Nov 19 2009 - Large high definition displays are becoming increasingly popular because of HDTVs. Large LCD panels for computers differ though as they generally have a higher resolution for their screen dimensions. They are still quite expensive, but ever so gradually coming down in price. Here are my selections for the best format widescreen LCD 27-inch to 30-inch monitors and larger for a variety of different uses and prices based upon my research and experience
Best Value - Hanns-G HG-281DPB 27.5-inch
Image Courtesy Hannspree
While 30-inch displays are very nice, they are also extremely expensive. Hannspree has made an extremely affordable but large display with the Hanns-G HG-281DPB. It features a 27.5-inch LCD panel that uses a 1920x1200 resolution with fast 5ms response time. There is a feature to speed the response time to 3ms but it isn't really advised to use it as it produces more lag between the computer and the screen even though it redraws the pixels faster. Connectors include an HDMI and VGA connector. Included with the screen is a DVI-D to HDMI cable for those that don't have an HDMI compatible graphics card. There are two 2.5W speakers built into the panel. The stand only features tilt adjustments. Prices range from $310 to $350.
Best Overall - Dell UltraSharp 30008WFP 30-inch
©Dell Inc.
If you want an uncompromising monitor with an extremely high resolution, great color and a plethora of connectors, then the Dell UltraSharp 3008WFP is the display of choice. The display uses a 30-inch IPS technology LCD panel with a very large 2560x1600 resolution and a respectable 8ms response time. This is not as fast as some other panels but is still acceptable for fast motion video. The panels 117% NTSC color gamut gives it incredible color reproduction. A wide range of connectors include HDMI, DisplayPort, dual-link DVI-D, VGA, component, composite and S-Video. Also built into the panel is a 4 port USB 2.0 hub and a 9-in-2 media card reader. The stand supports height, tilt, pivot and swivel adjustments. Prices start around $1700.
Best Gaming - LG W2753V-PF 27-inch
©LG Electronics
While 30-inch displays are extremely nice, their high resolutions and slower response times are generally not the best suited for PC gaming. Because of this, the LG W2753V-PF is a much better option for those looking for a large LCD monitor for gaming. The 27-inch display uses a 1920x1080 panel instead of the more traditional 1920x1200 but the 2ms response time makes it excellent for dealing with fast motion video. Connectors include a HDMI, DVI-D and VGA connector. The stand only features tilt adjustment. Prices are around $400.
Best Graphics - NEC MultiSync LCD3090WQXi-BK 30-inch
©NEC Display Solutions
Graphics work requires extremely high color reproduction to best represent images that are then output to other media. NEC offers their NEC MultiSync LCD3090WXQi-BK display that produces an amazing 97.8% of the AdobeRGB color gamut. The 30-inch IPS technology panel offers a very high 2560x1600 resolution yet still has a very respectable 6ms response time. It has limited number of connectors with just a DVI-D and DVI-I input. The stand does have a full range of height, tilt, swivel and pivot adjustments. In addition to this, it can use a 100x100 or 200x100 VESA mounts. The screen also comes with a very long 4 year warranty which is good since the screen has a very high $$1900 to $2200 price tag.
