Review: Viewsonic VP2130b 21in TFT monitor

Using a 21.3in PVA panel (see our guide to TFT technology for more information on panel types), the VP2130b from Viewsonic achieves some impressive feats.

A very high 1,000:1 contrast ratio is achieved without the reflective high-gloss finish of contrast-enhancing techniques such as Sony's X-Black technology, while viewing angles sit at 178 degrees both horizontally and vertically.

Its 300cd/m2 maximum brightness is more than adequate for desktop work, or even small presentations, and while the rated grey-to-grey response time of 8ms is far from cutting edge in absolute terms, it's acceptably fast for a modern PVA panel of this quality.

Uncalibrated, the VP2130b does a pretty good job of maintaining smooth, accurate colour, but this improves still further if you use the supplied Perfectsuite software to calibrate the display - a built-in tutorial guides you through the process.

Despite being a relatively simple software application, Perfectsuite lets you perform every adjustment you can think of. You can then save and reload your own custom settings.

It also provides auto-pivot functionality (turning the monitor through 90 degrees rotates your desktop automatically) and the option to lock the display with a PIN code.

If you prefer the traditional on-screen menu approach, basic control functions are accessible by four tiny black buttons, although these can be a little difficult to see.

The menu itself is basic but easy to navigate, although it doesn't offer the advanced functions of the Perfectsuite software.

As well as pivoting, the stand sports a tilt feature, 270 degree swivelling and a 135mm height adjustment.

The tasteful black chassis has a very narrow bezel and sports both analogue and digital inputs together with a four-port USB2 hub.

Viewsonic's new pixel error policy improves on the usual ISO 13406-2 Class II specification by guaranteeing zero permanently-bright sub pixels for up to 15 days after purchase.

This applies to all 17-21in models in the Viewsonic Professional series.

Overall, the VP2130b is capable of producing stunning image quality and has some interesting features.