Budget shopping tips: LCD monitors Samsung's 21.5-inch 2233SW Plus monitor has a full-HD native resolution Here, I'll outline what I think are the best techniques for finding monitors that are priced the lowest. Go small The smaller your monitor's screen size, the less work it takes to illuminate. Thus, the less expensive it is. Simple math, really. Obviously, you'll buy per your needs, but if funds are an issue, go as small as you can stand. I recommend bottoming out at 17 inches, however. Buy off-brand Name brands have a premium attached to them, but off brands don't bear the same burden. While a mainstream 21.5-incher will cost you at least S$280 (US$206.15), you can find similar size monitors from lesser-known brands for S$240 (US$176.70). Keep in mind though that you get what you pay for and you should not expect the quality level on off-brands to match those of name brands. A brand name may save you on peace of mind, but it usually won't save you cash. Skimp on features Like everyone else, if you want two HDMI ports, DVI, component, DisplayPort, built-in speakers, a beer holder, a mini pizza oven, a holographic projector that projects an image of Megan Fox in a bikini that says you're the strangest boy she's ever met attached to your monitor, you're gonna have to pay for it. Think about exactly what you'll need from your monitor. What exactly you'll be using it for. Then, when it comes time to choose your monitor, stick to your needs and remember that any extra frills will be, well, extra. Seasonal discounts After Christmas, summer sale periods and computer trade fairs (such as PC Show and IT Show) are the best times to take advantage of sales, as stores try to sell off their previous season's stock. Also, most retailers--especially e-tailers--have big promotions on special weekends. If you're looking to buy and it's approaching one of those weekends, it may pay off to wait a few days to see what deals you can get. Shop around If finding the lowest possible price is paramount, then you'll need to put in the time to do so. Check all the majors electronics stores and online e-tailers. Then check out some of the price aggregators like Google Product Search. Those will point you to lesser-known e-tailers, so use caution when choosing who to buy from. Buy used Craigslist and eBay are great resources for finding used monitors in good condition. Just be sure that the eBay users have lots of positive feedback and that you actually try before you buy when using Craigslist. That about covers all your legal choices. Enjoy, happy hunting, keep your eyes peeled, and stay frosty. And like that, (whoosh!) he's gone. Tags: online retail company, Craigslist, brand name, built-In, LCD Monitor
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lowbang says...
You may want to hold off buying an LCD over the next few months at least until October or November until a shortage in glass (and production) gets rectified in the market.
www.lowbang.com...
Jun 29, 2009 22:04
You may want to hold off buying an LCD over the next few months at least until October or November until a shortage in glass (and production) gets rectified in the market.
www.lowbang.com...
Jun 29, 2009 22:04
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