My old Packard Bell crt monitor died yesterday. So, I went to Best Buy and let the sales rep talk me into this Samsung LCD. After setting it up, to my chagrin, I became aware that the display is really dark. I've spent a couple hours trying to adjust the picture controls on this thing, and I just can't seem to get it right. I use an IBM LCD at work and it seems to be more eye friendly. I'm thinking of returning this and exchanging it for an CRT if I can find one. My son has told me that LCD's just don't compare to CRTs. What do you think?
Signed,
I've got a headache in Moorhead
The darkness could be caused by the older video card in the Packard Bell. To answer your question I've been happy with both the flatscreen LCD's and CRT's by Viewsonic. To me picking out a monitor is a lot like shopping for a new TV.
My girlfriend has a CRT that was just plain dark. Nothing else to it. Eventually I picked up a used viewsonic CRT for her that was in good shape. No idea why but that old monitor of hers just wasn't capable of looking "normal" no matter how much you tweaked wither the monitor settings or her video card settings. I use a viewsonic 19" CRT myself at home.
Some LCDs are great, the only real "blanket" problem with them is that they tend to be subject to blurring artifacts if you play any games with a lot of rapid motion. Otherwise, I think they're great. I use a 19" dell flat panel at work and I'm quite happy with it. No eye strain, good color, bright, pretty good range of viewing angles.
I recently replaced my 17" CRT with a 17" Dell LCD which cost only $239. It has worked out so well that I got another 17" Dell LCD for my wife - neither of us will ever go back to CRT's! The price is still $239 and they offer free shipping and a 45-day no questions return policy. Give it a try!
- Bill
I recieved a Samsung 712 LCD monitor for christmas and I have no complaints. I love the free space and the picture quality is equal to my old CRT screen. I haven't adjusted the pic controls yet, but even straight out of the box the PQ is more than acceptable. Maybe you gotta lemon.
I've had a Samsung SyncMaster 151s for several years, and it has performed flawlessly. Love it!
That's the one I picked up. Most people would probably love this thing. But, my vision has always been affected by high contrast displays. The first thing I do when watching a TV is to turn the contrast down.
packard bells always seem to have dark video output.
I'll second tleigh's Viewsonic recommendation. I've got a 19" CRT that I've owned for about 3 years, and it's still as bright, crisp and detailed as the day I bought it. If their current products are anything like mine, I'd recommend them without hesitation.
I use 5 LCDs on a regular basis: A 19" Sony on my business computer, dual 19" BenQs on my edit system and dual 17" Samsungs on my wifes' edit system. Never a problem.
LCDs do perform at ther best hen they're used at the native resolution, and if I'm retouching photos I use a CRT. But darkness? Sounds like there's a problem somewhere.
Can you swap in another on the Packard Bell or try this new LCD on a different system?
I prefer LCDs not only for space saving: They also use less electricity and generate less heat...(not inconsequential in the summer when all the equipment is on and we have all the A/Cs cranked!). I also find them easier in the eyes for extended periods.