TFT or CRT the differences and terms explained
CRT | TFT | Refresh Rates | Resolutions | Response Times | Warranty Information
Some terms explained which you should consider when buying a display:
Refresh rates - is the number of times the image is drawn on the display each second. If your refresh rate is 85 then this is measured as 85 Hertz (Hz). You should ensure the refresh rate is on the highest possible setting, by ensuring a fast refresh rate you will reduce flickering often the rates are set incorrectly or too low and the flickering leads to headaches and eye strain. Try checking your refresh rate and if it is not at the highest increase it and see if you notice any difference.
Resolutions - CRT screens can work perfectly up to the quoted maximum resolution. The TFT is recommended to be used at only one resolution. The reason for this is the pixel makeup differs between CRT and TFT. The most common resolutions are 1024x768 and 1280x720 of course you may have your own preference.
Tilt/Swivel - If you can purchase a screen which allows you to alter the screen either through tilts or swivel you may be better off. By being able to adjust the display to your working level you should be more comfortable and make better use of the display. Many TFTs only allow for minor changes in the angle often just on a horizontal axis.
Response times - This is another word to not look to deeply at. With TFT's the response time is the TFT version of refresh rates and is the time taken for a pixel to reach maximum brightness. However companies can measure this differently so there is often room for interpretation.
Previously TFTs had response times of 125ms or more and were poor at displaying moving graphics, often it would appear that a ghost or shadow would follow even the mouse cursor on the screen. Now as the technology has matured 12-25ms is the standard. The result is now TFTs can handle movements and games at an expected level and it would be hard to tell the difference between a 12 or 25ms display.
Most screens come with ether an on-site or return to base warranty and depending on the maker either a standard 1 year warranty or a maximum of 3 years. It is worth looking at the terms of the warranty as you are not covered if your new TFT develops one dead pixel. It often depends on the location and amount.
If your screen is your only display or if you use it for business use you should look at an on-site warranty so that if anything did happen a replacement is usually delivered when the other is being returned or looked at.
The return to base method often means you will need to package and return the monitor or wait for it to be collected looked at and then returned which obviously can take time.
