It wasn’t that long ago when we can remember how expensive the first generation of flat screen monitors were. It was not unusual to pay up to $1000 for a 17” non-widescreen size display. And the quality wasn’t even close to what you will find now today for a quarter of that price. These days, it's all about the 16:9 HD quality, low response time and pixel quality.
Size does matterThe 22” monitor has long been the sweet spot for gamers and casual internet users over the last 24 months. Prices have come down steadily over that time and a decent BenQ or Asus 22” model can now be had for around $250 at some cost cutting outlets; a bargain if you’ve been waiting to make that size upgrade.
The price is rightHowever, based on this week’s price watch, were now fairly confident to announce that a price breakthrough for 24” monitors has finally been achieved. The cheapest model we found this week was a
slightly defective AOC model, advertised with 3 dead pixels (or less) at
IT-estate for $345. It’s certainly not our recommended pick, but it does represent a hefty discount and especially if your the type who dosn't mind well-priced factory second style unit.
But for an extra $24, there in one particular no-namer that is really well priced.
Kogan is advertising a $369 24” model that boasts impressive 1920x1200 resolution at full 1080p.
Yes - we hadn’t heard of them either .
After a little research, we found Kogan products are custom made in the same factories as the other big monitors using pre-designed panels from selected brand name manufacturers. A quick Google search should link you to some interesting forum feedback about the company. If may be worth a punt if you’re chasing the bigger discounts.
The contendersWe’ve included a few of the big brands and a couple of the smaller, slightly unknown ones.
LG L246WH-BN 24Specs: "W, 5ms, 1920x1200, 2000:1, BLACK, DVI, USB PORT, HDMI LCD MONITOR
Where? Shopping Square Price? $428.55 Asus VW246H Specs: Asus VW246H 24" Widescreen LCD Monitor, 1920x1080 Resolution, 2ms, 300cd/m2, 1000:1, D-Sub, DVI, HDMI, HDCP, 2x Speaker, Black
Where? Mwave Price? $468.90
AOC WS LCD AOC 416VSpecs: WideScreen LCD Monitor 24" AOC 416V (5ms/3000:1/DVI) Black
Where? IT Estate Price? $395 for a brand new model or $345 for a defective panel if you prefer to live dangerously.
Kogan 1080P-24 Specs: 1920x1200 resolution, 1080p, 16:10, included speakers, tilt stand
Where? Kogan Price? $369
Samsung 2443BW Specs: Samsung 24" Wide TFT Monitor - Black, Max. Resolution 1920x1200, 5ms Response Time, Digital / Analog Interface.
Where? Megaware Price? $440.00
Acer P244WB 24”Specs: 24" Widescreen LCD Monitor, 1920x1080 Resolution, 2ms, 300cd/m2, 20000:1, D-Sub, HDMI, Black
Where? Mwave Price? $417.60
