Computer flat-panel buying tips
Flat-panel is a relatively new technology when compared to the CRT or standard monitor technology and is now available for desktop computers. With new technology comes new important considerations to look at when purchasing a flat-panel solution.
Technology
Before looking at what configurations you need to look for when purchasing a computer flat-panel, it is important to know if you want a CRT or a flat-panel and LCD monitor.
CRT Today, one of the most commonly used technologies for computer monitors. CRT, or Cathode Ray Tube, is a technology much like what you will find on most TVs. CRT monitors are an affordable solution but are bulky and very heavy.
Tips on buying a monitor is available on our monitor buying tips page.
LCD LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display, monitors are similar to what is found on portable computers. LCD monitors overall display much sharper of an image, are lighter and more space efficient; however, they are much more of an expensive solution for desktop displays.
Size
Dimensional Size When looking at LCD and Flat-panel displays, one of the most noticeable and considerable reasons for purchasing a Flat-panel is its size. As you will see, a Flat-panel display is about 1-2 inches deep.
Screen Size - When looking at Flat-panel displays, the screen size is measured differently from a standard monitor. Standard monitors are measured from the bottom left of the screen to the top right of the screen including any of the surrounding plastic or casing. However, when measuring an LCD, the actual viewable area is measured. The below chart is a comparison of an LCD sizes and the general comparison to CRT (standard monitor) displays.
| LCD | CRT |
| 13.5" | 15" |
| 14.5" - 15" | 17" |
| 18" | 21" |
Resolution
Resolution is the maximum resolution of pixels capable of being shown horizontally x vertically. Be cautious when purchasing a monitor at any size that advertises a large resolution size, such as 1,600 x 1,200 for a 15" monitor.
Some monitor manufacturers may allow for such high resolutions at a high cost but most users never need such resolutions. As the monitor increases in size, the image display decreases; below is a listing of a usable resolution limit by the size of the monitor.
15" - 800 x 600 or 1,024 x 768
17" - 1,280 x 1,024
19" - 1,280 x 1024
21" - 1,600 x 1,200
Other considerations
Refresh rate When purchasing a flat-panel or LCD, the refresh rate is not important.
Display angle With an LCD, it is very difficult and sometimes impossible to see from any angle besides straight on. If you plan on using the display for DVD movies where other people may be watching the same screen, you may want to consider a CRT instead of a flat-panel display.
Backlight Unlike a good CRT, a flat-panel LCD is backlit and the light must pass though polarization filters and other layers before emerging from the display. This is why most LCDs are not as bright as a CRT.
Flat display A flat-panel, unlike any CRT, is truly flat. Some manufacturers may advertise a CRT as being a flat display, but they always have some curvature.
Controls When purchasing a flat-panel or LCD, you may find that there are not many controls to adjust the display. It is normal to expect very few and sometimes one or two buttons used to adjust the display.
Price range
When purchasing a flat-panel or LCD, you should expect to pay more than a CRT monitor, as this is a new and improved technology. Below is what you should expect to pay by size of display.
14" display: $500 or less
15" display: $600 - $1,200
18" display: $900 - $3,000
22" display: $3,000 or more
Ready to buy
Once you are ready to make a purchase of a flat-panel, make sure you are buying from a reputable source and you have reviewed our section on what to look out for when purchasing over the Internet.
Computer Hope is ready to help you with issues you may encounter during the purchase and installation of your flat-panel, regardless if you purchase through us or another vendor.
To help support Computer Hope, purchase directly through our well-known associate, Amazon. Click the browse button below to browse through the flat-panel section.
