How to Buy an LCD Flat Panel Computer Monitor

In recent years, LCD flat panel computer monitors have become very popular for use with desktop computers. Most LCD monitors on the market are much larger than CRT monitors, have a widescreen display and are capable of displaying images in very high resolution. If you want to replace your old CRT monitor with an LCD flat panel monitor, you'll need to shop around to get the best deal. Fortunately, LCD computer monitor prices are lower than ever, and there are plenty of places where you can buy them, both in stores and online.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Compare LCD computer monitor screen sizes. Smaller LCD flat panel computer monitors come in sizes of 17 through 22 inches. Larger monitors come in sizes up to 24 inches. Consider what you'll be using the monitor for. If you use your computer primarily for common tasks such as checking email and downloading files from the Internet, a 19 or 20 inch LCD computer monitor will probably do fine. However, if you're a graphic designer, a video editor, a hardcore computer gamer, or if you like to watch movies or multitask on your computer, you may need a larger sized LCD monitor.

2. Compare screen brightness in different LCD computer monitors. If you're using the computer for work or for gaming, screen brightness is an important factor in buying an LCD computer monitor. However, if you're planning to use the LCD monitor to view movies and other multimedia, the ability of the viewscreen to produce deep, true blacks may be more important.

3. Check the energy efficiency of the LCD computer monitors. The biggest LCD computer monitors will use more energy, driving up your electric bill. Check EnergyStar.gov for a list of LCD computer monitors that have received Energy Star certification. Also check the LCD monitor's energy specifications on the manufacturer's website.

4. Check the LCD monitor's connection options. Most computers have an analog VGA output port on the display adapter, which most LCD computer monitors support. However, you can also use digital video interface (DVI) to connect your computer to the LCD monitor, if both your computer and monitor support it. Another connection option is high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), which you can use to connect your LCD monitor to high-definition equipment such as an HD cable or satellite receiver, Blu-ray player or video game console.

5. Compare the features. Many LCD monitors come with additional features such as built-in speakers, adjustable stands, non-reflective screen coatings, memory card readers, a widescreen display and USB ports. Review the specifications of the LCD computer monitor to ensure that it has the features you want and need, but don't pay extra for a fancy LCD monitor that has features you will never use.

Tips & Warnings

• If your computer is 5 years old or older, its graphics card may not be powerful enough to display high-resolution images on an LCD monitor. If the screen resolution doesn't look right after you install the LCD flat panel monitor, upgrade your graphics card to one that is compatible with the monitor's recommended display resolution.

Resources

• How to Buy the Best Hard Drive for Your Desktop Computer
• How to Free Hard Drive Space on Your Computer
• How to Speed Up Internet Downloads for Free
• How to Test Internet Download Speed
• Read my latest articles
• Get updates when I write new articles
• Energy Star LCD flat panel computer monitors

[godfather25]

on 9/9/2009 Great tips on buying a LCD flat pane computer monitor.