Flat panels for $1000, Alex

[azkiwi]

I'm shopping LCDs and have narrowed it down to

Compaq TFT 8030
Viewsonic VG 191
Viewsonic VP 181
Planar 18.1

The Compaq is the most expensive, the VG91 has great spec's but some have concerns about MVA technology, the Planar is well liked but doesn't have the greatest response time or contrast.

I want an 18" screen at least, and while I am mostly doing text-based apps and web graphics, some gaming is inevitable and I want it go a few years without feeling its 'old tech'.

Anyone out there have any experience with any of these?

 

[wluk]

how about the sony SDM-M81?

 

[azkiwi]

I did look at the Sony M81. WHile its specs aren't as good as the Viewsonic (and I don't know what the response time is) I generally consider Sony computers to be fairly over priced for what you get - its usually top dollar for solid second tier products.

 

[XMan]

Dell 2000fp. It's more than $1000, but it's supposed to be awesome. 25ms response, 20" screen, DVI, etc., etc.

 

[Yoshi]

I actually own the Planar 18.1 and have no complaints. It offers a bright display that IMO it great for text and viewing pictures, text is very sharp especially when using the DVI input and it remains sharp all they way up to the displays native resolution of 1280x1024. As for gaming, this display works just fine for that as well. The 50ms avereage response time seems to get the job done. Finally, you cannot beat the price of this LCD ($940 USD at dell.com).

Also, I have seen the above mentioned Sony LCD and it looks good as well. Have not played any games on it though.

 

[azkiwi]

The Dell 2000fp looks sweet, but $1700 is a bit beyond me. It will probably be a $1000 screen in 6 months though...

 

[Apex]

I bought my Dell 2000fp for $1229 shipped about a month ago. It's an incredible LCD. Of that list the VG191 is probably the best choice. The response time of the TFT8030 rocks though.

 

[azkiwi]

I'd be interested to hear about your screen. Do you use it for gaming (any ghosting?) What apps do you use? What did it replace? Sounds like you got the smokin' deal.

 

[Apex]

azkiwi,

The Dell 2000fp is $1334.20 shipped right now after the discounts, coupon, and free shipping. As an added bonus, it's in dell's home office section, means most people don't pay tax. It's definitely the one to get in this price range.