Which Monitor Should I Purchase?

[Torguyy]

Please have a look at the two Samsungs, one is older and the other just came out. Main differences are one is 120Hz with 3D, and the other is not.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824001915 $319

VS

http://www.samsung.com/ca/consumer/office/monitors/led/LS27A950DS/ZA $348


I really appreciate any feedback

 

[Torguyy]

If it is just a choice between those two, then the SAMSUNG SD390. But, the SD390 is a glossy screen, so be warned!

However, let me give you a few things to consider.

glossy vs matte
Do you want a glossy screen or a matte screen. The glossy screens are highly reflective, but give you great colors. However, the high reflectivity can give people headaches even after just short periods of use. Thus, a lot of people chose a matte screens. Matte screens scatter the light across the surface and have a kind of "rough" finish to them. This means less shiny reflections, but the scattered light does reduce the quality of the colors a bit.

panel type
Another major factor in picture quality is panel type. Many monitors use a TN panel, which has less than idea viewing angles and can results in distorted colors at even slight angles. The alternatives are PLS and IPS type monitors. The SD390 is a PLS.

Instead, consider these alternatives:

Here are a range of IPS, PLS, MVA, PVA, and AHVA monitor around the 27" range (no TN panels):
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=Property&Subcategory=20&N=100007617%20600077224%20600030628%20600030620%20600030652%20600030631%20600487706%20600107133%20600311118%20600107132%20600012163%20600325897%20600311643%20600460747%20600439463%20600012165&IsNodeId=1&IsPowerSearch=1
So, if you need to find a matte finish screen instead of the glossy one, you can use that link and look for one that is "matte" and not glossy.


Alternative #2: gaming TN with CRT-like motion.
Another option is to get the TN panel (the one with worse viewing angle), but get one with 120Hz or 144Hz and the special CRT-like motion that gets rid of motion blurring.
This page explains it a little bit: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/60vs120vsLB/
This page lists monitors with this feature: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/120hz-monitors/
The first 12 monitors on that page have this special feature, but all but one use the TN panel type.

The last 3 BenQ monitors are particularly interesting, since they include a feature called "PWM-free" This means the backlight does not flicker in such a way that would make you sick like some monitors do, so they are easier on the eyes for long periods of computer use than, say, the Asus monitors on that list. (Technically, the CRT-like motion feature is nothing more that a backlight that "strobes" or flickers on and off, so I dunno if that makes this whole "PWM-free" feature a moot point if you end up just turning on the CRT flicker feature.)


A third option for gaming is G-sync, which I'll just let you read about:
http://www.blurbusters.com/gsync/preview/
If you really must have it, then there is an Asus model that you can modify or get pre-modified with this feature.

Hey Brother, really appreciate all the information, really helps. See thing is I im just an average gamer, however im hearing from most people that I should go for a 120Hz monitor instead of 60Hz which you mentioned also, but then again I also hear that an average user wont notice much of a difference.

Also im on a budget, so anything that's a good 120Hz will be too expensive right now.

This is why I found the Samsung S27A950D, its an older model but within my budget and 120Hz, but I also hear there are quality issues with that model as reported by people, so im really confused as to what do do.

 

[ChrisR83]

If it is just a choice between those two, then the SAMSUNG SD390. But, the SD390 is a glossy screen, so be warned!

However, let me give you a few things to consider.

glossy vs matte
Do you want a glossy screen or a matte screen. The glossy screens are highly reflective, but give you great colors. However, the high reflectivity can give people headaches even after just short periods of use. Thus, a lot of people chose a matte screens. Matte screens scatter the light across the surface and have a kind of "rough" finish to them. This means less shiny reflections, but the scattered light does reduce the quality of the colors a bit.

panel type
Another major factor in picture quality is panel type. Many monitors use a TN panel, which has less than idea viewing angles and can results in distorted colors at even slight angles. The alternatives are PLS and IPS type monitors. The SD390 is a PLS.

Instead, consider these alternatives:

Here are a range of IPS, PLS, MVA, PVA, and AHVA monitor around the 27" range (no TN panels):
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=Property&Subcategory=20&N=100007617%20600077224%20600030628%20600030620%20600030652%20600030631%20600487706%20600107133%20600311118%20600107132%20600012163%20600325897%20600311643%20600460747%20600439463%20600012165&IsNodeId=1&IsPowerSearch=1
So, if you need to find a matte finish screen instead of the glossy one, you can use that link and look for one that is "matte" and not glossy.


Alternative #2: gaming TN with CRT-like motion.
Another option is to get the TN panel (the one with worse viewing angle), but get one with 120Hz or 144Hz and the special CRT-like motion that gets rid of motion blurring.
This page explains it a little bit: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/60vs120vsLB/
This page lists monitors with this feature: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/120hz-monitors/
The first 12 monitors on that page have this special feature, but all but one use the TN panel type.

