LG W2353

With modern computer monitors being use for all sorts of things in addition to general Windows operation, it’s not surprising to see new ones with specific features for watching video or gaming.

Few come as well equipped as LG’s new W53 series. This 23in widescreen W2353 model has is a 16:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1,920x1,080 pixels. The aspect ratio, the ratio of the screen’s width to its height, means that it can show widescreen films and TV shows without distortion, like widescreen TV sets and unlike older widescreen computer monitors.

It is also supposed to be the UK’s first eyestrain-minimising monitor, which is a reference to a built-in light sensor that adjusts the screen’s backlight to the optimum level for the room it’s in. This has the added benefit of reducing power consumption and made a significant difference when switched on.

This is one of several features designed to make the screen more effective for specific environments, which include a range of presets for video, internet and gaming use along with the option to tweak these or apply custom settings.

A proximity sensor allows the controls to illuminate themselves when the screen detects a nearby hand, preventing distractions in dark environments, but we still found it a little awkward to browse the on-screen menus. LG has attempted to improve usability by installing a software program that mirrors many of the on-screen menus. This was a lot better and, at least initially, quicker to use.

Installing the software also allows users to benefit from the innovative Cinema mode, which dims an area of the screen outside of a defined boundary so that it can highlight video content and prevent pop-ups and other activity from interrupting your viewing, if you’re doing so in a window rather than the full screen.

There are also a range of more specific functions available, such as colour-effect adjustment for photographers, the ability to force a 4:3 aspect ratio for non-widescreen content and a time-control feature that reminds the user to take a break after a set period.

These all combined well with an impressive display and a fast response time that made video content and fast-moving images clear and easy to distinguish.

The W2353 would be particularly suited to those who enjoy movies and games as well as standard computer use and the tidy, modern design will fit well in modern homes.