budget LCD roundup at ComputerShopper.com. If you’re not picky about your monitor’s features, but are just looking to, you know, see what you’re doing on your computer, it looks like the Gateway FPD1975W is the answer, nabbing top honors amongst the five 19- to 20-inch displays tested all priced under $350. The review says “it’s a simple monitor that packs a punch despite its $229.99 price,” and ably handled DVD viewing and gaming, though there was some noticeable streaking during faster on-screen action.
Other models reviewed were the Dell E207WFP, NEC MultiSync LCD195WVXM, Samsung SyncMaster 906BW and ViewSonic VX1945wm ViewDock. And none of them were complete disappointments, though the Dell scored lowest due to poor gray-scale performance and washed out colors during DVD playback.
I have the Gateway FPD1975W monitor. It’s currently sitting on the floor next to the box waiting for me to send it back to Gateway, who doesn’t have the best customer service. It’s the second one that crapped out on me in just a few months. I haven’t sent it back yet because I think it’s a joke that I have to pay for shipping and insurance and I just don’t think I’m interested in getting another one. Just thought I’d give a heads up to anyone who’s thinking about getting one.