Find the lowest prices on LCD monitors
With dozens of LCD computer monitors on the market, shopping for the best price on an LCD monitor can be a daunting task. Just figuring out which model is appropriate for your needs, and then comparing monitor prices to find the best deal can be trying, especially when you're approached with manufacturer claims and customer reviews. Where do you even start?This guide is designed to help you eliminate that frustration by understanding the options available in today's best LCD monitors. The guide will also help you find the best price on the LCD monitor of your choice once you are ready to buy.
Why an LCD?
When shopping for a computer monitor, you have a few basic choices; LCD or CRT. LCD monitors offer the crispest and most color rich picture of any type of monitor. Not only are LCDs easier to see, but they are more compact (just 3 to 5 inches wide) than bulkier CRT models. LCDs also offer excellent color quality in all types of light (even very bright light conditions), and offer a smoother picture absent of glaring. LCDs can also display more colors and operate at a higher resolution than other types of monitors. Unfortunately, all of these benefits come at a high premium, as LCD monitors are more expensive than CRT models. Even though the prices of LCD monitors are coming down, we recommend that you use Dealio (explained below) to ensure you find the lowest price on the LCD monitor of your choice.
The features explained
Fortunately, there aren't an overwhelming number of features to consider when shopping for the best price on an LCD monitor. The features we think are important to consider include:
Screen size
Probably the most important consideration for most consumers is the screen size, which can vary significantly between models. 15-19 inch screens are the most popular among consumers, and most manufacturers offer models in this range for about $275. As you increase the screen size, the price can increase considerably. For example, the best price LCD monitors in the 20 inch and above range are around $450, while the most expensive models can reach $6,500.
Screen type
The screen type can be LCD or TFT. While LCD provides excellent picture quality, TFT (thin film transmitter) provides better resolution and the widest possible view angle. If you are a graphic designer, you may want to opt for a TFT screen type, but realize they are more expensive than LCD.
Screen resolution
Resolution is the maximum number of pixels that can be displayed on the monitor's screen. The greater the resolution, the higher the clarity and picture quality your monitor can achieve.
Video resolution standard
Resolution is also measured by its standard, which corresponds to the different resolutions the monitor's screen is capable of. For example, if a monitor has a resolution standard of VGA and SVGA, the monitor will be capable of displaying the resolution at 640 X 480 and 800 X 600 pixels. The resolution standards to be aware of include:VGA: 640 X 480 Pixels
SVGA: 800 X 600 Pixels
XGA: 1024 X 768 Pixels
SXGA: 1280 X 1024 Pixels
UXGA: 1600 X 1200 Pixels
QXGA: 2048X 1536 Pixels
Dot pitch
The picture on your monitor is composed of millions of individual dots or "pixels". The distance between each pixel is the dot pitch, which is measured in millimeters. If the dot pitch is high, the distance between pixels will be greater and the picture quality will be compromised. Generally, the best price LCD monitors should have a dot pitch of .28 mm or smaller, which will provide excellent picture quality.View angle
View angle is the area in front of the screen that you can view a picture without distortion. LCD monitors can have a view angle between 130 and 170 degrees. The best price LCD monitors are capable of a 170 degree view angle, which will make it possible to see a perfect image at virtually any angle around your TV.
