Should I Buy An LCD Monitor?

Written By:  Jeff H. Reynolds

My customers ask me every week whether or not they should purchase an LCD flat screen panel/monitor or just stick with the traditional CRT type monitor. 

The answer to the question isn't so simple to answer.  There are a few considerations that should be kept in mind. 

For me... I still use the traditional CRT type monitor.  I have a nice 17" Gateway monitor that is sharp, crisp, and gives me a perfect image.   Sometimes I think about switching... but, I have not found an LCD monitor that I'm happy with yet.

LCD screens are handy.  They don't take up much room... can be mounted on the wall etc....  They also don't typically use nearly as much energy as the traditional CRT type monitor.  Given today's electricity prices... this is something to keep in mind.  And, LCD screens do not emit radiation which everyone should be concerned about to some degree.

But, LCD screens are not known to have the display quality (sharpness, crispness, brillant colors etc...), that traditional CRT monitors have today.  If you are a gamer, this is definately something to think about.  Of course, LCD screens vary significantly from brand to brand and from model to model.  For instance, the contrast ratio can vary from 300:1 to 600:1 while the price may vary only by $50 or $75 if at all. 

Also, if your computer and screen is going to be placed where it is explosed to lots of sunlight... you might want to pass on the LCD display.  The traditional CRT monitor will generally have a much brighter and more clear screen in those instances.

You can purchase (nice) used 15" LCD monitors for less than $100.  But, you can purchase (nice) used 17" traditional CRT monitors for about $35.