CRT or LCD?

[Patricknyc]

Hi everyone,
I use a 19'' NEC CRT with Adobe LE. I would like to get a flat screen soon, but not sure if a LCD is good for photo editting. Any comments / suggestions / experiences?
Thanks
Patrick

[Rustle]

It really depends on the size and resolution of the LCD. On a 21-inch LCD running 1600x1200 or greater, images look very good. On the other hand, a 15-inch running 1024x768 can look very pixelated.

It's tough to look at LCDs vs CRTs from just a graphics perspective. There are a number of other things that it's necessary to consider:

1. size: the primary benefit of LCDs are the space and weight savings, which can make all the difference on a small desk
2. power: LCDs draw much less power and generate a lot less heat
3. 'true' screen-size: a 19-inch CRT actually has about 18 inches of viewable screen, whereas a 19-inch LCD is 19 inches
4. life: an LCD will last much longer than a CRT
5. resolution: lower-cost LCDs are designed for a specific resolution, so if it says 1024x768, that's the best you can do. Larger resolutions will extend out the sides of the screen (your monitor will actually be a 'window' into your desktop).
6. cost: you'll generally pay a heck of a lot more for an LCD over the equivalent CRT. And cheaper LCDs often have questionable quality.

Until the prices come down, I think the only compelling reason to purchase an LCD is a small desk. If you've got room to spare and you're not overly concerned about heat or power, you might want to consider one of the latest flatscreen CRTs. Sony and LG are my personal favourites, but there are lots of good brands out there.

Russ

[Patricknyc]

Thanks Russ
Yes, desk space is my primary motivation. But I wanted to make sure there wasn't any fundemental disadvantages to a LCD screen. Thank you. I expected the high end units to have the necessary resolution and size I would need. I'll research some manufacturers further. The cost is crazy, true, but compared to what I pay in rent in my nyc studio apt, the extra 3 sqr feet of living space makes it almost practible.
Thanks again
Patrick