Buyer's Guide to New & Used CRT Monitors

While the newer LCD flat-panel monitors have some advantages, such as using less electricity, being easier to move around, and taking less space, CRT monitors also offer some benefits. CRT models are less expensive to purchase (especially if they are used), have a somewhat more "crisp" image (they can be viewed from a wider range of angles as well), and they are more resistant to damage. Read on for some tips on choosing the right new or used CRT monitor to purchase...

SIZE: Larger monitor sizes generally cost more, use more power, and are heavier. However, they can be viewed from a greater distance. Generally you will want to use a lower display resolution (such as 640x480) for small monitors and a higher resolution for larger monitors, if you want a sharp image. On the other hand, a lower resolution on a large monitor will probably provide the best readability, but you may have to scroll left and right on some web pages. If your computer has a video card/adapter which cannot be set to a low resolution, you might want to avoid purchasing a small monitor. According to answers.com, a newer type of CRT monitors have a flat screen display which makes the picture appear less distorted at the edges.

COMPATIBILITY: Most computers made after the early '90s have a standard VGA monitor port (15 pins), which the vast majority of CRT monitors can be connected to, so compatibility will probably not be an issue. However, keep in mind that some used monitors you might find have 9-pin CGA monitor cables or round composite video cables, so they should only be purchased if you have an older computer with the appropriate port. Computers with Tandy (TGA) graphics adapters also use older nine-pin monitors; used models of this type are listed on eBay somewhat frequently.

FEATURES: CRT monitors often come with a plastic stand; this allows it to be raised to a desirable height, although this may not be necessary if you have a desktop computer. Some stands allow the monitor's direction or angle to be adjusted. Most CRT monitors either have a row of buttons or a set of two knobs for adjusting the contrast and other settings; digital button-based settings are sometimes more versatile, while analog knob controls are more user-friendly and allow quicker adjustment. The video cable which connects to the computer may be built-in to the monitor or detachable. A cable which can be detached is beneficial in that it is much easier to replace with a new cable if the pins become bent or it is otherwise damaged. Some CRT monitors have built-in speakers attached, which saves some space and doesn't use another electrical outlet.

TESTING: If you are buying a used CRT monitor, you will want to test and inspect it as much as possible before making a purchase. Check to see that none of the pins are bent at the end of its cable; buying a new monitor cable will usually cost you at least ten dollars. Make sure the power light turns on when you push the power button; power buttons on used monitors sometimes fail or get stuck in a particular position because they have been pressed so many times. Using a power strip to turn the monitor on and off will make its power button last longer. Verify that buttons or knobs for adjusting the video settings are in place and undamaged.

BUYING: Used CRT monitors can be purchased, sometimes very inexpensively, at yard & garage sales, thrift shops, newspaper classifieds, and general used merchandise stores. Used monitors can also be bought online, but shipping costs are usually high; this is generally only appropriate if you need a monitor type which is difficult to find, such as a CGA or EGA unit. New CRT monitors are available from Best Buy Stores, eBay.com, and computer system/parts dealers like newegg.com.