Samsung SyncMaster 2053BW

Professionals and users alike say the Samsung SyncMaster 2053BW is the best value among 20-inch widescreen LCD computer monitors. One review says text as small as 6.8 points is easy to read, and reviews say the Samsung SyncMaster 2053BW also displays video, gaming and even HDTV well (with adapter). Reviewers do complain that the included (but replaceable) stand cannot be adjusted for height and can be tilted backward but not forward. Some reviewers also find the placement of monitor controls awkward. If you want a larger screen, reviews recommend the Samsung SyncMaster 2253BW (Discontinued) among 22-inchers and the Samsung SyncMaster 2443BW (Discontinued) among 24-inch LCD monitors.

Individual reviews aren't plentiful for any of the aforementioned Samsung monitors, but collectively they are well praised, so read our reports on the sibling models. The best reviews for the Samsung SyncMaster 2053BW specifically are by XbitLabs.com and ComputerShopper.com, both of which are based on solid hands-on testing. Owner reviews at Newegg.com and Amazon.com indicate a very high level of satisfaction, and the major complaint about the stand's lack of adjustability is a common one for LCD monitors. Strangely, Consumer Reports' coverage doesn't include any of the Samsungs in this series.