Iiyama Prolite E481s

Iiyama's revamped Prolite E481s has arrived, faster and brighter than before. The model name may have remained the same, but with its contrast ratio increased from 400:1 to 700:1, and the 25ms response time now reduced to just 8ms, the updated E481s delivers significantly improved performance at a reduced price.

Also available in silver and ivory, our review model came in black. Its plain but smart finish houses a pair of stereo speakers and seven accessible controls, including auto, brightness and contrast buttons. These are accompanied by a rather over-bright blue power LED.

The on-screen menu is a bit confusing. Icons are not labelled and you're left to guess which button to press. An sRGB colour mode is provided, but it's marked simply 's'. Other options, such as gamma control, are labelled Mode1 or Mode2, with no explanation of what they are.

In reducing the pixel response time, a compromise has been made on the viewing angle, which is reduced from 176 degrees in both directions to 150 degrees horizontal and 135 degrees vertical. The improved brightness and contrast ratio are especially beneficial for multimedia or distance viewing.

In our lab tests, the Prolite E481s delivered high quality image and video reproduction. To be sure of getting the new, revamped version of the E481s, make sure the part number ends in W3S, not W2S.

The Prolite E481s is a capable TFT with good image quality, but the price just seems too high. If this doesn't bother you, the Prolite H481s offers an identical specification and, for just £20 extra, you get a height-adjustable and pivoting stand.