Monitor Buying Guide

So you've decided to get a new monitor. Whether you're buying it as a replacement, an additional monitor, or it will be coming with your system, there a few basic things to check on. Most monitors you will find on the market these days are flat panels. They save space on your desk, and look just as good if not better than your standard CRT. Monitors can be very much a matter of personal preference, but price can be a compelling factor. Remember, however, that you often get what you pay for in the world of technology. This isn't to say that you can't find a good deal on a monitor, but knowing what you're looking for will go a long way.

The most basic choice when it comes to monitors is size. A 30-inch monitor always sounds good, but is it practical? Take into account your space considerations on your desk. Is this even feasible? Most users have a monitor in the range from 17 to 21 inches. These "standard" sizes are relatively inexpensive, especially in comparison to their larger cousins, but price also depends on features and functionality as well.

Screen resolution is another important factor when choosing a monitor. Most users utilize a screen resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels, but this again is a matter of personal preference. Many people prefer a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels because of the larger size of icons and text on the screen. Whatever your preference, make sure your monitor supports that resolution.

Available refresh rates are also an important factor. Most current monitors operate at 60Hz or 75Hz. The higher the refresh rate, the faster your monitor refreshes the image on the screen. Setting the refresh rate higher can also help alleviate some of those headaches one can get from staring at a screen too long.