Of all the 22in models on test, the Samsung SM225BW is alone in offering a height-adjustable, swivelling stand, but this inevitably adds to the price. However, if you change your display angle frequently while working, it may be a deciding factor.

It lifts through a full 100mm and swivels almost in a complete circle, so you’ll be able to obtain a comfortable working position. Add to that a 15mm bezel and a choice of VGA or DVI inputs, and you have the flexibility to use this LCD in several ways. Plus, the DVI port supports HDCP, so it’s a future-proof choice.

As for image quality, the 225BW is reasonably good without excelling, although even the Labs-winning Dell couldn’t match the best 20in models for overall quality. Both the maximum brightness and the black level were average, although the backlighting was acceptably even across the screen.

Only minor banding was visible in the greyscale ramp, and some bluish tinting on grey areas was difficult to remove completely using the simple OSD. This made the overall tone a little cold, so the Samsung is better suited to office applications than image editing or entertainment.

Mounts allow a speaker bar to be fitted, should one be released, making the 225BW the most versatile of the 22in LCDs. We’re huge fans of the 3yr onsite defect free warranty. But, at $515, it isn’t as affordable as others here. If you don’t need the adjustable stand, the Dell offers better quality for just a little more.