Which type of new monitor should I buy? LCD or CRT? And what size should I buy?

That depends on your needs.
If you like to play games or if money is a concern buy a CRT, else buy a TFT.
If you go for a CRT not only look at the size but also on the frequency and video bandwidth. Many people buy a CRT and only look at price and size.

Originally posted by netsolutions
Which type of new monitor should I buy? LCD or CRT? And what size should I buy?

Another thing to consider (with a CRT) is what type of contrast would you like. Do you want to view robust colors (Trinitron tube) or have a more brighter contrast?

Annoying feature of Trinitron tubed monitors is the fine horizontal line (where the 2 tubes are joined). People eventually get accustomed to it, but those who work with text (or do a lot of pixel work) it's can be a pain in the butt. It's very hard to find a non Trinitron tubed monitor but you can find them by carefully reading the details online ("striping" and "aperture grill" are for Trinitrons), or visiting a computer store and checking for that black line.

One can always adjust the contrast/gamma to match a Trinitron tube later. ;)

Consider getting at least a 19" monitor -- web artists/printer proofers tend to get 21+ or larger -- that can take at least 1600x1200 res with pretty decent refresh rates (higher those are the less eye strain you'll have). Also try to get a truly flat monitor that doesn't vignette much on the corners. A monitor with a USB port(s) is a plus. Get the smallest foot print you can, too.

I don't have experience with LCDs. Their small size makes them not really suitable for design work. When they can get to an affordable 19+" range then they'll be ideal. Their text anti-aliasing is superb over the CRT.


I'm viewing this at 1280x1024x32m at 85mhz on a cheap $315 (but excellent) 19" non Trinitron CRT monitor with a first generation TNT video card.

Here are my needs. I have not been a game player in the past however I am starting to get back into it. I do not understand all the video bandwidth and all that stuff. Can someone please explain it?