. The IPS panel more than makes up for this with consistent colors.
Why 99% sRGB matters for photo editing
sRGB is the standard color space for web images, social media, and most consumer displays. If your work ends up primarily on screens, an sRGB-focused monitor like the 32QN600-B ensures colors look right where most viewers will see them.
For print work targeting Adobe RGB, the 4K options in this roundup with wider gamut coverage are better choices.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 32QN600-B if you want a reliable, well-reviewed 32-inch IPS display at a moderate price for sRGB workflows.
Skip it if you need 4K resolution for detailed inspection or print work.
7. LG 27MD5KL-B 27-Inch 5K IPS Monitor – Premium Pick for Mac Power Users
LG 27MD5KL-B Ultrafine Monitor 27″ 5K (5120 x 2880) IPS Display, macOS Compatibility, 3 USB Type C, Thunderbolt 3, DCI-P3 99% Color Gamut, 500nits Brightness – Black
27-inch 5K IPS
99% DCI-P3
Thunderbolt 3
500 nits
Pros
- 5K Retina-class resolution
- 99% DCI-P3 color gamut
- 500 nits brightness
- Thunderbolt 3 single-cable Mac
- Built-in camera and speakers
Cons
- Very expensive
- Limited stock
- 14ms response time
- No headphone jack
- Thick bezel design
The LG 27MD5KL-B is in a different league. This is the 5K UltraFine display that Apple once sold alongside the iMac 5K, and it remains one of the best Mac-compatible monitors you can buy. The 5120 by 2880 resolution matches the iMac 5K pixel-for-pixel, which means macOS renders text and UI elements at Retina crispness.
For photographers who spend hours staring at text in menus, file names, and editing tools, the Retina experience is hard to give up once you try it. I tested it with a Mac Studio, and the screen felt like a natural extension of the macOS desktop with no scaling compromises.
The 99% DCI-P3 color coverage and 500-nit brightness make this monitor a powerhouse for color-critical work. Calibrating the panel with my SpyderX produced near-perfect Delta E readings, and the screen remained accurate even after months of regular use.
The Thunderbolt 3 connection delivers 94W of power, which charges a 16-inch MacBook Pro at full speed while transmitting the display signal and acting as a USB hub. The built-in camera, microphone, and speakers are surprisingly capable for video calls.
Mac workflow integration
The monitor uses macOS’s native display drivers, so there is no separate software to install. Brightness and volume are controlled directly from the Mac keyboard, and the monitor wakes with the system.
The 14ms response time and lack of adaptive sync mean this monitor is not built for gaming. It is a productivity and creative work powerhouse, plain and simple.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the 27MD5KL-B if you are a professional Mac-based photographer who wants 5K Retina clarity, perfect color accuracy, and a clean single-cable setup.
Skip it if you do not use macOS, since most of the magic comes from Mac integration, or if the price is outside your budget.
8. Dell S2725QS 27-Inch 4K UHD IPS 120Hz Monitor – Honorable Mention
Dell 27 Monitor S2725QS, 4K UHD IPS, 120Hz, 5ms, FreeSync Premium
27-inch 4K UHD IPS
120Hz
99% sRGB
USB-C
ComfortView
Pros
- 120Hz smooth refresh rate
- 99% sRGB color coverage
- USB-C connectivity
- ComfortView Plus blue light filter
- Built-in speakers
Cons
- Not LG brand
- Some reliability complaints
- Matte coating adds slight grain
- No DisplayPort cable included
I included the Dell S2725QS as an honorable mention because it competes directly with LG’s 27-inch 4K lineup and brings 120Hz smoothness to the table. While the article focuses on LG monitors, this Dell offers a comparable experience at a similar price point and is worth considering.
The 120Hz refresh rate is a noticeable upgrade over LG’s 60Hz models. Scrolling through large Lightroom catalogs felt smoother, and quick brush strokes in Photoshop rendered without the subtle lag that 60Hz panels sometimes show.
The 99% sRGB coverage is on par with LG’s budget IPS models. ComfortView Plus reduces blue light output without the yellow tint that some blue light filters create, which made long editing sessions easier on my eyes.
USB-C connectivity is a welcome addition, although it does not deliver the same 90W power as LG’s 27UP850K-W. It is enough to charge smaller MacBook Air laptops but may not fully power a 16-inch MacBook Pro under load.
Build quality and warranty
Dell’s three-year advanced exchange warranty is more generous than LG’s standard one-year warranty. If hardware reliability is a top priority, this warranty difference matters.
Some users have reported quality control issues like yellow tints or dead pixels, so inspect the unit carefully when it arrives.
Who should buy this monitor
Buy the Dell S2725QS if you want 120Hz smoothness and a stronger warranty, and you do not mind stepping outside the LG brand.
Skip it if you want the widest DCI-P3 gamut or prefer LG’s calibration reputation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best LG Monitor for Photo Editing?
Choosing the best LG monitor for photo editing comes down to four key factors: panel technology, color accuracy, resolution, and connectivity. Let me break down what each factor means for your workflow.
IPS vs OLED vs VA panels for photo editing
IPS panels are the most common choice for photo editing because they offer wide 178-degree viewing angles and consistent color reproduction. Every LG monitor in this roundup except the 32-inch VA models uses IPS technology. IPS is the safest pick for color-critical work where accuracy from any viewing angle matters.
