i would go with the dell because they are generally better quality from my experience and just make sure that there is a return policy or something from the place you are buying it so that, being refurbished, it doesnt have dead pixels, etc.
+1. Get the Dell as long as there is a decent return policy so you can check for dead pixels or noises or scratches or stains or other issues. For example my local Best Buy allows LCD returns, no questions asked, no restocking fees, for 14 days.
Tough choice. If you trust this person and are allowed to check for dead pixels at least then it might be OK. Still, the monitor may have defects that only show up after an hour or so of use. Risky.