The last 3 BenQ monitors are particularly interesting, since they include a feature called "PWM-free" This means the backlight does not flicker in such a way that would make you sick like some monitors do, so they are easier on the eyes for long periods of computer use than, say, the Asus monitors on that list. (Technically, the CRT-like motion feature is nothing more that a backlight that "strobes" or flickers on and off, so I dunno if that makes this whole "PWM-free" feature a moot point if you end up just turning on the CRT flicker feature.)


A third option for gaming is G-sync, which I'll just let you read about:
http://www.blurbusters.com/gsync/preview/
If you really must have it, then there is an Asus model that you can modify or get pre-modified with this feature.

Hey Brother, really appreciate all the information, really helps. See thing is I im just an average gamer, however im hearing from most people that I should go for a 120Hz monitor instead of 60Hz which you mentioned also, but then again I also hear that an average user wont notice much of a difference.

Also im on a budget, so anything that's a good 120Hz will be too expensive right now.

This is why I found the Samsung S27A950D, its an older model but within my budget and 120Hz, but I also hear there are quality issues with that model as reported by people, so im really confused as to what do do.

120hz+ monitors are amazing, having said that if your computer is only running games around 60 FPS I would not recommend buying a 120hz monitor, you will not see much of an improvement if any at 60 FPS. But if your system is capable of pushing out around 100 FPS, that is where the high refresh rate monitors really shine. There is a big difference between 60hz and 120hz, you may not notice it right away (though some people do) once you play on a 120hz monitor for a bit then go back to a 60hz monitor you will notice it right away. Fast movements will be more fluid and clear, in shooter type games you will notice a big difference, as you will see twice as many frames.

I recommend the ASUS VG248QE @ 144hz, it is an amazing monitor for $270, it is also compatible with G-sync. They sell G-sync DIY kits though a bit pricy at the moment $200, but I am sure as time goes on the price will drop.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236313

 

[Torguyy]

If it is just a choice between those two, then the SAMSUNG SD390. But, the SD390 is a glossy screen, so be warned!

However, let me give you a few things to consider.

glossy vs matte
Do you want a glossy screen or a matte screen. The glossy screens are highly reflective, but give you great colors. However, the high reflectivity can give people headaches even after just short periods of use. Thus, a lot of people chose a matte screens. Matte screens scatter the light across the surface and have a kind of "rough" finish to them. This means less shiny reflections, but the scattered light does reduce the quality of the colors a bit.

panel type
Another major factor in picture quality is panel type. Many monitors use a TN panel, which has less than idea viewing angles and can results in distorted colors at even slight angles. The alternatives are PLS and IPS type monitors. The SD390 is a PLS.

Instead, consider these alternatives:

Here are a range of IPS, PLS, MVA, PVA, and AHVA monitor around the 27" range (no TN panels):
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=Property&Subcategory=20&N=100007617%20600077224%20600030628%20600030620%20600030652%20600030631%20600487706%20600107133%20600311118%20600107132%20600012163%20600325897%20600311643%20600460747%20600439463%20600012165&IsNodeId=1&IsPowerSearch=1
So, if you need to find a matte finish screen instead of the glossy one, you can use that link and look for one that is "matte" and not glossy.


Alternative #2: gaming TN with CRT-like motion.
Another option is to get the TN panel (the one with worse viewing angle), but get one with 120Hz or 144Hz and the special CRT-like motion that gets rid of motion blurring.
This page explains it a little bit: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/60vs120vsLB/
This page lists monitors with this feature: http://www.blurbusters.com/faq/120hz-monitors/
The first 12 monitors on that page have this special feature, but all but one use the TN panel type.

The last 3 BenQ monitors are particularly interesting, since they include a feature called "PWM-free" This means the backlight does not flicker in such a way that would make you sick like some monitors do, so they are easier on the eyes for long periods of computer use than, say, the Asus monitors on that list. (Technically, the CRT-like motion feature is nothing more that a backlight that "strobes" or flickers on and off, so I dunno if that makes this whole "PWM-free" feature a moot point if you end up just turning on the CRT flicker feature.)


A third option for gaming is G-sync, which I'll just let you read about:
http://www.blurbusters.com/gsync/preview/
If you really must have it, then there is an Asus model that you can modify or get pre-modified with this feature.

Hey Brother, really appreciate all the information, really helps. See thing is I im just an average gamer, however im hearing from most people that I should go for a 120Hz monitor instead of 60Hz which you mentioned also, but then again I also hear that an average user wont notice much of a difference.

Also im on a budget, so anything that's a good 120Hz will be too expensive right now.

This is why I found the Samsung S27A950D, its an older model but within my budget and 120Hz, but I also hear there are quality issues with that model as reported by people, so im really confused as to what do do.

