LCD or CRT the differences and terms explained
CRT | TFT/LCD | Refresh Rates | Resolutions | Response Times | Warranty Information
Monitors are an essential item of hardware, as you will use it to view everything on your system and spend countless hours' in-front of it. You should choose a display which fits your needs and workspace environment, whilst providing a clear image without flicker which can lead to eye strains and related problems.
There are two different types of Monitor currently available these are Cathode-ray tube (CRT) or TFT (thin-film transistor). Telling the difference is straight forward; CRT screens are large and heavier units whilst the TFT are thin and light in weight.
CRT technology has been around for decades from mono through the different versions to the versions which are being superseded today. TFT screens were previously limited to the wealthy and of course were an essential part to a Laptop or Notebook.
Screens come in several different sizes 14' 15' 17' 19' 21' are the most common. The most popular screens at the moment are 17 and 19 inches as they have dropped in price and the price between 15' and 17' is normally so slight it is always worth the extra cost for the extra viewing space.
TFT 15" Displays are around the £120 mark at the time of writing including, 17" versions are approx an additional £30-40 the smallest TFT screen widely available is the 15" then 17+. 17" is currently the most common size monitor for most people, this will adapt into widescreen versions and as prices continue to fall lead to 19" becoming the standard size.
The move to TFT has really picked up in recent months as the costs have tumbled, their advantages include using less power and requiring less space, whilst providing a crisp picture quality.
If you're buying and can visit a shop it is always worth seeing different monitors before you buy. Of course it often pays to buy it online and save a small amount even at the cost of a couple of days waiting for delivery.
