Three-Way 23" LED LCD Roundup: Dell, HP, And Samsung

HP 2311x

HP's 2311x is the second of the three LCDs we pulled off the shelves. Even though it has the same price tag as Dell's SR2320L ($229), this monitor immediately feels different. At 7.86 lbs., this monitor weighs about two pounds less than the SR2320L. Unfortunately, most of the weight reduction is the result of a plastic base. Dell reinforces its monitor stand with steel or aluminum, which helps lower the center of gravity, making it more stable. HP's choice of an all-plastic base makes the monitor somewhat top-heavy.

Other than weight, HP follows the same traditional format seen on other LCD monitors. It uses a piano black finish and has a fairly basic OSD menu. But the buttons are oriented horizontally, while the menu is displayed vertically, making navigation less intuitive than on the Dell. If you are the type of person that changes display profiles based on content, you may find this frustrating. Otherwise, it isn't a deal-breaker.