Best LCD Monitors - Computers

NEC MultiSync 70GX2 (Around $200)

17-inch LCD monitor. Although still very popular with consumers, 17-inch monitors are rarely reviewed professionally. One exception is the NEC MultiSync 70GX2. Reviewers rave about the color quality and say that text, graphics, and video playback all look great. The 70GX2 has a glossy coating that improves brightness, but glare will bother some users in certain lighting conditions. This model was reviewed when new last year, and reviewers cited price as the major disadvantage. Current prices are 50 percent lower, and cheaper than any other recommended 17-inch LCD monitor. The NEC is Windows and Macintosh compatible.

ViewSonic VP930b ( Around $330)

Best 19-inch LCD monitor. Critics say that 19-inch flat-panel monitors don't offer any additional resolution over 17-inch displays. Even so, with a larger screen, text is easier to read. This Windows and Mac-compatible ViewSonic LCD monitor does well in any application from games and movies to text and web surfing, according to reviews. For those who work with graphics or photos, reviews say color fidelity and contrast are excellent. The monitor ships with a CD that includes display calibration software, making it easy to adjust the monitor to fit your preferences. This is a standard 4:3 aspect monitor. Reviews say these are better for viewing web pages than widescreen monitors


Samsung SyncMaster 226BW (Around $320)


Best 22-inch widescreen LCD monitor. Widescreen monitors allow you to view multiple open windows or applications side-by-side more comfortably, and they are very handy for working with wide spreadsheets. But be aware that you’ll be scrolling more to view web pages since the screen isn’t as tall as a 4:3 monitor. Reviewers agree that the Samsung SyncMaster 226BW is the best monitor in this size group. The Windows and Mac compatible Samsung LCD monitor has excellent image quality; reviewers have no criticisms of its performance. Gaming performance is a particular strength of the 226BW. Experts say that widescreen LCD monitors are cheaper for manufacturers to produce, so you can often find a 22-inch widescreen monitor for the same price as a good quality 19-inch standard monitors


BenQ FP241W (Around $730)

Best 24-inch LCD monitor; widescreen. Reviews say the widescreen BenQ FP241W monitor excels in nearly every area. Photos and graphics look vivid and accurate, and text is easy to read. Native resolution is 1,920 x 1,200 pixels. The BenQ FP241W has full HD video capabilities. It can pivot, swivel, and tilt. The monitor is loaded with connectors (including an HDMI port) and features, such as a webcam. Reviewers are very impressed by all you get for the price, and think the BenQ FP241W is a great value. It is PC and Mac compatible.