- Color quality: Notice how accurately the monitor reproduces
colors. The weight given to this factor depends on the purpose
for which the monitor is being used. If it is primarily used for
word processing or similar functions, this factor may be
relatively unimportant. If it is used primarily for graphic
design then it may be relatively important.
- Image quality: Observe whether the image displayed on the
monitor appears well focused. A distortion-free image is very
important.
- Ergonomics: Adjustment controls (such as the brightness and
contrast buttons) should well-placed and easy to use. The
monitor should have a range of motion that permits relatively
effortless tilting and swiveling. Make sure that there is
sufficient room within your workspace to accommodate the
monitor and its base.
- Size: Fourteen-inch monitors were the standard a few years
ago but the technology has advanced (and the price has
declined) so that your minimum purchase should probably be
a 15-inch monitor. If you spend most of your time working at
resolutions no higher than 800x600, a 15-inch monitor should
provide you with enough room for applications such as word
processing and database entry. If you work at resolutions of
1024x768 or higher, you're probably better off with a 17-inch
monitor.
- High refresh rates: These help eliminate screen flicker. For
most people, a rate of 72Hz to 75Hz is enough to achieve the
desired results; a rate less than 70Hz will result in obvious
flicker and can lead to eyestrain and headaches
- If possible, don't buy a monitor sight unseen. Find a store
where you can test and compare a number of models. Check
for margins of black around the screen edges. Ideally, the
image should fill the screen from top to bottom and left to
right, and should be adjustable. Check also for color
distortion and poor convergence on the edges of the screen,
and see if the controls improve what you see.
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