Dell Vs. Apple LCD

Most Mac users often seek to add an additional monitor to their computer set-ups. So an Apple monitor seems to be the first logical choice. However, Dell has been making quality computer monitors for a long time now also. There are many differences between the different monitors that should be considered before buying. Also, if you are not a Mac user, there are some things that you should know about Apple monitors before purchasing.

Selection

Dell monitors are the clear winner in terms of selection. Apple currently has a total of two different types of monitors that they sell. Dell on the other hand has over 160 choices throughout their monitor selection. Apple offers a 24-inch LED Cinema Display as well as a 30-inch LCD Cinema HD Display, not a whole lot of selection. Dell offers a wide selection of monitors ranging from 18.5 inches to 30 inches.

Lack of monitor choices by Apple is the clear difference-maker in this comparison.

Specs

Because Dell has so many monitors to choose from, it would take forever to list the specs of each individual monitor. However, the great majority of Dell monitors feature widescreen LCD displays with build in DVI and VGA connectivity options. Some of their newer models also incorporate a distinct HDMI connection as well. Apple's 24-inch LED Cinema Display features a triple interface connection. The triple interface connection includes an Apple Magsafe power adapter, Mini DisplayPort connector and USB connector. The Magsafe power adapter is used to charge Apple notebooks for use with this monitor. The USB connector is used to expand the USB ports on Apple laptops to the display. The display features a built-in USB hub on the back, so this connector is necessary if you want to use that feature. The Mini DisplayPort is what allows the monitor to connect to a computer. One thing to note: the Apple 24-inch LED Cinema Display will only work with newer Apple laptops that have a Mini DisplayPort connection. Apple's 30-inch LCD Cinema Display will work with Mac and PC computers via a DVI connection.

Dell's entire monitor selection features great resolution for the price. However, they all differ slightly in actual specs due to the numerous models and screen sizes available. The Apple 24-inch LED Cinema Display features a resolution of 1920 x 1200, making it ideal for use with the newer Apple laptops. Apple's 30-inch LCD Cinema Display supports a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1600, making it useful for a variety of different computers and graphics card set-ups.

Design

There is no lack of design on the Apple monitors. The 24-inch LED Cinema Display is very stylish and features edge-to-edge glass surfacing. The front portion of the monitor is a glossy black finish, and the rear portion of the monitor is a flat grey color; a color combination that works very well with each other. Apple's 30-inch LCD Monitor is one of the few monitors on the market that features a full aluminum design. The entire monitor is encased in a durable aluminum finish. This monitor also looks very stylish and futuristic. Apple has always done very well as far as the art and design that they put into their products. If you are a Mac user, and looking for your monitor to match the rest of your computer set-up, their is no better choice then an Apple monitor.

Dell's monitor designs are very sleek. Dell's monitors look comparable to other monitor companies. Because Dell offers so many monitors, they obviously have several different designs and structures. The majority of Dell monitors are black in color and have a very minimalistic look to them. Dell monitors will look good with any computer.

Price Value

Price is always a hard comparison to make with Apple products. If you are on any type of a budget, Dell is definitely the way to go. Dell monitors start at $89 and go up to $1,700. The two monitors that Apple offers are priced at $1,799 for the 30-inch and $899 for the 24-inch.

To do a basic comparison of monitor price with features, the closest monitor that Dell offers to the Apple 24-inch is its SX2210 model. The Dell SX2210 looks very similar to the Apple 24-inch, with the exception that it is a 21.5-inch monitor. It has a build-in web-cam as well as glass-to-glass screen. The SX2210 is priced at $199. The Apple 24-inch is priced at $899. You could purchase four Dell SX2210's for the price of one Apple 24-inch. Dell is the clear winner in value.

To do a basic comparison of monitor price with features, the closest monitor that Dell offers to the Apple 30-inch is its 3007WFP-HC model. The Dell 3007WFP-HC does not look anything like the Apple 30-inch. However, they offer the same basic features and screen size. The 3007WFP-HC is priced at $1,079. The Apple 30-inch is priced at $1,700. So, there is an over $600 difference in price between the two. You could purchase the Dell 3007WFP-HC as well as a Dell 24-inch monitor for the same price of one Apple 30-inch display.

Dell and Apple

Both companies have made very reputable names for themselves over the last decade. They are both very good companies to buy from compared to many others in the industry. If you are looking for variety and want more options for your monitor, your best bet is Dell. Dell also clearly offers the better price. If you can afford an Apple monitor, and are looking to buy a quality product that will match the rest of your Apple computer peripherals, the Apple monitor is for you.

References

• Apple Monitors: Prices, Features
• Dell Monitors: Prices, Features