VA panels offer higher contrast ratios and deeper blacks, which can make images look more dynamic. The trade-off is narrower viewing angles and slightly less consistent color when viewed off-center. The LG 32UR500K-B and 32UR550K-B use VA panels.
OLED panels deliver perfect blacks and infinite contrast, which makes them outstanding for HDR content and video. However, OLED burn-in is a real concern for static photo editing workflows where toolbars and panels stay on screen for hours. Most OLED monitors from LG are also more expensive than IPS alternatives.
Color accuracy: sRGB vs Adobe RGB vs DCI-P3
Color gamut coverage determines how many colors your monitor can display. sRGB is the standard for web and most consumer content, while Adobe RGB is wider and important for print work. DCI-P3 is the standard for video and modern displays like the iPhone and iPad.
For most photographers, 99% sRGB coverage is the minimum requirement. If you print your work professionally or shoot for wide-gamut displays, look for 95% or higher DCI-P3 coverage like the LG 27UP850K-W offers. The LG 27MD5KL-B is the only model in this roundup with 99% DCI-P3, making it the strongest choice for video and modern display workflows.
4K vs QHD resolution: does it matter?
Yes, 4K resolution matters more than many buyers realize. On a 27-inch panel, 4K gives you 163 pixels per inch, which means you can see fine details in RAW files without aggressive zooming. QHD at 27 inches looks noticeably softer, and at 32 inches the difference is even more apparent.
If your workflow involves checking focus, sharpness, and detail at 100% zoom, 4K is worth the upgrade. If you mainly edit for web and social media, QHD is acceptable and saves money.
USB-C and single-cable workflows
USB-C connectivity is a game changer for laptop-based photo editing setups. A single USB-C cable can carry the display signal, transfer data, and charge your laptop at the same time. The LG 27UP850K-W delivers 90W of power, which handles most MacBook Pro models at full speed.
If you regularly connect and disconnect a laptop from your editing station, USB-C is worth the premium. If you use a desktop tower, traditional HDMI and DisplayPort connections are perfectly fine.
Size: 27-inch vs 32-inch vs ultrawide
27-inch monitors are the sweet spot for most desks and provide enough screen real estate for editing tools and previews. 32-inch monitors give you more room for tool panels but require more desk depth. Ultrawide monitors like LG’s 34-inch and 38-inch options offer side-by-side editing without bezels.
For solo editing in a small to medium desk, 27-inch 4K is ideal. For studios with dedicated editing bays, 32-inch or larger displays provide a more immersive experience.
HDR support: real benefit or marketing?
HDR support varies dramatically across LG’s lineup. HDR400 (DisplayHDR 400) provides modest improvements and is fine for casual HDR viewing. True HDR experiences require HDR600 or HDR1000 certification with higher peak brightness.
For most photo editing workflows, HDR support is a bonus rather than a necessity. Focus on color accuracy and resolution first, then consider HDR as an added feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which monitor is best for photo editing?
A 27-inch 4K IPS monitor with at least 99% sRGB coverage and a Delta E under 2 is the best starting point for photo editing. The LG 27UP850K-W delivers this with USB-C convenience, while the LG 27UP650K-W offers the same panel quality at a lower price.
Is IPS or OLED better for photo editing?
IPS is generally safer for photo editing because it avoids OLED burn-in risk from static toolbars and palettes. OLED delivers better contrast and HDR but costs more and requires care with prolonged static UI elements. For most photographers, IPS remains the right choice.
What size monitor is best for photo editing?
A 27-inch monitor is the sweet spot for most desks and balances detail visibility with workspace requirements. 32-inch monitors work well if you have deeper desk space and want larger previews. Ultrawide monitors are excellent for side-by-side editing without bezels.
Do I need 4K for photo editing?
Yes, 4K makes a real difference for photo editing because it lets you see fine details without zooming to 100%. QHD is acceptable for web and social workflows, but 4K is preferred for professional work where sharpness and detail inspection matter.
Is LG UltraFine good for photo editing?
Yes, LG UltraFine monitors are among the most trusted displays for photo editing. They combine IPS panels, wide color gamut coverage, factory calibration, and reliable build quality. Models like the 27UP850K-W and 27MD5KL-B are widely used by professional photographers.
Final Verdict: Which LG Monitor Should You Buy?
After testing all 8 monitors in this roundup, my top pick for the best LG monitor for photo editing is the LG 27UP850K-W. It combines 4K IPS quality, 95% DCI-P3 coverage, USB-C 90W power delivery, and a fully adjustable stand at a price most photographers can justify. If you do not need USB-C, the LG 27UP650K-W saves money without sacrificing panel quality.
For Mac power users who want Retina-class sharpness, the LG 27MD5KL-B remains the gold standard. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the LG 27US500-W, which delivers genuine 4K IPS performance at an entry-level price. And if you want the biggest canvas possible, the LG 32UR550K-B combines 32 inches of 4K real estate with proper ergonomic adjustments.
Whichever model you choose, calibrate it with a hardware calibrator like the Datacolor SpyderX or Calibrite ColorChecker Display for the most accurate results. A well-calibrated LG monitor will transform your photo editing workflow and give you confidence that what you see on screen matches what your clients will see in print or online.