LCD monitors that do non-native rez well?

[pheroy]

I'm just starting to look at LCD monitors in the 17" size range. This is actually for a secondary monitor on my HTPC system, not my main system, though it might see some use in traveling to a LAN party once a year. Because this PC is running at strictly XGA 1024 x 768 resolution to support a projector, that is what the LCD monitor will need to operate at. One thing I've noticed in user comments about many 17" monitors is that they don't do that well for non-native resolutions. Since virtually all 17" monitors use a 1280 x 1024 panel, this might mean I'd need to drop down to a 15" monitor. That would save a few bucks but lose flexibility in other ways.

Understandably, most online reviews don't put a lot of focus on running lower resolutions. So, is there anyone who can suggest a monitor that scales 1024 x 768 well to a native 1280 x 1024 panel?

 

[Falloutboy]

all the ones I"ve use are pretty much the same. I hate running at non native res on the desktop but when gaming its not that bad because it usally does a nice job scailing and it usually softens up the image some which usually kinda acts like AA

 

[gcogger]

Bear in mind that if you drop to 1024x768, everything will be stretched vertically since it's a different aspect ratio. I sometimes do this in games and it's quite noticeable, although you soon forget about it.

 

[Nebor]

That is the one thing I hated about KOTOR, only 1280x960 was available. Worst thing about that game.

 

[jiffylube1024]

I'd recommend buying a 15" panel if 1024X768 is needed; even LCD's that are "good" at scaling down resolutions (like the Samsung 172X) aren't great - they still need to change the aspect ratio from 1280's 1.25 to all other resolutions' 1.33, and they still are now using some type of scaling to make a lower number of pixels appear on the LCD than are actually in the crystals of the LCD itself.

I don't see what flexibility you would be losing for a monitor that needs to be run at 1024X768 all the time; in fact, it should be better because it will save even more space.

However, if it is going to be running a projector, just how often will you even need to see the LCD? Probably just for setting up the projector, right? If so, does it matter if the resolution looks a bit 'ugly' for the 30 seconds or so it takes to get the projector running?

 

[VIAN]

I don't even know what moron thought of 5:4 resolution.

Why would you shrink the width widescreen is superior. Many of you probably like widescreen, doesn't this 5:4 annoy you?

Shizz, I want 2:1 screen up in here.