With computer monitors these days there are more options available than just simply the size of the monitor’s screen and its resolution. If you’re in the market for a new monitor, there are several additional specifications you’ll want to consider.
The first thing you should ask about when shopping for a new monitor is its "Dot Pitch." This is the actual measurement in millimeters between each of the individual pixels that make up the surface of the screen. The lower the number, the closer the individual phosphor elements (which emit the light that makes up the image) are placed, which means more of them can be stuffed into the same size surface. For example, this ultimately allows monitors with a .24 dot pitch to appear crisper and more detailed than a .27 dot pitch display.

Second, you'll want to know about "refresh rates." This term is the speed at which the monitor can display and refresh images in certain resolutions on the screen. This is measured in Hertz (or Hz). It measures how many times per second the screen is redrawn. At higher resolutions a monitor, which refreshes at 50Hz, will look duller and exhibit more flickering than one running at 80Hz. Monitors that don't have high refresh rates can flicker noticeably and this can lead to eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision.

Third, there's a very significant choice to be made between LCD and CRT monitors. The simplest way to distinguish between the two is by looking at their physical size. CRT monitors are the more traditional type of displays that use cathode ray tubes (CRT) instead of liquid crystal displays (LCD). CRTs are bulbous like your old-time TV. CRTs are large and deep in comparison to LCD’s, which means they take up a lot more space and are generally heavier. LCD's have a lot to offer beyond just their smaller size. They are also generally brighter, crisper, have better color depth, and use less power. Also, because they don't refresh the way CRTs do, there is no issue with flickering that causes eye strain. Plus, the image quality of an LCD monitor doesn't degrade over time the way a CRT can. The one significant downside to LCD monitors is still their price. Although they are not as expensive now as they were when they first came to market, LCD monitors are still about twice the price or more for a similar sized screen. If budget is an issue for you, then stick with a CRT.

Last, you should consider what sort of work the monitor is going to have to do. If you plan to do desktop publishing that depends upon a sharp, high resolution image, then you’ll need a better monitor than someone who only writes the occasional letter. Also consider the size of your workspace, how important price is to you, and how much time you realistically expect to spend seated in front of your computer. There is no need to purchase a high-end monitor if you aren’t going to get the maximum usage out of it. That is why it is important to shop around and learn which type of monitor would best suit you. So, whether you decide on a CRT or LCD, make sure you understand what your needs are and your choice will be easier.
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