LCD Monitor - Need some advice [Archive] - Organization Drow Forums

View Full Version : LCD Monitor - Need some advice

Hexi DCymal

08-15-2008, 04:57 PM

I've decided to finally purchase a widescreen LCD monitor. My price point is going to restrict me to to a screen size of 20" (most likely) -- something around $300. My first LCD was a Samsung SyncMaster (17") and I've been very pleased with it. I'll be retaining it to use for a dual-monitor set-up.

I work remotely a great deal, so this monitor is going to be used for business purchases primarily. I spend a great deal of time doing document comparisons (Adobe's suite of products) and need something that reflects graphics accurately, including colors. I use a 30" HP dual monitor set-up at work (and am VERY spoiled), but that's outside of my budget and I don't think it would work well for games. When I purchase my new computer in a few months, I would like for this to be my primary gaming monitor also.

Back in the day, when I got the first LCD, response time was a huge consideration. It looks like the LCD world has changed quite a bit and, frankly, I really don't understand all of the different terminologies. Contrast ratios, pixel pitch, etc... I'm afraid I get resolution and response time, and that's really about it.

I need something that is going to work for both purposes - fantastic gaming capabilties, and accurate graphic representation for business. I would prefer something with a fast refresh rate as I have developed eyesight issues due to decades of heavy computer use. As I have been happy with Samsung, I am tempted to go that route again... but I know the technology world changes quickly.

I would appreciate any input and advice, especially from those who work with both graphic programs and games. I want something that will last a few years, so I'm looking for the sweet spot between size vs quality vs price.

Thanks in advance,
Hexi

Arctos

08-16-2008, 07:22 AM

I purchased this a couple of months ago, and haven't found a bad thing to say about it yet. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009094 22" wide for $200.

I've played EVE-Online, AoC, and some stand alone games on it. Also doing work on my website. Colors seem to be dead on. Definitely like it better than my old NEC 17" LCD. Not sure what resolution you're wanting to crank up to, this will go 1680x1050 max.

Would definitely check http://www.newegg.com and http://www.mwave.com for pricing, much cheaper than buying at a local store. I've been ordering from both these sites for years and never had a problem with shipping speed or warranty swaps ( the 2 times I needed them ).

OBM

08-16-2008, 07:09 PM

I have been using a Viewsonic for the past year or 2 and so far it kicks ass... actually any MFG that uses Samsung parts have good reputations.

Liz uses an enterprise/business class NEC monitor which looks quite a bit better than most, but costs quite a bit more. You might have to ramp the size down to 19-20" but you get what you pay for.

Mog

08-17-2008, 08:53 AM

Samsungs are still my favorite monitors and they are consistently ranked at the top.

Can't go wrong with this 22" widescreen for $299 http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-SyncMaster-2253BW-LCD-Monitor/dp/B0013PSOT0

Can also check here for best pricing http://www.pricegrabber.com

Definitely need to be using DVI connections with these monitors and not VGA.

Hexi DCymal

08-19-2008, 05:42 PM

Thanks so much!

I didn't know about mwave, so definitely check on there too. I'm glad to read that Samsung still has a good rep. for monitors. I'm currently debating between a few ASUS, Samsung, and Dell monitors -- trying to research what the differences are between some of the more technical aspects and the true value of HMDI...

I tend to look at a variety of items, then narrow it down to 3 or 4 models that look like they work. I think I might be bumping my price threshold up just a little bit. If you guys will tolerate further questions, I'll link the three I'm debating between here in a few days w/prices and the pros/cons as I see them. I could care less about built-in speakers and webcams, which seems to be a growing trend. *sigh*

When they talk about this bleed... I don't know that has an affect so much on gaming, but would it impact my business applications?

-- Hex

Mushok

08-19-2008, 05:56 PM

I use a 22' Samsung 8000:1 pixels and I am absolutely loving it!

Hexi DCymal

08-19-2008, 06:00 PM

I use a 22' Samsung 8000:1 pixels and I am absolutely loving it!

8000:1 ?!? Can you actually tell the difference? I've seen a few with 2000:1 vs 5000:1 and a number of reviewers say its impossible to tell. This is one of those aspects I'm fuzzy on. I also don't get how they will list something at x000:1 and then have a higher number in parans beside it. /boggle.

Baddums

08-19-2008, 06:40 PM

Samsung Monitor (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824001268)

I think this is the same one Ash linked, except on Newegg. I bought a Samsung 226BW in January but doesn't look like they sell it anymore. This one is better and is $269 ($249 with a $20 rebate) and has free 3 day shipping. Anyway, I love the one I have so I would expect this one to be superior

Atten

08-26-2008, 03:22 PM

Xantheous

08-27-2008, 08:36 AM

LG 10000:1 2MS For me I LOVE THEM so much I purchaced 3.

http://www.komplett.ie/k/ki.aspx?sku=342773

marcothy

09-18-2008, 12:32 PM

Contrast ratios FWIW are not uniform from company to company. What Samsung will classify as a 20,000:1 may be an 8,000:1 for Ben-Q. Just be wary of getting caught up in that spec.

If your target price is good at around $300 - here is my recommendations:

Acer - 24" 1920x1200 2ms @ $359 w/free shipping
LINK (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009125)

If you can't do $360 here would be my 2nd option:

Acer - 22" 1680x1050 5ms @ $209
Link (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824009094)

Personally, if you can swing the 360-if it means waiting a couple paychecks to do it, do it. You wouldn't replace that monitor for a long time.