The Different Kinds of LCD Monitors

Building a computer these days means acquiring a few core parts that allow the computer to run properly, with one of these being a monitor. Today’s computer monitors are almost all in the form of LCD, or liquid crystal display, which boasts a large number of advantages over last generations CRT displays.

For those that are looking for a new monitor, it can be confusing to try and discern which is best, especially when there are a few different types on the market. This is a breakdown of the most common types of LCD displays available and how each differs from the other.

What Are LCD Monitors?

LCD monitors are flatscreen peripherals that make use of light emitting diode and liquid crystal diode technology. The image is displayed using the LCD display, while the LEDs provide the lighting behind the front panel. LCDs are used extensively for both recreational and commercial usage, and are now the most popular form of image display. They’re also extremely versatile, and can be adapted to fit into most types of digital and even analogue outputs. LCDs are utilised for computers, tablets, smart phones, and laptops, and while there are new forms of display being developed for future use, LCDs remain the go-to for almost all users in the world.

Twisted Nematic

Also more commonly known as TN displays, these monitors are the most common on the market, and are generally utilised as commercial monitors for offices and schools. They’re also the cheapest available, and boast some of the fastest response times around, but there are a few downsides. TN monitors offer low quality contrast rations, viewing angles, and colour reproduction. Despite their downsides, these are perfect for those looking to build a computer for a more commercial use.

IPS Panel Monitors

In Plane Switching displays are aimed at those looking to build top-of-the-range gaming rigs. They provide exceptionally high image quality, superior viewing angles, and extremely contrast and colour accuracy. These are the monitors that display in 4K HD, which is perfect for top-tier video games and checking out the odds for AFL premiership betting.

VA Panel

Vertical Alignment panels are the intermediate selection between IPS and TN. While they do offer better image quality and colour reproduction than most TN panels, they have slow response times, and don’t provide anywhere near the same level of quality as an IPS would. These tend to much more affordable, however, and are best suited for those wanting to build a mid-range gaming rig, or set up a low-cost entertainment centre that still boasts high definition.

Advanced Fringe Field Switching

AFFS LCDs are the cutting edge in commercial display technology, offering the very best performance and widest range of colour reproduction on the market. They’re exorbitantly expensive, and are most commonly found in professional environments, such as in commercial airline cockpits, or used in tandem with powerful workstations. One of their most advanced features is their ability to minimise colour distortion without having to limit viewing angles.