How to Choose Desktop Computer Monitors

Choosing a desktop computer monitor is a process best left to the user of the particular computer because of the many options available. Choosing just the right computer monitor depends on your needs and the specifications of the desktop computer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine your overall needs. Space is the major concern for many and the desktop footprint is crucial for a comfortable workspace.

2. Consider CRT or flat screen computer monitors. CRT monitors are the large and heavy units that have a glass tube construction and look similar to older televisions. Newer flat screen monitors are extremely light, liquid crystal displays that resemble small HDTV sets.

3. Look for a unit that has passed an energy usage test. CRT computer monitors use a great deal of power whereas LCD or flat panel models can greatly reduce the amount of energy needed to power the screen.

4. Inspect the video card in the desktop computer. Many graphic cards offer a DVI or digital video interface, which provides a crisper, cleaner and truer picture to the monitor. Many DVI models boost high definition capabilities as well.

5. Think about how you use the desktop computer. Computers that you use to watch movies or television may require a larger monitor or even a wide screen model. For simple office tasks, a non-wide screen monitor may be better. Measure screen size in inches diagonally from corner to corner.

6. Calculate the refresh rates of desktop computer monitors and the brightness. Monitors used for gaming require higher refresh rates and a higher brightness level.

Tips & Warnings

• Office monitors require a refresh rate of 60-hertz or higher to prevent eyestrain.
• Save desk space by choosing a flat panel monitor. These units take up less than half that of a traditional CRT monitor.
• Never try to lift or move a large CRT monitor without assistance.