Review: Benq FP93V 19in TFT monitor

Like a designer bathroom, Benq's new 19in FP93V comes in snow-white with more than a hint of Apple.

Its rounded corners and distinctive finish will be instantly familiar to Imac users and it's no co-incidence that its unusual built-in stand is the perfect size and shape to support a Mac Mini.

Of course, it's still perfectly compatible with PCs, but it's obvious Benq is aiming its sights at the lucrative Apple market with this monitor.

Their cause is helped thanks to the Mac Mini being sold without a monitor. Furthermore, Apple's least expensive display costs considerably more than the computer itself.

Apple monitors are devoid of control buttons, and in keeping with this design there are no switches on the front of the panel. Instead, they are placed out of sight down one side, making the FP93V one of that rarest of breeds - the left-handed monitor.

Discrete automatic setup buttons and separate Enter and Exit controls make menu operation simple, although their location means you'll either have to memorise their position or lean forward from your chair to look at them.

It's also something to watch out for if you're intending to operate two monitors side by side. A notable addition to the usual screen options is a specific Mac Standard colour mode.

Specification and performance are adequate, although viewing angles are somewhat limited due to it being a TN panel (see our monitor guide for more information on panel technology).

It's not a monitor for serious graphic artists, but certainly good enough for general use and its 8ms response time will satisfy all but the pickiest of gamers.

Both analogue and digital inputs are provided while the stand offers cable management. In terms of ergonomics, only a tilt adjustment is provided and there are no extras like USB ports or speakers.

The BenQ FP93V is slightly pricey but distinctively stylish and would suit those wanting to blend in an office full of Macs or simply have something a little brighter and cleaner-looking on their desktop.