Review: Samsung Syncmaster 245B monitor

Samsung’s decision to use a TN panel in the 245B (read more about the different TFT panels) means it can offer all the advantages of a larger display while undercutting the competition by around £100.

And the step up from 22in to 24in brings with it much more than just an increase in screen size. The leap from 1,680x1,050 to 1,920x1,200 resolution means you can enjoy high-definition content in 1080p with no downscaling.

It’s also great for spreadsheets and working on multiple documents and, if you’re a hardcore gamer, it’ll be able to push your graphics card to the limit. The relatively fast 5ms response time is a bonus for both gamers and multimedia enthusiasts alike.

Despite its lower-cost panel, the 245B delivers very good colour reproduction with a wide, vivid gamut and smooth greyscale tracking that required very minimal correction by our calibration system. So even on an uncalibrated system you’ll get pretty accurate colour response. You’ll also be able to display a much wider range of colours than on many competing products.

However, TN panels do have their disadvantages and this is evident in their comparatively narrow viewing angles, especially in the vertical direction.

The chassis is well made and easy on the eye. Finished in matt black, it offers tilt, swivel and a generous height adjustment, although no cable management is provided. Connections include VGA, DVI with HDCP support and a connector for an optional set of speakers.

Samsung’s Magicolor colour enhancement technology and Magicbright brightness make it easy to switch from work to play, giving this Syncmaster the usability of a more expensive monitor.