Using a TV as a monitor & vice versa

[Thetech]

What would the pros and cons be for using a nice LCD TV as a computer monitor or using
an LCD computer monitor for a TV? I've thought about doing this for a while but I am
not sure of the cons though.

Thanks

 

[Billb2]

TV monitors usually have lower resolution that computer monitors.
Resolution means how many dots there are across the screen from side to side, and from top to bottom (as in 1280 x 1024).

Go sit 18" away from the TV you plan to use as a monitor and see if if it looks sharp at that disance.

And be aware that you have asked a very complex question that is difficult to answer completely in a few words, other than to say "that depends."

 

[SSChevy2001]

Many people on this forum are using HDTV as computer monitors just fine. I paid $550 for my Westhinghouse 37" a couple years ago, and IMO it was a great purchase. Right away you'll get the enjoyment of gaming and watch movies on a nice big screen. Also it's nice to use the PIP to watch a show plus game at the same time.

The big limit currently is resolution and aspect ratio. ( 1080P - 16/9 ). Also you just need to find a proper size to distance ratio. Don't go less than 1080P and you should be fine.

My next PC monitor will again be a HDTV.

 

[Infrnl]

I us a HDTV for monitor as well and has better resolution and pic quality than my 20"

As long as its a 1080P there will be no issues; plus you have many inputs for other use.

Also for a pc monitor comparable in size to say a 32" the HDTV will be much much cheaper if you look for the deals.

I have a Samsung LN32A550 1080P which sold for $1200 locally. I paid $650. show me where you can get a good 30" monitor for close to that and have the same picture quality.

Also keep in mind that on a 30" monitor will have to upscale to get higher res than native and will not be any better than 1080P. I dont know the specifics, but I read something on it yesterday. If I come across it again I will post it here.

For the money I think there is more value in a HDTV

EDIT: wanted to add that for larger monitors; HDTV would be a better deal IMO. I dont think you can get 1080P untill youu get a 32" possibly 26", but a 26" may cost a little more than a pc monito but will have more options. anything below this; I think a pc montor will provide you with higher res for the price

 

[Thetech]

Thanks for the info guys. Just to help clarify things (I should have stated this from the get go) I understand tech speak.
I know pixels and resoloution etc. (Thank you for taking the time to explain though Billb2). I like the Idea of just having an LCD HDTV.
But I just wasn't sure how they compare quality wise to a monitor. At first I'll be using it for my Wii and then eventually for a lower midrange gaming pc I
plan on building.

 

[WaitingForNehalem]

you'll have a much larger dot pitch

 

[AstroManLuca]

Another possible problem is that a lot of TVs use an overscan image - that is, the image spills off of either side. You can usually configure it to look right though.

And if you're using it as a monitor, I'd definitely say you'll want a 1080p LCD. LCDs have the sharpest, most defined pixels, and 1080p is way more useful than 720p for use as a monitor.

I have a 32" 720p LCD and I'm happy with it and I even use it as a monitor sometimes, but it's not good enough to use full time.

 

[Tempered81]

LCD tv's work great. Just make sure its 1080P as most are saying.

 

[Thetech]

How much would 120Hz really matter on an LCD TV?

*Edit* Made a new post in the correct area (Home theater) regarding THIS specific question *Edit*