Large LCD monitors can boost productivity by enabling you to view multiple documents at once. Their wide-screen formats are also ideal for watching high-definition television and DVD movies.
ASPECT RATIO
LCD monitors that measure 20 inches diagonally can have an aspect ratio—a width-to-height proportion—of either 4-to-3 or 16-to-10 (although most new monitors are shifting to the wide-screen format). The standard for monitors that are 23 inches and larger is 16-to-10, which makes them ideal for watching DVD movies or high-definition television (HDTV) in wide-screen; larger monitors are also great for viewing several documents at once.
RESOLUTION
Higher resolution generally yields better image quality. Twenty-inch flat panels with a 4-to-3 aspect ratio have 1,600x1,200 native resolutions; wide-screen models typically have resolutions of 1,680x1,050 or 1,920x1,200, depending on the size and model; and 30-inchers allow you to view at 2,560x1,600. Whatever the native resolution, make certain you are comfortable using the LCD at that resolution before you buy it—the image will be blurry if you scale the resolution up or down.
CONTRAST RATIO
A contrast ratio of at least 500-to-1 will give you a more dynamically detailed image. The ratio is measured in varying ways, however, so rely on such figures cautiously.
PIXEL-RESPONSE RATE
This spec, measured in milliseconds (ms), refers to how quickly a pixel can change colors. Theoretically, the fewer the milliseconds, the better the monitor can handle fast-moving images; if the pixels can change quickly from black to white, you should see fewer ghosting or clipping effects (an indication that the monitor has trouble keeping up with the fast action). Manufacturers have begun marketing monitors with response rates as low as 2ms, but be aware that this number isn't based on real-world usage. Plus, manufacturers use a variety of methods to achieve their low numbers, such as measuring a gray-to-gray (GTG) response time rather than black-to-white. Most current panels have GTG response rates of 8ms or less; gamers and video buffs should look for GTG response rates of 5ms or less.
LUMINANCE
Luminance, or brightness, is expressed in candelas per square meter (cd/m2) or nits. A measurement of 250cd/m2 is suitable for most productivity tasks; 450cd/m2 is better for television and movies. If your work requires very accurate color reproduction, look for an even higher brightness.
DIGITAL VERSUS ANALOG CONNECTIONS
LCDs must convert analog signals to digital before they can be displayed. A graphics card with a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) port can send the signal straight to the display in digital format—no conversion is required. Most larger LCDs come with both analog and digital inputs (using the digital connection is better). Thirty-inch monitors require a DVI-D connector that supports dual-link technology to make the most of their 2,560x1,600 resolution. Some new models with multimedia support offer an HDMI connection, which can deliver digital video and audio through the same cable.
VIEWING ANGLE
Brightness and image colors shift if you view an LCD off-center. Try to get an up-close look at any panel you’re considering, and remember that viewing-angle issues become increasingly critical as panel size increases.
PORTRAIT / LANDSCAPE MODES
Some LCDs let you pivot between traditional, horizontal landscape mode and vertical portrait mode, which can be useful for desktop publishing, Web surfing, and viewing large spreadsheets. Consider whether you'll actually use the pivot function, though, before you pay extra for it.
ADJUSTABILITY
Ergonomics are important, so look for a monitor that enables you to adjust the height of the display to a comfortable viewing level. If you want to be able to show your screen to others, go for a monitor that swivels from side to side.
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