How to Buy the Right LCD Computer Monitor

There are dozens of reasons to get a new LCD computer monitor. You might need a bigger screen or you might be unhappy with the color reproduction of your current monitor, or you might even be upgrading from an old boxy CRT. Here's the basic info you'll need to pick the perfect monitor for your computer.

Types of LCD Monitors. There are three basic types of LCD monitors. The best way to evaluate their differences is simply to go to your local electronic store and view a few, but the basic differences are outlined below.

IPS monitors use a technology known as in-plane switching. They're expensive, but have the best colors of all of the LCD technologies out there and great viewing angles. Viewing angles might not be especially important to you, however, depending on whether you're planning on using your computer monitor to watch videos. If your computer will be doubling as a TV, this is a good place to start.

Vertical alignment monitors are the middle ground of the three main technologies. They still present great colors, however, and great viewing angles.

The most limited of the three is twisted nematic monitors, which can still have a great image, but tend to show colors less brilliantly than the other two technologies. They're very inexpensive and have fast response times. However, response times aren't a big deal with newer monitors, because the technology has gotten to the point where video reproduction is far more dependent on your computer's video card than your monitors.

Monitor Sizes. You probably have some idea of the size of monitor that you want, but if you're on the fence, the best advice is to simply shop around and see what you can afford. Most monitor sizes less than 24 inches are fairly affordable, and prices only start to get really steep when you get about the 24-inch threshold.

Most new LCD monitors are wide screen and are measured diagonally, so keep this in mind, especially if you're upgrading from a CRT monitor. A 14-inch CRT and a 14-inch LCD are completely different, so don't automatically assume that the sizes correlate.

LED or Traditional LCD? Finally, a quick word on LED. LED monitors are more expensive but offer a better image with better brightness than traditional LCDs.

LED is a type of backlighting--that's all--so you'll still have to look into the technology used in the monitor's design if you're worried about things like color reproduction.

The best way to choose a monitor is to view a few in the store and decide what's right for you. Buy online, as you'll save tens or even hundreds of dollars depending on the monitor that you choose.

Have any other tips for buying a great computer monitor? Post below.