Best LED Monitors 2012

Hard disk space, processor and RAM are computer specifications that are often argued about, but the most expensive peripheral of a computer is its monitor. A slim, sleek profile makes it a space saver on a desk. Minimal wiring and quick connectivity to multiple devices just add to its appeal. Let's not forget picture quality and clarity. Today's market is dominated by either LED or LCD monitors. While there are infinite arguments as to which is better, LED monitors are prized for their low energy consumption, better screen brightness and light quality and very stylish and compact models.

Best LED Monitors for Gaming

Gamers can debate for hours whether to use an LED or LCD monitor for gaming. Three key factors that measure the quality of an LED monitor for playing video games are, response time, screen brightness and screen contrast. To avoid blurry images and prevent ghosting, choose a monitor whose response time value is less than 5 ms. A high screen brightness and a high contrast ratio are needed for clear and detailed graphics rendering. Built-in speakers are a perk.

BenQ XL2420T

• Ultra speedy refresh rate of 120Hz for smooth gameplay
• Equipped with Black eQualizer color engine for clear color rendering
• S Switch remote control allows easy management and saving of monitor settings as presets for different games
• The monitor's height and orientation can be adjusted
• Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 12 million
• Two HDMI ports, 1 DP, 1 D-Sub port and USB port
• Screen size: 24 inches; Response time: 2 ms; Brightness: 350 cd/m²
• Price: $400

ViewSonic V3D245

• Speedy frame rate of 120Hz for quick graphical rendering
• Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 20 million
• SRS Premium Sound integrated speakers on the monitor
• NVIDIA 3D Vision wireless glasses included with the monitor
• HDMI 1.4a 3D devices can be connected to the monitor through 3D Vision emitter
• The monitor can be mounted on wall or placed on a stand
• Screen size: 24 inches; Response time: 2ms; Brightness: 300 cd/m²
• Price: $530

Dell S2330MX

• Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 8 million
• VGA and DVI-D ports present on monitor
• DVI-HDMI dongle included with the monitor
• Screen size: 23 inches; Response time: 2ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $250

HP x2301

• Slim and sleek design
• DCR of 8 million with 1920 x 1080p HD resolution
• Brightview technology produces sharper, detailed images
• Has HDCP, HDMI, DVI-D and VGA ports
• Screen size: 23 inches; Response time: 3ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $250

Samsung 23" 550 Series LED Monitor

• Eco Sensor technology automatically turns the monitor on and off based on your presence in room
• Eco Light Sensor auto adjusts screen brightness according to surroundings
• Mega DCR
• The monitor's stand covers cables and wires to reduce clutter and give a wireless appearance
• Unique Samsung features such as MagicAngle and MagicColor
• HDMI and VGA ports present on the monitor
• Screen size: 23 inches; Response time: 2ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $280

ASUS VE258Q

• Up to 6 preset video modes can be enabled easily using a hotkey
• Equipped with Splendid Video Intelligence Technology
• Integrated stereo speakers
• The monitor can be used on stand or detached from base and mounted on a wall
• DCR of 50 million
• HDMI, D-Sub and DVI-D ports present on the monitor
• Screen size: 25 inches; Response time: 2ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $250

Best All-Rounder LED Monitors

BenQ EW2730

• Very high contrast ratio of 3000 and DCR ratio of 20 million
• Up to 16.7 million colors with 8 bit color range
• Sturdy but streamlined metal chrome frame
• Integrated ports include 2 HDMI ports, 4 USB ports, 1 D-Sub port, so most media devices can be connected to the monitor
• Screen size: 27 inches; Response time: 8ms; Brightness: 300 cd/m²
• Price: $500

Apple LED Cinema Display

• Amazing wide screen 2560x1440 resolution (16:9 aspect ratio)
• Built-in iSight camera and microphone for the web chatting system
• Auto brightness feature adjusts the monitor's brightness based on surrounding light
• Viewing angle adjustable from - 5 to 25 degrees
• Stereo speaker system built in the monitor
• 3 USB 2.0 ports, Mini DisplayPort and MagSafe connectors for very convenient connecting
• Screen Size: 27 inches; Response time: 12 ms; Brightness: 375 cd/m²
• Price: $1,000

Samsung 23" 950 Series HDTV 3D Monitor

• 2D and 3D media can be enjoyed on the monitor
• Speedy frame rate of 120 Hz with Mega DCR for detailed graphics
• The monitor can be used as HDTV due to built-in DTV tuner
• Download and use apps, such as Pandora and YouTube on the monitor
• Play media files from USB device on the monitor using ConnectShare feature
• Remote control and 3D glasses included with the monitor
• Integrated speakers present on the monitor
• Two HDMI ports and 1 VGA port
• Screen size: 23 inches; Response time: 3 ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $670

Asus VE258Q

• The monitor is equipped with Splendid Video Intelligence Technology
• DCR of 50 million allows for realistic brightness and contrast settings
• Integrated stereo speakers on the monitor
• The monitor can be detached from its base and mounted on a wall
• HDMI, D-Sub, DisplayPort and DVI-D ports present on the monitor
• Screen size: 25 inches; Response time: 2ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $255

LG E2281VR-BN

• DCR of 10 million with Super-Resolution technology for clear viewing
• Easy wire managing with port interface located on base of the monitor
• HDMI, DVI-D, D-Sub and headphone jack are ports present on the monitor
• Screen size: 22 inches; Response time: 5ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $260

HP 2311gt

• 3D equipped monitor will automatically convert 2D media into 3D media for viewing
• DCR of 3 million
• Two pairs of special 3D glasses provided with the monitor
• HDMI, HDCP, DVI-D and VGA ports present on monitor
• Screen size: 23 inches; Response time: 5ms; Brightness: 250 cd/m²
• Price: $300

Note: All prices mentioned are approximate and depend on various factors like location and offers available.

Even with the best of the best models, compatibility issues or manufacturing defects are possible. That's why knowledge of warranty and store policies regarding replacements is important. Inquire as to whether the store will provide a refund in case of returning a device. A 3 year warranty is necessary and make sure all parts of the monitor are covered by the warranty. Customer and technical support is also important. An LED monitor makes an amazing centerpiece for any home with its beautiful style and design.