People, sometimes, use the terms 'monitor' and 'computer' interchangeably, but the two are not the same in practice. A monitor is a commonly used output device for displaying information in the form of text and graphics on the computer. from:Monitor Buying Guide People, sometimes, use the terms 'monitor' and 'computer' interchangeably, but the two are not the same in practice. A monitor is a commonly used output device for displaying information in the form of text and graphics on the computer. In simple terms, monitor is a TV like screen that lets you view information and also makes interaction with your computer possible. There are myriads of brands of monitors available like Samsung, ViewSonic, Sony, LG, HP, Acer and more. Now comes the important question! What should you look for in a monitor? The text below will help you find the answer and make the apt choice.

Select the type you want to purchase.

before choosing from who to buy the monitor from any leading Compare price Site you should check the following:

Cathode ray tube (CRT) and flat-panel Liquid crystal display (LCD) monitors are the two types available to you. Before making a choice, you should identify the features you are looking for, the applications you intend to run on your computer, and the amount of space you can provide for your monitor. Let us now compare the two types.

1. CRT Monitors - The capabilities of handling multiple resolutions, superior response time and instant color updation on fast moving games and videos, good view angles and control over color calibration (graphic artists) make CRTs the most prevalent type. CRT monitors are also budget friendly. On the flip side, they are bulky and require a lot of room to fit in. When space is not a constraint and you are looking for a cheaper option, CRT is the right choice.

2. LCD Monitors - Designed to occupy minimal space, LCDs are generally found in laptops and in work places where space is limited. Not only are they thin and weigh light, they also consume about half the power a CRT does, offer superior brightness and emit much less radiation. They also offer flicker/distortion free performance when you sit right in front and look directly in to the screen. However, LCD monitors are expensive and can give a distorted view when you go past the viewing angle.

Choose the monitor size

A monitor's size is measured diagonally from one corner to the other and the unit of measurement is inches. A CRT monitor not only measures in width but also measures more or less the same in depth. Thus, you should also check for space requirements if you have decided on a CRT monitor.

A very small screen renders inconvenience. It strains the eyes, fits in less information and requires you to constantly scroll back and forth the screen. You should choose a size that lets you to read text with ease and also fits information comfortably. A 17" inch monitor is good enough for office use. If you intend to use your computer for gaming or for watching movies and if space is not a constraint, choose a larger monitor. When space is a check, you can go in for an LCD monitor. LCD monitors do not have depth.

Choice of resolution

Screen resolution is measured in pixels per inch (ppi) or dots per inch (dpi) and is the number of pixels used to draw an image on your screen. Higher the resolution, more is the pixels per inch and finer is the detail on your monitor. Images or text appear smaller and more information can fit in. While, CRT monitors handle multiple resolutions, LCDs are designed to support just one. However, increasing the resolution does not necessarily mean a better picture. The resolution you choose also depends on the size of your monitor. For example, A 1024 x 768 or 1280 x 1024 resolution is comfortable on a 17" monitor. Whereas, having a resolution of 1280 x 1024 on a small 15" monitor will make text appear illegible.

Know the 'dot pitch'

Measured in millimeters, 'dot pitch' is the distance between the adjacent sets of red/green/blue dots on your monitor screen. Lesser the dot pitch, sharper or clearer are the images displayed. A value of 0.26 mm or lower is good for CRTs. LCDs depend on contrast ratio for clarity measurement.

Know the 'contrast ratio' for an LCD monitor

This factor comes into play only with LCD monitors. It is a measure of the difference in light intensity between the brightest white and the darkest black. Higher contrast ratios being desirable, you should ideally choose an LCD with contrast ratio exceeding 400:1.

Check the refresh rate

Refresh rate is the frequency with which your monitor refreshes and redraws an image every second on your screen and is measured in Hertz (Hz.). Higher the refresh rate, lesser is the flicker and strain on your eyes. A refresh rate of 60 Hz (moderate) - 75 Hz (good), is desirable when you play games on your computer.

Versatility of adjustability options & controls

Check if your monitor allows for adjustability options like lowering or raising the screen for working comfortably without spraining your neck or back. You should also ensure the presence of utility controls like vertical/horizontal alignment, contrast, brightness, zoom and more either in the form of buttons on the face or an on screen menu.

Check the power consumption

Ensure that your monitor is energy star compliant, capable of switching itself off when it is left idle. This reduces the overall power consumption. To check for electromagnetic emissions, find out if your monitor conforms to the Swedish TCO or MPR II certifications to be classified as 'low emission'.

Miscellaneous features

Certain monitors also possess certain useful features like built in audio speakers, USB ports for making additional connections to your computer, A/V inputs and the like.

If such features are of utility to you, choose a monitor that provides these.

A careful co-relation of the points above with what you are looking for in your monitor will help you make the right pick at www.GetPrice.com.au Australias leadign price comparison & Product review Site.