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tkmd · Nov 12, 2006, 08:30 PM

I really getting close to purchasing a Mac pro and need to get a monitor. I wanted to get a Dell 20wfp model but Best buy does not carry that brand. So can anyone suggest a 20 inch LCD from best buy for about 250 that's comparable to quality and features that the Dell 20" has?

IceEnclosure · Nov 12, 2006, 09:42 PM

I'd get a Samsung 20" of some sort.(assuming I'm purchasing from BB only)

tkmd · Nov 12, 2006, 09:45 PM

Originally Posted by IceEnclosure

I'd get a Samsung 20" of some sort.(assuming I'm purchasing from BB only)

Unfortunately the gift certificate that I have is from BB. Is this Samsung a widescreen like the dell?

pcguy1 · Nov 12, 2006, 09:54 PM

Gateway might not be your favorite computer company, but their line of lcd is pretty sweet

Gateway - 22" Widescreen Flat-Panel TFT-LCD HD Monitor - FPD2275W

tkmd · Nov 12, 2006, 10:04 PM

NIce monitor but remember I'm limited to $250 maybe I could throw another $50 dollars on top of that - but cant do much more. I'm on a tight budget.

pcguy1 · Nov 13, 2006, 07:16 AM

I hope you don't take this wrong, but I have real trouble understanding how a person can afford/save for a $2000 plus computer but having trouble saving a exttra $100 on somthing as important as the monitor.

tkmd · Nov 13, 2006, 12:45 PM

Originally Posted by pcguy1

I hope you don't take this wrong, but I have real trouble understanding how a person can afford/save for a $2000 plus computer but having trouble saving a exttra $100 on somthing as important as the monitor.

I understand your point but I am on a fixed budget. So I wanted to something that is OK for now and trust me when I have enough money saved I'll spring for a higher quality screen.

BTW I stopped by BB and saw this monitor any feedback on this one?

tightsocks · Nov 13, 2006, 04:55 PM

Isn't that the same Gateway 2275W ($399.99) that you said was to expensive?

I have a friend that recently got an LG at BB. I don't know much about their reputation...
They seem to have a 3yr warranty vs. the more typical 1yr. The specs seem to be equal to or better than others in the same price range... Only down-side to LG that I have come across is that they don't come with a DVI cable even if the monitor has a DVI port (does come with VGA).

LG - 19" Widescreen Flat-Panel LCD Monitor - L194WT

tkmd · Nov 13, 2006, 05:45 PM

yes its is the same but as other posters have said maybe I should go with the more expensive one (OK so I'll have to delay MP purchase for a little) if it would make the experience a better one.

I guess (like most everyone on this forum) has been bitten by the "gotta have it now" syndrome.

Perhaps this gateway is better than Dell but I wonder if anyone has any experience with it (dead pixels, fading of color on the corners etc)

pcguy1 · Nov 13, 2006, 10:40 PM

Just also like to mention that you should be getting a 10%/12% off computer/related item coupon from Bestbuy for this weekend, so hopefully that might help a little bit.

tkmd · Nov 17, 2006, 09:42 AM

Thanks for all the responses. I did go to bestbuy and checked out the gateway 22" it was nice and bright. But then I started to think - 1680 x 1050 res in a 22" screen, I mean that is the same res as a MBP 17" screen. Since I spend more time in front of the computer than lets say the tv, and will have a MS doc open and safari window most of the time shouldn't I upgrade? So I went with the apple 23" from BB and now have a nice 850 debt on my CC. I sure hope I did not make a mistake and spend too much. I'll find out next week.

IceEnclosure · Nov 17, 2006, 11:15 AM

you'll find out next week?

for $850 you could have (gotten) 3 BenQ 20" widescreens and a cool VESA mount for each.

or you could have (gotten) the 24" Dell with the card reader and USB ports for quite a bit less than the Apple.

You stated initially that you had a $250ish price range, and you bought a monitor for $850!!

jesus man.

Gossamer · Nov 17, 2006, 12:26 PM

Yeah, Apple monitors tend to be a tad overpriced.

tkmd · Nov 17, 2006, 03:28 PM

Originally Posted by IceEnclosure

you'll find out next week?

for $850 you could have (gotten) 3 BenQ 20" widescreens and a cool VESA mount for each.

or you could have (gotten) the 24" Dell with the card reader and USB ports for quite a bit less than the Apple.

You stated initially that you had a $250ish price range, and you bought a monitor for $850!!

jesus man.

I know, I know. I figure I'll need to work some OT and it will be tight for the holidays- but I guess that what a CC is for. Moment of weakness.