Computer Monitor

[TheMurph]

Hey all, if this isn't the right forum for this question feel free to redirect it.

I'm in the market for a new computer monitor, finally going flat. However I have no idea what I need or what to look for, other than I need one that is HD. Response time, mhz, refresh rate, contrast ratio, etc... no idea what any of it means. The top amount I'm looking to pay is around $160 or $170. I will be using it for mainly amateur video editing.


Thanks for any help you all may be able to provide.

 

[StarCruiser]

Viewsonic VX2250wm... Seriously, really nice and clear, fast and not stupid expensive.

Most places (online or in stores) have it for about - whadayaknow - $160-170!

It's a 22" 16x9 LED back lit Full HD monitor. I've had several Viewsonics over the years and got more than my money out of each of them and this is easily the best yet.

CompUSA has gone up a bit on it:

http://www.compusa.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=6052506&CatId=2775

NewEgg's a little cheaper:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824116442

Best Buy doesn't carry them, but there are probably a dozen online retailers to check out.

 

[TheMurph]

Excellent, this looks like it would be perfect! Thanks for the quick reply StarCruiser .

 

[Jadzia]

I got my first LCD monitor about this time last year. It's also my first widescreen monitor.

HP2209.

If you've not had an LCD/widescreen monitor before, I'll talk a bit about them if you want me to. There are different types, each with some positives and negatives.

 

[Venardhi]

Personally I prefer the HP screens. I would suggest going into a computer or electronics store to see what brand has the best look to you. Personal preference is a factor here. Some people like glossy, some matte, some a cooler color temp, some warmer, some darker, some higher contrast, etc. etc. etc.

You shouldn't buy a TV without seeing it (or a close relation) first, and the same holds true for monitors.

 

[sojourner]

Why would you want to down grade to "HD"? LCD computer monitors are mostly higher resolution than an HD tv. Though finding a 24" lcd at 1920x1200 like my Gateway seems to be the exception these days, most current are only 1920x1020. Which is strange.

 

[Mr. B]

For anything that requires a modicum of color accuracy (like video editing), I would go with an IPS screen (VA panel if you can't find IPS in budget).

1080p on your budget, however, will probably lead you towards a TN panel. The color often isn't great and the viewing angles are garbage. You can see a video of the problem here. Even when you're looking at one straight on, color varies from top to bottom.

You can read about all the acronyms I just dropped at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TFT_LCD

 

[TheMurph]

Thanks everyone! Mr. B, you've blown my mind.