Dell 2208WFP, Samsung 225TW, another 19" or...

[KLC]

I'm building a new system, the old one will be given to the kids. It is for general home use and specifically for processing digital pictures with Photoshop/Lightroom and editing home videos, no gaming.

I've bought everything except the new monitor. Here's my situation:

I have a Dell Ultrasharp 1905 flat panel. It is a great monitor, no problems with viewing angles, bright even colors, no complaints except we really would like more real estate for photoshop and video editing pallettes as well as being able to do double page layouts in print shop type applications.

I use a 20" LCD at work (NEC 2090 UXi) and I don't like the size of things at the native resolution, it's just too small. So I've ruled out 20" monitors.

22" seems like the perfect size for our needs but I'm aware of the TN panel limitations on viewing angle, etc. I'm afraid I'll see a drop in quality from my current monitor but there are also many apparently satisfied users of these panels. Since viewing angle is so critical I've decided that it has to have height adjustment, I don't want to stick it on stacks of books, I want to fine tune the viewing angle for the best results. So I'm thinking of the Dell 2208WFP or the Samsung 225TW. Both have adjustable heights, I've been happy with my previous Dell and Samsung has a good reputation. Why not the Sam 226? I looked at it and just didn't like it. The 225 is simple, boring, and many reviews comment on the good text quality of this monitor.

24" panels would seem to be the solution to the dilemma but most are out of my price range. I've convinced myself I could spend up to $500 on the monitor but the ones with good ratings seem to be 600+. Any suggestions on a quality 24" for $500?

After reading many reviews I thought I should just buy a Samsung 215TW but the stock of this model has apparently run out, no one has one that I could find.

Finally, I've thought about just buying another good 19", but then I'm back to the real estate problem.

I'd appreciate any help, thanks in advance.

 

[oeuf]

A refurbished Dell 24" perhaps? I have Dell 24" (I forget the letter arrangement) but it's a very nice monitor. I got it during one of their many sales (which you should keep an eye out for) and got it shipped for about $650. I initially didn't want to spend the money for a 24" but at the time both my 21" CRT's were dying and I just took the plunge, I didn't regret it. Now i'm actually itching for a 30". I too, like to have alot of screen real estate. I work with 3d apps, compositing apps, as well as pshop and illustrator.

 

[KLC]

I hadn't thought of the Dell Outlet. But I just checked and right now they only have 17 and 19 inch panels.

 

[KLC]

Any opinions or experience with the LG L246WP-BW?

I was at Fry's today and they have it for $520 but I haven't been able to get much information googling it.

 

[ClockHound]

Originally posted by: KLC
Any opinions or experience with the LG L246WP-BW?

I was at Fry's today and they have it for $520 but I haven't been able to get much information googling it.

It's a great value for the price. Uses a P-MVA panel. Big thread about it at:HardForum
It's EOL, so you can't wait too long.
Only other sub $500 MVA screen is the Westy L2410NM, but it has more Q/C issues. Big thread: Westy at HardForum
BestBuy has it on sale as low as $369.

 

[Dari]

Just take the hit on the 24" now. You'll thank yourself later. It really is worth it.

 

[Dkcode]

Originally posted by: KLC
Any opinions or experience with the LG L246WP-BW?

I was at Fry's today and they have it for $520 but I haven't been able to get much information googling it.

I have the L245WP and its an absolutely fantastic monitor. I have owned many TFT monitors and not one of them pleased me as much as this did on initial use. The quality of the L245/6 is high throughout and i don't think you could get a better monitor other than the NEC 2690UXi.

 

[KLC]

Thanks for the comments and help. After looking at several 22" TN monitors at Fry's, Best Buy and Costco I think I would be disappointed in the view angles and picture quality after using the Dell 1905.

Here is one more 24" in the $500 dollar range:

HP L2465 $620 with a $75 rebate.

Any opinions on which would be better, the LG or the HP? I'm more familiar with HP in general and their newer TN monitors seem to get generally positive reviews. I know it's more of an office type product but that is OK with me, I like the simpler lines and it will only be used as a PC monitor, not gaming or movies.