Review: Iiyama Prolite E1900WS-B1 19in TFT monitor

The best-value model in Iiyama’s new range of low-cost TFT monitors is this no-frills 19in widescreen display that costs only a little more than the standard 17in version.

Three new models make up the new range: standard-format 17in and 19in displays and the 19in widescreen model reviewed here.

All share the same basic specification and come in either a black or silver finish with bright, high-contrast TN-based panels boasting a true 5ms (black to black) response time that will attract gamers.

Our review model supports a standard native resolution of 1,440x900 and uses an analogue VGA connection to hook up to your PC. This is encased in a bezel with a cunning, bevelled design that makes it appear somewhat thinner than it really is.

A pair of subtly presented stereo speakers sits below, although there’s no headphone socket or volume controls. If you delve deep into the manual, you'll discover that pressing a combination of buttons simultaneously with enable a mute function.

You can use a similar trick to disable the on-screen menu or the power button.

Being a budget monitor, you don’t get fancy features or software. There are no luxuries such as preset brightness modes or calibration programs while the stand is a simple snap-together affair.

Only tilt adjustment is offered and there's no cable management, but it’s certainly robust enough to support the monitor.

Despite its low-cost, the build quality appears rather good and there’s enough subtle styling in the design to lend it an appearance that’s far from cheap. For normal desktop work, image quality is good, helped by the 300cd/m2 maximum brightness and 700:1 contrast ratio.

We found text looked little over-sharp on close inspection and, while it's not ideal for photo editing, most users will find this display pleasing to use and good value for money.

If widescreen isn't your thing, standard-format versions are available in 17in and 19in sizes at £163.33 and £210.33 respectively.

With a neat design and a low price, Iiyama 's Prolite E1900WS-B1 is a good-quality budget monitor.