Highest resolution vs. Optimum resolution

[Kaadg]

I see lots of CRT specs that give their highest resolution and their optimum resolution. So does this mean if you run the monitor at the highest resolution the picture quality degrades?

When I run my monitor at it's highest resolution, it seems to work just as well as the lowest resolution; so what is the point of the "Optimum Resolution"?

Kaad_g

 

[Malak]

I think it's based on size of the monitor. A bigger monitor would work better with a higher resolution. I prefer 1280x960 on my 19in CRT.

 

[Kaadg]

There are many monitors that are the same size but have different "recommended" resolutions. They seem to be based on their highest resolution capability.

For instance, here is a Dell 2125B with the highest resolution at 1600 x 1200 @ 85 Hz and a optimum resolution at 1280 x 1024 @ 85 Hz.
http://shop4.outpost.com/product/4168053?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

But then you have this Dell P1130 at 2048 x 1536 max and 1600 x 1200 recommended.
http://www.azatek.com/details.asp?iid=483

But I still don't understand what makes the recommended resolution "optimum"

Kaad_g

 

[Kaadg]

BTW, both of those monitors above are 21 inch

Kaad_g

 

[rbV5]

Another question would be why the "Optimal" resolution is 5:4, when I would bet that it is a 4:3 display?

"A flat display is ideal for intensive applications such as CAD/CAM, web, and 3-D design programs that require highly accurate renditions."

Resolution:
Optimal: 1280x1024 @ 85 Hz
Highest: 1600x1200 @ 85 Hz

 

[Kaadg]

Ahh, I never thought about that. Still, why is there a recommended resolution for each monitor? Perhaps it's because the monitor has a difficult time maintaining the same quality when operating at it's maximum possible resolution.

Kaad_g

 

[BFG10K]

Usually optimum is the best combination of resolution and refresh rate. If you're willing to go to a lower refresh rate then there's nothing wrong with using a higher resolution.

 

[Kaadg]

I think that's it. The combination of high resolution and high refresh rate.

Thanks BFG10K

Kaad_g

 

[VirtualLarry]

Originally posted by: BFG10K
Usually optimum is the best combination of resolution and refresh rate. If you're willing to go to a lower refresh rate then there's nothing wrong with using a higher resolution.

:thumbsup:

"Optimum" takes into account ergonomic factors like refresh-rate. Plus, lower-end CRTs may have paper-spec high-res modes (1600x1200), but they may not have a worthwhile display quality or refresh-rate to make them usable.