Monitor

[darkerhorse]

This section reads “off-topic”, so here goes.

I need to buy a new computer monitor to replace my old, 17” NEC which has served me well.

I’m low tech and can use some advice.

My main issue is accepting change from the squarer screen (4:3 aspect ratio) to a widescreen (16:9 aspect ratio). I know most everything is now widescreen and I welcome better resolution, but I prefer the look and size of the old squarer screens. Desk space isn’t really an issue.

I’m using video (Youtube, etc.) more and more, but I think the majority of my time will continue to be spent on email, Internet searches, genealogy and other thematic websites, PDFs, Word documents, and Excel spreadsheets. I have some interest in photos, and no interest in gaming.

From what I’ve read, I think a screen size of 19” to 24” would do. I wouldn’t want anything larger. Maybe the smaller, the better for adjusting to it. I want height adjustment (for comfort), no integrated speakers (I have external speakers), and 96+ ppi (so it’s enough improvement over my NEC at 75 ppi). My Dell desktop computer requires VGA input connection (and also has HDMI output). I don’t think USB connections are that important.

How is it working with documents etc. on a widescreen?

Does screen splitting or screen rotation to portrait help in using/adjusting to a widescreen?

I’m no so much interested in a specific brand/model recommendation, as I am in the concept of changing to/accepting a widescreen.

By the way, the problem with my NEC monitor is that I’m getting many, permanent horizontal lines which are annoying and make viewing/reading the screen difficult. I assume it’s old age and not repairable.

If this post is off-base for this topic then, for penance, I won't eat spaghetti for a week.

[darkerhorse]

I forgot to mention. I have a microphone but no webcam (little desire for one). I've never hosted a Zoom meeting though I've attended some. Now, that's low tech.

[MarcuccioV]

First off, you KNEW I'd be the first to respond --

I actually run TWO monitors off my Dell desktop. My main one is a 27" widescreen, the secondary is a 24" (it's actually my old monitor). Both are LG's (no internal speakers, I have external speakers also). I have a top-mount camera & mic for zoom meetings, etc (I know you said you don't do them).

The 2 come in handy for several things I do. I can put one thing on one screen & work on another on the main screen, or pull up photos on one to drag into whatever I have on the main.

I run Windows & Microsoft Edge.

My wife has a work laptop & 2 external monitors she uses for work (she had FOUR monitors at her office) & uses them all. I'm not that bad, but the dual monitor setup really serves me well without the need for split-screen.

I'm not certain of the res (I'm not super high-tech either) but both monitors are clear as day. Doc's are a breeze on the widescreen, I do all my invoicing, taxes, etc on it and couldn't be happier.

Not to mention websites like this.

Oh, and it helps me discern dark olive carnigione much better (you KNOW I had to throw that in).

Anyway buona fortuna on whatever you decide on...

[darkerhorse]

I'm balking at one screen and now I have to select two?!? Just kidding.

I really appreciate your feedback. Real life experience is very helpful.

I'm sure I'd end up happy with a 24" screen in the long run. I did use a 22" Dell on my last job, and I didn't like it as much as my 17" for documents but I sorta got used to it. I'm sure video will be better.

Trying to find a 19" would be difficult, plus it's probably a bad investment for the future given where the market is, and is going. In 15 years I've bought only one monitor and two computers (though I inherited a used third one from a friend). The next monitor may likely hold me for another 5-10 years the way I am.

I've also used laptops at work and i don't like them very much.

And yes, I figured you'd be first (and perhaps, the only) respondent.

I suppose most monitors are black, but I'd prefer olive drab.

[MarcuccioV]

Maybe not "olive" drab, but you can probably get one in camo. Close enough.

I forgot to mention the widescreen is awesome for videos, as most fit the wider aspect ratio monitors like a glove...