Best 24-inch LCD Monitors

Although the ASUS VH242H technically only a 23.6-inch screen, it has a price tag that makes it more affordable than 24-inch screens without sacrificing too much screen area. Rather than a traditional 16:10 aspect ratio, the screen uses a 16:9 ratio with a 1920x1080 resolution. Response times are quick at 5ms allowing for fast motion video without ghosting. It features an HDMI, DVI-D and VGA connector and is fully HDCP complient with the digital connectors. It also features a SPD/IF output to route digital audio from an HDMI connector to a receiver in case the dual 2W stereo speakers are not clean enough. The stand only features tilt adjustment. Priced around $240.

Dell has made some outstanding monitors over the years and they continue this trend with the UltraSharp 2408W. This 24-inch display uses a VA based panel with a 1900x1200 resolution and an extremely wide 110% CIE 1976 color gamut. They are able to achieve such strong color reproduction and yet still achieve a 6ms response time making it great for someone looking to go graphics work, watch a video or play a PC game. It features a wide range of connectors including HDMI, DVI-D, DisplayPort, VGA, Component, Composite and S-Video. There is even a 4-port USB hub and 9-in-2 media card reader built-in. The sturdy stand allows for height, tilt, swivel and pivot adjustments. Prices start around $520.

The ASUS VW246H provides a 24-inch display with a 1920x1200 resolution and an extremely quick 2ms response time. This gives the display the ability to handle the extremely fast motion of video or games without any motion blur. With its HDMI input, the screen could also double as a low cost LCD monitor for a high definition video source such as digital cable or Blu-ray player. Other connectors include a DVI-D and VGA. There are two 2W speakers for audio support but most people watching video or playing games will probably opt for external units for better sound. The stand only features tilt adjustment. Prices are around $270 to $300.

For those who want to use their monitor for other video purposes, the Samsung Touch of Color series provides the greatest level of flexibility. The T240HD is their 24-inch version that features a 1920x1200 resolution for full 1080p high definition video support. The 5ms response time provides it with smooth frame rates whether it is used for video or gaming. It has a wide range of connectors including HDMI, DVI-D, VGA and component. The monitor also doubles as an HDTV with its built-in digital TV tuner. It features some larger 3W stereos speakers but many will probably opt for larger external speakers. The screen does have a glossy coating that can increase glare and the stand only supports swivel and tilt. Priced around $400.

Many graphics people want monitors with IPS based panels. They provide excellent color and viewing angles. HP's LP2475w is probably the least expensive 24-inch screen to feature an IPS screen. This gives it a 102% of NTSC color gamut. While this isn't as high as many of the wider color gamut screens, it is far more affordable at $570 rather than over a thousand. The screen has the traditional 1920x1200 resolution found in most 24-inch displays and a 6ms response time that is fast enough for video or gaming if one desires. The screen comes with an HDMI, 2 DVI-D, DisplayPort, component, composite and S-video connectors. It also features a USB hub with 6 ports. The stand offers height, tilt swivel and pivot adjustments.