Digital Combat Simulator (DCS) is arguably the best flight-sim on the market; especially, if you’re a fan of modern jet combat. There’s simply no other game that more accurately and authentically replicates the thrill of being a fighter pilot. Like all games, the experience is best enjoyed on a monitor that offers a high resolution. After all, resolution defines the picture fidelity; the higher, the better if you want clarity. But which monitor resolution is best for DCS? Not all games are necessarily optimal at the same resolution, and depending on your hardware you might want to comprise. Let’s break everything down.
Best Monitor Resolution For DCS World
Put simply, the best monitor resolution for the DCS world largely depends on your computer hardware and the settings of your game you’re able to run as a result. There’s no point in dialing the resolution way up if your hardware isn’t capable of running that resolution at a smooth frame rate in any game, but particularly for one that works best with a higher frame rate. DCS is definitely a game you don’t want running at low frames per second. Let’s go over some things to consider:
1. The Native Resolution of the Monitor
Generally, you should run the games on your monitor’s native resolution for smooth and crisp image quality.
If your monitor is 1080p, then 1920×1080 is its native resolution.
If you have a 4K or 1440p monitor, then the 3840×2160 and the 2560×1440 will be the native resolution of your monitor.
Of course, just because your monitor is capable of a high resolution doesn’t mean it’s best.
2. System Hardware
Therefore, your computer hardware plays a critical role in determining the best resolution for the DCS world. You need to ask yourself what specs you have, and what graphics settings you’re comfortable running.
High-end system – If your system has the top graphics card and a powerful CPU, you’ll be able to play at a higher resolution, like 1440p or 4K.
Mid-range system – If your system has the average graphic card and the CPU, you must consider the resolution between 1440 and 1080. This is because the higher resolution can affect the image quality and the gameplay.
Entry level system – If your system is an entry-level system, consider 1080p resolution or lower is for better fps.
DCS minimum specifications are as follows:
- OS: Windows 10.
- Processor: Intel or AMD 3.0Ghz+ with 2 cores.
- Memory: 16 GB RAM.
- Graphics: Discrete AMD or NVIDIA 8GB+
- DirectX: Version 11.
- Storage: 140 GB available space.
It’s not a hugely demanding game in terms of GFX cards, but it does require a fairly solid CPU.
Keep in mind that resolution is not the only factor that affects your frames; terrain quality, shadow, bloom, textures, density, and a whole range of other factors influence the frame rate. If you’re using the higher resolution but facing the issue while playing the games, consider the other graphic settings for smoother gameplay. Otherwise, turn them up but be prepared to play on a reduced resolution to compensate.
Again, a higher resolution offers a sharp image but demands more GPU for smoother gameplay.
3. Lighting Conditions of Your Environment
The lighting conditions of your gaming environment have a big impact on your gameplay; it depends on which type of light you’re using on your monitor.
If you’re using your monitor in a bright room, consider a resolution like 4K or full HD for clear image quality.
If you’re using the monitor in mid-range light conditions, consider the resolution under 1440p.
What Resolution to Good DCS Players Use?
If you’re an enthusiast of the scene then you may well be familiar with content creators such as Growling Sidewinder. One of the most entertaining creators in the space, he uses the following PC setup:
- Processors: AMD Ryzen 9 5950X 16-Core 3.4GHz (4.9GHz Max Boost)
- Motherboard: Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite
- WiFi Memory: 128GB CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB PRO 3200MHz (4x32GB)
- System Cooling: CORSAIR H100i PRO XT RGB
- Graphics Cards: NVIDIA 10GB GeForce RTX 3080
- Operating System: MS Windows 10 Professional
- Operating System Drive: 2TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus PCIe NVMe
- Hard Drive: 2TB Samsung 980 PRO
- Power Supply: CORSAIR AX1600i ATX Titanium
In terms of a monitor setup, DCS content creators such as Growling Sidewinder tend to use a 4K setup. That’s because their PCs are very powerful; not to mention, they also use VR headsets such as the Primax 8K, which requires a powerful rig.
How Good Is 1920×1080 Resolution?
1080p is considered a great resolution is absolutely fine for a game like DCS. You’ll still be able to enjoy a smooth experience (especially at a high framerate), and DCS looks crisp at this resolution so long as you aren’t playing on anything larger than a 25inch display.
So there you have it. The best resolution for the DCS world depends on your preferences, lighting conditions, and system hardware. As always, the best monitor resolution also varies depending on your own preferences and needs. It also depends on how you’re playing to use it.
As we’ve already mentioned, if you have the average system that does not have a higher GPU and powerful CPU, consider the 1440p or 1080p resolution. For those with a high-end system, 4K is ideal.