Review: Viewsonic VG2230wm monitor

Heading up Viewsonic’s new Graphic range of business-orientated monitors, the VG2230wm is the largest; there are no less than 10 models in the range, varying in size from 17in to 22in and coming in both standard 4:3 and wide 16:10 aspect ratios.

Following the design found in the rest of the VG range, the design of VG2230wm shows plenty of attention to detail. Finished in a satin-matt black, the thin bezel is embellished with a silver trim with curves that make space for five silver buttons on the left-hand edge of the case.

Boasting a 1,680x1,050 pixel widescreen display, the VG2230wm is ideal for spreadsheet work or for viewing full-page documents side-by-side. The screen is large, impressive and easy to read text on.

We found the contrast ratio of 700:1 delivered good images. Colours are rich and saturated, and an sRGB mode is provided for quick and easy colour matching.

It may cost a little more than budget monitors in its class, but the design alone warrants the extra money. In addition, it comes with an excellent ergonomic stand offering tilt, swivel and a large 135mm height adjustment. It’s also fitted with both VGA and DVI inputs.

Our only criticism of the VG2230wm is the location and size of the control buttons; tucking them out of sight may improve the monitor's clean looks, but we found them rather tricky to use and the button legends difficult to read.

If you like the design and high-resolution of the VG2230wm, but want to spend a little less, Viewsonic has two 20in versions available starting at £257.33.

Also consider:
Hyundai N91W 19in TFT
A good quality monitor, but there’s little to differentiate this Hyundai from other models

Samsung SM205BW
The lowest-cost HDCP-compliant option has the smallest screen and the lowest specification but guarantees compliance for under £325

Viewsonic VG2021m
A good buy for those on a tight budget but who crave extra screen space

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