How well do LCDs scale in resolution

[deveraux]

Hi all!

I am considering getting a new LCD since my current monitor is an old CRT (which I love btw since it can do amazing resolutions despite being on 17"). I will be using this monitor for my next com as well so I don't mind splashing some cash on it.

However, what I don't usually do is upgrade any part of my computer for a good 2.5 - 3yrs when I change the whole rig. So as usual, I will start off playing games at high resolutions but slowly start scaling them down with new games. What I want to know is how well do LCDs handle games not running in their native resolutions? Does it look horrible or is it still quite bearable? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated as well as which model of LCD I should get.

Thanks

 

[imported_Computer MAn]

I believe running an LCD at its non native resolutions degrades the image qualtiy making it look blury or stretched out. It is more noticable to some people then others but as a general rule it is not optimal to run LCD's at there non native resolutions

 

[igowerf]

I don't think it's too bad to run in 1024 in my 1800FP (natively supports 1280x1024). It's like getting free FSAA. 😛

 

[sunase]

I don't mind non-native for movies or games. It's bad if you're doing something involving lots of text/web browsing/etc., though. LCDs have gotten much better at scaling over the years, btw. If the last time you saw it happen was years ago, get another look before buying. I suspect they use subpixel rendering and better algorithms now or something (I have a 5 year old laptop that does absolutely terrible scaling, but a newer one that's great).

 

[Tab]

Certain LCDs have opition where they'll fill the aspect ratio or you can manually configure the screen.

The more you go out of the defined spec the worse it looks, but its not like its unreadable... I rarely go out of 1280x1024.