Best Computer Monitors

HOW TO CHOOSE = Reviewers of the best computer monitors could find little advantage in a CRT monitor over an LCD type. In a few years, manufacturers will only offer LCD monitors. But for now, the CRT monitors are the only ones tested by reviewers.

The size of a CRT monitor is more than the actual size of the screen. For example, most 17 inch CRT monitors have screens between 15.9 and 16.1 inches.

While LCD monitors are only 7” deep, CRT monitors are about as deep as they are wide. So, if you have a 17” CRT monitor, it will be approximately 17” deep. If you’re into techno-babble, a dot pitch between 0.22mm and 0.27mm will provide a clearer image than a dot pitch of 0.28mm or more.

Refresh rate represents the number of times per second the screen is scanned. A higher rate is better because lower rates will cause a screen to flicker. Look for a refresh rate of at least 75 Hz will generally give you a flicker-free screen.

Resolution is a function of the number of pixels on the screen. Larger amounts of pixels (larger resolution) will allow you to see more information on the screen at once. The more information, the smaller the size of the text, but you can always zoom in on something.

THE REVIEW = The Best Computer Monitor For The Home found in the research is the AOC CT700G, which is listed at $155 (but was considerably cheaper where we looked – see below). Reports say images are crisp and colors are both accurate and bright.

Resolution is easy on the eyes when viewing for long periods. It doesn’t offer many features, but includes integrated speakers in the base. It comes with a 3-year warranty. You can get a 19’ LCD monitor for about the same price. Shop around and see what you prefer.

Other top performers include:

Best Monitor for Business = Dell E773c at $140.

Best price found in Nov., ’09 and again in June, '10 = Take a guess. If you guessed Amazon.com Marketplace, you were right again. Prices were about $30 below list on all monitors.

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