Finding the Best 19" LCD Monitor for Your Application

NEC Multisync 1970GX

With an 8ms Samsung LCD panel, a glare filter, and even a USB hub, the NEC 1970GX has a lot of advantages. But the price spread between it and the L90D+, which has a similar panel, is significant. Is the NEC 1970GX worth it?

Design

The design of the NEC 1970GX is resolutely pared-down. The edges of the bezel are very thin, which makes this an ideal candidate for dual-monitor use - provided, that is, that you can afford to shell out for two of them at more than $500 a piece. The NEC 1970GX is not for all pocketbooks. Its top-of-the-line finish is in line with what you'd expect from a monitor in this price range.

Ergonomics

Here again, you'll get your money's worth. The NEC 1970GX is very ergonomic. As far as physical adjustments go, the only thing missing is a pivot mode. The panel is adjustable for height and tilt, with a sufficient range, and a very practical rotating base. The NEC 1970GX also has a well-designed cable management system for efficient routing of the power supply and data cables. We asked NEC about the absence of a pivot mode, and were told that it was not much of an advantage on a TN panel, which has naturally limited vertical viewing angles. To which I would respond that even with a TN panel, the pivot mode on the L90D+ is awfully practical for working on text documents.

NEC has used the same mini-joystick that was on the NEC 1770NX. Though it looks very fragile, it proved to be very practical for adjusting the monitor's settings. It's a good idea on NEC's part; navigation in the menus is simple and efficient. Kudos are in order.