Choosing a LCD monitor requires different knowledge from choosing a CRT monitor. They are different technology and cannot be compared in the same way. The following are the things that you should look out for when choosing a LCD monitor.

Resolution

LCD monitors work differently from its CRT counterpart. Its screen display is based on a fixed matrix of horizontal and vertical pixel. As such, LCD monitor works best only at the resolution they are designed for, which is known as the native resolution. If you change the resolution settings, the image and quality will suffer.

If you are looking for a LCD monitor, choose the one with a native resolution that suit your needs.

If you need to change your resolution regularly, getting a CRT monitor might be a better bet.

Response Time

The response time is the measurement of how fast each pixel can change color. It determines whether or not LCDs can clearly show full-motion video without smearing or ghosting.

In fast-paced games, ghosting may occur on slower monitors due to the action being faster than the monitor can keep up with. Therefore, it is more desirable for gamer to get a LCD monitor with a fast response time to prevent any ghosting effect that might occur. The price of the LCD monitor usually increases with a faster response time. Currently in the market, the fastest response time for LCD monitor is 2ms and it costs 50-70% more than the typical 8ms LCDs.

Generally, a LCD monitor with 20ms response time or less is sufficient for normal daily use and video viewing. For gamer, it is preferably to get LCD monitor with response time less than 8ms.

Contrast Ratio

Contrast ratio measures the differences in brightness levels between the brightest white and the darkest black pixel. A good contrast ratio of 120:1 easily displays vivid colors, while ratios as high as 300:1 support superior grayscaling.

A high contrast ratio means that the image colors are more distinct and more detail can be displayed. Typically, contrast ratios range from 450:1 to 600:1. Any LCD monitor with contrast ratio less than 450:1 is not desired.

Viewing Angle

One disadvantage of LCD monitor is that it has a limited viewing angle. Viewing angle refers to the degree of angle at which you can view the screen and still see defined and accurate images. When you stand off center to view the LCD screen, it is most likely that you can only see faded images. CRT monitor do not has this problem.

Choosing a LCD monitor with greater viewing angle will be more desirable in this case.

Recommendation

For gamer who are getting, a LCD monitor, it is best to get one with 2ms response time, 1280×1024 resolution and contrast ratio 650:1 will be great. A good LCD montior I strongly recommend is Niko 1920W 19 Widescreen LCD . It has a clear and bright display and image quality is excellent. Value for money.

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