120hz+ monitors are amazing, having said that if your computer is only running games around 60 FPS I would not recommend buying a 120hz monitor, you will not see much of an improvement if any at 60 FPS. But if your system is capable of pushing out around 100 FPS, that is where the high refresh rate monitors really shine. There is a big difference between 60hz and 120hz, you may not notice it right away (though some people do) once you play on a 120hz monitor for a bit then go back to a 60hz monitor you will notice it right away. Fast movements will be more fluid and clear, in shooter type games you will notice a big difference, as you will see twice as many frames.

I recommend the ASUS VG248QE @ 144hz, it is an amazing monitor for $270, it is also compatible with G-sync. They sell G-sync DIY kits though a bit pricy at the moment $200, but I am sure as time goes on the price will drop.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236313

Thanks for that info....I currently have a GTX 570 HD 2.5gb version, I usually play games like BF4, and games like the new release coming out Watch Dogs. Do you think that's gonna hit over 60fps with my card?

I saw the same one you posted but the 27 inch, Newegg is having a really good deal...But hows the overall picture quality and quality of the monitor itself on the Asus?

http://www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236103

 

[pdasterly]

g-sync monitor, there is no 2nd choice

 

[Torguyy]

g-sync monitor, there is no 2nd choice

lol, its cool that it has the capability, but I honestly think its a gimmick, and there no way I would pay $200 for it lol...Maybe $50, but not $200 plus tax and all, but that's me.

 

[pdasterly]

look into the tech, g-sync will eliminate v-sync and should bring console gaming experince to the pc. Damn sounds like I work for nvidia lol

 

[trogdor796]

It's not a gimmick, trust me...many major websites have had hands on with it and are praising it.

That being said, with a single 570 and the games you are playing, you are not gonna be seeing over 60 frames. So, here are your options:

1 - If you think you will upgrade your GPU to a high end one during the period that you will own whatever new monitor you get, get a 120/144hz monitor. Like mentioned, the higher refresh is really nice especially for competitive gaming in shooters.

2 - If you plan on sticking with that 570 for a while or upgrading to only a mid range card that can't push more than 60fps, get a 60hz monitor. Also, if you don't play shooters competitively and just casually game, a 60hz monitor is probably better for you.

Hope this helps.

 

[ChrisR83]

G-Sync is an awesome feature, it works by matching your monitors refresh rate to the FPS your GPU is pushing out, eliminating screen tearing and ghosting, with little to no input lag. Vsync caps your GPU’s FPS to 60, to eliminate screen tearing, the problem with that is you will never hold 60 FPS when gaming, you will get dips in your frame rate, that will cause you so see a slight shutter/pause, Vsync also adds allot of input lag to your monitor, that is a reason why a lot of completive games don’t use vsync and just deal with the screen tearing. That is the shortest way to describe how G-Sync works vs Vsync.

I agree G-sync does come at a high price right now, the great thing about the ASUS VG248QE is as the price drops you can get the DIY kit and install it yourself. Another option you can setup lightboost with the monitor until you can afford G-sync. I honestly don’t see any issues with the colors, unless you are doing allot of photo editing you will not notice a problem. Yeah the viewing angles aren’t the best, but I don’t know anyone who isn’t sitting right in front of their monitor when they play, I don’t have any problems with it.

Here is some info about lightboost;
http://www.blurbusters.com/zero-motion-blur/lightboost/

I prefer 24” monitors for gaming, the bigger monitors can have a little distortion and tend to be slower in regards to GTG times. It all depends on you and what you plan on doing with your monitor. I do agree with Trogdor796 though, I wouldn’t get a 120hz or higher monitor unless you have plans to upgrade your GPU. You can get good 60hz monitors for around $160.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236307
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236305

 

[pdasterly]

im selling my three hp z23i if interested, 23" IPS

 

[Torguyy]

The viewing angles matter in a way that you wouldn't expect. Even if you are looking straight at a monitor, the edges of the screen will be at a different angle to your eye than the center of the screen. This slight angle is enough to distort the colors somewhat. For any type of activity where you make digital content, this might matter; however, for gaming you might not notice it.

However, I would have to disagree with getting a 60Hz TN panel. If you are gonna get a 60Hz, do not waste any money on a TN monitor, get a good IPS or PLS instead.
Another thing worth considering is that 120Hz will also help in regular desktop use in various subtle ways (that you may or may not notice) ... and it could even help in games even if you only get 80-90 FPS.

Well I just bought this guy from the link below, and am using it right now, beautiful monitor I gotta say, look wise and screen wise of course.

I actually ordered it last Friday and came in yesterday because I wanted to test it out, but I can still return if it I want with no hassles.

Im thinking of just keeping it because its so nice, what do you guys think??

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824001915

 

[Torguyy]

I also wanted to mention the reason why I am upgrading my monitor is that I currently have a Samsung P2370 1080p monitor, really nice monitor that still works flawless.

However, its been awhile since I have owned it, so I want to sell it before the value goes down, right now I can get around $150 asking price for it, which is pretty damn good.

You guys think that's a good move??